Indiana

Disclaimer

PLEASE NOTE: CCHP is providing the following for informational purposes only. We are not providing legal advice or interpretation of the laws and regulations and policies. CCHP encourages you to check with the appropriate state agency for further information and direction. This information should not be construed as legal counsel. Consult with an attorney if you are seeking a legal opinion.

At A Glance
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MEDICAID REIMBURSEMENT

  • Live Video: Yes
  • Store-and-Forward: No
  • Remote Patient Monitoring: Yes
  • Audio Only: Yes

PRIVATE PAYER LAW

  • Law Exists: Yes
  • Payment Parity: No

PROFESSIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Licensure Compacts: ASLP-IC, CC, EMS, IMLC, NLC, OT, PSY, PTC
  • Consent Requirements: Yes

STATE RESOURCES

  1. Medicaid Program: Indiana Medicaid
  2. Administrator: Indiana Health Coverage Programs
  3. Regional Telehealth Resource Center: Upper Midwest Telehealth Resource Center
Disclaimer

PLEASE NOTE: CCHP is providing the following for informational purposes only. We are not providing legal advice or interpretation of the laws and regulations and policies. CCHP encourages you to check with the appropriate state agency for further information and direction. This information should not be construed as legal counsel. Consult with an attorney if you are seeking a legal opinion.

Last updated 08/07/2024

Definitions

“Telehealth services” means health care services delivered by use of technology allowed under IC 25-1-9.5-6, including the following:

  • Medical exams and consultations
  • Behavioral health, including substance abuse evaluations and treatment

SOURCE: IN Code, 27-8-34-5 & 27-13-1-34. (Accessed Aug. 2024)

Last updated 08/07/2024

Parity

SERVICE PARITY

Coverage must be provided in accordance with the same clinical criteria as would be provided in-person.

SOURCE: IN Code, 27-8-34-6 & 27-13-7-22. (Accessed Aug. 2024).


PAYMENT PARITY

No explicit payment parity.

Last updated 08/07/2024

Requirements

Accident and sickness insurance (dental or vision insurance is excluded) policies and individual or group contracts must provide coverage for telehealth services in accordance with the same clinical criteria as would be provided for services provided in-person.

Coverage for telehealth services may not be subject to a dollar limit, deductible or coinsurance requirement that is less favorable to a covered individual than those applied to the same health services delivered in-person.

This section does not do any of the following:

  • Require an individual contract or a group contract to provide coverage for a telehealth service that is not a covered health care service under the individual contract or group contract.
  • Require the use of telehealth services when the treating provider has determined that telehealth services are inappropriate.
  • Prevent the use of utilization review concerning coverage for telehealth services in the same manner as utilization review is used concerning coverage for the same health care services delivered to an enrollee in person.

A separate consent cannot be required.

If a policy provides coverage for telehealth services via:

  • Secure video conferencing;
  • Store and forward technology; or
  • Remote patient monitoring technology;

between a provider in one (1) location and a patient in another location, the policy may not require the use of a specific information technology application for those services.

SOURCE: IN Code, 27-8-34-6 & 27-13-7-22. (Accessed Aug. 2024)

Last updated 08/06/2024

Definitions

Telehealth means the delivery of healthcare services between a practitioner in one location (the distant site) and a patient in another location (the originating site), using interactive electronic communications and information technology, in compliance with the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), including any of the following:

  • Secure videoconferencing
  • Store-and-forward technology
  • Remote patient monitoring technology

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs, Telehealth and Virtual Services, Policies and Procedures (Feb. 29, 2024), p. 1.  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Telehealth means the delivery of healthcare services using interactive electronic communications and information technology, in compliance with the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), including: secure videoconferencing, store-and-forward technology or remote patient monitoring technology, between a provider in one location and a patient in another location. The term does not include the use of the following unless the practitioner has an established relationship with the patient: electronic mail, an instant messaging conversation, facsimile, internet questionnaire or an internet consultation.

SOURCE: IHCP Bulletin BT202142 (June 8, 2021). (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Telehealth services has the same meaning as telehealth in IN Code 25-1-9.5-6.

As used in this chapter, “telehealth” means the delivery of health care services using interactive electronic communications and information technology, in compliance with the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), including:

  • secure videoconferencing;
  • store and forward technology; or
  • remote patient monitoring technology;

between a provider in one (1) location and a patient in another location.

The term does not include the use of the following unless the practitioner has an established relationship with the patient:

  • Electronic mail
  • An instant messaging conversation
  • Facsimile
  • Internet questionnaire
  • Internet consultation

The term does not include a health care service provided by:

  • an employee of a practitioner; or
  • an individual who is employed by the same entity that employs the practitioner;

who is performing a health care service listed in section 2.5(a)(2), 2.5(a)(3), or 2.5(a)(4) of this chapter under the direction and that is customarily within the specific area of practice of the practitioner.

SOURCE: IN Code, 12-15-5-11. (Accessed Aug. 2024).

“Telehealth services” means the use of telecommunications and information technology to provide access to health assessment, diagnosis, intervention, consultation, supervision, and information across a distance.

SOURCE: IN Admin Code Title 405, Sec. 5-2-27  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Last updated 08/07/2024

Email, Phone & Fax

The IHCP is updating the telehealth and virtual services code set to allow additional services to be reimbursed when rendered via telephone or other audio-only telecommunications systems. Effective for dates of service (DOS) on and after Dec. 9, 2022, the procedure codes in Table 1 (located in the memo) will be allowable when provided as audio-only telehealth.

