April 12, 2008

Ohio Telepsychology Guidelines

The board of directors for the Ohio Psychological Association approved guidelines for telepsychology in order to provide a framework for using the treatment. Guidelines cover the categories of legal and regulatory issues, public benefit, and professional guidance.

Legal and regulatory guidelines were created because prior to the April 12, 2008, guidelines, laws and regulations for using telepsychology in Ohio were unclear about the use of the treatment when delivering psychological services. Public benefit guidelines were created because with the increased use of telepsychology, it was deemed risky for psychologists and patients to perform and undergo treatments with no clear guidelines in place. Lastly, professional guidelines were created in order to keep psychologists in line with the American Psychologial Association Ethics Code and to keep track of how telepsychology might require changes in how telepsychologists meet professional standards.

Guidelines state the codes of ethics must be followed and that standards are mandatory expectations that must always be adhered to. Such guidelines cover the appropriate use of telepsychology, legal and ethical requirements, informed consent and disclosure of records, financial arrangements and fees, and expiration and review dates.