Telehealth Services in California: An Overview
The landscape of health care has been significantly transformed by technological advancements, with telehealth services becoming increasingly popular for enhancing patient convenience and comfort. In California alone, around 47% of adults reported utilizing telehealth services in 2022.
California has recognized telehealth as a legitimate form of health care delivery since 1996. Let’s delve into the laws and standards that govern telemedicine in the state.
Is Telemedicine Allowed in California?
Absolutely — California permits telemedicine. State legislation acknowledges telehealth as a viable method for delivering health care services through technology, enabling consultations, diagnoses, treatment, and ongoing management of a patient’s health.
The two primary formats for telehealth services used in California are:
- Videoconferencing: This method involves connecting with a healthcare provider through a two-way video platform using a computer or mobile device.
- Telephone Consultations: This format consists of audio-only appointments for medical discussions.
What Are the Telehealth Laws in California?
California allows physicians and healthcare providers to deliver care via telehealth technologies to patients situated within the state, provided they hold licensure from the Medical Board of California.
Here are some key aspects covered by California’s telehealth laws:
Standard of Care
Practitioners in California are required to adhere to the same standard of care when providing services through telehealth as they would in face-to-face interactions. While physicians cannot guarantee outcomes, they must apply sound judgment and provide competent care. Additionally, providers need to assess whether a telehealth visit is suitable compared to an in-person consultation.
Establishing New Provider-Patient Relationships
Providers are permitted to initiate relationships with new patients using video telehealth platforms. However, establishing such relationships through audio-only methods is generally not allowed, except in specific scenarios, such as delivering mental health services or dealing with sensitive issues.
Informed Consent
California law mandates that healthcare providers obtain either written or verbal consent from patients before starting telehealth services. Patients can provide their consent via paper or electronic formats, while verbal consent should be documented in the patient’s medical records.
Prescription Regulations
There are no specific state laws in California that restrict the prescribing of non-controlled substances through telehealth. However, patients must have an in-person evaluation before being prescribed any dangerous drugs or devices.
Medical Record Keeping
Similar to traditional in-person visits, practitioners in California are required to maintain accurate records of all telehealth appointments in compliance with accepted medical standards.
Payment Equality Laws
According to California’s payment parity laws, patients are responsible for the same costs for health care services, whether delivered in person or through telehealth technology. However, if the telehealth service differs significantly from the equivalent in-person treatment, the payment amounts may not match.
Cross-State Licensing Regulations
Physicians providing telehealth services to California patients must be licensed in that state, though there are rare exceptions, including:
- Specialist consultations invited by licensed practitioners within California.
- Care for patients facing life-threatening conditions.
- Short-term therapy or counseling services from a licensed professional.
Who Can Provide Telehealth Services in California?
A wide array of healthcare professionals in California are authorized to deliver telehealth services, including:
- Physicians
- Physician assistants
- Nurse practitioners
- Mental health professionals
- Behavioral health specialists
- Family therapists
- Social workers
- Physical therapists
- Optometrists
For more detailed information about telemedicine in California, consider exploring resources from Health for CA.