Our clinic is offering limited virtual care to make sure that we can continue to care for our patients safely and effectively. This means that we will be using video and audio technologies for some patient visits rather than asking patients to come into our office. Some of these technologies are provided by the Province. Others have been provided by vendors like Google, or Apple to help make discussions with your care provider as easy as possible during these difficult times. Some health concerns can be addressed with virtual care alone, but in some cases your doctor may ask you to visit a hospital or other health care facility if necessary, for a physical examination.
We do our best to make sure that any information you give to us during virtual care visits is private and secure, but no video or audio tools are ever completely secure. There is an increased security risk that your health information may be intercepted or disclosed to third parties when using video or audio communications tools. To help us keep your information safe and secure, you can:
Understand that this method of communication is not secure in the same way as a private appointment in an exam room.
Use a private computer/device (i.e., not an employer's or third party's computer/device) and a secure internet connection. For example, using a personal computer or tablet is more secure than at a public library, and your access to the internet on your home network will generally be more secure than an open guest Wi-Fi connection.
You should also understand that virtual care is not a substitute for in-person communication or clinical examinations, where appropriate, or for attending the Emergency Department when needed (including for any urgent care that may be required).
Please note that visiting a health care provider in person comes with a higher risk of coming into contact with COVID-19 and the possibility of spreading the virus.
By providing your information to us when setting up a virtual visit, you agree to let us collect, use, or disclose your personal health information through video or audio communications (while following applicable privacy laws) in order to provide you with care. In particular, the following means of electronic communication may be used: videoconferencing (including Skype, FaceTime, Zoom, etc.) and phone calls. The modality to be used will be confirmed when the virtual visit is confirmed via our office.
I understand and accept that there are significant risks associated with email communications, including these:
The privacy and security of email communication cannot be guaranteed.
Employers and online services may have a legal right to inspect and keep emails passing through their systems.
Emails can be intercepted, forwarded, circulated, stored or even changed without the knowledge or permission of either the sender or recipient.
Copies of an email may continue to exist, even after reasonable efforts to delete the email have been made.
Someone other than me may send an email in my name, and this impersonation may not be detected by the recipient.
Email may carry computer viruses that may damage computer data or software or disclose my information against my wishes.
Email may be accidentally sent to an unintended recipient, or to many such recipients.
Email may be disclosed to third parties or to the public, regardless of the intentions of the receiver or sender.
I understand and agree that if the TORONTO ALLERGY GROUP engages in email communication with me:
The Toronto Allergy Group may decide to stop doing so, at any time, for their own reasons.
I must not use email for medical emergencies or other time-sensitive matters. If I need immediate assistance or have a condition that appears serious or worsens rapidly, I must not rely on email. Instead, should take other measures as appropriate, which may include seeking emergency services.
The Toronto Allergy Group may require that I follow additional rules for the use of email communication that it may set at any time.
The Toronto Allergy Group may use or disclose my email and/or the information in it to people other than the intended recipient, for a variety of purposes-for example, to update my health records, and to permit others to assist in my care or in record-keeping.
The Toronto Allergy Group at this time will only use email for outbound communications. Inbound messages for any purpose will not be reviewed and other methods of communications in these circumstances (i.e. Telephone, fax, in person) should be used.
Neither the Toronto Allergy Group nor those communicating on its behalf will be liable for any harmful consequence to me that may arise from the use of email.
If I wish to withdraw my consent to communicate by email, I may do so at any time, but I must do so in writing and ensure all relevant email correspondents receive a copy of my withdrawal notice.
If my emails address changes, I shall promptly inform my email correspondents.
To consent to virtual visits and email communication with Toronto Allergy Group you can: 1. Send an email with your full name including "I have read and consent to virtual visits and to communicate by email" to the following email address click link:[email protected] or 2. Print and sign the consent form below, and send or fax it to our office(fax #416-461-8999).
