Permits telemedicine services for mental and behavioral health issues under the workers' compensation system; permits one in-person visit within twelve months unless such in-person visit causes undue hardship on a patient.
Summary
Bill A00949 amends the workers' compensation law in New York to allow for telemedicine services specifically for mental and behavioral health issues. Under this bill, psychological testing, treatment, and counseling can be conducted via telehealth, with the stipulation that at least one in-person visit is required within twelve months of the first video telehealth visit and within six months of the first audio-only telehealth visit. Exceptions to the in-person visit requirement are provided if such a visit would disrupt service delivery or cause undue hardship to the patient or their family.
Impact
The bill will significantly impact the workers' compensation system by integrating telemedicine into mental health care, making it more accessible for patients who may face barriers to in-person visits. This change is expected to streamline the process for obtaining mental health services under workers' compensation, potentially improving outcomes for injured workers who require psychological support. It also aligns with broader trends in healthcare towards telehealth, particularly in response to the increasing demand for mental health services.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding Bill A00949 appears to be overwhelmingly positive, as indicated by the voting history. The bill received strong support in committee votes, with 28 yeas and only 1 nay in the Labor Committee, and it passed the Assembly Floor Vote with 141 yeas and just 3 nays. This suggests a consensus on the importance of expanding access to mental health services through telemedicine.
Contention
While there is strong support for the bill, some points of contention may arise regarding the definition of 'undue hardship' and the circumstances under which in-person visits can be waived. Concerns may be raised by those who believe that in-person visits are crucial for effective mental health treatment, while proponents argue that telehealth can provide necessary flexibility and accessibility for patients.
Same As
Permits telemedicine services for mental and behavioral health issues under the workers' compensation system; permits one in-person visit within twelve months unless such in-person visit causes undue hardship on a patient.
Permits telemedicine services for mental and behavioral health issues under the workers' compensation system; permits one in-person visit within twelve months unless such in-person visit causes undue hardship on a patient.
Permits telemedicine services for mental and behavioral health issues under the workers' compensation system; permits one in-person visit within twelve months unless such in-person visit causes undue hardship on a patient.
Permits telemedicine services for mental and behavioral health issues under the workers' compensation system; permits one in-person visit within twelve months unless such in-person visit causes undue hardship on a patient.
Relating to conducting certain medical examinations using telehealth services and telemedicine medical services under the workers' compensation system.