Telehealth Informed Consent

Telehealth refers to the delivery of healthcare services using electronic communication technologies. At Metabolic Physio, this means:

• •Real-time video consultations where you and your physiotherapist can see and hear each other through a secure video platform
• •Assessment and analysis of your pathology results (blood chemistry, Organic Acids Testing) and health information
• •Development of treatment protocols including movement recommendations, lifestyle modifications, and supplementation guidance
• •Follow-up consultations to review progress and adjust your protocol as needed

Telehealth is not a replacement for emergency medical care or conditions requiring physical examination or hands-on treatment.

Your privacy is protected by law. The same legal protections that apply to in-person healthcare consultations also apply to telehealth services, including:

• •Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs)
• •Health Records legislation applicable to your state or territory
• •AHPRA and Physiotherapy Board of Australia professional standards for confidentiality

While telehealth offers significant benefits, including convenience and access to specialized care, there are some limitations you should be aware of:

• •Technical issues: Internet connectivity problems, audio/video quality issues, or software malfunctions may interrupt or affect the quality of your consultation. If this occurs, we will attempt to reconnect or reschedule your appointment.
• •Visual limitations: Telehealth may not provide the same visual detail as an in-person assessment. Some physical signs may be more difficult to observe via video.
• •No physical examination: Hands-on assessment and treatment techniques cannot be performed via telehealth. Our service focuses on data analysis, education, and protocol development rather than manual therapy.
• •Security risks: While we use encrypted, secure platforms, no electronic communication is completely risk-free. We take all reasonable precautions to protect your information.

Your physiotherapist will continuously assess whether telehealth remains an appropriate and safe method of care for your situation. This assessment occurs:

• •Before your initial consultation (based on your intake information)
• •During each consultation
• •When your condition or circumstances change

To ensure a safe and effective telehealth experience, you agree to:

• •Environment: Be in a private, quiet location during your consultation where you feel comfortable discussing personal health information and where others cannot overhear the conversation.
• •Technology: Ensure you have a stable internet connection, a device with a working camera and microphone, and have tested the video platform before your appointment.
• •Identification: Be prepared to confirm your identity at the start of each consultation.
• •Honesty: Provide accurate and complete information about your health, symptoms, and medical history.
• •Safety: Inform your physiotherapist immediately if you experience any adverse effects or your condition worsens.

If recording is required for a specific purpose (such as for your personal reference), this must be discussed and agreed upon in writing before the consultation begins. Any authorized recordings become part of your confidential health record and are subject to the same privacy protections.

Participation in telehealth is voluntary. You have the right to:

• •Withdraw consent at any time — You may stop a telehealth consultation at any point without penalty or prejudice.
• •Request alternative care — You may request referral to a face-to-face provider at any time.
• •Discontinue services — You may choose to discontinue your care with Metabolic Physio at any time.

Withdrawing consent will not affect your right to future care or treatment, nor will it result in any negative consequences. If you wish to withdraw consent, simply inform your physiotherapist during the session or contact us via email.