Overview
Alma Integrity Standards promote our mission by: 1) Creating clear expectations for providers in terms of how to use the Alma platform and tools, and 2) Establishing an environment of safety and respect, while supporting providers in maintaining autonomy of their practices. To learn more about our integrity standards as a whole, please see What are Alma Integrity Standards?
This article covers Alma’s policies around Clinical Decision Making:
1. Professional Integrity
As a clinician and member of Alma, you are an independent contractor and are expected to abide by the guidelines created by your individual licensing board, as well as state and federal laws. This includes:
- Practicing within your expertise: Only offer care that you are trained and licensed to provide.
- Representing your practice honestly: Be clear and accurate about the services you offer.
- Following best practices: Use the standards of care set by your board.
- Protecting privacy: Keep all client information private and confidential.
- Setting clear boundaries: Disclose any conflicts of interest and maintain professional relationships.
- Promoting equity: Do not discriminate against any client.
- Managing care transitions: Base care decisions on clinical needs and help clients find new providers if care is disrupted.
- Maintaining records: Keep clear documentation of all sessions as required by your board.
- Being reliable: Show up on time for all consultations, appointments, and "confirmed" Direct Appointment Bookings.
2. Confidentiality & HIPAA
Providers must take necessary measures to protect client confidentiality and follow HIPAA guidelines.
3. Making Proper Referrals
Providers should make proper referrals when appropriate, including when it is clinically indicated or when there is a disruption in care.