Even before the pandemic, patient demand had increased for more convenient delivery of health care. Providers and patients alike realized that technology had expanded the opportunity for health care to be accomplished virtually, and thus, “telehealth” was born.
Although the law typically lags behind innovative technology, the pandemic and its shutdown exploded not only the interest in but the urgent necessity for remote health care services. In 2020 when the pandemic was initially declared. Governor Pritzker issued an Executive Order requiring health plans to cover and reimburse for telehealth services at the same rate as for in-person services. The critical need to provide non-contact health services during the shutdown also spurred lawmakers to quickly fine-tune existing telehealth law regarding virtual visit requirements, licensing, and insurance coverage. These laws now remain in place post-pandemic, and it appears that telehealth is here to stay.
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