Expanding Telehealth in Texas
Antiquated telehealth laws in Texas make it illegal for doctors to talk to their patients when the doctor is out of the state.
This is a problem that compounds the critical shortage of care options for Texans with chronic health conditions or disabilities. And for those in rural areas, the crisis is even worse.
This dire situation leaves many patients with a difficult choice:
Allowing patients greater access to providers via telehealth would help alleviate the shortage, but there is a patchwork of rules prohibiting it.
THE SOLUTION
Texas can create a simple registration system for all licensed providers to be available as a new option for patients to access care over telehealth.
This is a proven model that has expanded care in a diverse group of states. Arizona, Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, Utah, Vermont, and Washington have all been offering their patients this telehealth option for years for all provider types.
WHY IT MATTERS
Registering doctors would comply with the state’s scope of practice and standards.
Telehealth leads to patient-centered care at home, in the office, or in a medical setting—whichever is best. Providers can see more patients at their convenience and patients get flexibility in where they receive care.
THE BOTTOM LINE:
Geography should not determine a patient’s health destiny. Interstate telehealth helps patients access more high-quality care options.
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