Medical License Direct
Solution for your medical license needs.
Telemedicine Licenses
Medical License Direct, LLC provides medical licensing services to physicians and groups who
are seeking state medical licenses in one, most or all the states. The service includes
professionally preparing the application, requesting third-party verifications required by the
boards and follow-up for the physician until the license is issued.
Our experience and expertise with the medical licensing process, knowledge of board
procedures, requirements and excellent relations with medical board personnel has taught us
how to help you avoid pitfalls. We coordinate the medical licensing process and, in most cases,
complete it a lot faster than you can.
Physicians who practice interstate telemedicine, teleradiology, or telehealth are required by most
state medical boards to acquire a full, unrestricted medical license before practicing medicine in
that state.
Some medical boards such as Alabama, Montana and Oregon offer a special purpose
telemedicine license. Other states that regulate telepractice in medicine include Texas, Florida,
California and Colorado. The levels of regulation vary greatly by state. For example, California
and Florida, similar to New York, require full licensure to perform any function relating to patient
care, with some exceptions for consultation in some instances. Other states are exploring the
issue of telepractice and in general, how to regulate it.
Perhaps you need multiple state medical licenses or information about a telemedicine license.
Licensing consultants are standing by to assist you and answer your questions about licensing
requirements, determine your eligibility for any of the U.S. Medical Boards and discuss the
service we offer.
Discounts are available for multi-state acquisitions.
Call, 850-623-1302, weekdays 7:30 am to 5:00 pm and Saturdays 9:00 to noon CST for a FREE
initial consultation or quote.
Or email your questions to info@medicallicensedirect.com and you can expect a reply within
an hour or two during business hours.
We also offer a pre-qualification form for your convenience. Or, please click HERE for our
paper or online form and we'll get started right away.
are seeking state medical licenses in one, most or all the states. The service includes
professionally preparing the application, requesting third-party verifications required by the
boards and follow-up for the physician until the license is issued.
Our experience and expertise with the medical licensing process, knowledge of board
procedures, requirements and excellent relations with medical board personnel has taught us
how to help you avoid pitfalls. We coordinate the medical licensing process and, in most cases,
complete it a lot faster than you can.
Physicians who practice interstate telemedicine, teleradiology, or telehealth are required by most
state medical boards to acquire a full, unrestricted medical license before practicing medicine in
that state.
Some medical boards such as Alabama, Montana and Oregon offer a special purpose
telemedicine license. Other states that regulate telepractice in medicine include Texas, Florida,
California and Colorado. The levels of regulation vary greatly by state. For example, California
and Florida, similar to New York, require full licensure to perform any function relating to patient
care, with some exceptions for consultation in some instances. Other states are exploring the
issue of telepractice and in general, how to regulate it.
Perhaps you need multiple state medical licenses or information about a telemedicine license.
Licensing consultants are standing by to assist you and answer your questions about licensing
requirements, determine your eligibility for any of the U.S. Medical Boards and discuss the
service we offer.
Discounts are available for multi-state acquisitions.
Call, 850-623-1302, weekdays 7:30 am to 5:00 pm and Saturdays 9:00 to noon CST for a FREE
initial consultation or quote.
Or email your questions to info@medicallicensedirect.com and you can expect a reply within
an hour or two during business hours.
We also offer a pre-qualification form for your convenience. Or, please click HERE for our
paper or online form and we'll get started right away.
| PHONE: 850-623-1302 FAX: 904-339-9671 info@medicallicensedirect.com |
State Medical Board Licensing
Requirements and Provisions
to Practice Telemedicine
Alabama State Board of Medical Examiners
Alabama has a telemed license. (7) Special Purpose License. A medical professional in another state
may apply to the Alabama State Medical Board for a special purpose license to practice in Alabama,
though they may not practice in Alabama more than 10 times per year or more than 1% of their total
practice. A special purpose license is a license issued by the Commission to practice medicine or
osteopathy across state lines which: (a) Is only issued to an applicant whose principal practice location
and license to practice is located in a state or territory of the United States whose laws permit or allow
issuance of a special purpose license to practice medicine or osteopathy across state lines or a similar
license to a physician whose principal practice location and license is located in the State of Alabama;
(b) Limits the licensee solely to the practice of medicine or osteopathy across state lines as defined in
these rules. (Chapter 540-X-16)"
Alaska State Medical Board
Yes, a full, unrestricted Alaska license is required. It is not required if consulting for another radiologist
who is licensed in Alaska. The Alaska Medical Board has issued an opinion that if the physician is
licensed in another state and is reporting to another physician, he does not to be licensed in Alaska. No
specific telemedicine law exists at this time.
Arizona Board of Medical Examiners
Yes, physicians in Arizona who read or interpret medical records and radiology films must hold an
Arizona license. Physicians residing in another state, federal jurisdiction, or country who are authorized
to practice medicine in that jurisdiction are not required to hold an Arizona license if the physician
engages in actual single or infrequent consultation with a doctor of medicine licensed in Arizona and if
the consultation regards a specific patient or patients (ARS §32-1421[B]).
Arkansas State Medical Board
Yes, physicians in Arkansas who read or interpret medical records and radiology films must hold an
Arkansas license. Regulation No. 20, Practice of Medicine by a Non-resident, states: Pursuant to Ark.
Code Ann. 17-95-401 and 17-95-202, the Arkansas State Medical Board sets forth the following Rule
and Regulation concerning the practice of medicine by a non-resident physicians or osteopaths: Any
non-resident physician or osteopath who, while located outside the State of Arkansas, provides
diagnostic or treatment services to patients within the State of Arkansas on a regular basis or under a
contract with the health care provider, a clinic located in this state, or a health care facility, is engaged in
the practice of medicine or osteopathy in this state and, therefore must obtain a license to practice
medicine in this State. Any nonresident physician or osteopath who, while located outside of the state,
consults on an irregular basis with a physician or osteopath who holds a license to practice medicine
within the State of Arkansas and who is located in this State, is not required to obtain a license to
practice medicine in the State of Arkansas History: Adopted March 14, 1997
Medical Board of California
Yes, a full, unrestricted California medical license is required. Telemedicine is seen as a tool in medical
practice, not a separate form of medicine. There are no legal prohibitions to using technology in the
practice of medicine, as long as the practice is done by a California licensed physician. Telemedicine is
not a telephone conversation, e-mail/instant messaging conversation, or fax; it typically involves the
application of videoconferencing or store and forward technology to provide or support health care
delivery.
The standard of care is the same whether the patient is seen in-person, through telemedicine or other
methods of electronically enabled health care. Physicians need not reside in California, as long as they
have a valid, current California license.
In 1996, Senate Bill 1665 (M. Thompson; Chap 864, Stats of 1996) enacted the "Telemedicine
Development Act of 1996" which imposed several requirements governing the delivery of health care
services through telemedicine and also made several changes to different sections of law, which are
also related to telemedicine.
Below we have listed a few highlights of Senate Bill 1665:
The act shall not be construed to alter the scope of practice of any health care provider or authorize
the delivery of health care services in a setting, or in a manner, not otherwise authorized by law.
Exempts out-of-state practitioners, as defined, from the Medical Practice Act when consulting either
within this state or across state lines, with a licensed practitioner in California. Prohibits the out-of-state
practitioner from having ultimate authority over the care or primary diagnosis of a patient in California.
Requires the practitioner to obtain verbal and written informed consent (Business & Professions Code
Section 2290.5) from the patient prior to delivering health care via telemedicine, and also requires that
this signed written consent statement becomes part of the patient's medical record.
Provides that no health care service plan contract that is issued, amended, or renewed, on and after
January 1, 1997, shall require face-to-face contract between a health care provider and patient for
services appropriately provided through telemedicine, subject to all terms and conditions of the contract
agreed upon between the enroll or subscriber and the plan.
There are prohibitions relating to prescribing over the Internet, which can result in license discipline, and
carries hefty fines for prescribing without an appropriate prior examination (Business & Professions
Code Section 2242 and 2242.1). This examination, however, need not be in-person, if the technology is
sufficient to provide the same information to the physician if the exam had been performed face-to-face.
A simple questionnaire, however, without an appropriate examination would be a violation of law, and
would be a disciplinable offense.
In summary, the law governs the practice of medicine, and no matter how communication is performed,
the standards are no more or less. Physicians using Telemedicine technologies to provide care to
patients located in California must be licensed in California and must provide an appropriate prior exam
to diagnose and/or treat the patient. Physicians practicing via telemedicine are held to the same
standard of care, and retain the same responsibilities of providing informed consent (Business &
Professions Code Section 2290.5), ensuring the privacy of medical information, and any other duties
associated with practicing medicine.
Colorado Board of Medical Examiners
Yes, a full, unrestricted Colorado medical license is required. 12-36-106. Practice of medicine defined -
exemptions from licensing requirements - repeal. (1) For the purpose of this article, "practice of
medicine" means: (a) Holding out one's self to the public within this state as being able to diagnose,
treat, prescribe for, palliate, or prevent any human disease, ailment, pain, injury, deformity, or physical
or mental condition, whether by the use of drugs, surgery, manipulation, electricity, telemedicine, the
interpretation of tests, including primary diagnosis of pathology specimens, images, or photographs, or
any physical, mechanical, or other means whatsoever; (g) The delivery of telemedicine, which means
the delivery of medical services and any diagnosis, consultation, treatment, transfer of medical data, or
education related to health care services using interactive audio, interactive video, or interactive data
communication. Nothing in this paragraph (g) shall be construed to limit the delivery of health services
by other licensed professionals, within the professional's scope of practice, using advanced technology,
including, but not limited to, interactive audio, interactive video, or interactive data communication. (2) If
any person who does not possess and has not filed a license to practice medicine within this state, as
provided in this article, and who is not exempted from the licensing requirements under this section,
shall do any of the acts mentioned in this section as constituting the practice of medicine, he shall be
deemed to be practicing medicine without complying with the provisions of this article and in violation
thereof.
