Upcoming Legislation Shows We Should Rethink Telemedicine

By Holly Shoemaker

I have discussed in previous blogs how physicians and medical professionals will rely more on smartphones, tablets and medical mobile apps in the coming years. Many say the smartphone industry and tablets have served as catalysts in driving healthcare reform. In reality, the latest technologies could be categorized as an extension of telemedicine. Doctors and medical professionals have used web tools and video conferencing to deliver patient care and converse with specialists for years.

Upcoming Medicine Bill Should Promote Mobile E-Health Solutions

Sen. Tom Udall (D – New Mexico) is expected to introduce a bill that would grant physicians an easier way to practice medicine in multiple states. While the bill has not gone beyond the draft stage, it has the potential to assist doctors in improving patient care. The bill would also create standardized data for physician information like background checks, hospital privileges and patients’ claim histories.

Current Concerns

The biggest issue deals with incentives. Those who do not support the bill have said they need “medical buy in." They say they would lose money because of the licensing fees now generated to practice medicine in multiple states.

The Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) does not support the initial draft because of state licensing issues. Udall has stated the new draft will address those concerns by offering incentives to states that allow physicians to practice in multiple ones.

Concluding Thoughts

One of the biggest benefits will come to those in rural areas. By allowing physicians the ability to practice in multiple states, and granting specialists reciprocity to consult on cases, those who live far from hospitals and specialists, could receive needed care in their homes.

Easing state regulations and licensing fees also has the potential to allow medical professionals to feel more secure about sharing information via tablets and smartphones. In general, the public should start thinking about how medical mobile apps, smartphones and tablets promote telemedicine.