Ethical Considerations of Offering Behavioral Health Services on Cyber Networks

The rise of the internet has given way to a near-endless supply of technical modalities and support tools for behavioral health professionals. It has also reduced the overall cost of care while removing many of the geographical barriers which make behavioral healthcare prohibitive for many. While offering your services on a telehealth platform can dramatically expand your client base, there are some ethical considerations unique to behavioral health in an online setting.

Informed Consent

Informed consent is a tripartite exercise specifically designed to safeguard a patient’s interest in the decision-making process regarding their treatment plan. It’s crucial to deliver behavioral health services according to a patient’s preferences through a process that enhances the safety and efficacy of care, which is complicated in a virtual setting. Consent documentation is heavily regulated and unique to each geographic location. Online evidence of consent doesn’t necessarily demonstrate the patient's understanding of the information or its application. Behavioral health professionals face challenges relating to a patient’s disposition and physical cues in the virtual arena.

Consumer Privacy

Consumer privacy remains complex and taking communications online only complicates potential risks. Many patients are simply unaware that stored audio and drafted files can be retrieved long after they have been deleted from electronic devices. The nature of such communications leaves highly sensitive information subject to inadvertent disclosure. There are general security risks, accidental typos, and even hackers looking to hijack sensitive health information. Content-specific risks should be discussed early on allowing patients to determine which subjects may be better suited for in-person sessions.

Therapy Termination

Working within clearly defined boundaries is essential when expanding your practice to the online arena. Guidelines should be initially established and reviewed periodically throughout the treatment plan. While many patients have grown up engaging in multiple forms of online communications and relationships, it will still be unfamiliar territory to others who may have the same expectations as with in-person sessions. This is understandable but unrealistic. It’s also necessary to address these issues with the listing platform to avoid sudden termination of communication with current patients.

Interjurisdictional Practice

Offering behavioral health services over cyber networks can become quite complicated because there is no single authority to determine the rules. The truth is that you are subject to the laws of all the jurisdictions which may encompass your work. To stay in compliance, you’ll have to do some research starting with the state and local laws where you are licensed. Some states prohibit patient treatment across state lines so it’s also essential to be aware of your patients’ residential status and geographic location. Your particular location at the time of the session is also relevant.

Expanding your practice to offer online services can be challenging but partnering with the right network can make the process simple and extremely rewarding. Online Web Counseling offers safe and secure HIPAA-compliant video chat services to help you expand the behavioral health resources you can offer patients online.