Yes. The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) has issued new telehealth administrative rules due to the COVID-19 public health emergency. These new rules were developed to enhance access and protect public health during the COVID-19 crisis by giving providers more flexibility to provide services via technology such as video conference or telephone.
Amongst other changes, HFS modified rules on “originating site” to include a patient’s place of residence. No licensed health care professional will be required to be present with the patient at the originating site. Additionally, the types of distant site providers were expanded to include new provider types such as Community Mental Health Centers (CMHCs) and certified Substance Use Disorder providers. In addition, there are new provisions for provider “virtual check-ins” and “E-visits”. These expansions are intended to provide remote access to care will help to keep members healthy and prevent further community transmission of COVID-19.
For more information, please see the Telehealth guidance issued by the Illinois Association of Medicaid Health Plans (IAMHP) in conjunction with HFS. This includes a Provider Notice on Telehealth requirements and an updated Billing Guide.