HB1980 Summary

• Permits coverage of telephonic behavioral health services when telehealth is technologically unavailable, the service is medically necessary and covered, and the provider has delivered in-person behavioral health services to the patient within the preceding 12 months.

• Clarifies that telephonic services (two-way audio-only phone communication) do not constitute telehealth and establishes separate definitions for each service type across Medicaid and insurance regulations.

• Requires Medicaid managed care, fee-for-service programs, health insurers, mutual benefit societies, and health maintenance organizations to cover telehealth services on equal terms with in-person services without geographic or originating site restrictions.

• Mandates equivalent reimbursement rates for telehealth services compared to face-to-face care and requires written disclosure to insureds about telehealth coverage, copayments, deductibles, and coinsurance requirements.

• Takes effect July 1, 2022, and requires the departments of health, human services, and commerce and consumer affairs to adopt implementing rules.