AR HB1747

Establishes telemedicine framework in Arkansas Code § 17-80-117, defining telemedicine as delivery of clinical healthcare services using technology including interactive audio, audiovisual connection, secure video conferencing, and store-and-forward technology, but excluding audio-only, email, text messages, and online questionnaires.

Requires healthcare practitioners to hold the same standard of care for telemedicine patients as for in-person patients and mandates a professional relationship be established either through prior in-person encounter or virtually before providing telemedicine services.

Limits telemedicine provision to practitioners licensed and residing in Arkansas, and prohibits use of telemedicine for drug-induced, chemical, or surgical abortions.

Amends Arkansas Code § 17-92-1003(15) to recognize telemedicine-established professional relationships as meeting "proper practitioner-patient relationship" requirements for prescription issuance.

Declares an emergency due to healthcare practitioner maldistribution and medically underserved areas throughout Arkansas, making the act effective immediately upon approval.