The bill amends the Michigan Insurance Code of 1956, specifically section 3476, to enhance the provisions regarding telemedicine services provided by health insurers. It stipulates that insurers cannot mandate face-to-face interactions between healthcare professionals and patients for services that can be delivered through telemedicine, as determined by the insurer. Furthermore, it clarifies that healthcare professionals are not obligated to provide telemedicine services unless such services are contractually required and deemed clinically appropriate. The bill also emphasizes that telemedicine services must be delivered by licensed professionals in the state where the patient is located and that all terms of the health insurance policy, including copayments and deductibles, apply.

Additionally, the bill ensures that if a service is provided via telemedicine, insurers must offer the same coverage at the same rate as they would for in-person services, using the appropriate evaluation and management codes for reimbursement. The definition of "insurer" is expanded to include nonprofit dental care corporations, and "telemedicine" is defined as the use of electronic media to connect patients with healthcare professionals in different locations, compliant with privacy regulations.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 500.3476