Telemedicine in the Workplace

D CEO Healthcare published “Telemedicine in the Workplace” by Michael Abcarian, managing partner of the Dallas office of Fisher Phillips. He wrote: “Telemedicine most often refers to delivery of medical services by healthcare professionals through technology, rather than in person. These services are often provided through secure, site-to-site electronic communications that include video-conferencing, emails, phone calls, mobile applications, electronic media record transfers, and even remote operation of medical devices. Telemedicine allows individuals to communicate with healthcare professionals on topics such as patient consultations, primary care diagnoses, prescription drug refills and behavioral health counseling.” 

His article notes that telemedicine at work can pose some legal risks for employers. “The most common legal issues that arise out of telemedicine services for employers are compliance with federal laws such as ERISA, COBRA and HIPAA, as well as state laws concerning medical licensure and practice, as well as informed consent. Employers offering access to a telemedicine program for their employees—regardless of group health plan enrollment status—may inadvertently create an ERISA group health plan.” 

The entire article can be read on the D CEO Healthcare website.