This bill aims to permanently extend the provisions of pay parity for telemedicine and telehealth services in New Jersey. It amends Section 8 of P.L.2017, c.117 to require health carriers to provide coverage and payment for telehealth services at a reimbursement rate equal to that of in-person services, ensuring that these services are treated equally under health benefits plans. The bill specifies that reimbursement can be made to either the individual practitioner or the employing agency, and it prohibits carriers from imposing higher deductibles, copayments, or coinsurance for telehealth services compared to in-person consultations.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific conditions under which coverage may be limited, such as services provided by telehealth organizations that do not offer in-person care in New Jersey, and it establishes reimbursement guidelines for audio-only consultations. It also clarifies that behavioral health services provided through audio-only means must be reimbursed at the same rate as in-person services. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage, reinforcing the state's commitment to equitable access to healthcare services delivered through telemedicine and telehealth.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 26:2S-29