Connect with your Clients through Telepractice/Teletherapy

Telepractice/Teletherapy is a great way to stay connected with your clients if meeting in person isn't an option. But is this form of communication covered under your professional liability policy?

The answer? Yes—professional services using an alternative communication delivery method such as telepractice/teletherapy are covered under your policy.*

However, it is important to consider various factors in advance. Before using teletherapy/telecommunication with your clients, you should:

• Verify the licensure and regulatory requirements surrounding telepractice in your state of residence and your clients' states of residence
• Verify your online delivery mediums comply with HIPAA and other federal and state regulations for the provision of social work services
• Review the professional standards for the provision of telepractice services found in the NASW, ASWB, CSWE & CSWA Standards for Technology in Social Work Practice and the NASW Code of Ethics
• Ensure your clients' health insurance does not exclude telepractice services (Although billing matters are not handled as part of a professional liability policy, it is important to know this information in advance.)

You can also check out the “Technology in Social Work Practice" webinar. This webinar is available through the Social Work Online CE Institute as a self-study course. All interested members can go to https://naswinstitute.inreachce.com and search the course “Technology in Social Work Practice: Standards of Practice.”**

If you have questions regarding the use of telephone for your practice, please refer to your State Board of Professional Regulation and Licensing. Information relating to your specific state can be found on the states’ websites, or you can reach them by phone.

*Keep in mind, professional liability does not exclude alternative communication methods with your clients. Be aware of the policy exclusions that could impact claim adjudication results that are not related to your communication modality.

**This course is CEU eligible and has a corresponding fee.