Your healthcare provider may talk about privacy and confidentiality before the appointment, and ask if you consent – in other words, if you are OK to continue with the appointment. If they do not do this, make sure that you ask them to do so.
They will document consent on the patient file. Note that the patient must consent if the healthcare provider is sharing patient information with a caregiver.
- Choose a quiet, private place where you cannot be overheard.
- Your healthcare provider should also be in a private space.
- If someone is joining you, make sure you trust them with your information.
- If you borrow a device, delete any of your information before returning it.
Email consent and safety
KHSC may also send you appointment information and other general information by email or text, if you have consented to receive information in this way.
We may send you a follow-up survey after your appointment by email or text. This is to help us to improve the quality of care we deliver. You should be told about this during your appointment and asked about your preferred contact details.
Virtual care visits and email may have some risk of being accessed by unauthorized individuals. Please ensure that you are protecting your information.
Use a secure internet connection which means not using a public connection such as a café or other open area. KHSC is not responsible for the security of patients’ internet service providers, email domains, personal devices or personal computers.
To protect your privacy we suggest that you use your personal email when communicating about your health.
Download the Patient Consent for Electronic Communication here.
