Consent to Using Electronic Communications

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At GIM Clinic (the Clinic), we offer you the following electronic tools for efficient  communication (the "Services"):

• Secure messaging (through Telus CHR Connect portal / patient portal)
• Email
• Text messaging
• Videoconferencing

In general, we will only use email and text messages to notify you of a new incoming message in our secure messaging portal or to update you on the status of your appointments. We will only send you clinical information via email or text message if you request us to do so.

GIM Clinic and its clinicians will use reasonable means to protect the security and confidentiality of information sent and received using the Services. However, because of the risks outlined below, the Clinic cannot guarantee the security and confidentiality of all virtual care tools:

• Use of virtual care tools to discuss sensitive information can increase the risk of such information being intercepted by third parties.
• Despite reasonable efforts to protect the privacy and security of information communicated through virtual care platforms, it is impossible to secure the information completely.
• Employers and online services may have a legal right to inspect and keep electronic communications that pass through their systems.
• Virtual care tools can introduce malware into a computer system, potentially damaging or disrupting the computer, network, and security settings.
• Communications through virtual care tools can be forwarded, intercepted, circulated, stored, or even changed without the Clinic's or the patient's knowledge or permission.
• Even after the sender and recipient have deleted copies of electronic communications, backup copies may exist on a computer system.
• Communications through virtual care tools may be disclosed in accordance with a duty to report or a court order.
• Some videoconferencing platforms may be more open to interception than other forms of videoconferencing.

If the email or text is used as a virtual care tool, the following are additional risks:

• Email, text messages, and instant messages can more easily be misdirected, resulting in increased risk of being received by unintended and unknown recipients.
• Email, text messages, and instant messages can be easier to falsify than handwritten or signed hard copies. It is not feasible to verify the true identity of the sender, or to ensure that only the recipient can read the message once it has been sent.

• While the Clinic will attempt to review and respond in a timely fashion to electronic communications such as emails, text messages, and instant messages, the Physician cannot guarantee that all electronic communications will be reviewed and responded to within any specific period of time. The Services will not be used for medical emergencies or other time-sensitive matters.
• If your electronic communication requires or invites a response from the Physician and you have not received a response within a reasonable time period, it is your responsibility to follow up to determine whether the intended recipient received the electronic communication and when the recipient will respond.
• Virtual care is not an appropriate substitute for in-person or over-the-phone communication, clinical examinations, or attending the Emergency Department when needed. You are responsible for following up on the Clinic's electronic communication and scheduling appointments where warranted.
• Electronic communications or recordings of virtual encounters concerning diagnosis or treatment may be printed or transcribed in full and made part of your medical record. Other individuals authorized to access the medical record, such as staff and billing personnel, may have access to those communications and recordings.
• Your clinician may forward electronic communications or recordings to staff and those who deliver and administer your care. The clinician might use one or more of the Services to communicate with those involved in your care. The Physician will not forward electronic communications or recordings to third parties, including family members, without your prior written consent, except as authorized or required by law.
• You agree to inform the Physician of any types of information you do not want sent via the Services, in addition to those set out above.  You can add to or modify the above list at any time by notifying the Physician in writing.
• Some Services might not be used for therapeutic purposes or to communicate clinical information. Where applicable, the use of these Services will be limited to education, information, and administrative purposes.
• The Physician is not responsible for information loss due to technical failures associated with your software or internet service provider.

Before using the Clinic's electronic communication services, you must acknowledge that:

1. You have read and fully understand the risks, limitations, and conditions of use, as well as the instructions for using the selected services outlined on this page. You accept the associated risks of interacting with the Clinic, your clinician, and the Clinic's staff.

2. You consent to the conditions described here and agree to follow the provided instructions, along with any additional conditions that the Clinic may set for patients using these services.

3. Although we recommend using encryption software as a security measure for virtual care tools, you understand that your interactions with the Clinic or its staff via these services may not be encrypted. You agree to engage with the Clinic or its staff using these services, fully understanding the risks involved.

4. Either you or the Clinic may withdraw the option to use the services at any time by providing written notice. You also acknowledge that all your questions have been answered.

If you have any questions about using electronic communications or our privacy policies, please feel free to contact us at privacy@gimclinic.ca or call us at (226) 270-8618.