Emailpolicy

E-Mail Communications

E-mail is fast, convenient, and efficient. E-mail works well for many non-urgent questions, requests or messages you may have for your doctor. The most important thing you should know is that the confidentiality of e-mail exchanges cannot be guaranteed. While the security of e-mail is comparable to other types of communication (such as phone calls), there are some special issues with e-mail:

* If your e-mail address is through your employer, your employer may own all e-mails sent to that address.

* If your e-mail address is a family address, other family members may see your messages.

* If you use an internet service provider, there is a small risk that messages may be intercepted by others (hackers).

You should also know that e-mail sent to your doctor may be read by others in the practice.

What types of communications are appropriate for e-mail?
> Appointment scheduling questions or concerns
> Non-urgent medical advice or follow-up (including some types of test results)
> Billing/insurance questions

The following subjects are never appropriate for e-mail:

> Any urgent medical problem or emergency
> Mental health issues
> Drug and alcohol problems
> HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases

Please keep in mind that although e-mail can be a very effective tool, it is not a substitute for a physical exam or counseling by your doctor.

How do I communicate with my doctor via e-mail?

To communicate with Dr. Michael E. Jewett, simply send your e-mail to: jewettme@onebox.com

You can expect a response to your e-mail question or message usually within twenty-four hours. On weekends, holidays, or if I am on vacation, then it may take longer for a response. If you do not get an e-mail reply within the expected time, you should assume I did not receive your e-mail. You should then call the practice with your question or request.

Please sign and date indicating that you understand the risks and limitations described in this document concerning e-mail communication.

______________________________________ ______________________
Signature and Date

	E-Mail Communications E-mail is fast, convenient, and efficient. E-mail works well for many non-urgent questions, requests or messages you may have for your doctor. The most important thing you should know is that the confidentiality of e-mail exchanges cannot be guaranteed. While the security of e-mail is comparable to other types of communication (such as phone calls), there are some special issues with e-mail: * If your e-mail address is through your employer, your employer may own all e-mails sent to that address. * If your e-mail address is a family address, other family members may see your messages. * If you use an internet service provider, there is a small risk that messages may be intercepted by others (hackers). You should also know that e-mail sent to your doctor may be read by others in the practice. What types of communications are appropriate for e-mail? > Appointment scheduling questions or concerns > Non-urgent medical advice or follow-up (including some types of test results) > Billing/insurance questions The following subjects are *never* appropriate for e-mail: > Any urgent medical problem or emergency > Mental health issues > Drug and alcohol problems > HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases Please keep in mind that although e-mail can be a very effective tool, it is not a substitute for a physical exam or counseling by your doctor. How do I communicate with my doctor via e-mail? To communicate with Dr. Michael E. Jewett, simply send your e-mail to: jewettme@onebox.com You can expect a response to your e-mail question or message usually within twenty-four hours. On weekends, holidays, or if I am on vacation, then it may take longer for a response. If you do not get an e-mail reply within the expected time, you should assume I did not receive your e-mail. You should then call the practice with your question or request. Please sign and date indicating that you understand the risks and limitations described in this document concerning e-mail communication. ______________________________________ ______________________ Signature and Date