About this resource
Telehealth brings added risks. This form covers privacy, where the client is, what to do if the connection drops, emergencies, and that sessions are not recorded without consent.
Purpose
A telehealth consent form covering privacy, location, emergencies, technology and limits of online care.
Who it is for
Primary profession: Allied health and multidisciplinary teams. Also relevant for psychologists, counsellors and therapists, speech pathologists, occupational therapists.
Client or participant group: Practitioners and teams.
Practice setting: Allied health and mental health practices.
Suggested uses
- Online services
- Rural and remote clients
- Hybrid practices
Instructions for practitioners
- Add your details and delete what does not apply.
- Check it against your professional requirements.
- Explain it to the person in plain language.
- Store completed copies securely.
Accessibility considerations
Clear headings and tables. The Word version can be edited and filled in on screen.
Scope and limitations
A template for adaptation. It is not legal advice. Check it against your professional body's requirements, your insurer's advice and the law where you work.
Research basis
Ahpra's telehealth guidance says practitioners should provide telehealth safely, and meet the same standards as in-person care, including informed consent and privacy. Health service providers must handle health information in line with the Privacy Act and Australian Privacy Principles, including telling people what is collected and why, and obtaining consent where required.
- Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency. Telehealth guidance for practitioners. https://www.ahpra.gov.au/Resources/Telehealth-guidance-for-practitioners.aspx
- Office of the Australian Information Commissioner. Guide to health privacy. https://www.oaic.gov.au/privacy/privacy-guidance-for-organisations-and-government-agencies/health-service-providers/guide-to-health-privacy
What is included
A 2-page printable A4 PDF, including a practitioner notes page with the research basis (version 1.0).
Originality
Original Practitioner Plus content: wording, activity structure, layout and icons were created for this resource. No third-party worksheets, illustrations or text were reproduced. Written for Practitioner Plus from the sources in the research basis.
