Ask the Experts: Exploring Telemedicine Legal Issues
Are there special considerations for legal ramifications around a telehealth program?
Legal Concerns in Telemedicine
Although telemedicine provides numerous benefits, it also presents some legal and regulatory challenges. Legal and regulatory concerns can be grouped under three main categories: Licensure laws; privileges and credentials; and confidentiality, privacy, and security.
Taking a Systematic Approach to Hospital Policy Development
Hospitals can develop effective policies by developing a “policy on policies,” taking into consideration content guidelines, making policies easily accessible by all staff, and considering how staff will interpret the policy language.
The ACA—and Other Healthcare Issues Confronting a New Congress
Republicans have promised to repeal the Affordable Care Act when Congress convenes in 2017, but they have other healthcare considerations to address, as well.
A Framework for Predicting the Trump Administration’s Health Policy Moves
Considered unpredictable by many, the policies of President-elect Donald Trump’s administration are beginning to take shape in health care.
High Court Decides False Claims Act Case
The Supreme Court ruled that “in some circumstances” hospitals’ implied certification of compliance with payment requirements may make them liable under the False Claims Act, but the decision’s reach is not as expansive as proposed by plaintiffs and the federal government.
False Claims Act Penalties are Rising
A recent increase in false claims penalties and a Supreme Court case placing the burden on healthcare organizations to be aware of payment requirements, necessitates that hospital compliance officers redouble efforts to prevent false claims.
Interstate Compact Eases Licensure, Improves Quality of Care
Currently, 17 states have adopted compacts to help physician specialists practice across state lines, opening the door for telemedicine opportunities.
States Adopting Interstate Medical Licensure Compacts
Certain states are removing barriers to telemedicine by making it easier for physicians to practice across state lines.
Supreme Court to Hear Fraud Case
Depending on a Supreme Court decision later this year, false claims plaintiffs and their attorneys may have wider latitude to bring lawsuits.