Connecticut Medical Examining Board
Yes, a full, unrestricted Connecticut medical license is required. "(d) The provisions of subsection (a) of
this section shall apply to any individual whose practice of medicine includes any ongoing, regular or
contractual arrangement whereby, regardless of residency in this or any other state, he provides,
through electronic communications or interstate commerce, diagnostic or treatment services, including
primary diagnosis of pathology specimens, slides or images, to any person located in this state. In the
case of electronic transmissions of radiographic images, licensure shall be required for an out-of-state
physician who provides, through an ongoing, regular or contractual arrangement, official written reports
of diagnostic evaluations of such images to physicians or patients in this state. The provisions of
subsection (a) of this section shall not apply to a nonresident physician who, while located outside this
state, consults (A) on an irregular basis with a physician licensed by section 20-10 of the general
statutes, as amended, who is located in this state or (B) with a medical school within this state for
educational or medical training purposes. Notwithstanding the provisions of this subsection, the
provisions of subsection (a) of this section shall not apply to any individual who regularly provides the
types of services described in this subsection pursuant to any agreement or arrangement with a short-
term acute care general hospital, licensed by the department of public health, provided such agreement
or arrangement was entered into prior to February 1, 1996, and is in effect as of the effective date of
this section. (e) On and after October 1, 1999, any person licensed as an osteopathic physician or
osteopath pursuant to Chapter 371 shall be deemed licensed as a physician and surgeon pursuant to
this chapter. (20-9)"
Delaware Board of Medical Practice
Yes, a full, unrestricted Delaware medical license is required.
District of Columbia Board of Medicine
Yes, a full, unrestricted District of Columbia medical license is required.
Florida Board of Medicine
Yes, a full, unrestricted Florida medical license is required.
64B8-9.014 Standards for Telemedicine Prescribing Practice. (1) Prescribing medications based solely
on an electronic medical questionnaire
constitutes the failure to practice medicine with that level of care, skill, and treatment
which is recognized by reasonably prudent physicians as being acceptable under similar
conditions and circumstances, as well as prescribing legend drugs other than in the course
of a physician’s professional practice.
(2) Physicians and physician assistants shall not provide treatment recommendations,
including issuing a prescription, via electronic or other means, unless the following
elements have been met:
(a) A documented patient evaluation, including history and physical examination to
establish the diagnosis for which any legend drug is prescribed.
(b) Discussion between the physician or the physician assistant and the patient regarding
treatment options and the risks and benefits of treatment.
(c) Maintenance of contemporaneous medical records meeting the requirements of Rule
64B8-9.003, F.A.C.
(3) The provisions of this rule are not applicable in an emergency situation. For purposes
of this rule an emergency situation means those situations in which the prescribing
physician or physician assistant determines that the immediate administration of the
medication is necessary for the proper treatment of the patient, and that it is not
reasonably possible for the prescribing physician or physician assistant to comply with
the provision of this rule prior to providing such prescription.
(4) The provisions of this rule shall not be construed to prohibit patient care in
consultation with another physician who has an ongoing relationship with the patient, and
who has agreed to supervise the patient’s treatment, including the use of any prescribed
medications, nor on-call or cross-coverage situations in which the physician has access to
patient records.
(5) For purposes of this rule, the term “telemedicine” shall include, but is not limited to,
prescribing legend drugs to patients through the following modes of communication:
(a) Internet;
(b) Telephone; and
(c) Facsimile.
Specific Authority 458.309, 458.331(1)(v) FS. Law Implemented 458.331(1)(q), (t), (v) FS. History–New
9-14-03.
Georgia Composite State Board of Medical Examiners
Yes, a full, unrestricted Georgia medical license is required. "43-34-31.1. (a) A person who is physically
located in another state or foreign country and who, through the use of any means, including electronic,
radiographic, or other means of telecommunication, through which medical information or data is
transmitted, performs an act that is part of a patient care service located in this state, including but not
limited to the initiation of imaging procedures or the preparation of pathological material for examination,
and that would affect the diagnosis or treatment of the patient is engaged in the practice of medicine in
this state. Any person who performs such acts through such means shall be required to have a license
to practice medicine in this state and shall be subject to regulation by the board. Any such out-of-state
or foreign practitioner shall not have ultimate authority over the care or primary diagnosis of a patient
who is located in this state. (b) This Code section shall not apply to: (1) The acts of a doctor of medicine
or doctor of osteopathy located in another state or foreign country who: (A) Provides consultation
services at the request of a physician licensed in this state; and (B) Provides such services on an
occasional rather than on a regular or routine basis; "
Hawaii Board of Medical Examiners
Yes, a full, unrestricted Hawaii medical license is required. Hawaii does not specifically address
telemedicine, but reading of films/x-ray images for a patient in Hawaii would be considered practicing
medicine in the state and will therefore require a Hawaii medical license.
Idaho State Board of Medicine Yes, a full, unrestricted Idaho medical license is required. The board
often receives requests on whether physicians who regularly read radiologic or imaging studies done in
Idaho on Idaho patients by Idaho physicians must have an Idaho license. It is the Board's interpretation
that such physicians must hold an Idaho license. The "practice of medicine" means to investigate,
diagnose, treat, correct, or prescribe for any human disease, ailment, injury, infirmity, deformity, or other
condition, physical or mental, by any means or instrumentality. Idaho Code 54-1804(2) makes it a felony
to practice in the state of Idaho without a license.
Illinois Department of Professional Regulation
Yes, a full, unrestricted Illinois medical license is required. " Sec. 49.5. Telemedicine. (a) The General
Assembly finds and declares that because of technological advances and changing practice patterns
the practice of medicine is occurring with increasing frequency across state lines and that certain
technological advances in the practice of medicine are in the public interest. The General Assembly
further finds and declares that the practice of medicine is a privilege and that the licensure by this State
of practitioners outside this State engaging in medical practice within this State and the ability to
discipline those practitioners is necessary for the protection of the public health, welfare, and safety. (b)
A person who engages in the practice of telemedicine without a license issued under this Act shall be
subject to penalties provided in Section 59. (c) For purposes of this Act, ""telemedicine"" means the
performance of any of the activities listed in Section 49, including but not limited to rendering written or
oral opinions concerning diagnosis or treatment of a patient in Illinois by a person located outside the
State of Illinois as a result of transmission of individual patient data by telephonic, electronic, or other
means of communication from within this State. ""Telemedicine"" does not include the following: (1)
periodic consultations between a person licensed under this Act and a person outside the State of
Illinois; (2) a second opinion provided to a person licensed under this Act; and (3) diagnosis or
treatment services provided to a patient in Illinois following care or treatment originally provided to the
patient in the state in which the provider is licensed to practice medicine. (d) Whenever the Department
has reason to believe that a person has violated this Section, the Department may issue a rule to show
cause why an order to cease and desist should not be entered against that person. The rule shall
clearly set forth the grounds relied upon by the Department and shall provide a period of 7 days from
the date of the rule to file an answer to the satisfaction of the Department. Failure to answer to the
satisfaction of the Department shall cause an order to cease and desist to be issued immediately. (e) An
out-of-state person providing a service listed in Section 49 to a patient residing in Illinois through the
practice of telemedicine submits himself or herself to the jurisdiction of the courts of this State. (Source:
P.A. 90-99, eff. 1-1-98.)"
Indiana Health Professions Bureau
Yes, a full, unrestricted Indiana medical license is required to diagnose and prescribe, not to consult on
an infrequent basis for another doctor of medicine. "IC 25-22.5-1-1.1 Definitions Sec. 1.1. As used in
this article: (a) ""Practice of medicine or osteopathic medicine"" means any one (1) or a combination of
the following: (1) Holding oneself out to the public as being engaged in: (A) the diagnosis, treatment,
correction, or prevention of any disease, ailment, defect, injury, infirmity, deformity, pain, or other
condition of human beings; (B) the suggestion, recommendation, or prescription or administration of any
form of treatment, without limitation; (4) Providing diagnostic or treatment services to a person in Indiana
when the diagnostic or treatment services: (A) are transmitted through electronic communications; and
(B) are on a regular, routine, and non-episodic basis or under an oral or written agreement to regularly
provide medical services."
Iowa Board of Medicine
Yes, a full, unrestricted Iowa medical license is required. "At a recent meeting, the Iowa Board of Medical
Examiners reviewed the inquiry relating to the licensure requirements for out-of-state physicians
performing diagnoses through electronic means. It is the Board's policy to require any physician who
participates in the diagnosis and treatment of a patient situated in Iowa to obtain licensure. However,
there is a provision in the Board's authorizing statute which permits physicians not licensed in Iowa to
provide medical consultation and services which are "incidental" to the care of patients. Medical reports
used for "primary diagnostic purposes" are generally not considered incidental and thus are seldom
exempted under this provision."
Kansas Board of Healing Arts
Yes, a full, unrestricted Kansas medical license required, but not if it's for a second reading where the
radiologist is consulting with a radiologist licensed in Kansas. K.A.R. 100-26-1 addresses the issue,
though it does not prohibit telemedicine. Essentially, it requires Kansas licensure, or exemption from
licensure, if the patient is located in Kansas, regardless of the doctor's location. Exemption from
licensure is usually accomplished through consultation or supervision with a Kansas licensee. In short,
the Board has generally believed that an initial read constitutes a diagnosis which requires licensure or
supervision, and an overread is consultation which does not require licensure. New regulations are
proposed, and have been adopted on a temporary basis, for other services performed within the state.
Please find these regulations on our website at www.ksbha.org.
Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure
Yes, a full, unrestricted Kentucky medical license is required. Telemedicine Policy Statement -
Physicians living outside Kentucky but actively practicing medicine upon patients within Kentucky should
be required to meet the same statutory qualifications and should be held to the same standards of
acceptable and prevailing medical practice within the Commonwealth as are resident physicians
practicing within the state. Adopted: September 18, 1997
Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners
Yes, a full, unrestricted Louisiana medical license is required. The Louisiana Medical Board has issued
an opinion that the doctor has to be licensed in LA in order to practice telemedicine.
Maine Board of Licensure in Medicine
Yes, a full, unrestricted Maine medical license is required. "No specific telemedicine provision exists at
this time, but the current law states: Unless licensed by the board, an individual may not practice
medicine or surgery or a branch of medicine or surgery or claim to be legally licensed to practice
medicine or surgery or a branch of medicine or surgery within the State by diagnosing, relieving in any
degree or curing, or professing or attempting to diagnose, relieve or cure a human disease, ailment,
defect or complaint, whether physical or mental, or of physical and mental origin, by attendance or by
advice, or by prescribing or furnishing a drug, medicine, appliance, manipulation, method or a
therapeutic agent whatsoever or in any other manner unless otherwise provided by statutes of this
State. [1995, c. 671, §11 (amd).]"
