Frequently Asked Questions: E-Mail in Psychiatry

April 21, 2006 Frequently Asked Questions: E-Mail in Psychiatry The role of electronic communications in medicine lacks legal guidelines, despite the wide public acceptance of e-mail, instant messages, and videoconferencing. The Federal government is encouraging the adoption of information technology, including electronic communications, to streamline health care delivery. While electronic communications between patient and practitioner can be advantageous, there may be pitfalls that should be planned for, and managed, to avoid violating patient privacy. Risks to confidentiality include: Use of screen names   Computer security   Ability of an Internet Service Provider to review e-mail   Miss-directed e-mail . . .