Telemedicine rulemaking issued for Medicaid in school-based setting

Posted on: 7/12/19


The Oklahoma Health Care Authority (OHCA) has issued emergency rulemaking for the implementation of SB 575 regarding telemedicine provided in a school-based setting. SB 575 passed in the 2019 legislative session.

The new, proposed language for OAC 317:30-3-27, Telehealth (WF 19-08), is available here. The proposed emergency rules to implement SB 575 were first posted in June. On July 2, OHA, the Oklahoma State Department of Education and other stakeholders met with the OHCA regarding the published proposed rules. As a result of that meeting, a new version has been published to address initial concerns of blending the medical services and services provided through an Individualized Education Program for SoonerCare members.  

The previously published version of OAC 317:30-3-27, Telehealth (WF 19-08), has been pulled from the agenda for the July 18 OHCA Medical Advisory Committee (MAC) meeting. Any new language will have to be publicly posted and then presented to the MAC and the Oklahoma Health Care Authority board. Please review the language and provide OHA with any feedback no later than close of business on Tuesday, July 23. Comments should be sent to [email protected], who will aggregate and send them to OHCA to be finalized in the proposed rules.

As additional background, SB 575 (Allen/Randleman), School-Based Telemedicine, modifies the statute for parental consent for the treatment of minors to allow for written consent for a telemedicine encounter, thereby removing a barrier for implementation of school-based telemedicine requiring the parent to be present during the visit. The statute became effective July 1, 2019, but rulemaking is the next step in implementation.

Lastly, the OHCA is drafting a State Plan Amendment (SPA) on telehealth that is broader than the school-based telemedicine services. The SPA is separate from the rulemaking, but will use some of the same language for its submission. OHA has requested changes to the SPA to comport with the rulemaking changes. Once a new SPA is available on telehealth, OHA will publish it in Hotline. (Sandra Harrison)

Save the dates for OHA 2022 events

Posted on: 2/18/22


It’s a new year and a new lineup of important events for you and your staff. Don’t miss out on these opportunities to engage in advocacy, education and networking all year long. Mark your calendar now!

OHA Advocacy Day - Tuesday, April 5, Oklahoma History Center. Join us for our annual legislative day. We will begin with a member briefing at 3 p.m., followed by a legislative reception at 5 p.m. Watch for registration materials soon.

OHA-PAC Golf Tournament - Tuesday, June 21, Jimmie Austin Golf Club at OU, Norman. Time and details TBA.

OHA Health Care Leaders Forum - Tuesday, July 19 - Thursday, July 21, Shangri-La Resort, Grand Lake. Watch for registration soon!

OHA Connect 22 - Wednesday, Nov. 9 - Friday, Nov. 11, Oklahoma City Convention Center and Omni Hotel, downtown Oklahoma City. Plan now to attend OHA’s annual conference and exhibit hall. More details to come.

Details on these events and other upcoming education opportunities will be available on the OHA website.