Maryland Board of Physician Quality Assurance
Yes, a full, unrestricted Maryland medical license is required.
Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine
Yes, a full, unrestricted Massachusetts medical license is required. There are no mentions of
telemedicine in the current law; however, the opinion of the Board is that the statute defines occasional
consultation as once a year. Providing diagnosis on more frequent basis requires obtaining a state
medical license.
Michigan Board of Medicine
Yes, a full, unrestricted Michigan medical license is required. No specific mention of telemedicine, but
the current law states that one is required to have a full license to practice medicine.
Minnesota Board of Medical Practice
A telemedicine license is required. It is more restricted and costs less. Any physician wishing to practice
telemedicine in the state of Minnesota must either be licensed by the state or register with the medical
board. The list of acceptable activities is extensive. There are exceptions for emergency consultations
and irregular consultations, the latter being defined as once a month or fewer than ten patients. There is
also an exception for consultation when a Minnesota physician maintains final control over the diagnosis
and treatment of the patient. The law also allows for appropriate use of telemedicine in the home.
Mississippi State Board of Medical
Yes, a full, unrestricted Mississippi medical license is required. It is not required if reading for
consultation only. Section 73-25-34,Telemedicine; licensing requirements for practicing medicine across
state lines, states:
(1) For the purposes of this section, telemedicine, or the practice of medicine across state lines, shall be
defined to include any one or both of the following:
(a) Rendering of a medical opinion concerning diagnosis or treatment of a patient within this state by a
physician located outside this state as a result of transmission individual patient data by electronic or
other means from within this state to such physician or his agent; or
(b) The rendering of treatment to a patient within this state by a physician located outside this state as a
result of transmission of individual patient data by electronic or other means from within this state to
such physician or his agent.
(2) Except as hereinafter provided, no person shall engage in the practice of medicine across state lines
(telemedicine) in this state, hold himself out as qualified to do the same, or use any title, word or
abbreviation to indicate to or induce others to believe that he is duly licensed to practice medicine
across state lines in this state unless he has first obtained a license to do so from the State Board of
Medical Licensure and has met all educational and licensure requirements as determined by the State
Board of Medical Licensure.
(3) The requirement of licensure as set forth in subsection (2) above shall not be required where the
evaluation, treatment and/or the medical opinion to be rendered by a physician outside this state (a) is
requested by a physician duly licensed to practice medicine in this state, and (b) the physician who has
requested such evaluation, treatment and/or medical opinion has already established a doctor/patient
relationship with the patient to be evaluated and/or treated.
Missouri State Board of Registration for the Healing Arts
Yes, a full, unrestricted Missouri medical license is required if the physician is reading directly for a
patient. It is not required if the physician is reading for another doctor of medicine already licensed in
the state.
Montana Board of Medical Examiners
PHYSICIANS ARE NOT PERMITTED TO PRACTICE MEDICINE IN MONTANA IN ANY MANNER WITHOUT
AN ACTIVE MONTANA LICENSE OR TELEMEDICINE CERTIFICATE LICENSING
REQUIREMENTS: · Current active, unrestricted physician license in another U.S. State or territory ·
Board-Certified OR meets the current requirements to take the examination to become Board-certified in
a medical specialty pursuant to the standards of, and approved by the American Board of Medical
Specialties or the American Osteopathic Association-Bureau of Osteopathic Specialists · An identified
agent for service of process in Montana, who is registered with the Montana Secretary of State and the
board and who may be a physician certified practice medicine in this state · Proof of current malpractice
insurance or professional negligence insurance coverage in the amount of $1,000,000 · Proof that the
applicant has established or regularly used connection with the State of Montana including but not
limited to a least one of the following: o An office or other place for the reception of a transmission from
the applicant, located in Montana OR o Contractual relationship with a person or entity in Montana
related to the applicant's practice of Medicine OR o Privileges in a Montana Hospital or another Montana
Healthcare facility as defined by MCA 50-5-101 · No history of disciplinary action or limitation of any kind
imposed by a state or federal agency in a jurisdiction where the applicant is or has ever been license to
practice medicine · The applicant must not be subject to a pending investigation by a state medical
board or by another state or federal agency · The applicant has no history of conviction of a crime
related to the physician's practice of medicine · Applicant or third party must not have paid or had paid
on the applicant's behalf, on more than three claims of professional malpractice or negligence within the
5 years preceding this application for a telemedicine certificate
Nebraska Board of Medicine and Surgery
Yes, a full, unrestricted Nebraska medical license is required. "71-1,102. Practice of medicine and
surgery, defined. For the purpose of the Uniform Licensing Law, and except as otherwise provided by
law, the following classes of persons shall be deemed to be engaged in the practice of medicine and
surgery: (1) Persons who publicly profess to be physicians, surgeons, or obstetricians, or publicly
profess to assume the duties incident to the practice of medicine, surgery, or obstetrics, or any of their
branches; (2) persons who prescribe and furnish medicine for some illness, disease, ailment, injury,
pain, deformity, or any physical or mental condition, or treat the same by surgery; (3) persons holding
themselves out to the public as being qualified in the diagnosis or treatment of diseases, ailments, pain,
deformity, or any physical or mental condition, or injuries of human beings; (4) persons who suggest,
recommend, or prescribe any form of treatment for the intended palliation, relief, or cure of any physical
or mental ailment of any person; (5) persons who maintain an office for the examination or treatment of
persons afflicted with ailments, diseases, injuries, pain, deformity, or any physical or mental condition of
human beings; (6) persons who attach to their name the title of M.D., surgeon, physician, physician and
surgeon, or any word or abbreviation indicating that they are engaged in the treatment or diagnosis of
ailments, diseases, injuries, pain, deformity, infirmity, or any physical or mental condition of human
beings; and (7) persons who are physically located in another state but who, through the use of any
medium, including an electronic medium, perform for compensation any service which constitutes the
healing arts that would affect the diagnosis or treatment of an individual located in this state, unless he
or she is providing consultation services to a physician and surgeon who is duly licensed in this state
and is a treating physician of the individual. For purposes of this subdivision, consultation means the
evaluation of the medical data of the patient as provided by the treating physician and rendering a
recommendation to such treating physician as to the method of treatment or analysis of the data.
Source: Laws 1927, c. 167, §100, p. 482; C.S. 1929, §71-1401; Laws 1943, c. 150, §18, p. 546; R.S.
1943, §71-1,102; Laws 1969, c. 563, §1, p. 2291; Laws 1997, LB 452, §1. Effective date September 13,
1997."
Nevada State Board of Medical Examiners
Yes, a Nevada medical license is required. Physicians practicing telemedicine may qualify for a special
license, please call licensing at 775-688-2559 x233
New Hampshire Board of Medicine
Yes, a full, unrestricted New Hampshire medical license is required. "329:1-b Practice of Teleradiology. –
I. In this section, ""teleradiology"" means the evaluation, interpretation, or consultation by the electronic
transmission of radiological images from one location to another. II. Any out-of-state physician providing
radiological services who performs radiological diagnostic evaluations or interpretations for New
Hampshire patients by means of teleradiology shall be deemed to be in the practice of medicine and
shall be required to be licensed under this chapter. III. This section shall not apply to out-of-state
radiologists who provide consultation services pursuant to RSA 329:21, II. Source. 1999, 246:2, eff.
Sept. 7, 1999."
New Jersey State Board of Medical Examiners
Yes, a full, unrestricted New Jersey medical license is required. New Jersey Medical Board has issued a
policy that all physicians practicing medicine must hold a NJ license. A specific telemedicine regulation is
pending review.
New Mexico State Board of Medical Examiners
Physicians need at least a telemedicine license, available for a $434 fee. Applicants need to fill out a
statewide doctor of medicine application, present verification of all licenses in other states (active, full,
and unrestricted), a copy of specialty board certificate, submit cards for a background check and cannot
be physically practicing in New Mexico.
New York State Board for Medicine
Yes, a full, unrestricted New York medical license is required, unless reading for an occasional
consultation. "New York Medical Board has issued a statement on telemedicine. In the practice of
medicine and dentistry, Education Law includes specific provisions permitting occasional consultations
by physicians and dentists licensed in their home state (Education Law Section 6526(3) for medicine,
and Section 6610(5) for dentistry). This consultation exemption statutorily establishes the extent to
which these professionals licensed in other jurisdictions may practice in New York State when engaged
in consulting arrangements. This regulatory approach is premised on the prohibition in law against
professional practice in New York by anyone who is not licensed in this State."
North Carolina Medical Board
Yes, a full, unrestricted North Carolina medical license is required. "(b) Any person shall be regarded as
practicing medicine or surgery within the meaning of this Article who shall diagnose or attempt to
diagnose, treat or attempt to treat, operate or attempt to operate on, or prescribe for or administer to, or
profess to treat any human ailment, physical or mental, or any physical injury to or deformity of another
person. A person who resides in any state or foreign country and who, by use of any electronic or other
mediums, performs any of the acts described in this subsection, including prescribing medication by use
of the Internet or a toll-free telephone number, shall be regarded as practicing medicine or surgery and
shall be subject to the provisions of this Article and appropriate regulation by the North Carolina Medical
Board."
North Dakota State Board of Medical Examiners
Yes, a full, unrestricted North Dakota medical license is required. There is no specific regulation for
telemedicine, but a physician is said to be practicing medicine in the location of the patient, not the
physician, and thus the state requires a full license.
State Medical Board of Ohio
Section 4731.296 of the Ohio Revised Code defines “telemedicine” as “the practice of medicine in this
state through the use of any communication, including oral, written, or electronic communication by a
physician outside this state.” Telemedicine and teleradiology are both considered the practice of
medicine pursuant to Section 4731.34 of the Ohio Revised Code. A person who wishes to practice
telemedicine in Ohio must have an Ohio license.
The requirements are essentially the same as if applying for full licensure, with a few
exceptions. To be eligible for a telemedicine certificate, the applicant must hold a current,
unrestricted license to practice medicine or osteopathic medicine and surgery issued by another
state that requires license holders to complete at least fifty hours of continuing medical
education every two years. In addition, the applicant’s principle place of practice is located in
that state. Please refer to Section 4731.296 of the Ohio Revised Code for all the specific
requirements of the telemedicine certificate.
