Introduction
The mission of Yucca Health is to help as many people as possible with their healthcare needs and to improve how patients interact with the medical system when addressing certain health conditions. This Physician Code of Conduct applies to all physicians providing care on the Yucca Health platform. It aligns the values of Yucca Health with the professional and ethical responsibilities of affiliated physicians. This Code of Conduct will be updated as needed to ensure patients always receive the highest quality of care.
Best Practices on the Platform
- Be Patient: Telemedicine is a new experience for many patients. Approach questions with patience and sensitivity, even if they seem basic.
- Always Explain: Whether prescribing or declining to prescribe, provide clear reasoning to the patient.
- Follow Up: The platform automates certain follow-ups, but use discretion to request additional follow-up when needed. Utilize the messaging system to maintain communication.
- Document Thoroughly: Always record clinical decisions and rationale, particularly when contraindications or risk factors are flagged.
- Check-In Regularly: Review patient messages at least once daily. If unavailable for more than 48 hours, provide advance notice to Yucca Health’s Patient Support team.
Conduct Expectations
- Verify Identity: Confirm patient identity either through approved third-party verification systems (such as Vouched) or by reviewing uploaded government-issued ID. Verify that demographic information matches.
- Follow State Protocols: Do not provide medical advice or treatment until a patient-physician relationship has been properly established in accordance with state-specific requirements.
- Treat Oldest First: Attend to patients in order of arrival to ensure fairness and timeliness.
- One Patient at a Time: Do not multitask consultations. Each case requires full attention. Do not interfere in another physician’s consult unless requested for a second opinion.
Safety, Security, and Privacy
- Check for Drug Interactions: Review reported medications and prior treatment plans before prescribing.
- When in Doubt: If uncertain about safety, seek a second opinion or escalate to Yucca Health’s Patient Support team. Never prescribe if unsure of safety.
- Consider Underlying Causes: Mental health is as important as physical health. Address concerns appropriately and follow established emergency protocols if needed.
- Review Protocols Regularly: Stay updated on Yucca Health’s clinical protocols and condition-specific guidance. Clinical judgment must always align with the standard of care.
- Never Share Credentials: Do not share your physician account access.
- Protect PHI: Only use HIPAA-compliant tools. Avoid working in open areas where PHI may be visible. Do not share patient information outside of Yucca Health except as required for care delivery.
Ethical Expectations
- Do No Harm: Patient safety must always come first. Prescribing decisions should never be influenced by financial considerations.
- No Self-Referral: Patients encountered through Yucca Health must not be referred to a physician’s personal practice. Appropriate referrals should be to a primary care provider or outside physician.
- Professional Fitness: Never provide medical care under the influence of alcohol or mind-altering substances.
- Disclosures: Promptly notify Yucca Health’s Patient Support team of any board complaints, administrative actions, malpractice claims, or disciplinary issues, including criminal charges or convictions.
Contact Information
Brand Merchants Network LLC (d/b/a Yucca Health)
9350 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 203
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
(888) 388-1878
hello@tryyucca.com