As physicians and patients embrace the use of technology in health, physicians are increasingly using various forms of electronic communication to interact with their patients. In fact, many patients prefer having the option to communicate with their physicians via email, text, or electronic messaging through a patient portal to receive test results, refill prescriptions, and obtain medical advice for non-emergent care. Physicians, however, must be mindful of liability risks when communicating with patients electronically. This document discusses the major issues that arise when physicians engage in electronic communications with their patients. For information on physician practice websites, see CMA ON-CALL document #0402, “Physician Practice Websites.” For information on the use of social media by physicians and their staff, see CMA ON-CALL document #0403, “Physicians and the Use of Social Media.” For information on online physician review and rating websites, see CMA ON-CALL document #0401, “Online Consumer Review and Rating Sites.” For information on electronic medical records, see CMA ON-CALL document #4300, “Electronic Health Records.”
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