Telehealth is the use of electronic communication to remotely provide health care information and services. Due to the recent COVID-19 impact on our communities and professions, telehealth is at the center of attention in the physical therapy industry. Providers want to continue providing care while taking appropriate health safety measures and patients are seeking continued and effective care. Telehealth can be effective and cost-efficient, however PTs and PTAs need to consider federal and state legislation and regulations that govern their practice, risk management implications, billing and coding issues, and hardware/software requirements. Regardless of the payer or policy, PTs and PTAs must ensure that when providing telehealth services or billing for them, they are practicing legally and ethically, and are adhering to state and federal practice guidelines and payer contract agreements. Each state has its own guidelines that PTs/PTAs should follow.
Source: American Physical Therapy Association