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Bill

HB 1066

Relating to conducting certain medical examinations using telehealth services and telemedicine medical services under the workers' compensation system.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Salman Bhojani

Authorizes workers' compensation medical exams in Texas via telehealth, potentially improving access but raising questions about diagnostic accuracy and worker protections.

Referred to s/c on Workforce by Speaker
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Bill Summary · HB 1066

Legislative bill overview

HB 1066 expands the use of telehealth and telemedicine services for medical examinations within Texas's workers' compensation system. The bill permits certain medical evaluations and examinations to be conducted remotely rather than requiring in-person visits, potentially streamlining the claims process while maintaining oversight through the workers' compensation framework.

Why is this important

Workers' compensation medical examinations are critical for determining eligibility, benefits, and treatment plans for injured workers. Allowing telehealth options could reduce barriers to access—particularly for workers in rural areas or with mobility limitations—while potentially lowering costs for both insurers and the system. However, the quality and validity of remote medical assessments compared to in-person exams is a substantive consideration.

Potential points of contention

  • Medical accuracy concerns: Whether certain diagnostic examinations (orthopedic, neurological, physical assessments) can be adequately conducted remotely without compromising diagnostic reliability and legal defensibility
  • Worker protections vs. insurer interests: Debate over whether remote exams might disadvantage injured workers who prefer in-person evaluations or those with conditions difficult to assess remotely
  • Definition and scope: Uncertainty about which specific examination types qualify for telehealth and what safeguards ensure examiners can't inappropriately deny claims based on limited remote assessment

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

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