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Tele-assessment is the delivery of evaluation services using interactive technologies between a doctor and an individual who are not in the same physical location. The interactive technologies used in tele-assessment incorporate network and software security protocols to protect the confidentiality of individuals’ information transmitted via any electronic channel. Tele-assessment provides a convenient and readily accessible method to obtain forensic evaluations when either distance or distancing recommendations prohibits in-person assessments. This methodology provides our customers access to our experienced forensically trained national network of providers during critical times, utilizing our standardized protocols that exceed best practice. Helping our customers avoid potential crises that could result from postponing assessments through the use of our teleassessment services is why we advanced teleassessment services so quickly.

PsyBar History on Tele-assessment:

PsyBar developed a psychological tele-assessment platform in 2017 to meet the needs of our customers in remote areas. This expanded to other product lines in early 2019.

Due to the wide circulation of COVID-19 (coronavirus) in early 2020, PsyBar expanded this service to include psychiatric assessments, as well as our existing psychological assessment offerings, using a tele-assessment platform.

Our tele-assessment platform is a HIPAA compliant video-based web platform technology, Zoom for Healthcare. PsyBar does have a Business Associate Agreement in place with our vendor. All assessments will be scheduled with a doctor licensed in the state of the examinee.

What does an examinee need to use tele-assessment?

  1. Examinee MUST have an email address to receive the invitation to connect to our secure platform.
  2. It is important to use a secure internet connection.
  3. Examinee MUST be in a quiet area, free of distractions and interruptions.
  4. A device with a webcam and audio capabilities, computer, laptop or tablet.

While not all assessments are appropriate for a tele-platform, we believe the targeted use of this technology to help our customers tend to the needs of their insureds and employees is transformative. Our process takes into account the important aspects of forensic assessment that, if overlooked, will have significant consequences.