Everything You Need to Know About Telehealth
What Is telehealth?
Telehealth is the delivery of health care using technology. During the Coronavirus pandemic, LifeWays will offer telehealth services via Microsoft Teams, a videoconferencing platform. Other platforms such as the telephone, Skype and FaceTime may also be an option. Microsoft Teams and Skype require an email address and access to the Internet. You do not have to be great with technology; we will help you figure out which option works best for you and help you get set up! All we will need is your consent for LifeWays to provide telehealth services.
What services can I access with telehealth?
LifeWays is able to provide nearly all services via telehealth. This includes screening and assessment, therapy, psychiatry, case management, supports coordination, and even crisis services. Psychiatric services are only available via telephone or Microsoft Teams, but all other services are available in platforms mentioned above.
What should I expect during my appointment?
Your provider will contact you at your scheduled appointment time using whatever telehealth method you and your provider have identified. If you choose to videoconference, you and your provider will be able to see and hear each other. Your provider will speak with you and ask questions in the same way as they would at a face-to-face appointment. If your video connection is disrupted, your provider will try to connect with you again or call you to continue the appointment.
How do I prepare for my appointment?
Following these recommendations will allow us to provide you with quality services and make you as comfortable and prepared as possible:
If you are using the telephone or FaceTime, please make sure you have reception and enough minutes. If you are using Microsoft Teams or Skype, please log in 10 minutes prior to your appointment start time.
Find a private location that is free of distractions and where you can talk freely without being overheard or disrupted.
Wear appropriate clothing--just as if you were coming into the office for the appointment.
Speak clearly so your voice can be picked up by the microphone.
Look at the camera so you can achieve good eye contact.
If you have a question or need help during the session, just ask!
Telehealth appointments require a lot of coordination so please try to keep and be on time for your appointment. If you need to cancel, please let us know as soon as possible.
Why Telehealth?
LifeWays is dedicated to providing you with quality mental health services during the Coronavirus outbreak. Telehealth services will allow you to access treatment while ensuring safety by avoiding close contact with others.
Who will be present?
Aside from you and your provider, no one else will be present unless you agree to this in advance. It is your choice whether you agree to have other parties present during your appointment. As with a face-to-face appointment, your spouse, partner, family or friend may accompany you if you wish. You may also request an interpreter.
What about my privacy and confidentiality?
The same privacy and confidentiality requirements that apply to face-to-face appointments also apply to telehealth appointments. No information will be released without your permission except in situations that are required by law. Further, there is no need to worry about being recorded. LifeWays will not be recording any telehealth sessions.
Email and text messaging are not secure forms of communication and should not be used to communicate with your provider. LifeWays utilizes a client portal (CEHR) that allows you to access your health record information and send a message to your case holder. Not familiar with CEHR? Ask your provider today!
Have questions about your appointment?
Please call 800.284.8288.
Click here to download the PDF.