Policy

Latest Policy Updates

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CTeL is a small team, but we are nationally recognized for our telehealth policy expertise. With nearly 30 years in the field, we’ve been through it all. Do you have a specific policy question that you are wrestling with or struggling to find the answer to? We can help.

Fill out the form to the right to connect with us. These telehealth policy wonks are ready to help.

In an era defined by rapid technological advancements and an ever-evolving healthcare landscape, the intersection of telehealth, digital health, and legislation has become a focal point for ensuring accessible, efficient, and quality healthcare services.

CTeL stands as a resource for those needing to stay informed, engaged, and empowered within this ever-changing environment.

As the world continues to embrace telehealth and digital health solutions, policymakers play a pivotal role in shaping the regulations that govern these transformative technologies. From remote consultations to AI-driven diagnostics, the ways we access, and experience healthcare are undergoing a fundamental shift. At CTeL, we recognize the critical need for well-informed and balanced policy decisions that not only encourage innovation but also safeguard patient rights, data privacy, and equitable access to care.

Whether you are seeking clarity on the latest regulatory updates, exploring the ethical implications of data-driven healthcare, or simply aiming to contribute to the discourse, CTeL is your go-to platform for all things related to healthcare policy in the digital age.

  • CTeL closely tracks licensure laws and regulations and keeps its members apprised of relevant policy updates for the following licensees:

    1. Dentist

    2. Nurse

    3. Pharmaceutical

    4. Physician

    5. Physician Associate

    6. Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist

    For more information on Licensure, click here.

  • In the realm of telemedicine, each state has its own laws and regulations regarding the establishment of a practitioner-patient relationship. While all states allow physicians to form such relationships via telemedicine, there may be certain variations and conditions to consider. Some states impose specific requirements on the patient's location, or the modalities used for establishing the relationship. To gain a better understanding, it is advisable to review the specific laws and regulations of each state.

    For more information on Practitioner-Patient Relationship Policy.

  • CTeL tracks reimbursement rules and regulations for Medicare, Medicaid, as well as Private Payers.

    For more information on Reimbursement policy.

  • The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) included a series of requirements for the protection of personal health information (PHI) to ensure the integrity and confidentiality of patient data. Covered entities who must be “HIPAA compliant” are health plans, healthcare clearinghouses, healthcare providers, and, per the HITECH Act of 2009, business associates who have access to PHI.

    For more information on HIPAA policy.

  • Telehealth allows physicians to treat patients from various locations and distances. With growing technologies and capabilities, physicians can perform physical exams from afar. However, there are certain requirements and policies each state requires for their physicians to follow, ensuring the continuation of high-quality healthcare across the board. In addition to state requirements, practitioners must be mindful of the federal requirements, specifically Medicaid and Medicare, for telehealth examinations.

    For more information on Physician Exam Requirements.

  • In 2020, federal and state agencies enacted temporary changes to telehealth policies to ensure access to care during the coronavirus pandemic. The Public Health Emergency (PHE) gave agencies temporary authority to expand telehealth use for the duration of the PHE. When the PHE ends, all “waivers” put in place during the emergency period will go away. Some states have taken steps to make pandemic-era changes permanent after the Public Health Emergency has passed.

    For more information on PHE Waiver policy.

  • Telepsych, Telemental Health, and ePrescribing are big ticket policy items at the moment. CTeL is working to construct, educate, and empower the telehealth community through policy and action.

    For more information on Mental and Behavioral Health policy.