To Skype or Not To Skype, Learn The Fact

CHEYENNE, Wyo. - June 20, 2013 - PRLog -- Cheyenne, Wyoming June 20,2013 -- Skype has become such a popular Internet experience that many professionals are drawn to this leader in video chat to deliver mental health care. In fact, some mental health professionals have begun to use the term, “Skype therapy” to refer to delivering innovative care via the Internet over the Skype platform.
San Diego Psychologist, Marlene M. Maheu, Ph.D. explained, “Many of our mental health colleagues are using the term ‘Skype’ synonymously with ‘video teleconferencing,’ much as many people refer to ‘Kleenex’ when referring to ‘tissue.’ Many professionals clearly think they are doing their best for their clients and patients, but may not be aware of the 60 year-old evidence base related to video teleconferencing.”

On July 2, 2013, Dr. Marlene Maheu, Executive Director of the TMH Institute,  will provide an update on current risks and benefits of using video teleconferencing, Skype and other commonly known video platforms during her free, 1-hour training webinar “To Skype or Not to Skype.”  She will give attendees the information they need to evaluate the wide range of different video platforms, and become more confident in their ability to adhere to pivotal laws such as HIPAA and HITECH, which are designed to protect their clients from unwarranted threats to privacy and confidentiality.  Attendees will find answers to these and many other important questions:
What is Skype? Is it a video platform or a social networking platform?
Is Skype HIPAA compliant?

What exactly is required by HIPAA?
Are any other laws important to consider when practicing online?
What are "audit trails" and why are they important?
Does insurance reimburse for Skype-based therapy?
What are the names of the 50+ video companies who claim to be HIPAA-compliant?
Which technology features do mental health professionals need to deliver effective care?
How does email fit into the picture?
What does it mean to have a company sign a "Business Associate" agreement with you?
How does video interface with Electronic Health Record (EHR)?
How to Get More Information & Register

To Skype or Not to Skype will be broadcast via the Internet through the TeleMental Health institute’s Training Center on Tuesday, July 2, 2013 3:00 pm Eastern/ 12:00 pm Pacific. The webinar is free to the public; TMH Institute will also offer 1-CE credit and a recording of the event to professionals for a $32.50 fee.  For details, see: www.telehealth.org/webinars

Dr. Maheu is a leader in telemental health, telepsych, online counseling and online therapy. For more than 18 years, she has consulted with large health and mental health insurance companies, community clinics and centers, physician groups, universities, and independent practitioners. She not only is a strong proponent of online services, but has pioneered many efforts in support of telehealth since 1994.