Informed Consent for Telehealth Services
Understanding your rights and responsibilities in telehealth care.
Effective Date: January 15, 2026
Nature of Telehealth Services
Telehealth involves the delivery of healthcare services using electronic communications, including assessment, diagnosis, consultation, treatment, and care management. At Linux Health, telehealth services include: online health screenings, asynchronous physician consultations, prescription management, secure messaging with your care team, and ongoing treatment monitoring.
Benefits of Telehealth
- Access to specialized obesity medicine physicians regardless of geographic location
- Elimination of travel time and waiting room delays
- Convenient access to your care team 7 days a week
- Secure, private communication from your home
- Documented communication history for continuity of care
Limitations and Risks
- Telehealth may not be appropriate for all medical conditions or emergencies
- Technical failures may delay care (internet, device, or platform issues)
- Your physician cannot perform a physical examination remotely
- Information transmitted electronically may be subject to technical failure despite safeguards
- In rare cases, your physician may determine in-person care is necessary and provide a referral
Your Consent
By using Linux Health services, you acknowledge and consent to:
- Receiving healthcare services via telehealth technology
- The limitations of telehealth as described above
- Your physician using their clinical judgment to determine appropriateness of telehealth care
- Providing accurate and complete health information
- Following prescribed treatment plans and reporting adverse effects
Your Rights
- You may withdraw consent and discontinue telehealth services at any time
- You may request an in-person referral at any time
- All HIPAA protections apply to telehealth interactions
- You have the same rights as in-person patients regarding your medical records
- You may request information about your physician's qualifications and licensing
Prescribing
Prescription medications will only be issued when deemed clinically appropriate by your physician based on the information you provide and their professional medical judgment. Your physician may decline to prescribe if they determine treatment is not appropriate for your situation.
Emergency Situations
Telehealth services are not appropriate for medical emergencies. If you experience a medical emergency, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room immediately. Inform emergency personnel of any medications you are currently taking.