Alaska legislature passes telemedicine bill

JUNEAU, Alaska — The 28th Alaska Legislature in late April passed legislation that will allow patients to obtain over-the-phone or online consultations where physicians can diagnose and, if necessary, provide a prescription.  

“Nowadays, much of our life is conducted online or over the phone,” said Rep. Lynne Gattis, R-Wasilla. “In this age where we can do almost everything with a smartphone, it should not be necessary to drive to the doctor’s office to have a physical consultation for many common ailments.”

This bill is as much about access as it is convenience. “With 20% of our population living in rural areas, it is imperative that access to routine medical care be as quick and economical as possible,” Gattis said.

House Bill 281 does not allow physicians to prescribe controlled substances without an examination unless another licensed healthcare provider is present with the patient. 

The Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium, Veterans Affairs hospital and the military already operate telemedicine in Alaska by using a federal exemption. “This bill mimics the system already in place for some Alaskans and makes it available to everyone,” Gattis said. “Anyone needing medical care would be able to use the affordable and accessible system.”

HB 281 now goes to the Governor for signature.