As published in IHCP Bulletin BT202239, for a practitioner to receive reimbursement for telehealth services, the procedure code must be listed in the telehealth and virtual services code set (see Telehealth and Virtual Services Codes, accessible from the Code Sets page), and must be a service for which the member is eligible. Additionally, the claim detail must have:

One of the following place of service (POS) codes:

  • 02 – Telehealth provided other than in patient’s home
  • 10 – Telehealth provided in the patient’s home

One of the following modifiers:

  • 95 – Synchronous telemedicine service rendered via real-time interactive audio and video telecommunications system
  • 93 – Synchronous telemedicine service rendered via telephone or other real-time interactive audio-only telecommunications system

Modifier 93 (audio-only) is allowable only for certain, designated telehealth services.

SOURCE: IN Health Coverage Programs “IHCP expands and clarifies telehealth coverage” BT202297 (Nov. 8, 2022), p. 1.  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Most telehealth services must be provided via video and audio, although a few designated telehealth services can be provided via audio only. Audio-only delivery is allowable for all nonhealthcare virtual services.

Nonhealthcare virtual services must be billed with POS code 02 or 10. These services and do not require modifiers 93 or 95. All services in this category can be provided either through audio and video technology or via audio only.

Unless the practitioner has an established relationship with the patient, telehealth does not include the use of electronic mail, an instant messaging conversation, facsimile, internet questionnaire or an internet consultation.

Intensive Outpatient Treatment (IOT) delivered via telehealth must have a video component. Telehealth IOT cannot be audio-only (for example, via telephone). Telehealth IOT cannot be billed with modifier 93. Cameras must be on and used by IOT participants for the entire duration of the session, with camera-off time documented and not billable.

Dental services cannot be delivered via audio-only telehealth.

No Applied Behavioral Analysis services are reimbursable when delivered via audio-only telehealth.

SOURCE:  Indiana Health Coverage Programs, Provider Reference Module, Telehealth and Virtual Services (Feb. 29, 2024) p. 1, 7.  (Accessed Aug 2024).

For certain telehealth services, an audio-only modifier (93) can be used to signify when a service is delivered via audio-only telehealth. Services eligible for reimbursement when billed with this new modifier are identified within this finalized code set. All other codes must be delivered via video and audio telehealth.  See Bulletin for code set.  Effective July 21, 2022 through end of 2022 at which point they will be re-evaluated for 2023.

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs (IHCP) Bulletin, BT 202239 (May 19, 2022). (Accessed Aug. 2024).

The IHCP will continue to allow and offer reimbursement for audio-only telehealth. The IHCP will continue to explore the option of audio-only telehealth and its effectiveness in delivering healthcare services and provide updates when more specific policy details have been determined. Until further notice, audio-only telehealth services should be billed according to the guidance released in BT2020106 and used only when the care can be properly delivered via audio-only telehealth.

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs (IHCP) Bulletin, BT202142, June 8, 2021, (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Physical Therapy

The physical therapy assistant (PTA) is precluded from performing or interpreting tests, conducting initial or subsequent assessments, or developing treatment plans. See the Covered Procedures for Physical Therapist Assistants section for details. The PTA is required to meet with the supervising physical therapist each working day to review treatment, unless the physical therapist or physician is on the premises to provide constant supervision. The consultation can be either face-to-face or by telephone.

SOURCE: IN Therapy Services Module, Jan. 26, 2023, p. 5, (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Home and Community-Based Services

Caregiver Coaching provided in the home of the participant, virtually or telephonically and through Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) secure communication platforms that allow for real time and asynchronous communication between caregivers and caregiver coaches and collaboration with waiver care managers/service coordinators.

Caregiver Coaching services may be delivered telephonically and through HIPPA secure electronic communication platforms that enable a caregiver coach and a caregiver to communicate efficiently and in a manner convenient to the caregiver.

SOURCE: IHCP Office of Medicaid Policy and Planning, Home and Community Based Services: Indiana PathWays for Aging Waiver, p. 50-51.  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Adult Mental Health Habilitation Services

Habilitation and support is not permissible via audio-only telehealth modalities. The IHCP reimburses for H2014 – Skills training and development, per 15 minutes (see Table 2) when the service is rendered through an audiovisual telehealth modality.

If behavioral health assistance needs to be rendered via audio-only telehealth modalities, the following procedure codes are reimbursable via audio-only telehealth per IHCP policy and may be used in place of habilitation and support:

  • H0038 – Self-help/peer service, per 15 minutes
  • H2011 – Crisis intervention service, per 15 minutes For more information, see Telehealth and Virtual Services Codes, accessible from the Code Sets page at in.gov/medicaid/providers.

These services (specific HPCCS Codes listed on pages 70, 74-75, 87) cannot be delivered via audio-only telehealth per IHCP policy, but can be delivered via audiovisual telehealth. If a member has eligibility to receive these services in person through the IHCP, then they are eligible to receive these services via telehealth. For more information, see Telehealth and Virtual Services Codes, accessible from the Code Sets page at in.gov/medicaid/providers.

SOURCE: Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Adult Mental Health Habilitation Services Module (July 25, 2024), p. 64, 70,74- 75, 87. (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Mobile Crisis Intervention

Follow-up stabilization services: Follow-up contacts in-person, via phone, or telehealth up to 14 days following initial crisis intervention and can be billable up to 90 days.

SOURCE: ICHP Bulletin BT 2023173 (Dec. 12, 2023), p. 3.  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Federally Qualified Health Centers/Rural Health Clinics

Dental services do not require a modifier indicating the method of telehealth delivery. Dental services cannot be provided via audio-only telehealth. The only dental service that FQHCs and RHCs can bill as telehealth is D0140 – Limited oral evaluation – problem focused.

SOURCE: IHCP Federally Qualified Health Centers and Rural Health Clinics, p. 6 (May 7, 2024).  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Telephone codes and G2025 listed as exempt from Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP) copayment, effective for DOS on or after July 1, 2024.