It should be noted that a holder of a telemedicine certificate may not practice medicine in
person in the state of Ohio without either obtaining a special activity certificate under Section
4731.294 of the Ohio Revised Code, or converting the telemedicine certificate to a full certificate
issued under Section 4731.29 of the Ohio Revised Code.
A telemedicine certificate may be converted to a full certificate upon receipt of a written request
from the certificate holder. Once the telemedicine certificate is converted, the holder is subject
to all requirements and privileges attendant to a full certificate, including continuing education
requirements.
Oklahoma Board of Medical Licensure and Supervision
Yes, radiologists need to obtain a full, unrestricted Oklahoma medical license and have to specify
teleradiology as the reason for seeking a license in another state.
Oregon Board of Medical Examiners
Teleradiology status is for physicians whose practice is to read radiological images transmitted from
Oregon to their practice location in another state and who communicate their radiological findings back
to the ordering physician in Oregon. Requires agency letter of verification.
Telemonitoring status is for physicians whose practice is the intraoperative monitoring of data collected
during surgery and which is transmitted to them in a location outside of Oregon via a telemedicine link
may request this status. Requires letter from hospital or surgical center requesting Telemonitoring
status.
Telemedicine status is for physicians outside Oregon who directly treat patients, provide them with a
written or documented medical opinion concerning diagnosis or treatment in Oregon, and who have a
physician-patient relationship with the patients. Requires completion of Practice Across State Lines
Practice Description form: http://www.oregon.gov/OMB/MD-DO_Application/Telemedicine_Request.pdf.
Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine
Yes, a full, unrestricted Pennsylvania medical license is required. The Board does not currently have
specific regulations addressing the parameters of how to engage in the practice of medicine over the
Internet. Absent specific regulations physicians are obligated under Section 41 of the Medical Practice
Act, 63 P.S. 422.41 to adhere to accepted standards of practice.
Puerto Rico - (787) 782-8949
Yes, a full, unrestricted Puerto Rico medical license required, unless the radiologist is consulting on
infrequent basis.
"20 L.P.R.A. § 6002 License; After the approval of this law any physician or osteopath that desires to
practice telemedicine in Puerto Rico has to apply for and obtain a license from the Board of Medical
Examiners for the practice of medicine, surgery or osteopathy in compliance with the requirements of
sections 31 and following of Chapter 20."
Rhode Island Board of Medical Licensure and Discipline
Yes, a full, unrestricted Rhode Island medical license is required. The license is not required if the
physician is consulting for another doctor of medicine already licensed in the state.
"1.14 ""Practice of Medicine"", pursuant to section 5-37-1 (1) of the Act, shall include the practice of
allopathic and osteopathic medicine. Any person shall be regarded as practicing medicine within the
meaning of the act who holds himself or herself out as being able to diagnose, treat, operate, or
prescribe for any person ill or alleged to be ill with disease, pain, injury, deformity or abnormal physical
or mental condition, or who shall either profess to heal, offer or undertake, by any means or method, to
diagnose, treat, operate, or prescribe for any person for disease, pain, injury, deformity or physical or
mental condition. In addition, one who attaches the title M.D., physician, surgeon, D.O., osteopathic
physician and surgeon, or any other similar word or words or abbreviation to his or her name indicating
that he or she is engaged in the treatment or diagnosis of the diseases, injuries or conditions of persons
shall be held to be engaged in the practice of medicine."
South Carolina Board of Medical Examiners
Yes, a full, unrestricted South Carolina medical license is required.
South Dakota Board of Medical and Osteopathic Examiners
Yes, a full, unrestricted South Dakota medical license is required.
Tennessee Board of Medical Examiners
A telemedicine license is available.
Texas State Board of Medical Examiners
The Texas Medical Board adopted amendments and additions to its telemedicine rules at its August
2010 meeting. The changes became effective October 17, 2010. To view these changes, go to
http://www.tmb.state.tx.us/rules/changes/2010/101710.php. The following is a list of frequently asked
questions.
1. What types of telemedicine models are allowed under the rules?
In general, two models for telemedicine have been identified, each for a different situation: either from
an established medical site or from the patient’s home.
A. Established Medical Site:
In the first model, a patient receives care through telemedicine at an “established medical site,” such
as a hospital or clinic or other site that has the required medical professionals and equipment. There
are no specific limitations on the types of care that a patient may receive at an established site, and
both initial visits and follow up visits may be done at this type of site.
At these sites, patient site presenters are available to assist in the interface between the patient and
the physician (or PA or APN), who is located at a distant site, and sufficient diagnostic equipment must
be available. One exception is to the requirement of a patient site presenters is that if the health care
provided is related to mental health, a patient site presenter is not required unless patients may be a
danger to themselves or others.
B. At Home:
In the second model, patients can access health care via telemedicine (video conferencing with a live
feed) from their homes. The basic requirement for an in home evaluation is that the patient must be a
pre-existing patient previously seen in person either by the physician or PA with whom the patient is
teleconferencing or by another physician who has referred the patient to the physician providing
telemedicine care and the referral is documented in the medical record. Once that initial diagnosis is
made in person or at an established site, the patient may receive follow-up care for that pre-existing
condition via telemedicine in their homes.
In addition to the above, distant site providers can treat pre-existing patients in their homes for new
symptoms that appear unrelated to the pre-existing condition based on the following criteria and
clarifications:
Distant site providers may treat patients at home for up to 72 hours as long as the patient is advised
to see a physician in a face-to-face visit within 72 hours if the symptoms do not resolve.
Distant site providers may not provide continuing telemedicine medical services for new symptoms to
a patient who is not seen within 72 hours.
The rule intends that for a patient presenting minor symptoms , a provider may prescribe a course of
treatment that runs longer than 72 hours, such as a 10 day course of antibiotics or a 30 day course of
medication to relieve allergy symptoms. It is intended that this option be used judiciously and within the
standard of care. It is not intended that ongoing prescriptions for new diagnoses made from the patient’
s home would be issued.
A physician may not:
Make an initial diagnosis of a new patient via telemedicine at a patient’s home (or other non-
established medical site) unless the physician has conducted a prior face-to-face initial consultation or
the patient has been referred to the distant site provider by a physician who evaluated the patient in-
person.
Provide ongoing medical treatment to a preexisting patient with a new chronic condition unless a
physician conducts a timely in-person evaluation after the diagnosis of the new condition.
Finally, the patient being seen via teleconferencing from his or her home must be seen by a treating
physician for an in-person evaluation at least once a year and no chronic pain treatment with scheduled
drugs may occur through this treatment model.
2. What are some examples of facilities that meet the definition of an “established medical site?”
In addition to a hospital or clinic, a site could be a facility such as a nurse’s station in a public or private
school, a volunteer fire department, an EMS station, a residential or institutional care facility, or even a
pharmacy. The key criteria are the availability and presence of:
a patient site presenter who is a licensed or certified health care professional, such as a nurse,
emergency medical technician (EMT), or pharmacist; and
sufficient technology and medical equipment to allow for an adequate physical evaluation.
The rule also intends that an established site be sufficient in size to accommodate patient privacy and
to facilitate the presentation of the patient to the distant site provider.
Any location that meets these requirements will be considered an established site.
3. Is there anything that cannot be an established site?
Generally, anyplace that does not meet the requirements in #2 is not considered an established site.
Additionally, A private home is not considered an established medical site. Hospice facilities and nursing
homes are not considered to be private homes.
4. Do the rules accommodate the use of Skype or similar forms of web
videoconferencing as a means for a distant site provider to provide telemedicine medical care in a
patient’s home?
Yes, this would be allowed as long as all the other requirements for home treatment (Sec. 174.7) are
met.
5. What is the definition of a “face-to-face visit?”
The definition of a “face-to-face visit” is an evaluation performed on a patient where the provider and
patient are both at the same physical location or where the patient is at an established medical site.
For example:
Provider (physician, PA, or APN) performs in-person evaluation of patient while both are physically
present in the same location.
Provider (physician, PA, or APN) performs an evaluation of patient where the patient is located at an
established medical site but the provider is located elsewhere with the ability to visually interface with the
patient.
Utah Department of Commerce
Yes, a full, unrestricted Utah medical license is required. " (2) Regardless of the form in which a licensee
engages in the practice of medicine, the licensee may only permit the practice of medicine in that form of
practice to be conducted by an individual: (a) licensed in Utah as a physician and surgeon under
Section 58-67-301 or as an osteopathic physician and surgeon under Section 58-68-301; and (b) who is
able to lawfully and competently engage in the practice of medicine."
Vermont Board of Medical Practice
There are no specific telemedicine provisions, but the current law states that to practice any type of
medicine one needs a full Vermont medical license.
Virginia Board of Medicine
Yes, a full, unrestricted Virginia medical license is required for diagnosing and prescribing.
Washington Medical Quality Assurance Commission - updated 10/18/10
In Washington, they have no rules or laws on telemedicine. The Medical Commission adopted
guidelines. Here is the link to the guidelines on their web site.
http://www.doh.wa.gov/hsqa/mqac/internet.htm
West Virginia Board of Medicine
Yes, a full, unrestricted West Virginia medical license is required. "§30-3-13. Unauthorized practice of
medicine and surgery or podiatry; criminal penalties; limitations. (a) A person shall not engage in the
practice of medicine and surgery or podiatry, hold himself or herself out as qualified to practice medicine
and surgery or podiatry or use any title, word or abbreviation to indicate to or induce others to believe
that he or she is licensed to practice medicine and surgery or podiatry in this state unless he or she is
actually licensed under the provisions of this article. A person engaged in the practice of telemedicine is
considered to be engaged in the practice of medicine within this state and is subject to the licensure
requirements of this article. As used in this section, the term ""practice of telemedicine"" means the use
of electronic information and communication technologies to provide health care when distance
separates participants and includes one or both of the following: (1) The diagnosis of a patient within
this state by a physician located outside this state as a result of the transmission of individual patient
data, specimens or other material by electronic or other means from within this state to the physician or
his or her agent; or (2) the rendering of treatment to a patient within this state by a physician located
outside this state as a result of transmission of individual patient data, specimens or other material by
electronic or other means from within this state to the physician or his or her agent. No person may
practice as a physician's assistant, hold himself or herself out as qualified to practice as a physician's
assistant, or use any title, word or abbreviation to indicate to or induce others to believe that he or she
is licensed to practice as a physician's assistant in this state unless he or she is actually licensed under
the provisions of this article. Any person who violates the provisions of this subsection is guilty of a
misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be fined not more than ten thousand dollars, or
imprisoned in the county jail not more than twelve months, or both fined and imprisoned. (b) The
provisions of this section do not apply to: (2) Physicians or podiatrists licensed in other states or foreign
countries who are acting in a consulting capacity with physicians or podiatrists duly licensed in this state,
for a period of not more than three months: Provided, That this exemption is applicable on a one-time
only basis;"
Wisconsin Medical Examining Board
Yes, a full, unrestricted Wisconsin medical license is required.
