Telehealth is a completely legitimate method of providing health services. Telehealth typically involves a working relationship between the individual and their healthcare professional before making a diagnosis and deciding to prescribe an assistance animal as a form of treatment for the individual’s disability-related needs.
However, HUD recognizes a problem with websites that advertise assistance animal letters or evaluations for sale. These sites often provide documentation to anyone immediately after completing a questionnaire and/or participating in a quick call with a provider, followed by paying a fee for the documentation. This process lacks the thorough evaluation and ongoing relationship typically required for a legitimate diagnosis and treatment plan.
To ensure the reliability of telehealth documentation, it is crucial that the health professional has a legitimate, ongoing relationship with the individual and a comprehensive understanding of their disability-related needs.
This helps ensure that the documentation is valid and complies with HUD guidelines.
If you would like further information about documentation requirements, check out what documentation is needed for a Reasonable Accommodation or contact our support team at support@ourpetpolicy.com.