Indiana’s New Telemedicine Law Prohibits Remote Prescriptions For Opioids

On July 1, 2016, new rules went into effect in the state of Indiana allowing telemedicine visits and physicians to prescribe medications remotely; however, the rules prohibit remote prescribing of opioids. The rules were set by Indiana House Bill (HB) 1263, which was signed by Governor Mike Pence on March 21, 2016.

The provisions of HB 1263 were supported by physician associations, hospitals, and insurance companies. The bill eliminated a prior requirement on telemedicine services, which had only allowed prescribing after physicians met with consumers during a face-to-face office visit. Remote prescribing is allowed during a telemedicine visit . . .