AZ HB2197

Amends telemedicine provisions in Arizona medical practice statutes (sections 32-1401, 32-1501, 32-1854, and 32-1901.01) to modify requirements for prescribing medications via telemedicine encounters.

Removes requirement that telemedicine audio and video capability must meet specific Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) standards when conducting physical or mental health status examinations before prescribing medications.

Allows physicians, naturopathic physicians, and osteopathic physicians to conduct real-time telemedicine encounters with audio and video capability for patient examinations without specifying CMS compliance standards.

Maintains existing exceptions to telemedicine examination requirements including emergency situations, temporary patient supervision, immunizations, communicable disease treatment, and public health department prescriptions.

Applies changes uniformly across medical doctors, naturopathic doctors, osteopathic doctors, and pharmacists dispensing prescription medications through telemedicine programs.