SOURCE: ICHP Bulletin BT 202476 (June 4, 2024).  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Last updated 08/06/2024

Live Video

POLICY

The Indiana Health Coverage Programs (IHCP) covers select medical, dental and remote patient monitoring services delivered via telehealth. IHCP coverage is also available for the virtual delivery of certain nonhealthcare services (such as case management) for members who are eligible to receive such services. For applicable procedure codes, see Telehealth and Virtual Services Codes, accessible from the Code Sets page at in.gov/medicaid/providers.  Most telehealth services must be provided via video and audio, although a few designated telehealth services can be provided via audio only. Audio-only delivery is allowable for all nonhealthcare virtual services.

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs, Telehealth and Virtual Services, Provider Reference Module (Feb. 29, 2024), p. 1.  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Indiana Code requires reimbursement for medically necessary telehealth services for Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), Rural Health Clinics (RHCs), Community Mental Health Centers, Critical Access Hospitals, a home health agency under IC 16-27-1, and a provider determined by the office to be eligible, providing a covered telehealth service.

SOURCE: IN Code, 12-15-5-11 (Accessed Aug. 2024).

All services delivered through telehealth are subject to the same limitations and restrictions as they would be if delivered in-person

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs (IHCP) Bulletin, BT202142, June 8, 2021, (Accessed Aug. 2024).

In any telemedicine encounter, there will be the following:

  • A distant site;
  • An originating site;
  • An attendant to connect the patient to the provider at the distant site; and
  • A computer or television monitor at the distant and originating sites to allow the patient to have real-time, interactive; and face-to-face communication with the distant provider via IATV technology.

SOURCE: IN Admin. Code, “Article 5,” Title 405, 5-38-3 & 4., p. 199 (Accessed Mar. 2024).


ELIGIBLE SERVICES/SPECIALTIES

Providers are allowed to use telehealth for the medical, dental and remote patient monitoring services listed in Telehealth and Virtual Services Codes, accessible from the Code Sets page at in.gov/medicaid/providers. The following services may not be provided using telehealth:

  • Surgical procedures
  • Radiological services
  • Laboratory services
  • Anesthesia services
  • Durable medical equipment (DME)/home medical equipment (HME) services
  • Transportation services

Office visits conducted via telehealth are subject to existing service limitations for office visits. Telehealth office visits billed using applicable codes from Telehealth and Virtual Services Codes (accessible from the Code Sets page at in.gov/medicaid/providers) are counted toward the member’s office visit limit. See the Evaluation and Management Services module for information about office visit limitations.

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs, Telehealth and Virtual Services, Provider Reference Module (Feb. 29, 2024), p. 2-3.  Indiana Health Coverage Programs (IHCP) Bulletin, BT202142, p. 2 June 8, 2021, (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Group psychotherapy services and 2024 Annual HCPCS Codes Update – new codes added.

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs (IHCP) Bulletin, BT202425 (Feb. 29, 2024). (Accessed Aug. 2024).

IHCP reimbursement for telehealth services is limited to the medical, dental and remote patient monitoring procedure codes listed in the telehealth code set (see the Telehealth Services Allowed and Excluded section). Additionally, the rendering NPI on the claim must be enrolled in the IHCP under one of the specialties allowable for telehealth services (see the Practitioners Eligible to Provide Telehealth Services section). All services delivered via telehealth must be billed with one of the following place of service (POS) codes:

  • 02 – Telehealth provided other than in patient’s home
  • 10 – Telehealth provided in the patient’s home

The procedure code billed must appear on the telehealth code set (Tables 1–3 of Telehealth and Virtual Services Codes, accessible from the Code Sets page at in.gov/medicaid/providers). IIn addition, an appropriate telehealth modifier may be required, depending on the type of service:

Medical services – All medical services delivered via telehealth (with the exception of services delivered through a Home- and Community-Based Services [HCBS] or Money Follows the Person [MFP] program) require one of the following modifiers:

  • 95 – Synchronous telemedicine service rendered via real-time interactive audio and video telecommunications system
  • 93 – Synchronous telemedicine service rendered via telephone or other real-time interactive audio-only telecommunications system

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs, Telehealth and Virtual Services, Provider Reference Module (Feb. 29, 2024), p. 3-4  Indiana Health Coverage Programs ICHP Bulletin BT202249 (June 30, 2022). (Accessed Aug. 2024).

In December 2022, IHCP expanded and clarified telehealth coverage and note it will be effective December 9, 2022.  The updated coverage applies to all IHCP programs that offer such services – including but not limited to Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP), Hoosier Care Connect, Hoosier Healthwise and Traditional Medicaid. The telehealth and virtual services code set is used by both fee-for-service (FFS) and managed care delivery systems. This updated code set will remain in place for the remainder of 2022 and 2023, and will be reevaluated by the Office of Medicaid Policy and Planning (OMPP) at the end of 2023.

Updated Code Set as of May 16, 2024, (Accessed Aug. 2024).

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs (IHCP) Bulletin, BT202425 (Feb. 29, 2024). IN Health Coverage Programs (IHCP) Bulletin BT 202297 (Nov 8, 2022). Past bulletins:  Indiana Health Coverage Programs (IHCP) Bulletin, BT202142, p. 2 June 8, 2021, ICHP BT2020106 Indiana Health Coverage Programs ICHP Bulletin BT 202239 (May 19, 2022).  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

As published in IHCP Bulletin BT202239, for a practitioner to receive reimbursement for telehealth services, the procedure code must be listed in the telehealth and virtual services code set, and must be a service for which the member is eligible. Additionally, the claim detail must have:

One of the following place of service (POS) codes:

  • 02 – Telehealth provided other than in patient’s home
  • 10 – Telehealth provided in the patient’s home

One of the following modifiers:

  • 95 – Synchronous telemedicine service rendered via real-time interactive audio and video telecommunications system
  • 93 – Synchronous telemedicine service rendered via telephone or other real-time interactive audio-only telecommunications system

Modifier 93 (audio-only) is allowable only for certain, designated telehealth services. Effective Dec. 9, 2022, the IHCP will allow reimbursement for the telehealth services specified in Table 1 when billed with the appropriate POS code and the audio-only modifier (93).