Wyoming Board of Medicine
Yes, a full, unrestricted Wyoming medical license is required if the radiologist is reading directly for a
patient. If the reading is done as a consultation for another radiologist licensed in Wyoming, the license
is not required. Any physician rendering medical diagnosis and/or treatment to a person physically
present in this state must have a license issued by the board when such diagnosis/treatment is
rendered, regardless of the physician's location and regardless of the means by which such
diagnosis/treatment is rendered. This regulation shall not apply if an out-of-state physician consults by
telephone, electronic or any other means with an attending physician licensed by this board or an out-of-
state physician is specifically exempt from licensure under W.S. 33-26-103(a)(i-ix). Section 7. Exemption
from licensure. (a) Consultants. Physicians residing in and licensed to practice medicine in another state
or country called into this state for consultation by a physician licensed to practice medicine in this state
may practice medicine without first obtaining a Wyoming license for a period not to exceed seven (7)
days in any fifty-two (52) week period. Consults of longer duration or greater frequency are not exempt
and require licensure.
STATE BOARD REQUIREMENTS AND PROVISIONS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.
We try to keep this page updated as information becomes available. Please let us know if you
find info to the contrary. This page is partially updated as changes occur. Last partial update
was June 2011.
Requirements and Provisions
to Practice Telemedicine
Alabama State Board of Medical Examiners
Alabama has a telemed license. (7) Special Purpose License. A medical professional in another state
may apply to the Alabama State Medical Board for a special purpose license to practice in Alabama,
though they may not practice in Alabama more than 10 times per year or more than 1% of their total
practice. A special purpose license is a license issued by the Commission to practice medicine or
osteopathy across state lines which: (a) Is only issued to an applicant whose principal practice location
and license to practice is located in a state or territory of the United States whose laws permit or allow
issuance of a special purpose license to practice medicine or osteopathy across state lines or a similar
license to a physician whose principal practice location and license is located in the State of Alabama;
(b) Limits the licensee solely to the practice of medicine or osteopathy across state lines as defined in
these rules. (Chapter 540-X-16)"
Alaska State Medical Board
Yes, a full, unrestricted Alaska license is required. It is not required if consulting for another radiologist
who is licensed in Alaska. The Alaska Medical Board has issued an opinion that if the physician is
licensed in another state and is reporting to another physician, he does not to be licensed in Alaska. No
specific telemedicine law exists at this time.
Arizona Board of Medical Examiners
Yes, physicians in Arizona who read or interpret medical records and radiology films must hold an
Arizona license. Physicians residing in another state, federal jurisdiction, or country who are authorized
to practice medicine in that jurisdiction are not required to hold an Arizona license if the physician
engages in actual single or infrequent consultation with a doctor of medicine licensed in Arizona and if
the consultation regards a specific patient or patients (ARS §32-1421[B]).
Arkansas State Medical Board
Yes, physicians in Arkansas who read or interpret medical records and radiology films must hold an
Arkansas license. Regulation No. 20, Practice of Medicine by a Non-resident, states: Pursuant to Ark.
Code Ann. 17-95-401 and 17-95-202, the Arkansas State Medical Board sets forth the following Rule
and Regulation concerning the practice of medicine by a non-resident physicians or osteopaths: Any
non-resident physician or osteopath who, while located outside the State of Arkansas, provides
diagnostic or treatment services to patients within the State of Arkansas on a regular basis or under a
contract with the health care provider, a clinic located in this state, or a health care facility, is engaged in
the practice of medicine or osteopathy in this state and, therefore must obtain a license to practice
medicine in this State. Any nonresident physician or osteopath who, while located outside of the state,
consults on an irregular basis with a physician or osteopath who holds a license to practice medicine
within the State of Arkansas and who is located in this State, is not required to obtain a license to
practice medicine in the State of Arkansas History: Adopted March 14, 1997
Medical Board of California
Yes, a full, unrestricted California medical license is required. Telemedicine is seen as a tool in medical
practice, not a separate form of medicine. There are no legal prohibitions to using technology in the
practice of medicine, as long as the practice is done by a California licensed physician. Telemedicine is
not a telephone conversation, e-mail/instant messaging conversation, or fax; it typically involves the
application of videoconferencing or store and forward technology to provide or support health care
delivery.
The standard of care is the same whether the patient is seen in-person, through telemedicine or other
methods of electronically enabled health care. Physicians need not reside in California, as long as they
have a valid, current California license.
In 1996, Senate Bill 1665 (M. Thompson; Chap 864, Stats of 1996) enacted the "Telemedicine
Development Act of 1996" which imposed several requirements governing the delivery of health care
services through telemedicine and also made several changes to different sections of law, which are
also related to telemedicine.
Below we have listed a few highlights of Senate Bill 1665:
The act shall not be construed to alter the scope of practice of any health care provider or authorize
the delivery of health care services in a setting, or in a manner, not otherwise authorized by law.
Exempts out-of-state practitioners, as defined, from the Medical Practice Act when consulting either
within this state or across state lines, with a licensed practitioner in California. Prohibits the out-of-state
practitioner from having ultimate authority over the care or primary diagnosis of a patient in California.
Requires the practitioner to obtain verbal and written informed consent (Business & Professions Code
Section 2290.5) from the patient prior to delivering health care via telemedicine, and also requires that
this signed written consent statement becomes part of the patient's medical record.
Provides that no health care service plan contract that is issued, amended, or renewed, on and after
January 1, 1997, shall require face-to-face contract between a health care provider and patient for
services appropriately provided through telemedicine, subject to all terms and conditions of the contract
agreed upon between the enroll or subscriber and the plan.
There are prohibitions relating to prescribing over the Internet, which can result in license discipline, and
carries hefty fines for prescribing without an appropriate prior examination (Business & Professions
Code Section 2242 and 2242.1). This examination, however, need not be in-person, if the technology is
sufficient to provide the same information to the physician if the exam had been performed face-to-face.
A simple questionnaire, however, without an appropriate examination would be a violation of law, and
would be a disciplinable offense.
In summary, the law governs the practice of medicine, and no matter how communication is performed,
the standards are no more or less. Physicians using Telemedicine technologies to provide care to
patients located in California must be licensed in California and must provide an appropriate prior exam
to diagnose and/or treat the patient. Physicians practicing via telemedicine are held to the same
standard of care, and retain the same responsibilities of providing informed consent (Business &
Professions Code Section 2290.5), ensuring the privacy of medical information, and any other duties
associated with practicing medicine.
Colorado Board of Medical Examiners
Yes, a full, unrestricted Colorado medical license is required. 12-36-106. Practice of medicine defined -
exemptions from licensing requirements - repeal. (1) For the purpose of this article, "practice of
medicine" means: (a) Holding out one's self to the public within this state as being able to diagnose,
treat, prescribe for, palliate, or prevent any human disease, ailment, pain, injury, deformity, or physical
or mental condition, whether by the use of drugs, surgery, manipulation, electricity, telemedicine, the
interpretation of tests, including primary diagnosis of pathology specimens, images, or photographs, or
any physical, mechanical, or other means whatsoever; (g) The delivery of telemedicine, which means
the delivery of medical services and any diagnosis, consultation, treatment, transfer of medical data, or
education related to health care services using interactive audio, interactive video, or interactive data
communication. Nothing in this paragraph (g) shall be construed to limit the delivery of health services
by other licensed professionals, within the professional's scope of practice, using advanced technology,
including, but not limited to, interactive audio, interactive video, or interactive data communication. (2) If
any person who does not possess and has not filed a license to practice medicine within this state, as
provided in this article, and who is not exempted from the licensing requirements under this section,
shall do any of the acts mentioned in this section as constituting the practice of medicine, he shall be
deemed to be practicing medicine without complying with the provisions of this article and in violation
thereof.
Connecticut Medical Examining Board
Yes, a full, unrestricted Connecticut medical license is required. "(d) The provisions of subsection (a) of
this section shall apply to any individual whose practice of medicine includes any ongoing, regular or
contractual arrangement whereby, regardless of residency in this or any other state, he provides,
through electronic communications or interstate commerce, diagnostic or treatment services, including
primary diagnosis of pathology specimens, slides or images, to any person located in this state. In the
case of electronic transmissions of radiographic images, licensure shall be required for an out-of-state
physician who provides, through an ongoing, regular or contractual arrangement, official written reports
of diagnostic evaluations of such images to physicians or patients in this state. The provisions of
subsection (a) of this section shall not apply to a nonresident physician who, while located outside this
state, consults (A) on an irregular basis with a physician licensed by section 20-10 of the general
statutes, as amended, who is located in this state or (B) with a medical school within this state for
educational or medical training purposes. Notwithstanding the provisions of this subsection, the
provisions of subsection (a) of this section shall not apply to any individual who regularly provides the
types of services described in this subsection pursuant to any agreement or arrangement with a short-
term acute care general hospital, licensed by the department of public health, provided such agreement
or arrangement was entered into prior to February 1, 1996, and is in effect as of the effective date of
this section. (e) On and after October 1, 1999, any person licensed as an osteopathic physician or
osteopath pursuant to Chapter 371 shall be deemed licensed as a physician and surgeon pursuant to
this chapter. (20-9)"
Delaware Board of Medical Practice
Yes, a full, unrestricted Delaware medical license is required.
District of Columbia Board of Medicine
Yes, a full, unrestricted District of Columbia medical license is required.
Florida Board of Medicine
Yes, a full, unrestricted Florida medical license is required.
64B8-9.014 Standards for Telemedicine Prescribing Practice. (1) Prescribing medications based solely
on an electronic medical questionnaire
constitutes the failure to practice medicine with that level of care, skill, and treatment
which is recognized by reasonably prudent physicians as being acceptable under similar
conditions and circumstances, as well as prescribing legend drugs other than in the course
of a physician’s professional practice.
