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HB 1052

Relating to health benefit plan coverage of telemedicine, teledentistry, and telehealth appointments with an originating site or distant site located outside this state.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Salman Bhojani and 6 co-sponsors

Texas mandates health insurance coverage for telehealth services regardless of whether patients or providers are located out-of-state, effective September 1, 2025.

Effective on 9/1/25
#dentalservices(s8594) #electronicinformationsystems(i0311) #healthcareproviders(i0387) #insurance--health&accident(i0422) #telemedicine(s0219)
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Bill Summary · HB 1052

Legislative bill overview

HB 1052 expands Texas health insurance coverage requirements for telehealth services by mandating that health benefit plans cover telemedicine, teledentistry, and telehealth appointments even when the patient (originating site) or healthcare provider (distant site) is located outside Texas. Previously, coverage may have been limited to in-state providers or residents. The bill became effective September 1, 2025.

Why is this important

This addresses a growing reality where patients access healthcare across state lines and providers serve patients remotely nationwide. The change removes geographic barriers to telehealth coverage, potentially improving access to specialists and reducing costs for Texans while aligning state insurance regulations with the interstate nature of modern telehealth practice.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance cost implications: Expanding covered services typically increases health plan costs, which may be passed to employers and consumers through higher premiums
  • Regulatory jurisdiction questions: Regulating out-of-state providers raises questions about enforcement, licensing reciprocity, and coordination with other states' insurance rules
  • Network adequacy standards: Unclear whether plans must meet specific network standards for out-of-state telehealth providers or if any licensed provider suffices

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

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