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs ICHP Bulletin BT202297 (Nov 8, 2022), p. 1.  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

A valid FQHC or RHC encounter is defined as a face-to-face visit (either in person or via telehealth) between an IHCP member and a qualifying practitioner (see the Rendering Providers section) at an FQHC, RHC or other qualifying, non-hospital setting. When billing valid encounters provided by telehealth, When billing valid telehealth encounters, the encounter code (T1015 or D9999) should be billed as usual, and each service provided during the encounter must include an appropriate telehealth POS code (02 or 10) and telehealth modifier (93 or 95), as described in the FQHC and RHC Telehealth Services section of the Telehealth and Virtual Services module.

SOURCE: Medicaid Federally Qualified Health Centers and Rural Health Clinics Module, (Jan 2022 edition, published May 7, 2024), p. 10, 12, (Accessed Aug. 2024).

When the FQHC or RHC is the distant site, the service provided by the FQHC or RHC must meet the requirements both for a valid encounter and for an approved telehealth service. The claim must include the following:

  • Encounter code T1015 (or D9999 for valid dental encounters), billed with POS code 02, 03, 04, 10, 11, 12, 31, 32, 50 or 72
  • One or more appropriate procedure codes for the specific services rendered, billed with modifier 93 or 95, and a POS code of either 02 or 10, depending on the originating site/location of the patient

SOURCE:  Indiana Health Coverage Programs, Telehealth and Virtual Services, Provider Reference Module (Feb. 29, 2024), p. 6   (Accessed Aug. 2024).

For purposes of a community mental health center, telehealth services satisfy any face to face meeting requirement between a clinician and consumer.

SOURCE: IN Code, 12-15-5-11(f) IHCP Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Adult Mental Health Habilitation Services (July 25, 2024), p. 20; IHCP Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Behavioral and Primary Healthcare Coordination Service (July 1, 2023), p. 26. (Accessed Mar. 2024).

Adult Mental Health Habilitation Services

Adult Mental Health Habilitation (AMHH) Home- and Community-Based Habilitation and Support services are individualized services provided face to face or via telehealth according to Indiana Administrative Code (IAC) that are focused on the member’s health, safety and welfare. Valid telehealth services can be found on Telehealth and Virtual Services Codes, accessible from the Code Sets page at in.gov/medicaid/providers

Program standards for Adult Mental Health Habilitation (AMHH) Therapy and Behavioral Support Services and Addiction Counseling include the following:

  • Services may be provided face to face or with telehealth according to the IAC with the member or with family members or nonprofessional caregivers with or without the member present.

For Medication Training and Support, program standard for these services include that services provided that are not face-to-face or telehealth, according to the IAC, with the member must meet the following standards:

  • The member must be the focus of the service.
  • Documentation must support how the service benefits the member.

SOURCE: IHCP Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Adult Mental Health Habilitation Services (July 25, 2024), p. 61, 63, 69, 73, 86 (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Behavioral and Primary Healthcare Coordination (BPHC) Services

Telehealth may be used for clinical evaluations in the BPHC application process, for developing the Individualized Integrated Care Plan (IICP), and ongoing review of the IICP.

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs, Provider Reference Module, Behavioral and Primary Healthcare Coordination Services (October 26, 2023), p. 33, 41, 46. 71  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) Office of Medicaid Policy and Planning (OMPP) and Division of Mental Health and Addiction (DMHA) received approval from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to renew the Behavioral and Primary Healthcare Coordination (BPHC) service program. The renewal will go into effect on June 1, 2024. The renewal of BPHC programming and services allows for an additional five years of the BPHC service. The BPHC service program offers one service, which consists of coordinated healthcare activities to manage the behavioral health/addiction and physical healthcare needs of eligible members. The service includes logistical support, advocacy and education to assist individuals in navigating the healthcare system, and activities that help members gain access to needed physical and behavioral health services to manage their health conditions. The following updates are included in the BPHC program:

  • Quality improvement (QI) activities will verify services provided fulfill the person-centered plan (PCP) established with the individual receiving services.
  • Medicaid allowances for telehealth services.

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs, IHCP Bulletin, BT202440 (April 4, 2024).  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Nonhealthcare Virtual Services

Nonhealthcare virtual services are services centering on patient wellness and case management that are delivered between a patient and a provider via interactive electronic communications technology. A licensed practitioner listed under IC 25-1-9.5-3.5 is not required to perform these services, as they are not considered healthcare services under the definition listed in IC 25-1-9.5-2.5. For a list of nonhealthcare procedure codes allowable for virtual delivery, see the Procedure Codes for Nonhealthcare Virtual Services table in Telehealth and Virtual Services Codes, accessible from the Code Sets page at in.gov/medicaid/providers.

Nonhealthcare virtual services must be billed with POS code 02 or 10. These services and do not require modifiers 93 or 95. All services in this category can be provided either through audio and video technology or via audio only.

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs, Telehealth and Virtual Services, Provider Reference Module (Feb. 29, 2024), p. 5 (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Nonhealthcare virtual services take place between a patient and a provider via interactive electronic communications technology. These services do not require a licensed practitioner listed in IC 25-1-9.5-3.5 to perform the service virtually, as the services are not considered healthcare services under the definition listed in IC 25-1-9.5-2.5 and, therefore, do not fall under the definition of telehealth by the IHCP. As specified in Table 2, nonhealthcare virtual services must be billed with a POS of 02 or 10, and do not require modifiers 93 or 95. All services in this category can be provided via audio only.

