Communication Via Email

762 Words4 Pages
Communication via E-mail Consumers and health care providers in the recent years have started to communicate via e-mail. E-mail is done over a computer, where information is typed by one party and is then sent via cyber space to another computer. E-mail offers distinct advantages and risks. Benefits include the potential to reach clients in geographically remote and underserved communities, enhancing and extending the therapeutic relationship and improving treatment outcomes. This will allow the patient quick and timely answers to any issue or concerns that need urgent attention. The aspect of protecting a patients PHI is a little at risk when in it comes to e-mailing patient information. The provider is going to need to send some time sensitive information to a patient, such as lab results or prescription information. The lack of clear guidance for clinicians in this emerging area of practice poses a potential danger to clients who are "at greater risk for substandard practices and treatment" (Ohio Psychological Association Communications and Technology Committee, 2008, p. 1). Standards for professional competence are inadequate, and ethical rules of practice (to guide interactive text-based communication with clients) are a must when communicating via email. (Santhiveeran, 2009). Being able to communicate via email is more effective way for a patient and a provider to stay in touch with one another. E-mailing makes is easier for patients that are not able to get around too good to check in with their provider when needed and relay very important information without leaving the comforts of their home. E-mailing is different from other forms of communication because it is done via device like a computer. E-mailing is a not like face-to-face communication. Even though it is not face-to-face, it is an effective way to communicate and a better
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