TEXAS MEDICAL BOARD (TMB) & CONTINUING MEDICAL EDUCATION (CME) REQUIREMENTS
The TMB has extended license renewals and registration extensions. To read the entire notice visit the TMB website.
The relevant information is:
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERIVES (HHS) PROHIBITION OF NON-ESSENTIAL VISITORS TO PRIVATE PSYCHIATRIC HOSPITALS
GL 20-2007 providing guidance to Texas hospitals (general, special, and private psychiatric) regarding the prohibition of nonessential visitors because of the significant health and safety risk to patients posed by COVID-19 has been posted.
TELEMEDICINE REQUIRMENTS IN TEXAS TEMPORARILY SUSPENDED
Governor Abbott approved TMB’s request to temporarily suspend Texas Occupation Code 111.005 (a)-(b) and Title 22, Chapter 174.6 (a)(2)-(3) of the Texas Administrative Code. The Texas Medical Board asserts that strict compliance with these laws could prevent, hinder, or delay timely delivery of necessary medical services in relation to efforts to cope with the declared disaster. Pursuant to this development, the following new procedures are in effect during the declared disaster period:
Allowing Phone Consults. Telemedicine, including the use of telephone only, may be used to establish a physician-patient relationship. This expanded use of telemedicine may be used for diagnosis, treatment, ordering of tests, and prescribing for all conditions. The standard of care must be met in all instances.
For ALL license and permit holders regulated by the TMB, the agency will take into account extenuating circumstances surrounding the completion of license/permit renewal requirements such as renewal deadlines and completion of continuing education hours.
How can you use telemedicine in your practice now?
What can you do to keep your patients and yourself safe?
Stay abreast of the latest developments in Texas by checking the following websites:
Center for Disease Control (CDC)
World Health Association (WHO)