Title: Delivering Virtual Care
Course: COVID CURRICULUM (Export) > Section: Module 5 : Privacy, Security and Confidentiality in Virtual Care

Before a virtual care session

Ensure the setting protects patient privacy:

Strategies for video visits
•Avoid selecting a room with windows or ensure there are window coverings available to provide privacy

•Have a backup plan for the patient’s care if there is a technical failure or if the patient's situation becomes unstable during the video visit

•If possible, select a room that is soundproof (or can be soundproof) to prevent unauthorized individuals from hearing the video session

•Consider using a white-noise maker (such as fan or noise machine) outside of your door.
•Place a sign on the door to indicate that a video visit is in progress to prevent unauthorized individuals from opening the door

•Place the computer display in such a way that the patient video cannot be seen even if the door is inadvertently opened

•When selecting a room, consider locating it in an area that is away from high traffic to minimize the potential of a confidentiality breach

Adapted from Ontario Health Quality (2020)

Quick Tips

During the virtual care session

- Introduce all individuals present on the call
  - Preceptor(s)
  - Student(s)
  - Patient/client
  - Caregiver or family member
  - Other(s)
- Confirm the patient/client’s identity
  - Verbal confirmation
  - ID card
- Obtain consent for a virtual encounter
- Obtain consent for recording (if applicable)

Following the virtual care session

Other Privacy Reminders

- Do not post photos, videos or another recording on any internet or social media sites
- Ensure posts do not include PHI or details that could identify a patient (i.e. rare cases or unusual procedures)
- PHI required for the purpose of an assignment must be de-identified according to your placement organization's policy

Ontario Health Quality (2020)