HB423 Summary

• Allows licensed physicians, including osteopathic physicians, to practice telemedicine in Alabama by establishing Article 12 in Chapter 24 of Title 34 of the Alabama Code.

• Physicians providing telehealth medical services must possess a full and active Alabama license, except for irregular or infrequent services (fewer than 10 days or 10 patients per calendar year) or consultation services with in-state physicians.

• Permits physicians to prescribe legend drugs, medical supplies, and controlled substances via telemedicine without an in-person visit, except controlled substances generally require a prior in-person encounter within 12 months (exemption available for medical emergencies).

• Requires physicians to establish diagnoses through acceptable medical practices, disclose diagnoses and treatment options, verify patient identity and location, obtain informed consent, and maintain complete medical records in compliance with HIPAA and state regulations.

• Authorizes the Board of Medical Examiners and Medical Licensure Commission to adopt rules regulating telehealth services and repeals existing law on interstate medical licensing; effective 90 days after passage.