This bill amends the Social Welfare Act of 1939 by adding sections 109q and 109r, which mandate the Department of Health and Human Services to provide coverage for ultrasound procedures and fetal nonstress tests conducted remotely via telemedicine. Specifically, section 109q requires the department to ensure that these medical services are accessible to patients in their residences or other off-site locations. Section 109r outlines the necessary amendments to the rules governing fee-for-service and managed care plans, allowing for reimbursement of these remote procedures when they meet established standards of care and utilize appropriate CPT codes.

Additionally, the bill specifies conditions under which remote ultrasounds and fetal nonstress tests are reimbursable. For ultrasounds, providers must use digital technology to securely collect and transmit health data, ensuring compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act and approval from the FDA. Similarly, fetal nonstress tests must meet specific criteria, including the use of FDA-cleared monitoring solutions. The department is also tasked with adopting and publishing guidelines to implement these new provisions effectively.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 400.1, 400.119
As Passed by the Senate: 400.1, 400.119