Teladoc Health testified against a proposed law in North Dakota that would restrict telemedicine in the state, according to The Bismarck Tribune.
The bill would require patients to establish an in-person relationship with a provider before an initial video visit.
Supporters of the bill argue it would protect patients by helping them verify that they are consulting with a licensed physician. However, critics say the bill could decrease healthcare access — and one of those critics is Teladoc Health.
"There can be unintended consequences when states pass legislation. Albeit well-intended, some language can actually rob access and diminish savings. And part of what you have here today ... would have a chilling effect," Claudia Tucker, Teladoc's vice president of government affairs, said during a hearing on the bill Jan. 14.
Bismarck attorney and Teladoc lobbyist John Ward added that the bill is arbitrary and "potentially the most restrictive stature that would be implemented across the nation."
North Dakota's Senate Human Services Committee did not take action on the bill during the hearing.
Editor's note: Becker's Hospital Review reached out to Teladoc Health for comment. This story will be updated as more information becomes available.