AR HB1437

Repeals existing telemedicine statute (§ 17-80-118) and creates the new Telemedicine Act (§ 17-80-401 et seq.) with updated definitions including store-and-forward technology and remote patient monitoring as forms of telemedicine.

Requires a professional relationship between healthcare professional and patient before telemedicine use, with exceptions for emergencies and generic information; prohibits relationships established solely through internet questionnaires, email, patient-generated history, audio-only communication, text messaging, or fax.

Establishes that telemedicine services must meet the same standard of care as in-person services, healthcare professionals must be fully licensed in Arkansas, and noncompliance is a violation of the healthcare professional's practice act.

Mandates health benefit plans cover telemedicine services on the same basis as in-person services, without imposing stricter deductibles, copayments, or prior authorization requirements, and prohibit annual/lifetime maximums unique to telemedicine.

Requires licensing boards to amend rules to comply with the Telemedicine Act and prohibits drug-induced, chemical, or surgical abortions performed through telemedicine; effective January 1, 2018 for insurance coverage provisions.