By using the Virtual Consultation Feature, members acknowledge and agree to comply with the Virtual Consultation Policy.
This policy defines the appropriate use of the Virtual Consultation Feature, which allows members to schedule one-on-one virtual consultations with industry experts on topics such as quality, clinical operations, regulatory compliance, and general nursing home operations. To ensure compliance with privacy and security standards, members must not disclose Protected Health Information (PHI) during consultations, as no Business Associate Agreement (BAA) is in place.
The Virtual Consultation Feature is available to provide guidance, best practices, and general expertise on nursing home operations, including:
Clinical programs and quality improvement
Regulatory compliance and survey readiness
Operational best practices
Staffing and leadership strategies
Resident care and safety initiatives
Consultations do not constitute legal advice and must not include discussions requiring the disclosure of PHI, confidential resident-specific details, or any HIPAA-protected information.
Appropriate Use of Virtual Consultations
Virtual consultations provide expert guidance and strategic advice on nursing home operations.
Members may use this feature to discuss general trends, industry challenges, and operational strategies.
Consultations must not include: (a) Discussion of specific resident cases or any PHI, (b) Transmission of medical records, incident reports, or confidential facility documents, or (c) any information requiring a HIPAA-compliant platform or a Business Associate Agreement (BAA).
Privacy and Security Considerations
Virtual consultations are not HIPAA-compliant. Discussions must remain general and avoid resident-specific details.
If a topic requires reviewing confidential facility-specific documents members must arrange a separate discussion through secure, authorized channels. Members are responsible for ensuring that all shared information complies with applicable privacy laws and facility policies.
Virtual consultations may not be recorded.
Scheduling and Availability
Consultations are available by appointment only and must be scheduled in advance via member portal.
Cancellations must be made at least 4 hours in advance to allow for rescheduling.
The program reserves the right to limit consultation frequency based on availability and demand.
Disclaimer and Limitations
Virtual consultations provide guidance and best practices but do not replace legal, regulatory, or clinical decision-making.
Recommendations should be evaluated within the context of facility-specific policies, state and federal regulations, and professional judgment.
The program is not responsible for any regulatory or legal implications resulting from consultation discussions.
This policy is enforced to maintain privacy, compliance, and the integrity of consultations. Any misuse of the Virtual Consultation Feature may result in:
Immediate termination of the consultation
Restrictions on future consultation access
Further action as deemed necessary