TX HB1066

Authorizes the workers' compensation commissioner to order medical examinations to be conducted via telehealth or telemedicine services when necessary to ensure timely access to a qualified doctor

Permits treating doctors or authorized physicians to certify maximum medical improvement or assign impairment ratings through telehealth/telemedicine examinations for specific musculoskeletal injuries involving hands, upper extremities, feet, spine, or torso

Requires a health care professional to be physically present in the room with the employee during telehealth examinations to assist with the exam and administer any necessary testing

Waives the in-person health care professional requirement only when a doctor determines the employee has not reached maximum medical improvement, or when maximum medical improvement is certified with no possibility of impairment

Takes effect January 1, 2026, and applies only to medical examinations conducted on or after that date