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Bill

Bill

SB 372

Preserve Telehealth Access Act of 2025

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Pam Beidle and 10 co-sponsors

Maryland mandates insurance coverage parity and nondiscrimination for telehealth services, ensuring remote care remains accessible and adequately reimbursed across the state.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 481
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Bill Summary · SB 372

Legislative bill overview

SB 372 establishes protections for telehealth services in Maryland by requiring insurance coverage parity between telehealth and in-person care, and mandates that telehealth remain accessible to patients across the state. The bill sets standards for reimbursement rates and ensures that health insurers cannot discriminate against telehealth providers or patients seeking remote medical services.

Why is this important

Telehealth has become a critical healthcare access tool, particularly for rural and underserved populations, elderly patients, and those with mobility constraints. By codifying telehealth protections into law, Maryland prevents insurers from arbitrarily reducing coverage or reimbursement that could limit patient access to remote care, especially as the healthcare system continues evolving post-pandemic.

Potential points of contention

  • Reimbursement rate disputes: Telehealth providers and insurers may disagree over what constitutes "parity" in reimbursement, with providers arguing rates should match in-person visits and insurers claiming telehealth has lower overhead costs
  • Quality and safety concerns: Some medical professionals may argue certain conditions require in-person evaluation, questioning whether mandating telehealth parity could compromise clinical outcomes
  • Implementation costs: Health insurance companies may pass increased compliance costs to consumers through higher premiums if required to maintain equivalent coverage and reimbursement across delivery methods

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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