TELEMEDICINE FAQs

This information can be downloaded as a PDF. 

Will my malpractice policy cover me for using telemedicine?

UPDATED INFORMATION! Yes, your policy provides coverage for using telemedicine under the condition the healthcare provider performing telemedicine must be located in the state or territory in which the provider practices (as shown on the provider’s application) and the patient must be within a state or territory in which we write (MD, VA, DC or a contiguous state). In response to the evolving COVID-19 crisis, Professionals Advocate is temporarily suspending the telemedicine requirement that an in-person patient visit with the provider must occur prior to a telemedicine visit. While in the state of emergency, Insureds may initiate a new patient visit via telemedicine.

I’m rushing into implementing telemedicine into my practice and don’t want to make any critical errors. What do I need to look out for when setting up a telemedicine practice?

Please review the answer to the question above. Additionally, you will find helpful information and guidelines on telemedicine in our Doctors RX risk management newsletter of Spring/Summer 2016. This edition is available on our web site, proad.com

I am planning to offer telemedicine to help keep people from coming to their office for non-emergencies due to COVID-19.  Are there any concerns if I start this practice?

Please review the answer to the first question above. Additionally, you will find helpful information and guidelines on telemedicine in our Doctors RX risk management newsletter of Spring/Summer 2016. This edition is available on our web site, proad.com

If an existing patient goes out of state, such as to Florida, and gets sick, can I do telemedicine with that patient?

If a patient calls from out of state with suspected COVID-19 exposure, the advice should be to go to an urgent care or ED in that state. It is advisable to call ahead.

What is meant by a good "webside" manner?

Webside manner is the video equivalent of bedside manner. It includes developing rapport with patients and effectively communicating with them during video visits. Here are 20 tips for good webside manner.