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs IHCP Bulletin BT 202239 (May 19, 2022). (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Telehealth Dental Services

The use of modifiers 95 or 93 is not required for dental services delivered via telehealth. Dental services cannot be delivered via audio-only telehealth.

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs, Telehealth and Virtual Services, Provider Reference Module (Feb. 29, 2024), p. 4, Indiana Health Coverage Programs IHCP Bulletin BT 202239 (May 19, 2022).  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Intensive Outpatient Treatment via Telehealth

The IHCP reimburses for intensive outpatient treatment (IOT) services (procedure codes H0015 and S9480) when delivered via telehealth. The IHCP is approaching this temporary policy expansion as a pilot initiative, where any healthcare provider engaging in telehealth IOT will be opting in to the analysis of the efficacy of this model through data collection and analysis. This data collection and analysis will be administered through the state and is intended to have a minimal administrative impact on providers. All providers submitting claims for telehealth IOT will automatically be included in the study and are expected to participate by providing data if requested. Telehealth IOT will be available for 12 months after which the data collected will be analyzed by the Division of Mental Health and Addiction (DMHA). IOT requires prior authorization for medical necessity, regardless of whether it is delivered in person or via telehealth.  See manual for other criteria.

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs, Telehealth and Virtual Services, Provider Reference Module (Feb. 29, 2024), p. 7 (Accessed Aug. 2024).

After receiving feedback from providers over an allotted 30-day period, the IHCP has determined that IOT services (procedure codes H0015 and S9480) will be reimbursable when delivered via telehealth. This service will be added to the 2022 telehealth and virtual services code set.  See bulletin for more instructions.

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs IHCP Bulletin BT 202239 (May 19, 2022).  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

With the exception of services billed by a federally qualified health center (FQHC) or rural health clinic (RHC) (see the Telehealth Services for FQHCs and RHCs section) or RPM services billed by a home health agency (see the RPM Billing and Reimbursement for Home Health Agencies section), the payment for telehealth services is equal to the current Fee Schedule amount for the procedure codes billed (see the IHCP Fee Schedules page at in.gov/medicaid/providers).

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs, Telehealth and Virtual Services, Provider Reference Module (Feb. 29, 2024), p. 3,  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Skills Training and Development Rendered Via Telehealth

As published in BT202249, the IHCP reimburses for H2014 – Skills training and development, per 15 minutes when the service is rendered through an audiovisual telehealth modality. Skills training and development is covered only for members who have access to Medicaid Rehabilitation Option (MRO) services. The OMPP, in partnership with the Division of Mental Health and Addiction (DMHA), developed the following service parameters for when telehealth delivery satisfies the “face-to-face” contact required for this service. Providers are expected to have these service parameters in place by Dec. 9, 2022, when rendering skills training and development via telehealth. See bulletin for additional information.

SOURCE: IHCP Expands and Clarifies Telehealth Coverage BT 202297 (Nov. 8, 2022), p. 2-3.  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Home and Community-Based Services

Caregiver Coaching provided in the home of the participant, virtually or telephonically and through Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) secure communication platforms that allow for real time and asynchronous communication between caregivers and caregiver coaches and collaboration with waiver care managers/service coordinators.

Caregiver Coaching services may be delivered telephonically and through HIPPA secure electronic communication platforms that enable a caregiver coach and a caregiver to communicate efficiently and in a manner convenient to the caregiver.

SOURCE: IHCP Office of Medicaid Policy and Planning, Home and Community Based Services: Indiana PathWays for Aging Waiver, p. 50-51.  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Mobile Crisis Intervention Services

Follow-up stabilization services: Follow up contacts in-person, via phone, or telehealth up to 14 days following initial crisis intervention and can be billable up to 90 days.

SOURCE:  IHCP Adding Coverage for Mobile Crisis Intervention Services BT 202364 (Jun. 15, 2023) & IHCP Bulletin ICHP Covers Mobile Intervention Services Retroactive to July 1, 2023 (Dec. 12, 2023).  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Home Health Services

The IHCP covers telehealth services provided by home health agencies.

SOURCE: IHCP Home Health Services Module (Oct. 3, 2023), p. 8.  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Opioid Treatment Program

POS codes 02 – Telehealth provided other than in patient’s home and 10 – Telehealth provided in patient’s home can be used when billing OTP services. It should be noted that by end of 2023, the Office of Medicaid Policy and Planning will be reevaluating the telehealth service codes. If any changes to these POS codes occur, it will be noted in a future bulletin.

SOURCE:  IHCP Bulleting BT 2023151 (Nov. 2, 2023), p. 2.  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Behavioral and Primary Healthcare Coordination Service

Evaluations and meetings with patient maybe conducted face-to-face or with telehealth.

SOURCE: Division of Mental Health and Addiction Behavioral and Primary Healthcare Coordination Service (Oct. 26, 2023), p. 33, 46. (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Adult Mental Health Habilitation Services

Evaluations and reassessments may be conducted face-to-face or via telehealth. Certain information must be included and in some cases specific requirements must be met.  See manual for more information.

All clients being considered for telehealth services must be given the option of in-person services prior to telehealth being selected as modality.

The number of in-person visits and the percentage of time telehealth will be the delivery method of service will be based on what is clinically appropriate and in agreement with the consumer and/or legal guardian.

The use of telehealth should protect against isolating participants by offering services that are in person and shall be invoked to prioritize and facilitate community integration.

Telehealth services shall consider and respond to all accessibility needs, including whether hands-on or physical assistance is needed to render the service.

Telehealth services must ensure the health and safety of the individual receiving services by adhering to all abuse, neglect and exploitation prevention practices that apply to in-person treatment, as well as by providing participants with resources on how to report incidences of abuse, neglect and exploitation.

