The American Telemedicine Association and Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore have launched a three-year initiative to address barriers to interstate telehealth access.
The effort, known as the Licensure Innovation for Telehealth Transformation initiative, aims to educate policymakers and the public on federal approaches to expanding telehealth access while maintaining state licensure authority, according to a March 31 news release. The organizations said state-based licensure requirements can disrupt continuity of care and limit access to specialists for patients with complex conditions or those in rural areas.
The groups are advocating for targeted federal allowances in limited circumstances, such as when patients require ongoing care across state lines or access to specialized expertise. The effort is intended to work alongside existing state frameworks.
Helen Hughes, MD, medical director of the Office of Telemedicine at Johns Hopkins Medicine, said the initiative will focus on engaging health systems and other stakeholders on cross-state care policy. ATA CEO Kyle Zebley said the effort is intended to balance access with oversight, with state standards of care and enforcement remaining in place.
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
