Skip the Clinic Virtual Care Consent

By engaging in Virtual Care services through Skip the Clinic, you acknowledge and consent to the inherent privacy and security risks associated with virtual healthcare. These risks include the potential for your health information to be intercepted, accessed, or unintentionally disclosed during electronic communication. It is important that you fully understand these risks before proceeding with your consultation.

By agreeing to use our Virtual Care services, you are consenting to receive care remotely via various communication methods, including audio, video (such as Skype, FaceTime, etc.), email, and text. While Virtual Care allows for convenient and timely access to healthcare, it is not without risks. These risks include but are not limited to the possibility of unauthorized access to your health information, especially if not transmitted via a secure system.

To help protect your privacy and enhance the confidentiality of your information, we strongly encourage you to take the following precautions:

• Participate in Virtual Care in a Private Setting: Ensure you are in a secure and private location during your consultation to prevent unauthorized individuals from overhearing or accessing your information.
• Use Secure Communication Methods: Where possible, utilize encrypted communication services such as encrypted email accounts to safeguard your information.
• Avoid Shared or Public Devices: Do not use an employer's or a third party's computer or device, as these may be vulnerable to unauthorized access by others, including your employer or the device owner.
• Secure Your Internet Connection: Access Virtual Care through a secure and private internet connection. For instance, using your home network or an encrypted Wi-Fi connection is more secure than using public or open guest Wi-Fi networks.

By consenting to receive Virtual Care, you acknowledge the following:

• Limitations of Virtual Care: Virtual Care is not a substitute for in-person care, particularly when a physical exam is required or in emergency situations. If it is determined that a physical exam is necessary, you may be required to attend an in-person appointment for a full evaluation.
• Not for Emergency Situations: Virtual Care is not intended for urgent medical needs. If you are experiencing an emergency or require urgent care, you should immediately seek assistance at an Emergency Department or contact emergency services.
• Electronic Communications: You understand that electronic communications, such as video, audio, email, and text, are not as secure as an in-person consultation. While we take measures to ensure confidentiality, there are risks associated with the transmission of personal health information through electronic means.

By providing your personal health information during your Virtual Care session, you consent to its collection, use, and disclosure as necessary for the provision of care. All personal health information will be handled in accordance with applicable privacy laws. The following communication methods may be used in the delivery of your care:

• Audio (voice)
• Video (including services like Skype, FaceTime, etc.)
• Email
• Text messages

These communication methods are used to facilitate remote consultations, provide advice, and deliver medical care while maintaining patient confidentiality to the best of our ability.

By proceeding with Virtual Care, you acknowledge that you fully understand the privacy and security risks, limitations of virtual consultations, and your responsibilities in safeguarding your personal information. You consent to the use of electronic communication methods for the purposes of receiving care, and you agree to take necessary precautions to protect your privacy.

If you require more information about privacy practices or have any concerns, please refer to the details provided in the [website/confirmation email/etc.]. Should you need to reschedule or seek in-person care, please contact us directly.

Thank you for trusting Skip the Clinic with your healthcare needs. We are committed to protecting your privacy and providing you with safe, high-quality care.