Mental health: code; definition of distant site for a telemedicine visit; provide for. Amends sec. 105h of 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.105h).
Impact
The enactment of HB 4213 is expected to significantly affect state laws relating to telehealth services. The bill removes restrictive practices that may previously hinder telemedicine development, such as imposing lower reimbursement rates for distant providers as compared to in-person services. Additionally, it prohibits specific limitations on the technologies used, which should enhance the implementation of telehealth solutions across Michigan and possibly set a precedent for other states considering similar reforms.
Summary
House Bill 4213 seeks to amend existing legislation to enhance the definition and regulation of telemedicine services within Michigan's medical assistance program, including the Healthy Michigan program. By explicitly including remote healthcare interactions conducted via telecommunications systems, the bill aims to broaden access to medical, dental, behavioral, and substance use disorder services. It will allow for telemedicine to take place in various settings, including homes and schools, promoting a shift towards more flexible and accessible healthcare delivery, especially for underserved communities.
Sentiment
Generally, the sentiment surrounding HB 4213 has been favorable, as it has drawn bipartisan support. Advocates argue that expanding telemedicine will reduce barriers to care, thereby improving health outcomes and facilitating broader access, especially in rural areas. There is a recognition of the need for health inequities to be addressed, particularly following the increasing reliance on telehealth services during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Contention
Despite the overall positive reception, there are some points of contention associated with HB 4213. Critics express concerns regarding the quality of care delivered remotely and the ability to ensure that all telemedicine interactions meet necessary clinical standards. Additionally, there are discussions around the implications of broader telehealth access on state funding and the potential challenges for regulatory bodies in monitoring compliance and ensuring that the standards of care remain high.
Human services: medical services; reimbursement rate for telehealth visits; require to be the same as reimbursements for office visits. Amends sec. 105h of 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.105h).
Human services: medical services; general changes to the medical assistance program; provide for. Amends secs. 105d & 106 of 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.105d & 400.106) & repeals secs. 105c & 105f of 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.105c & 400.105f).
Human services: medical services; general changes to the medical assistance program; provide for. Amends secs. 105b & 109f of 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.105b & 400.109f) & repeals secs. 105c & 105f of 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.105c & 400.105f).
Human services: medical services; specialty integrated plan; provide for in behavioral health services. Amends sec. 105d & 109f of 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.105d & 400.109f).
Insurance: health insurers; reimbursement rate for telehealth visits; require to be the same as reimbursements for office visits. Amends sec. 3476 of 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.3476).
Human services: medical services; reimbursement rate for telehealth visits; require to be the same as reimbursements for office visits. Amends sec. 105h of 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.105h).
Health occupations: veterinarians; veterinarian-client-patient relationship; require. Amends secs. 16287, 18811 & 18814 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.16287 et seq.) & adds sec. 18818.
Health: occupations; examination and evaluation for purchase of contact lenses; allow to be in person or by telemedicine. Amends secs. 5553, 5555, 5557 & 5561 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.5553 et seq.) & adds secs. 5560 & 5562.
Health: occupations; examination and evaluation for purchase of contact lenses; allow to be in person or by telemedicine. Amends secs. 5553, 5555, 5557 & 5561 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.5553 et seq.) & adds secs. 5560 & 5562.