(2) Physicians and physician assistants shall not provide treatment recommendations,
including issuing a prescription, via electronic or other means, unless the following
elements have been met:
(a) A documented patient evaluation, including history and physical examination to
establish the diagnosis for which any legend drug is prescribed.
(b) Discussion between the physician or the physician assistant and the patient regarding
treatment options and the risks and benefits of treatment.
(c) Maintenance of contemporaneous medical records meeting the requirements of Rule
64B8-9.003, F.A.C.
(3) The provisions of this rule are not applicable in an emergency situation. For purposes
of this rule an emergency situation means those situations in which the prescribing
physician or physician assistant determines that the immediate administration of the
medication is necessary for the proper treatment of the patient, and that it is not
reasonably possible for the prescribing physician or physician assistant to comply with
the provision of this rule prior to providing such prescription.
(4) The provisions of this rule shall not be construed to prohibit patient care in
consultation with another physician who has an ongoing relationship with the patient, and
who has agreed to supervise the patient’s treatment, including the use of any prescribed
medications, nor on-call or cross-coverage situations in which the physician has access to
patient records.
(5) For purposes of this rule, the term “telemedicine” shall include, but is not limited to,
prescribing legend drugs to patients through the following modes of communication:
(a) Internet;
(b) Telephone; and
(c) Facsimile.
Specific Authority 458.309, 458.331(1)(v) FS. Law Implemented 458.331(1)(q), (t), (v) FS. History–New
9-14-03.
Georgia Composite State Board of Medical Examiners
Yes, a full, unrestricted Georgia medical license is required. "43-34-31.1. (a) A person who is physically
located in another state or foreign country and who, through the use of any means, including electronic,
radiographic, or other means of telecommunication, through which medical information or data is
transmitted, performs an act that is part of a patient care service located in this state, including but not
limited to the initiation of imaging procedures or the preparation of pathological material for examination,
and that would affect the diagnosis or treatment of the patient is engaged in the practice of medicine in
this state. Any person who performs such acts through such means shall be required to have a license
to practice medicine in this state and shall be subject to regulation by the board. Any such out-of-state
or foreign practitioner shall not have ultimate authority over the care or primary diagnosis of a patient
who is located in this state. (b) This Code section shall not apply to: (1) The acts of a doctor of medicine
or doctor of osteopathy located in another state or foreign country who: (A) Provides consultation
services at the request of a physician licensed in this state; and (B) Provides such services on an
occasional rather than on a regular or routine basis; "
Hawaii Board of Medical Examiners
Yes, a full, unrestricted Hawaii medical license is required. Hawaii does not specifically address
telemedicine, but reading of films/x-ray images for a patient in Hawaii would be considered practicing
medicine in the state and will therefore require a Hawaii medical license.
Idaho State Board of Medicine Yes, a full, unrestricted Idaho medical license is required. The board
often receives requests on whether physicians who regularly read radiologic or imaging studies done in
Idaho on Idaho patients by Idaho physicians must have an Idaho license. It is the Board's interpretation
that such physicians must hold an Idaho license. The "practice of medicine" means to investigate,
diagnose, treat, correct, or prescribe for any human disease, ailment, injury, infirmity, deformity, or other
condition, physical or mental, by any means or instrumentality. Idaho Code 54-1804(2) makes it a felony
to practice in the state of Idaho without a license.
Illinois Department of Professional Regulation
Yes, a full, unrestricted Illinois medical license is required. " Sec. 49.5. Telemedicine. (a) The General
Assembly finds and declares that because of technological advances and changing practice patterns
the practice of medicine is occurring with increasing frequency across state lines and that certain
technological advances in the practice of medicine are in the public interest. The General Assembly
further finds and declares that the practice of medicine is a privilege and that the licensure by this State
of practitioners outside this State engaging in medical practice within this State and the ability to
discipline those practitioners is necessary for the protection of the public health, welfare, and safety. (b)
A person who engages in the practice of telemedicine without a license issued under this Act shall be
subject to penalties provided in Section 59. (c) For purposes of this Act, ""telemedicine"" means the
performance of any of the activities listed in Section 49, including but not limited to rendering written or
oral opinions concerning diagnosis or treatment of a patient in Illinois by a person located outside the
State of Illinois as a result of transmission of individual patient data by telephonic, electronic, or other
means of communication from within this State. ""Telemedicine"" does not include the following: (1)
periodic consultations between a person licensed under this Act and a person outside the State of
Illinois; (2) a second opinion provided to a person licensed under this Act; and (3) diagnosis or
treatment services provided to a patient in Illinois following care or treatment originally provided to the
patient in the state in which the provider is licensed to practice medicine. (d) Whenever the Department
has reason to believe that a person has violated this Section, the Department may issue a rule to show
cause why an order to cease and desist should not be entered against that person. The rule shall
clearly set forth the grounds relied upon by the Department and shall provide a period of 7 days from
the date of the rule to file an answer to the satisfaction of the Department. Failure to answer to the
satisfaction of the Department shall cause an order to cease and desist to be issued immediately. (e) An
out-of-state person providing a service listed in Section 49 to a patient residing in Illinois through the
practice of telemedicine submits himself or herself to the jurisdiction of the courts of this State. (Source:
P.A. 90-99, eff. 1-1-98.)"
Indiana Health Professions Bureau
Yes, a full, unrestricted Indiana medical license is required to diagnose and prescribe, not to consult on
an infrequent basis for another doctor of medicine. "IC 25-22.5-1-1.1 Definitions Sec. 1.1. As used in
this article: (a) ""Practice of medicine or osteopathic medicine"" means any one (1) or a combination of
the following: (1) Holding oneself out to the public as being engaged in: (A) the diagnosis, treatment,
correction, or prevention of any disease, ailment, defect, injury, infirmity, deformity, pain, or other
condition of human beings; (B) the suggestion, recommendation, or prescription or administration of any
form of treatment, without limitation; (4) Providing diagnostic or treatment services to a person in Indiana
when the diagnostic or treatment services: (A) are transmitted through electronic communications; and
(B) are on a regular, routine, and non-episodic basis or under an oral or written agreement to regularly
provide medical services."
Iowa Board of Medicine
Yes, a full, unrestricted Iowa medical license is required. "At a recent meeting, the Iowa Board of Medical
Examiners reviewed the inquiry relating to the licensure requirements for out-of-state physicians
performing diagnoses through electronic means. It is the Board's policy to require any physician who
participates in the diagnosis and treatment of a patient situated in Iowa to obtain licensure. However,
there is a provision in the Board's authorizing statute which permits physicians not licensed in Iowa to
provide medical consultation and services which are "incidental" to the care of patients. Medical reports
used for "primary diagnostic purposes" are generally not considered incidental and thus are seldom
exempted under this provision."
Kansas Board of Healing Arts
Yes, a full, unrestricted Kansas medical license required, but not if it's for a second reading where the
radiologist is consulting with a radiologist licensed in Kansas. K.A.R. 100-26-1 addresses the issue,
though it does not prohibit telemedicine. Essentially, it requires Kansas licensure, or exemption from
licensure, if the patient is located in Kansas, regardless of the doctor's location. Exemption from
licensure is usually accomplished through consultation or supervision with a Kansas licensee. In short,
the Board has generally believed that an initial read constitutes a diagnosis which requires licensure or
supervision, and an overread is consultation which does not require licensure. New regulations are
proposed, and have been adopted on a temporary basis, for other services performed within the state.
Please find these regulations on our website at www.ksbha.org.
Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure
Yes, a full, unrestricted Kentucky medical license is required. Telemedicine Policy Statement -
Physicians living outside Kentucky but actively practicing medicine upon patients within Kentucky should
be required to meet the same statutory qualifications and should be held to the same standards of
acceptable and prevailing medical practice within the Commonwealth as are resident physicians
practicing within the state. Adopted: September 18, 1997
Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners
Yes, a full, unrestricted Louisiana medical license is required. The Louisiana Medical Board has issued
an opinion that the doctor has to be licensed in LA in order to practice telemedicine.
Maine Board of Licensure in Medicine
Yes, a full, unrestricted Maine medical license is required. "No specific telemedicine provision exists at
this time, but the current law states: Unless licensed by the board, an individual may not practice
medicine or surgery or a branch of medicine or surgery or claim to be legally licensed to practice
medicine or surgery or a branch of medicine or surgery within the State by diagnosing, relieving in any
degree or curing, or professing or attempting to diagnose, relieve or cure a human disease, ailment,
defect or complaint, whether physical or mental, or of physical and mental origin, by attendance or by
advice, or by prescribing or furnishing a drug, medicine, appliance, manipulation, method or a
therapeutic agent whatsoever or in any other manner unless otherwise provided by statutes of this
State. [1995, c. 671, §11 (amd).]"
Maryland Board of Physician Quality Assurance
Yes, a full, unrestricted Maryland medical license is required.
Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine
Yes, a full, unrestricted Massachusetts medical license is required. There are no mentions of
telemedicine in the current law; however, the opinion of the Board is that the statute defines occasional
consultation as once a year. Providing diagnosis on more frequent basis requires obtaining a state
medical license.
Michigan Board of Medicine
Yes, a full, unrestricted Michigan medical license is required. No specific mention of telemedicine, but
the current law states that one is required to have a full license to practice medicine.
Minnesota Board of Medical Practice
A telemedicine license is required. It is more restricted and costs less. Any physician wishing to practice
telemedicine in the state of Minnesota must either be licensed by the state or register with the medical
board. The list of acceptable activities is extensive. There are exceptions for emergency consultations
and irregular consultations, the latter being defined as once a month or fewer than ten patients. There is
also an exception for consultation when a Minnesota physician maintains final control over the diagnosis
and treatment of the patient. The law also allows for appropriate use of telemedicine in the home.
Mississippi State Board of Medical
Yes, a full, unrestricted Mississippi medical license is required. It is not required if reading for
consultation only. Section 73-25-34,Telemedicine; licensing requirements for practicing medicine across
state lines, states:
(1) For the purposes of this section, telemedicine, or the practice of medicine across state lines, shall be
defined to include any one or both of the following:
(a) Rendering of a medical opinion concerning diagnosis or treatment of a patient within this state by a
physician located outside this state as a result of transmission individual patient data by electronic or
other means from within this state to such physician or his agent; or
(b) The rendering of treatment to a patient within this state by a physician located outside this state as a
result of transmission of individual patient data by electronic or other means from within this state to
such physician or his agent.
