Telepractice
Telepractice, a variation of telehealth has been approved as an audiovisual platform is within HIPAA compliance for privacy and personal health information. Dr. Hooks will be using a HIPAA-compliant platform (e.g., Zoom® and Microsoft Teams®) to provide therapy accessibility for selected patients. Blue Cross Blue Shield - Illinois updated its policy regarding telepractice (TP). That means other major insurance carriers may announce their own TP guidelines. Telepractice requires a participating adult during a virtual office visit (VOV). Evaluations, however, must be performed within an office setting; until further guidance. It is clear that convenience and safety are principle aspects of TH or a VOV, but the main goal should be the delivery of services that are aligned with OtoLing core clinical values—quality over quantity.
Despite this, telepractice is not suitable or compatible for several patients, who have demonstrable difficulties relating to a two-dimensional projection or a virtual image of a clinician. Therefore, a visit to the clinic may be better than telepractice in limited cases.
Key Points
1. Service delivery to reinforce selected skills
2. Access to trusted professional opinion(s)
3. Review progress and provide clinical impressions
4. Facilitate communication ability within the family unit and with others—at a distance.