Habilitation and support is not permissible via audio-only telehealth modalities. The IHCP reimburses for H2014 – Skills training and development, per 15 minutes (see Table 2) when the service is rendered through an audiovisual telehealth modality.

These services (specific HPCCS Codes listed on pages 70, 75, 87) cannot be delivered via audio-only telehealth per IHCP policy, but can be delivered via audiovisual telehealth. If a member has eligibility to receive these services in person through the IHCP, then they are eligible to receive these services via telehealth. For more information, see Telehealth and Virtual Services Codes, accessible from the Code Sets page at in.gov/medicaid/providers.

Adult Mental Health Habilitation (AMHH) Addiction Counseling services consist of a series of planned and organized face-to-face or telehealth, according to Indiana Administrative Code. Addiction professionals and other clinicians provide counseling interventions that work toward the member’s recovery goals identified in the Individualized Integrated Care Plan (IICP) as they pertain to substance use-related disorders. Valid telehealth services can be found on Telehealth and Virtual Services Codes, accessible from the Code Sets page at in.gov/medicaid/providers

T1016 – Care Coordination – If a member has eligibility to receive these services in person through the IHCP, then they are eligible to receive these services via telehealth. For more information, see Telehealth and Virtual Services Codes, accessible from the Code Sets page at in.gov/medicaid/providers. (See manual for more detail).

Adult Mental Health Habilitation (AMHH) Medication Training and Support services involve face-to-face or telehealth according to Indiana Administrative Code, services provided to the member, in an individual or group setting, for the purpose of:

  • Monitoring medication compliance
  • Providing education and training about medications
  • Monitoring medication side effects
  • Providing other nursing or medical assessment

SOURCE: Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Adult Mental Health Habilitation Services Module (July 25, 2024), p. 20, 41, 56, 63-64, 69, 70, 73, 75, 81, 83, 85, 86, 87. (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Outpatient Institutional Claims for Telehealth Services

For providers that use the outpatient institutional claim (UB-04 claim form, IHCP Provider Healthcare Portal institutional claim or 837I electronic transaction), services delivered via telehealth should be billed as follows:

  • If the service can be billed with a procedure code, providers should enter the procedure code and, if applicable, use the appropriate modifier (93 or 95) to indicate that the service was delivered via telehealth. POS codes are not used on outpatient claims.
  • If the service cannot be billed with a procedure code (for example, procedure codes cannot be used with revenue codes 905 or 906), the service should be billed as it normally would if delivered in person. Procedure code, modifier and POS code requirements do not apply in this case. Providers are advised to mark in their patient records that the service was delivered via telehealth.

In either case, the service provided must be a one that is allowable for telehealth delivery, as indicated on the telehealth code set (Tables 1–3 of Telehealth and Virtual Services Codes, accessible from the Code Sets page at in.gov/medicaid/providers).

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs, Telehealth and Virtual Services, Provider Reference Module (Feb, 29. 2024), p. 4-5,  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Applied Behavioral Analysis Therapy Services via Telehealth

The IHCP provides coverage for applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy when medically necessary for the treatment of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). All ABA therapy services require prior authorization. Besides the PA criteria outlined in the Behavioral Health Services module, procedure codes 97155 and 97156 are subject to the following additional requirements when rendered via telehealth:

  • Credentialed registered behavior technicians (RBTs) may not deliver any ABA service via telehealth. Only a health service provider in psychology (HSPP) or a licensed or board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA) are eligible for using telehealth when supervising the delivery of ABA services remotely.
  • Procedure code 97155 is reimbursable via telehealth only when an HSPP or BCBA is providing guidance/supervision to an RBT remotely, and the RBT is rendering adaptive behavioral treatment in person to the member.
  • All ABA services must include synchronous audiovisual interaction. No ABA services are reimbursable when delivered via audio-only telehealth.

The complete list of procedure codes for applied behavior analysis therapy can be found in Behavioral Health Services Codes, accessible from the Code Sets page at in.gov/medicaid/providers. Procedure codes 97155 and 97156 are the only two ABA services that are allowable as telehealth.

For dates of service on and after Jan. 1, 2024, all ABA services must be billed with an appropriate modifier to indicate the credentials of the practitioner delivering the service. When ABA services are delivered via telehealth, modifier 95 must also be included.

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs, Telehealth and Virtual Services, Provider Reference Module (Feb 29, 2024), p. 8,  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Addiction Counseling, Behavioral Health Counseling & Therapy, Medication Training and Support

Addiction Counseling, Behavioral Health Counseling, Medication Training and Support, and Skills and Training Development may be delivered via an audiovisual telehealth modality. This service is not permissible via audio-only telehealth modalities. If behavioral health assistance needs to be rendered via audio-only telehealth modalities, the following procedure codes are reimbursable via audio-only telehealth:

H0038 – Self-help/peer service, per 15 minutes

H2011 – Crisis intervention service, per 15 minutes

See the Behavioral Health Services module for more information on the peer recovery and crisis intervention services. See the Telehealth and Virtual Services module for more information about rendering and billing for telehealth services.

Skills Training and Development may be delivered via an audiovisual telehealth modality when the following service parameters are met:

  • All members being considered for telehealth services must be given the option of in-person services prior to telehealth being selected as the modality.
  • The member must indicate that telehealth is their preferred method for receiving services.
  • The member must have documented acknowledgement of receipt of informed consent about risks and benefits of the telehealth modality.
  • Within 30 days of the first telehealth session occurring, a licensed behavioral health practitioner, HSPP or overseeing psychiatric medical professional must document verification that telehealth is thought to be an effective modality for the member based on symptoms, severity and access to services.
  • Use of the telehealth modality must be formally reviewed with the member every 90 days and adjusted based on need or efficacy.
  • If the member is not progressing or stabilizing, evaluation of how treatment will be adjusted must be documented. This adjustment may include increasing in-person sessions.
  • All Skills Training and Development sessions should have clearly documented connection to diagnosis and/or treatment goals.
  • At minimum, the member must have an in-person session with a member of the treatment team every 90 days. This session may be in the home, community or office setting.

