The end of the Covid-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) will bring changes to the delivery of psychiatric care in many situations.  For example,

• HIPAA-compliant messaging software with business associate agreements must be used for telehealth, which does not include Skype or FaceTime – see requirements here.
• Prescribers must have a DEA license in all states where they prescribe controlled substances – more info.

DEA and SAMHSA temporarily extended some flexibilities and will NOT currently require an in-person visit to prescribe controlled substances.

The APA is partnering with MPS and other district branches to share information with members.  Please see:

• APA Telepsychiatry page
• APA timeline of when and how telehealth policies enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic will unwind.

The Maryland legislature enacted telehealth policies via SB534,  which retains many of the temporary changes to telehealth services covered under state commercial plans and Medicaid.  Parity reimbursement for audio-only services, which is temporarily extended to June 30, 2025, will be the focus of a Maryland Health Care Commission study.

As many as 80,000 Maryland residents may no longer qualify for Medicaid now that states must verify the eligibility of recipients.  MDH urges Medicaid enrollees to update their contact information before the redetermination period.

Many policies affecting telepsychiatry practice are based on state actions.  Most state licensure flexibilities have already ended, so you need to be licensed or registered in any state where you’re delivering care.