RemoteDerm Rules
The RemoteDerm and its affiliated physicians (referred here all as “RemoteDerm”) will use reasonable means to protect the security and confidentiality of information sent and received using the Platform (“Platform” is defined as the RemoteDerm website and its all means of online communications including Website/portal and Email). The terms “Services” and “Platforms” are used interchangeably here. However, because of the risks outlined below, the RemoteDerm cannot guarantee the security and confidentiality of electronic communications:
1. Use of electronic communications to discuss sensitive information can increase the risk of such information being disclosed to third parties.
2. Despite reasonable efforts to protect the privacy and security of electronic communication, it is not possible to completely secure the information.
3. Employers and online services may have a legal right to inspect and keep electronic communications that pass through their system.
4. Electronic communications can introduce malware into a computer system, and potentially damage or disrupt the computer, networks, and security settings.
5. Electronic communications can be forwarded, intercepted, circulated, stored, or even changed without the knowledge or permission of the Physician or the patient.
6. Even after the sender and recipient have deleted copies of electronic communications, back-up copies may exist on a computer system.
7. Videoconferencing using services such as Zoom, Skype or FaceTime may be more open to interception than other forms of videoconferencing
1. Email, text messages, and instant messages can more easily be misdirected, resulting in increased risk of being received by unintended and unknown recipients.
2. Email, text messages, and instant messages can be easier to falsify than handwritten or signed hard copies. It is not feasible to verify the true identity of the sender, or to ensure that only the recipient can read the message once it has been sent
1. While the Physician will attempt to review and respond in a timely fashion to your electronic communication, the Physician cannot guarantee that all electronic communications will be reviewed and responded to within any specific period of time. The Services will not be used for medical emergencies or other time-sensitive matters.
2. If your electronic communication requires or invites a response from the Physician and you have not received a response within a reasonable time period, it is your responsibility to follow up to determine whether the intended recipient received the electronic communication and when the recipient will respond
3. Electronic communication is not an appropriate substitute for in-person or over-the-telephone communication or clinical examinations, where appropriate, or for attending the Emergency Department when needed. You are responsible for following up on the Physician’s electronic communication and for scheduling follow up where warranted.
4. Electronic communications concerning diagnosis or treatment may be printed or transcribed in full and made part of your medical record. Other individuals authorized to access the medical record, such as staff and billing personnel, may have access to those communications.
5. The Physician may forward electronic communications to staff and those involved in the delivery and administration of your care. The Physician might use one or more of the Services to communicate with those involved in your care. The Physician will not forward electronic communications to third parties, including family members, without your prior written consent, except as authorized or required by law.
6. You agree to inform RemoteDerm of any types of information you do not want sent via the Services, in addition to those set out above. You can add to or modify the above list at any time by notifying RemoteDerm in writing.
7. Some Services might not be used for therapeutic purposes or to communicate clinical information. Where applicable, the use of these Services will be limited to education, research, information, and administrative purposes.
8. RemoteDerm cannot provide virtual care for assessment of mole or any other pigmented lesion, skin cancer ( melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, Merkel cell carcinoma, Mycosis fungoides or any other cancer types), and liquid nitrogen treatment. These conditions require an in person visit. A disclaimer is also shown to you during your case submission. If you choose to submit your case regarding these issues, the dermatologist reserves the right to cancel and refund your case, or refer you to an in person physician, and we will not be responsible for diagnosis of these conditions.
9. RemoteDerm is not responsible for information loss due to technical failures associated with your software or internet service provider.
10. RemoteDerm is not responsible for delays in processing prescriptions by pharmacies or its delivery partners.
To communicate using the Services, you must:
1. Reasonably limit or avoid using an employer’s or other third party’s computer.
2. Inform the Physician of any changes in the your (patient’s) email address, mobile phone number, or other account information necessary to communicate via the Services.
3. Include in the message’s subject line an appropriate description of the nature of the communication (e.g. medication renewal”), and your full name in the body of the message.
4. Review all electronic communications to ensure they are clear and that all relevant information is provided before sending to RemoteDerm.
5. Ensure RemoteDerm is aware when you receive an electronic communication from RemoteDerm, such as by a reply message or allowing “read receipts” to be sent.
6. Take precautions to preserve the confidentiality of electronic communications, such as using screen savers and safeguarding computer passwords.
7. Withdraw consent only by email, using Platform or written communication to the RemoteDerm.
8. If you require immediate assistance, or if your condition appears serious or rapidly worsens, you should not rely on the Services or Platform. Rather, you should go to the nearest Emergency Department or urgent care clinic.
You acknowledge that you have read and fully understand the risks, limitations, conditions of use, and instructions for use of the selected electronic communication Services more fully described. You understand and accept the risks outlined, associated with the use of the Services in communications with RemoteDerm and RemoteDerm’s staff. You consent to the conditions and will follow the instructions outlined above, as well as any other conditions that the RemoteDerm may impose on communications with patients using the Services and/or Platform. You acknowledge and understand that despite recommendations that encryption software be used as a security mechanism for electronic communications, it is possible that communications with the RemoteDerm or the RemoteDerm’s staff using the Services may not be encrypted. Despite this, You agree to communicate with the RemoteDerm or the RemoteDerm’s staff using these Services/Platform with a full understanding of the risk. You acknowledge that either You or the RemoteDerm may, at any time, withdraw the option of communicating electronically through the Services/Platform upon providing written notice. Any questions You had have been answered.