(2) Except as hereinafter provided, no person shall engage in the practice of medicine across state lines
(telemedicine) in this state, hold himself out as qualified to do the same, or use any title, word or
abbreviation to indicate to or induce others to believe that he is duly licensed to practice medicine
across state lines in this state unless he has first obtained a license to do so from the State Board of
Medical Licensure and has met all educational and licensure requirements as determined by the State
Board of Medical Licensure.
(3) The requirement of licensure as set forth in subsection (2) above shall not be required where the
evaluation, treatment and/or the medical opinion to be rendered by a physician outside this state (a) is
requested by a physician duly licensed to practice medicine in this state, and (b) the physician who has
requested such evaluation, treatment and/or medical opinion has already established a doctor/patient
relationship with the patient to be evaluated and/or treated.
Missouri State Board of Registration for the Healing Arts
Yes, a full, unrestricted Missouri medical license is required if the physician is reading directly for a
patient. It is not required if the physician is reading for another doctor of medicine already licensed in
the state.
Montana Board of Medical Examiners
PHYSICIANS ARE NOT PERMITTED TO PRACTICE MEDICINE IN MONTANA IN ANY MANNER WITHOUT
AN ACTIVE MONTANA LICENSE OR TELEMEDICINE CERTIFICATE LICENSING
REQUIREMENTS: · Current active, unrestricted physician license in another U.S. State or territory ·
Board-Certified OR meets the current requirements to take the examination to become Board-certified in
a medical specialty pursuant to the standards of, and approved by the American Board of Medical
Specialties or the American Osteopathic Association-Bureau of Osteopathic Specialists · An identified
agent for service of process in Montana, who is registered with the Montana Secretary of State and the
board and who may be a physician certified practice medicine in this state · Proof of current malpractice
insurance or professional negligence insurance coverage in the amount of $1,000,000 · Proof that the
applicant has established or regularly used connection with the State of Montana including but not
limited to a least one of the following: o An office or other place for the reception of a transmission from
the applicant, located in Montana OR o Contractual relationship with a person or entity in Montana
related to the applicant's practice of Medicine OR o Privileges in a Montana Hospital or another Montana
Healthcare facility as defined by MCA 50-5-101 · No history of disciplinary action or limitation of any kind
imposed by a state or federal agency in a jurisdiction where the applicant is or has ever been license to
practice medicine · The applicant must not be subject to a pending investigation by a state medical
board or by another state or federal agency · The applicant has no history of conviction of a crime
related to the physician's practice of medicine · Applicant or third party must not have paid or had paid
on the applicant's behalf, on more than three claims of professional malpractice or negligence within the
5 years preceding this application for a telemedicine certificate
Nebraska Board of Medicine and Surgery
Yes, a full, unrestricted Nebraska medical license is required. "71-1,102. Practice of medicine and
surgery, defined. For the purpose of the Uniform Licensing Law, and except as otherwise provided by
law, the following classes of persons shall be deemed to be engaged in the practice of medicine and
surgery: (1) Persons who publicly profess to be physicians, surgeons, or obstetricians, or publicly
profess to assume the duties incident to the practice of medicine, surgery, or obstetrics, or any of their
branches; (2) persons who prescribe and furnish medicine for some illness, disease, ailment, injury,
pain, deformity, or any physical or mental condition, or treat the same by surgery; (3) persons holding
themselves out to the public as being qualified in the diagnosis or treatment of diseases, ailments, pain,
deformity, or any physical or mental condition, or injuries of human beings; (4) persons who suggest,
recommend, or prescribe any form of treatment for the intended palliation, relief, or cure of any physical
or mental ailment of any person; (5) persons who maintain an office for the examination or treatment of
persons afflicted with ailments, diseases, injuries, pain, deformity, or any physical or mental condition of
human beings; (6) persons who attach to their name the title of M.D., surgeon, physician, physician and
surgeon, or any word or abbreviation indicating that they are engaged in the treatment or diagnosis of
ailments, diseases, injuries, pain, deformity, infirmity, or any physical or mental condition of human
beings; and (7) persons who are physically located in another state but who, through the use of any
medium, including an electronic medium, perform for compensation any service which constitutes the
healing arts that would affect the diagnosis or treatment of an individual located in this state, unless he
or she is providing consultation services to a physician and surgeon who is duly licensed in this state
and is a treating physician of the individual. For purposes of this subdivision, consultation means the
evaluation of the medical data of the patient as provided by the treating physician and rendering a
recommendation to such treating physician as to the method of treatment or analysis of the data.
Source: Laws 1927, c. 167, §100, p. 482; C.S. 1929, §71-1401; Laws 1943, c. 150, §18, p. 546; R.S.
1943, §71-1,102; Laws 1969, c. 563, §1, p. 2291; Laws 1997, LB 452, §1. Effective date September 13,
1997."
Nevada State Board of Medical Examiners
Yes, a Nevada medical license is required. Physicians practicing telemedicine may qualify for a special
license, please call licensing at 775-688-2559 x233
New Hampshire Board of Medicine
Yes, a full, unrestricted New Hampshire medical license is required. "329:1-b Practice of Teleradiology. –
I. In this section, ""teleradiology"" means the evaluation, interpretation, or consultation by the electronic
transmission of radiological images from one location to another. II. Any out-of-state physician providing
radiological services who performs radiological diagnostic evaluations or interpretations for New
Hampshire patients by means of teleradiology shall be deemed to be in the practice of medicine and
shall be required to be licensed under this chapter. III. This section shall not apply to out-of-state
radiologists who provide consultation services pursuant to RSA 329:21, II. Source. 1999, 246:2, eff.
Sept. 7, 1999."
New Jersey State Board of Medical Examiners
Yes, a full, unrestricted New Jersey medical license is required. New Jersey Medical Board has issued a
policy that all physicians practicing medicine must hold a NJ license. A specific telemedicine regulation is
pending review.
New Mexico State Board of Medical Examiners
Physicians need at least a telemedicine license, available for a $434 fee. Applicants need to fill out a
statewide doctor of medicine application, present verification of all licenses in other states (active, full,
and unrestricted), a copy of specialty board certificate, submit cards for a background check and cannot
be physically practicing in New Mexico.
New York State Board for Medicine
Yes, a full, unrestricted New York medical license is required, unless reading for an occasional
consultation. "New York Medical Board has issued a statement on telemedicine. In the practice of
medicine and dentistry, Education Law includes specific provisions permitting occasional consultations
by physicians and dentists licensed in their home state (Education Law Section 6526(3) for medicine,
and Section 6610(5) for dentistry). This consultation exemption statutorily establishes the extent to
which these professionals licensed in other jurisdictions may practice in New York State when engaged
in consulting arrangements. This regulatory approach is premised on the prohibition in law against
professional practice in New York by anyone who is not licensed in this State."
North Carolina Medical Board
Yes, a full, unrestricted North Carolina medical license is required. "(b) Any person shall be regarded as
practicing medicine or surgery within the meaning of this Article who shall diagnose or attempt to
diagnose, treat or attempt to treat, operate or attempt to operate on, or prescribe for or administer to, or
profess to treat any human ailment, physical or mental, or any physical injury to or deformity of another
person. A person who resides in any state or foreign country and who, by use of any electronic or other
mediums, performs any of the acts described in this subsection, including prescribing medication by use
of the Internet or a toll-free telephone number, shall be regarded as practicing medicine or surgery and
shall be subject to the provisions of this Article and appropriate regulation by the North Carolina Medical
Board."
North Dakota State Board of Medical Examiners
Yes, a full, unrestricted North Dakota medical license is required. There is no specific regulation for
telemedicine, but a physician is said to be practicing medicine in the location of the patient, not the
physician, and thus the state requires a full license.
State Medical Board of Ohio
Section 4731.296 of the Ohio Revised Code defines “telemedicine” as “the practice of medicine in this
state through the use of any communication, including oral, written, or electronic communication by a
physician outside this state.” Telemedicine and teleradiology are both considered the practice of
medicine pursuant to Section 4731.34 of the Ohio Revised Code. A person who wishes to practice
telemedicine in Ohio must have an Ohio license.
The requirements are essentially the same as if applying for full licensure, with a few
exceptions. To be eligible for a telemedicine certificate, the applicant must hold a current,
unrestricted license to practice medicine or osteopathic medicine and surgery issued by another
state that requires license holders to complete at least fifty hours of continuing medical
education every two years. In addition, the applicant’s principle place of practice is located in
that state. Please refer to Section 4731.296 of the Ohio Revised Code for all the specific
requirements of the telemedicine certificate.
It should be noted that a holder of a telemedicine certificate may not practice medicine in
person in the state of Ohio without either obtaining a special activity certificate under Section
4731.294 of the Ohio Revised Code, or converting the telemedicine certificate to a full certificate
issued under Section 4731.29 of the Ohio Revised Code.
A telemedicine certificate may be converted to a full certificate upon receipt of a written request
from the certificate holder. Once the telemedicine certificate is converted, the holder is subject
to all requirements and privileges attendant to a full certificate, including continuing education
requirements.
Oklahoma Board of Medical Licensure and Supervision
Yes, radiologists need to obtain a full, unrestricted Oklahoma medical license and have to specify
teleradiology as the reason for seeking a license in another state.
Oregon Board of Medical Examiners
Teleradiology status is for physicians whose practice is to read radiological images transmitted from
Oregon to their practice location in another state and who communicate their radiological findings back
to the ordering physician in Oregon. Requires agency letter of verification.
Telemonitoring status is for physicians whose practice is the intraoperative monitoring of data collected
during surgery and which is transmitted to them in a location outside of Oregon via a telemedicine link
may request this status. Requires letter from hospital or surgical center requesting Telemonitoring
status.
Telemedicine status is for physicians outside Oregon who directly treat patients, provide them with a
written or documented medical opinion concerning diagnosis or treatment in Oregon, and who have a
physician-patient relationship with the patients. Requires completion of Practice Across State Lines
Practice Description form: http://www.oregon.gov/OMB/MD-DO_Application/Telemedicine_Request.pdf.
Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine
Yes, a full, unrestricted Pennsylvania medical license is required. The Board does not currently have
specific regulations addressing the parameters of how to engage in the practice of medicine over the
Internet. Absent specific regulations physicians are obligated under Section 41 of the Medical Practice
Act, 63 P.S. 422.41 to adhere to accepted standards of practice.
