Providing virtual service

Question 1

Consider Appropriateness of Virtual Services

Answer 1

OT: knowledge, skills, and abilities required to provide virtual services, and are best suited to determine if virtual service delivery will effectively address the needs of their clients

Consider: Client choice and preference, availability and accessibility of technology for both, and the client’s physical, behavioral, cognitive, and sensory abilities

discussing available options such as in-person, virtual, or a hybrid style of delivery

Security and confidentiality (protect PHI)

Question 2

Consider Client safety and contingency planning

Answer 2

medical emergencies or the deterioration of the client’s physical, emotional, or cognitive condition may occur during the session
confirm the current location/address of the client

have a plan in place or develop protocols to deal with unexpected events (emergency contact information or the number for local first responders in the client’s current location). If technical difficulties arise, occupational therapists should have access to technical support so they can quickly recontact the client

Question 3

About consent

Answer 3

• Any adjustments or modifications to the virtual service plan
• Any restrictions around recording sessions
• Consents about emergency contacts and procedures
• Others involved in virtual occupational therapy services and their role (for example: occupational
  therapist assistants [OTAs] or students, vendors, caregivers, interpreters etc.)
• Any fees associated with the virtual services
• Risks, benefits, and limitations of participating virtually
• Risks and limitations associated with the use of technology and other features of the platform
• Communication protocols during a virtual session

Question 4

Group session in virtual

Answer 4

• consider implementing options such as restricting access to only authenticated users - for example, providing a unique PIN for each session or a secure password. Other ideas include:
• Suggesting that participants be in a private area during the session
• Asking that participants mute their microphone when not participating
• Setting expectations around the use of cameras and any platform dialogue functions.

Question 5

Consider Professional Boundaries

Answer 5

be mindful of the environment in which virtual services occur and avoid excessive displays of their own personal life, which may shift the dynamics of the therapeutic relationship