California Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) Law and Ethics exam

In advertising telehealth services, what is a necessary component for ethical practice?

1. Emergency contact provision in client consent

2. Stating that telehealth is outside of the scope of practice

3. Claims of real-time availability during sessions

4. Including any restrictions on therapy via telehealth

The correct answer is: Emergency contact provision in client consent

In the context of advertising telehealth services, including an emergency contact provision in client consent is critical for ethical practice. This ensures that clients are fully informed about the parameters of care and know how to reach assistance in case of emergencies, which can be especially important in telehealth where the provider and client may not be in the same physical location. Ethical guidelines advocate for transparency, safety, and the well-being of clients. By providing emergency contact information, practitioners demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding clients' health, as it equips them with the necessary resources to handle urgent situations. This consideration helps to build trust and reinforces the provider's professional responsibility. While other options may touch on relevant aspects of advertising telehealth services, they do not directly address the immediate safety and ethical responsibilities that come with client care in a telehealth context. For example, stating telehealth falls outside the scope of practice could mislead clients or deter them from seeking needed care, and any claims of real-time availability could misrepresent the nature of the services offered. Including restrictions on therapy via telehealth is also important but may not be as critical as ensuring that clients have a clear and safe channel for emergency situations.