Puerto Rico - (787) 782-8949
Yes, a full, unrestricted Puerto Rico medical license required, unless the radiologist is consulting on
infrequent basis.
"20 L.P.R.A. § 6002 License; After the approval of this law any physician or osteopath that desires to
practice telemedicine in Puerto Rico has to apply for and obtain a license from the Board of Medical
Examiners for the practice of medicine, surgery or osteopathy in compliance with the requirements of
sections 31 and following of Chapter 20."
Rhode Island Board of Medical Licensure and Discipline
Yes, a full, unrestricted Rhode Island medical license is required. The license is not required if the
physician is consulting for another doctor of medicine already licensed in the state.
"1.14 ""Practice of Medicine"", pursuant to section 5-37-1 (1) of the Act, shall include the practice of
allopathic and osteopathic medicine. Any person shall be regarded as practicing medicine within the
meaning of the act who holds himself or herself out as being able to diagnose, treat, operate, or
prescribe for any person ill or alleged to be ill with disease, pain, injury, deformity or abnormal physical
or mental condition, or who shall either profess to heal, offer or undertake, by any means or method, to
diagnose, treat, operate, or prescribe for any person for disease, pain, injury, deformity or physical or
mental condition. In addition, one who attaches the title M.D., physician, surgeon, D.O., osteopathic
physician and surgeon, or any other similar word or words or abbreviation to his or her name indicating
that he or she is engaged in the treatment or diagnosis of the diseases, injuries or conditions of persons
shall be held to be engaged in the practice of medicine."
South Carolina Board of Medical Examiners
Yes, a full, unrestricted South Carolina medical license is required.
South Dakota Board of Medical and Osteopathic Examiners
Yes, a full, unrestricted South Dakota medical license is required.
Tennessee Board of Medical Examiners
A telemedicine license is available.
Texas State Board of Medical Examiners
The Texas Medical Board adopted amendments and additions to its telemedicine rules at its August
2010 meeting. The changes became effective October 17, 2010. To view these changes, go to
http://www.tmb.state.tx.us/rules/changes/2010/101710.php. The following is a list of frequently asked
questions.
1. What types of telemedicine models are allowed under the rules?
In general, two models for telemedicine have been identified, each for a different situation: either from
an established medical site or from the patient’s home.
A. Established Medical Site:
In the first model, a patient receives care through telemedicine at an “established medical site,” such
as a hospital or clinic or other site that has the required medical professionals and equipment. There
are no specific limitations on the types of care that a patient may receive at an established site, and
both initial visits and follow up visits may be done at this type of site.
At these sites, patient site presenters are available to assist in the interface between the patient and
the physician (or PA or APN), who is located at a distant site, and sufficient diagnostic equipment must
be available. One exception is to the requirement of a patient site presenters is that if the health care
provided is related to mental health, a patient site presenter is not required unless patients may be a
danger to themselves or others.
B. At Home:
In the second model, patients can access health care via telemedicine (video conferencing with a live
feed) from their homes. The basic requirement for an in home evaluation is that the patient must be a
pre-existing patient previously seen in person either by the physician or PA with whom the patient is
teleconferencing or by another physician who has referred the patient to the physician providing
telemedicine care and the referral is documented in the medical record. Once that initial diagnosis is
made in person or at an established site, the patient may receive follow-up care for that pre-existing
condition via telemedicine in their homes.
In addition to the above, distant site providers can treat pre-existing patients in their homes for new
symptoms that appear unrelated to the pre-existing condition based on the following criteria and
clarifications:
Distant site providers may treat patients at home for up to 72 hours as long as the patient is advised
to see a physician in a face-to-face visit within 72 hours if the symptoms do not resolve.
Distant site providers may not provide continuing telemedicine medical services for new symptoms to
a patient who is not seen within 72 hours.
The rule intends that for a patient presenting minor symptoms , a provider may prescribe a course of
treatment that runs longer than 72 hours, such as a 10 day course of antibiotics or a 30 day course of
medication to relieve allergy symptoms. It is intended that this option be used judiciously and within the
standard of care. It is not intended that ongoing prescriptions for new diagnoses made from the patient’
s home would be issued.
A physician may not:
Make an initial diagnosis of a new patient via telemedicine at a patient’s home (or other non-
established medical site) unless the physician has conducted a prior face-to-face initial consultation or
the patient has been referred to the distant site provider by a physician who evaluated the patient in-
person.
Provide ongoing medical treatment to a preexisting patient with a new chronic condition unless a
physician conducts a timely in-person evaluation after the diagnosis of the new condition.
Finally, the patient being seen via teleconferencing from his or her home must be seen by a treating
physician for an in-person evaluation at least once a year and no chronic pain treatment with scheduled
drugs may occur through this treatment model.
2. What are some examples of facilities that meet the definition of an “established medical site?”
In addition to a hospital or clinic, a site could be a facility such as a nurse’s station in a public or private
school, a volunteer fire department, an EMS station, a residential or institutional care facility, or even a
pharmacy. The key criteria are the availability and presence of:
a patient site presenter who is a licensed or certified health care professional, such as a nurse,
emergency medical technician (EMT), or pharmacist; and
sufficient technology and medical equipment to allow for an adequate physical evaluation.
The rule also intends that an established site be sufficient in size to accommodate patient privacy and
to facilitate the presentation of the patient to the distant site provider.
Any location that meets these requirements will be considered an established site.
3. Is there anything that cannot be an established site?
Generally, anyplace that does not meet the requirements in #2 is not considered an established site.
Additionally, A private home is not considered an established medical site. Hospice facilities and nursing
homes are not considered to be private homes.
4. Do the rules accommodate the use of Skype or similar forms of web
videoconferencing as a means for a distant site provider to provide telemedicine medical care in a
patient’s home?
Yes, this would be allowed as long as all the other requirements for home treatment (Sec. 174.7) are
met.
5. What is the definition of a “face-to-face visit?”
The definition of a “face-to-face visit” is an evaluation performed on a patient where the provider and
patient are both at the same physical location or where the patient is at an established medical site.
For example:
Provider (physician, PA, or APN) performs in-person evaluation of patient while both are physically
present in the same location.
Provider (physician, PA, or APN) performs an evaluation of patient where the patient is located at an
established medical site but the provider is located elsewhere with the ability to visually interface with the
patient.
Utah Department of Commerce
Yes, a full, unrestricted Utah medical license is required. " (2) Regardless of the form in which a licensee
engages in the practice of medicine, the licensee may only permit the practice of medicine in that form of
practice to be conducted by an individual: (a) licensed in Utah as a physician and surgeon under
Section 58-67-301 or as an osteopathic physician and surgeon under Section 58-68-301; and (b) who is
able to lawfully and competently engage in the practice of medicine."
Vermont Board of Medical Practice
There are no specific telemedicine provisions, but the current law states that to practice any type of
medicine one needs a full Vermont medical license.
Virginia Board of Medicine
Yes, a full, unrestricted Virginia medical license is required for diagnosing and prescribing.
Washington Medical Quality Assurance Commission - updated 10/18/10
In Washington, they have no rules or laws on telemedicine. The Medical Commission adopted
guidelines. Here is the link to the guidelines on their web site.
http://www.doh.wa.gov/hsqa/mqac/internet.htm
West Virginia Board of Medicine
Yes, a full, unrestricted West Virginia medical license is required. "§30-3-13. Unauthorized practice of
medicine and surgery or podiatry; criminal penalties; limitations. (a) A person shall not engage in the
practice of medicine and surgery or podiatry, hold himself or herself out as qualified to practice medicine
and surgery or podiatry or use any title, word or abbreviation to indicate to or induce others to believe
that he or she is licensed to practice medicine and surgery or podiatry in this state unless he or she is
actually licensed under the provisions of this article. A person engaged in the practice of telemedicine is
considered to be engaged in the practice of medicine within this state and is subject to the licensure
requirements of this article. As used in this section, the term ""practice of telemedicine"" means the use
of electronic information and communication technologies to provide health care when distance
separates participants and includes one or both of the following: (1) The diagnosis of a patient within
this state by a physician located outside this state as a result of the transmission of individual patient
data, specimens or other material by electronic or other means from within this state to the physician or
his or her agent; or (2) the rendering of treatment to a patient within this state by a physician located
outside this state as a result of transmission of individual patient data, specimens or other material by
electronic or other means from within this state to the physician or his or her agent. No person may
practice as a physician's assistant, hold himself or herself out as qualified to practice as a physician's
assistant, or use any title, word or abbreviation to indicate to or induce others to believe that he or she
is licensed to practice as a physician's assistant in this state unless he or she is actually licensed under
the provisions of this article. Any person who violates the provisions of this subsection is guilty of a
misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be fined not more than ten thousand dollars, or
imprisoned in the county jail not more than twelve months, or both fined and imprisoned. (b) The
provisions of this section do not apply to: (2) Physicians or podiatrists licensed in other states or foreign
countries who are acting in a consulting capacity with physicians or podiatrists duly licensed in this state,
for a period of not more than three months: Provided, That this exemption is applicable on a one-time
only basis;"
Wisconsin Medical Examining Board
Yes, a full, unrestricted Wisconsin medical license is required.
Wyoming Board of Medicine
Yes, a full, unrestricted Wyoming medical license is required if the radiologist is reading directly for a
patient. If the reading is done as a consultation for another radiologist licensed in Wyoming, the license
is not required. Any physician rendering medical diagnosis and/or treatment to a person physically
present in this state must have a license issued by the board when such diagnosis/treatment is
rendered, regardless of the physician's location and regardless of the means by which such
diagnosis/treatment is rendered. This regulation shall not apply if an out-of-state physician consults by
telephone, electronic or any other means with an attending physician licensed by this board or an out-of-
state physician is specifically exempt from licensure under W.S. 33-26-103(a)(i-ix). Section 7. Exemption
from licensure. (a) Consultants. Physicians residing in and licensed to practice medicine in another state
or country called into this state for consultation by a physician licensed to practice medicine in this state
may practice medicine without first obtaining a Wyoming license for a period not to exceed seven (7)
days in any fifty-two (52) week period. Consults of longer duration or greater frequency are not exempt
and require licensure.
STATE BOARD REQUIREMENTS AND PROVISIONS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.
We try to keep this page updated as information becomes available. Please let us know if you
find info to the contrary. This page is partially updated as changes occur. Last partial update
was June 2011.
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