The American Medical Association issued new guidance called, "Ethical Practice in Telemedicine," which updates old ethical-code opinions, according to Medscape.
Here are five insights:
1. The new guidance acknowledges new technology provides different ways to offer healthcare.
2. Physicians are still expected to honor privacy, offer quality care and provide continuity of care.
3. The AMA also said physicians partaking in telemedicine must share any financial ties to the telemedicine service. Physicians must also protect patient data, as well as determine if a telemedicine apportionment is adequate for a specific patient's needs.
4. The guidance notes physicians must tell patients about an electronic relationship's drawbacks. Additionally, physicians should inform patients how to receive follow-up care.
5. Further, Alabama's state medical association submitted a resolution to the AMA, calling for model state legislation that prohibits payers from limiting coverage of telemedicine services to corporate providers. The resolution requires payers pay an equal amount for an e-visit and an in-person visit. The AMA House of Delegates approved the resolution.
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