(a) For purposes of this section, the definitions in subdivision (a) of § 2290.5 of the Business and Professions Code apply.

(b) It is the intent of the Legislature to recognize the practice of telehealth as a legitimate means by which an individual may receive health care services from a health care provider without in-person contact with the health care provider.

(c) A health insurer shall not require that in-person contact occur between a health care provider and a patient before payment is made for the services appropriately provided through telehealth, subject to the terms and conditions of the contract entered into between the policyholder or contractholder and the insurer, and between the insurer and its participating providers or provider groups, and pursuant to Section 10123.855.

(d) A health insurer shall not limit the type of setting where services are provided for the patient or by the health care provider before payment is made for the covered services appropriately provided by telehealth, subject to the terms and conditions of the contract between the policyholder or contractholder and the insurer, and between the insurer and its participating providers or provider groups, and pursuant to Section 10123.855.

(e) Notwithstanding any other law, this section does not authorize a health insurer to require the use of telehealth if the health care provider has determined that it is not appropriate.

(Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 867, Sec. 4. (AB 744) Effective January 1, 2020.)