Email Policy
Appropriate Use For Email
1) Sending in requested information prior to an appointment that is already booked (such as blood pressure/weight or pictures of a rash)
2) Responding to emails from the office to complete questionnaires that are sent to you 3) Sending in forms to be completed after booking an appointment
4) Responding to an email with information requested by your health care provider.
EMAIL IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR A VISIT WITH YOUR PROVIDER AND NOT MEANT FOR URGENT ISSUES, as there is a delay in staff processing the emails. Should inappropriate emails be received and continue after a warning, email privileges may be discontinued.
Please do NOT use email for any of the following :
► As a substitute for an appointment with your health care provider.
► Requesting a diagnosis based on a written description of symptoms.
► Any frivolous, commercial, or unapproved purpose.
► In emergencies or when information is needed urgently.
► Requesting medical advice or information for anyone other than yourself.
► Sending website links for the physician to comment on (unless requested by the physician)
► Any issue outside the context of the patient-physician relationship.
Risks of using electronic communication
We will use reasonable means to protect the security and confidentiality of information sent and received using email. However, because of the risks outlined below, we cannot guarantee the security and confidentiality of electronic communications:
- Use of electronic communications to discuss sensitive information can increase the risk of such information being disclosed to third parties.
- Despite reasonable efforts to protect the privacy and security of electronic communication, it is not possible to completely secure the information.
- Employers and online services may have a legal right to inspect and keep electronic communications that pass through their system, within and outside of Canada.
- Electronic communications can introduce malware into a computer system, and potentially damage or disrupt the computer, networks, and security settings.
- Electronic communications can be forwarded, intercepted, circulated, stored, or even changed without the knowledge or permission of the Physician or the patient.
- Due to the sensitivity of the information, we recommend that you do not use a shared email.