 

SOURCE: IHCP Medicaid Rehabilitation Option Services, p. 10, 14, 22, 29. (Feb. 27, 2024). (Accessed Aug. 2024).


ELIGIBLE PROVIDERS

In response to Indiana House Enrolled Act 1352 (2023), the Indiana Health Coverage Programs (IHCP) has implemented a new telehealth-only provider enrollment for providers that wish to perform only telehealth services (with no physical site where patients are seen) and that meet the Indiana licensure and other special requirements outlined in this bulletin. This telehealth-only provider enrollment option is currently available on the IHCP Provider Healthcare Portal. See bulletin for more details.

SOURCE:  IHCP Bulletin: IHCP to Begin Enrollment for Telehealth-Only Providers BT202417 (Feb. 15, 2024).  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

The practitioners listed in IC 25-1-9.5-3.5 are authorized to provide telehealth services under the scope of their licensure within the state of Indiana.

The IHCP will allow these practitioners to provide telehealth services and receive reimbursement for IHCP services, within the established IHCP billing rules and policies. Providers not on this list are not allowed to practice telehealth or receive IHCP reimbursement for such services, even under the supervision of one of these listed practitioners. Providers rendering services within the state of Indiana are encouraged to have a telehealth provider certification filed with the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency. Providers rendering services out of state are required to have a telehealth provider certification under IC 25-1-9.5-9; see the Out-of-State Telehealth Providers section for more information.

NOTE:  Not all practitioners that are authorized to provide telehealth services are allowed to enroll as rendering providers in the IHCP. Those that are not eligible for IHCP enrollment must bill under the IHCP-enrolled supervising practitioner’s National Provider Identifier (NPI), using the appropriate modifiers (as applicable). The rendering NPI entered on the claim must be enrolled under a specialty that is allowable for telehealth.

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs, Telehealth and Virtual Services, Provider Reference Module (Feb. 29, 2024), p. 2,  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

For a provider to be reimbursed for telehealth services under the IHCP, the provider must be enrolled with the IHCP and be a licensed practitioner listed in IC 25-1-9.5-3.5. Providers rendering services in state are also encouraged to have a telehealth provider certification filed with the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency. Providers rendering services out of state are required to have a telehealth provider certification under IC 25-1-9.5-9.

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs IHCP Bulletin BT 202239 (May 19, 2022). (Accessed Aug. 2024).

The IHCP will allow these providers to provide telehealth services and receive reimbursement for IHCP services, within the established IHCP billing rules and policies:

  • A behavior analyst licensed under IC 25-8.5
  • A chiropractor licensed under IC 25-10
  • A dental hygienist licensed under IC 25-13*
  • The following:
    • A dentist licensed under IC 25-14
    • An individual who holds a dental residency permit issued under IC 25-14-1-5*
    • An individual who holds a dental faculty licensed under IC 25-14-1-5.5*
  • A diabetes educator licensed under IC 25-14.3*
  • A dietitian licensed under IC 25-14.5*
  • A genetic counselor licensed under IC 25-17.3
  • The following:
    • A physician licensed under IC 25-22.5
    • An individual who holds a temporary medical permit under IC 22-22.5-5-4*
  • A nurse licensed under IC 25-23*
  • An occupational therapist licensed under IC 25-23.5
  • Any behavioral health and human services professional licensed under IC 25-23.6
  • An optometrist licensed under IC 25-24
  • A pharmacist licensed under IC 25-26*
  • A physical therapist licensed under IC 25-27
  • A physician assistant licensed under IC 5-27.5
  • A podiatrist licensed under IC 25-29
  • A psychologist licensed under IC 25-33
  • A respiratory care practitioner licensed under IC 25-34.5*
  • A speech-language pathologist or audiologist licensed under IC 25-35.6

Some providers (within the licensure citations above) marked with an asterisk may not be able to enroll as rendering providers in the IHCP and must bill under the IHCP-enrolled supervising practitioner’s National Provider Identifier (NPI) using the appropriate modifiers (as applicable). In addition, providers not on this list are not allowed to practice telehealth and/or receive IHCP reimbursement for such services, even under the supervision of one of these listed practitioners.

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs (IHCP) Bulletin, BT202142, June 8, 2021, (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Providers that can deliver healthcare services via telehealth must be listed as an authorized practitioner in SB 3(SEA 3). Providers not listed as authorized practitioners in SB 3(SEA 3) are not permitted to practice telehealth and/or receive IHCP reimbursement for telehealth services, even under the supervision of one of these listed practitioners.

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs (IHCP) Bulletin, BT202145, June 17, 2021. (Accessed Aug. 2024).

The office shall reimburse the following Medicaid providers for medically necessary telehealth services:

  • A federally qualified health center
  • A rural health clinic
  • A community mental health center
  • A critical access hospital
  • A home health agency licensed under IC 16-27-1.
  • A provider, as determined by the office to be eligible, providing a covered telehealth service.

SOURCE: IN Admin Code, “Article 5” 405 5-38-4(3) p. 199-200IN Code, 12-15-5-11. (Accessed Aug. 2024).

The office may not impose any distance restrictions on providers of telehealth activities or telehealth services.  Subject to federal law, the office may not impose any location requirements concerning the originating site or distant site in which a telehealth service is provided to a Medicaid recipient.

