Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to establish clear guidelines and procedures regarding the availability, access, and participation of students in telehealth appointments within secondary schools. This policy is designed to ensure that students have equitable access to telehealth services by their outside providers, are supported in maintaining their confidentiality and privacy, and are provided with resources to support their mental, physical, and emotional health through telehealth interventions.
Scope
This policy applies to all secondary schools that allow students to participate in telehealth services with their outside providers during the school day, including mental health counseling, medical consultations, and any other health-related services provided through telecommunication technologies.
Policy Guidelines
1. Access to Telehealth Services:
- Telehealth appointments will be made available to students upon parental or guardian consent, where required by law or regulation, and in accordance with school policies on student health services.
- Students will be given access to telehealth services on an equal basis, regardless of their socio-economic status, technological access, or disability.
- Schools must ensure that students have access to necessary technology (devices, internet, etc.) to participate in telehealth appointments. If students do not have access to the necessary technology, the school will provide appropriate accommodations.
2. Student Consent:
- Informed consent will be obtained from students and their parents/guardians prior to participating in telehealth services. This consent form will outline the nature of the telehealth service, confidentiality limits, and procedures for ensuring privacy.
- Students who are 18 years of age or older may consent independently, while those under 18 require parental or guardian consent to participate in telehealth services.
- Parents or guardians will be informed of telehealth appointments, except in cases where confidential services are required by law.
3. Privacy and Confidentiality:
- All telehealth appointments will be conducted in a manner that ensures student privacy. Students must participate in a private space where they cannot be overheard.
- Telehealth services must comply with local, state, and federal laws, including privacy and security laws such as the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
- School staff will make every effort to maintain the confidentiality of student health information, including providing secure communication platforms and ensuring that data is transmitted and stored safely.
4. Scheduling and Availability of Telehealth Appointments:
- Telehealth appointments may be scheduled during school hours, depending on the students’ availability and the school’s resources.
- The school’s health services coordinator or designated staff will manage scheduling in consultation with the student’s parent/guardian, ensuring that students are given access in a timely manner.
- Students should notify school health staff if they need to reschedule an appointment. Schools will work to provide flexibility within reasonable limits.
5. Emergency Protocols:
- In the case of an emergency, telehealth services are not a substitute for in- person medical care. If an emergency arises during a telehealth session, the telehealth provider will follow appropriate procedures to contact emergency services and ensure the student's safety.
- The student’s outside health provider is responsible for the student’s healthcare.
- Students and families will be reminded of local emergency contact information and procedures at the beginning of each telehealth session.
6. Support and Resources:
- The school will provide access to appropriate support staff to assist students with telehealth participation, including troubleshooting technical difficulties, interpreting health services, and providing guidance on available resources.
- Resources such as community mental health services, crisis intervention, or other local health services will be made available to students, as necessary.
7. Training and Professional Development:
- School staff, including health professionals, counselors, and educators, will receive training in the use of telehealth technology, understanding privacy protocols, and providing virtual support to students.
- Continuous evaluation of telehealth services will be conducted to ensure that the quality of care meets students’ needs and complies with relevant regulations and best practices.
8. Technology Requirements:
- Schools will provide a list of technical requirements for participating in telehealth sessions, including device compatibility (laptops, tablets, smartphones), internet bandwidth, and necessary software or applications.
- The school will assist students with technological support, such as providing loaner devices or internet access for students who need assistance.
9. Feedback and Evaluation:
- The school will regularly gather feedback from students, parents, and health providers about the effectiveness of telehealth services. This feedback will be used to improve services, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that telehealth services meet the needs of all students.
Responsibilities
- School Health Staff: Responsible for coordinating in consultation with parent/guardian, telehealth scheduling, ensuring consent forms are completed, maintaining confidentiality, and coordinating the scheduling of appointments.
- Teachers and Administrators: Responsible for ensuring that students have adequate time and space for telehealth appointments during the school day, and for supporting students' access to telehealth services.
- Parents/Guardians: Responsible for providing consent for telehealth services where required, ensuring that students are in a private space during the appointment, and supporting the use of technology.
- Students: Responsible for attending telehealth appointments on time, using available technology, and communicating with school staff regarding any technical issues or concerns.
Review and Updates
This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to reflect changes in laws, technology, or best practices related to telehealth in educational settings.
Conclusion
By providing access to telehealth services by outside providers, secondary schools can expand access to vital health services for students, especially in times when in-person access may be limited. It is crucial to ensure that the policies governing telehealth services are clear, equitable, and protective of student rights. The school is committed to ensuring that telehealth services are accessible, confidential, and supportive of students' well-being.