Vogel’s Telemedicine Bill Set to Become Law

HARRISBURG - Following the approval from the Pennsylvania Senate and House of Representatives, Sen. Elder Vogel, Jr.'s (R-47) telemedicine legislation (Senate Bill 739) is now set to become law.

"This legislation has been a work in progress for the past several legislative sessions, and I am glad to see the vast amount of bipartisan support for telemedicine expansion in our state," said Vogel. "This legislation is key to expanding access to telemedicine services to Pennsylvanians and allowing our residents to take care of their health in a way that suits their needs and schedules."

Senate Bill 739 sets a base for how telemedicine will be covered by insurance companies and medical providers in Pennsylvania.

Specifically, this legislation:

• Requires health insurance policies to provide coverage for covered health care services delivered through telemedicine consistent with the insurer's medical policies.
• Requires insurers to pay providers for covered health care services delivered through telemedicine consistent with the terms of the contract between the insurer and participating network provider.
• Requires Medicaid and CHIP programs to pay for covered health care services consistent with federal and state law.

The bill will be sent to the governor for enactment.

CONTACT: Abby Chiumento, 717-787-3076 (Vogel)