Telehealth is a secure, HIPAA-compliant, video meeting service that allows you to connect with your clients remotely. Telehealth appointments are scheduled using the same process as regular appointments. Each session can be connected to service types and assigned staff. Upon completion you can add progress notes and invoice the client directly or, submit claims directly to insurance with electronic billing.
NOTE: Feature availability depends on your subscription plan.
SUBSCRIPTION: Telehealth is an add on subscription. Feature availability depends on your subscription plan.
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Before you Begin
- Ensure that you are subscribed to Telehealth in the system (Admin)
- Check Telehealth System Requirements
TIP: To ensure optimal call quality, go to https://video-diagnostics.twilio.com/ to complete a pre-call test before you begin your appointment. A pre-call test is an essential step before your telehealth session to ensure that your device and connection are ready for a smooth and uninterrupted experience. This test helps determine your internet speed, video and audio quality, and any potential issues with access or equipment, allowing you to address them before the session starts.
Telehealth from Start to Finish Workflow
- Schedule a Telehealth Appointment
- Share Telehealth Appointment Link with Client
- Prepare your client
- Client: Prepare for 1st Telehealth Appointment
NOTE: Send your Client the this link for more information on telehealth appointments.
- Client: Prepare for 1st Telehealth Appointment
- Conduct Telehealth Appointment
- Start Telehealth Session
- Enable Camera & Microphone for Browser (only needs to be done one time)
- Optional - Share your Screen in Telehealth Appointment
- Client: Join Telehealth Appointment
Full Telehealth Workflow
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Telehealth in TheraNest HIPAA compliant?
Yes. We take your data security seriously and encrypt all your information by HIPAA standards and are HIPAA compliant. Your data is continually and securely backed up. We use Amazon for Hardware and physical security because they are HIPAA compliant which safeguards our system compliance. the system does not record or store audio or video from Telehealth sessions.
What equipment do I need to offer Telehealth Appointments?
You need the following to offer Telehealth Appointments in the system:
NOTE: Close all background applications to ensure Telehealth receives your internet’s bandwidth, especially applications that use your camera.
- A computer, tablet, or phone (no applications or software to download).
- An external or integrated webcam.
- An external or integrated microphone.
- An internet connection with a bandwidth of at least 10 MBPS. We recommend an Ethernet cable over Wifi when possible to ensure you receive the best possible connection through your internet provider. You can check your internet speed here.
Will my Clients have to download anything on their computers or phones?
No. Your Clients do not have to download anything to securely access their sessions with you. They will be able to join from their phone, tablet, and computer. The Telehealth appointment windows are fully responsive and will adapt to the screen size of your device.
Do you recommend specific internet browsers?
You can use Mac Computers, iPhones, or iPads, as well as Windows based Computers and Android Phones and Tablets. For the best experience with Telehealth, make sure you are using the latest version of your internet browser.
Telehealth is not supported on Internet Explorer or Microsoft Edge. We recommend using the browsers listed below. See https://www.whatismybrowser.com/ to confirm your web browser.
NOTE: If you join a Telehealth session on an iPad or iPhone, be sure that you are using Safari. If your default browser is set to Chrome, telehealth will not work.
| Operating System | Chrome | Firefox | Safari |
| Windows | yes | yes | * |
| Android | yes | yes | * |
| macOS | yes | yes | yes |
| iOS | * | * | Yes |
Where can I find information about my state’s Telehealth policies? How does state licensure work?
State Telehealth policies vary. Contact the state from where you will offer telehealth services and the state where your client will receive services. Many states require that you be licensed in the state where you are located and the state where your client is receiving treatment.
Use these resources to help you navigate the state policies:
Training and online counseling certification is recommended and can be accessed at Telehealth.org and Person Centered Tech.
- American Telemed’s State Policy Resource Center
- CCHPCA State Laws and Reimbursement Policies
- Medicaid.gov
- Do Insurance Payers reimburse Telehealth?
Each state and payer has policies and reimbursement rules in place.
Use these resources for more information.
How does informed consent work for Telehealth?
Some states do not require consent, while others require written or verbal consent.
You can check your state’s requirements on CCHPCA. Click your state on their interactive map and scroll down to Consent.
Do you have any examples of informed consent documents?
Below is an example consent form that you can implement in your practice:
- http://file.lacounty.gov/SDSInter/dmh/159881_cms1_159881.pdf
- The Telebehavioral Health Institute has accumulated a library of Informed Consent forms that you can review here.
What are the requirements and restrictions regarding providing Telehealth services to minors?
You’ll need to be aware of the policies and rules for the state that your client is currently in.
See American Telemedicine Association Practice Guidelines for Telemental Health with Children and Adolescents.
Does the system record or store the audio or video of Appointments?
No. The system does not record or store the audio or video from your Telehealth appointments.
Is there a cap to the number of Telehealth Appointments?
No. You can organize an unlimited number of appointments per provider per month.
How do I turn on Telehealth?
You can activate Telehealth under Organization > Manage Subscription > Telehealth Subscription. You also have full control over which providers have access to Telehealth. For more information, please review this article on managing your subscription plan.
Can I do Group Sessions?
Yes, we have a group Telehealth option for up to 20 participants including a Staff Member.