A bill expanding the use of telemedicine for psychology patients in Delaware and other states is awaiting Gov. Carney’s signature.
State Rep. David Bentz’s (D-Bear) bill allowing telepsychology across state lines cleared the State Senate Thursday.
Current law prohibits Delaware psychologists from practicing in states they are not licensed. This bill is set to allow online messaging, video chat, and phone calls with patients when they are out of state. It will also allow temporary in-person out of state practice under special circumstances.
Mid Atlantic Behavioral Health CEO Traci Bolander says this bill helps populations like people who travel for work and college students who leave the state during break.
“We’ve had a number of patients who get very upset because they literally had to drive to a rest stop in Delaware in order to be provided this kind of service,” said Bolander.
Bolander says she has seen a sharp increased demand for telehealth at her practice in the past year and a half.
“Patients are far more comfortable now using electronic communication means and in our very fast-paced world folks, consumers, patients are absolutely seeking the convenience of these appointments in this way,” she said.
Under the new law, the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards will issue certificates to psychologists who would then qualify to practice in any of the other states which approve this law. Bolander says there are 10 so far.
Gov. Carney (D) is expected to sign the bill this week.
