Syllabus
- A few caveats about texting that will be covered in more detail in Session 2 of this program.
- What is “texting” and how does it relate to HIPAA and ethical standards?
- Classic “SMS” texting vs. messaging with apps.
- Confidentiality-related issues in sending information over the Internet.
- Risks to confidentiality.
- Client rights regarding their confidentiality.
- HIPAA and the Transmission Security standard.
- Is “transmission security” the only ethical-professional concern around texting?
- Safety of client phones and computers.
- Safety of clinician phones and computers.
- Confidentiality concerns.
- Availability concerns.
- Texting service providers and the HIPAA Business Associate Rule.
- What tools are available to make texting work legally and ethically?
- Secure texting apps, including some examples.
- When is an app a “conduit” under HIPAA’s Business Associate Rule?
- When is nonsecure texting appropriate?
- Secure texting apps, including some examples.
- What do I do with text messages that I am in possession of?
- Text messages and the client record.
- What must be retained?
- Informed consent regarding text messages and record-keeping.
- Techniques for securely documenting text messages.
- Text messages and the client record.