Notice:

End of the Public Health Emergency (PHE)

The COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) was initially enacted in January 2020.  After nearly three years and 11 extensions, the Biden administration on January 30, 2023 announced the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency would end May 11, 2023.

Telemedicine

Telemedicine cannot be used to prescribe controlled substances after May 11, 2023.

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) potential penalty waivers will end. This allows providers to communicate with patients through telehealth on a smartphone, for example, without violating privacy laws and incurring penalties.

Mental health services will necessitate an in-person visit within six months of initial assessment and every 12 months thereafter;  

Medicare will no longer cover audio-only visits for physical health encounters.