The bill amends Section 5-34-3 of the General Laws in Chapter 5-34, titled "Nurses," by introducing a new definition for "telemedicine" and establishing guidelines for its use by advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). It creates a new section, 5-34-51, which mandates that APRNs using telemedicine must adhere to the same standard of care as in-person services. The bill also ensures that the Board of Nursing cannot sanction an APRN solely for providing telemedicine services, as long as those services are deemed necessary and appropriate. Additionally, it outlines the conditions under which APRNs can provide telemedicine services to patients outside of Rhode Island without facing sanctions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining an established patient-provider relationship.

In parallel, the bill amends existing laws to set guidelines for telemedicine practices by physicians and physician assistants in Rhode Island. It defines telemedicine and requires that licensed professionals using this method adhere to the same standard of care as in-person consultations. Similar to the provisions for APRNs, the bill protects these professionals from sanctions for providing necessary and appropriate telemedicine services. It specifies conditions under which out-of-state licensed physicians and physician assistants can offer telemedicine services to Rhode Island patients without needing a local license, ensuring they maintain good standing in their home state and have professional liability insurance. The bill clarifies the jurisdiction of the Rhode Island Board of Medical Licensure and Discipline over telemedicine practices, ensuring compliance with state regulations.

The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
7741: 5-34-3, 5-37-1, 5-54-2