Jim Rosica
The Florida Senate on Thursday sent back the House’s “telehealth” bill (HB 7087), aimed at allowing doctors to treat patients virtually, rather than in person.
But the bill’s chances look iffy this session. The Senate continues to insist that Florida-licensed physicians, rather than out-of-state health care providers, should care for Florida residents.
The chamber added on that language to the House bill; that chamber would allow in-state and out-of-state doctors.
Such legislation has always stalled in recent Legislative Sessions. State Sen. Aaron Bean, a Fernandina Beach Republican, again is carrying the bill this session.
The legislation’s purpose has been to increase treatment options to Floridians in rural areas and those unable to get to a doctor’s office.
Telehealth has been endorsed by the American Medical Association, and California, New York and Texas have already passed laws allowing and regulating such practices there.
Critics, though, have said they’re concerned about allowing doctors to treat patients, including the prescribing of medication, that they can’t see up close and in person.
Just as importantly, issues of payment remain unresolved, such as whether a doctor who treats someone “virtually” should be reimbursed by insurance at the same rate as one who treats a patient in her or his office.