SOURCE: IN Code, 12-15-5-11 (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) and Rural Health Clinics (RHCs)

Special billing considerations apply for federally qualified health center (FQHC) and rural health clinic (RHC) providers. FQHC and RHC providers may bill for telehealth services if the service rendered is considered a valid FQHC or RHC encounter (as defined in the Federally Qualified Health Centers and Rural Health Clinics module) and a covered telehealth service (as defined by the Telehealth and Virtual Services Codes, accessible from the Code Sets page at in.gov/medicaid/providers). Subject to the following criteria, reimbursement is available to FQHCs and RHCS when they are serving as either the distant site or the originating site for telehealth services.

When the FQHC or RHC is the distant site, the service provided by the FQHC or RHC must meet the requirements both for a valid encounter and for an approved telehealth service. The claim must include the following:

  • Encounter code T1015 (or D9999 for valid dental encounters), billed with POS code 02, 03, 04, 10, 11, 12, 31, 32, 50 or 72
  • One or more appropriate procedure codes for the specific services rendered, billed with modifier 93 or 95, and a POS code of either 02 or 10, depending on the originating site/location of the patient

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs, Telehealth and Virtual Services, Provider Reference Module (Feb. 29, 2024), p. 6, Indiana Health Coverage Programs, Federally Qualified Health Centers and Rural Health Clinics, p. 6 (May 7, 2024). (Accessed Aug. 2024).

A valid FQHC or RHC encounter is defined as a face-to-face visit (either in person or via telemedicine) between an IHCP member and a qualifying practitioner (see the Rendering Providers section) at an FQHC, RHC, or other qualifying, non-hospital setting.

SOURCE: Medicaid Federally Qualified Health Centers and Rural Health Clinics Module, Jan. 1, 2022 (published May 7, 2024), p. 4, (Accessed Mar. 2024).

Non-Eligible Providers

IHCP does not reimburse the following provider types for telemedicine:

  • Ambulatory surgical centers;
  • Outpatient surgical services;
  • Home health agencies or services (For information about home health agency reimbursement for telehealth services, see the Telehealth Services section);
  • Radiological services;
  • Laboratory services;
  • Long-term care facilities, including nursing facilities, intermediate care facilities, or community residential facilities for the developmentally disabled;
  • Anesthesia services or nurse anesthetist services;
  • Audiological services;
  • Chiropractic services;
  • Care coordination services;
  • Durable medical equipment, and home medical equipment providers
  • Optical or optometric services;
  • Podiatric services;
  • Physical therapy services;
  • Transportation services;
  • Services provided under a Medicaid home and community-based services waiver.
  • Provider to provider consultations

SOURCE: IN Admin. Code, “Article 5” Title 405, 5-38-4, p. 200 (Accessed Aug. 2024).


ELIGIBLE SITES

Telehealth services may be rendered in an inpatient, outpatient or office setting. The provider and/or patient may be located in their home during the time of these services. For IHCP reimbursement of telehealth services, the member must be physically present at the originating site and must participate in the visit.

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs, Telehealth and Virtual Services, Provider Reference Module (Feb. 29, 2024), p.1 ,  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

The office may not impose any distance restrictions on providers of telehealth activities or telehealth services.  Subject to federal law, the office may not impose any location requirements concerning the originating site or distant site in which a telehealth service is provided to a Medicaid recipient.

SOURCE: IN Code, 12-15-5-11 (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Per Indiana Code IC 25-1-9.5-3, “originating site” means any site at which a patient is located at the time healthcare services through telehealth are provided to the individual. Accordingly, eligible providers may be reimbursed for procedure code Q3014 when the provider location is acting as an originating site for telehealth services.

SOURCE: ICHP Expands Procedure Code Q3014 to Additional Providers BT 202332 (Apr. 25, 2023). (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Separate reimbursement for a provider at the originating site is payable only if that provider’s presence is medically necessary. Adequate documentation must be maintained in the patient’s medical record to support the need for the provider’s presence at the originating site during the visit. Such documentation is subject to post-payment review. If a healthcare provider’s presence at the originating site is medically necessary, billing of the appropriate evaluation and management code is permitted.

SOURCE: IN Admin. Code, “Article 5” Title 405, 5-38-4, p. 199 (Accessed Aug. 2024).


GEOGRAPHIC LIMITS

The office may not impose any distance restrictions on providers of telehealth activities or telehealth services.  Subject to federal law, the office may not impose any location requirements concerning the originating site or distant site in which a telehealth service is provided to a Medicaid recipient.

SOURCE: IN Code 12-15-5-11 (Accessed Aug. 2024)

Medicaid may not require:

  • A provider that is licensed, certified, registered, or authorized with the appropriate state agency or board and exclusively offers telehealth services (as defined in IC 12-15-5-11(a)) to maintain a physical address or site in Indiana to be eligible for enrollment as a Medicaid provider.
  • A telehealth provider group with providers that are licensed, certified, registered, or authorized with the appropriate state agency or board to have an in-state service address to be eligible to enroll as a Medicaid vendor or Medicaid provider group.

SOURCE: IN Code 12-15-11-10 (Accessed Aug. 2024).


FACILITY/TRANSMISSION FEE

If the member is located in a medical facility (such as a hospital, clinic or physician’s office) while receiving the telehealth service, and it is medically necessary for a medical professional to be physically present with the member during the service, the IHCP covers Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) code Q3014 – Telehealth originating site facility fee, billed with modifier 95, for the provider e at the originating site.

If the originating site is a hospital or other location that bills on an institutional claim, HCPCS code Q3014 is reimbursable when billed with revenue code 780 – Telemedicine – General. If a different, separately reimbursable treatment room revenue code is provided on the same day as the telehealth service, the appropriate treatment room revenue code should also be included on the claim. Documentation must be maintained in the patient’s record to indicate that services were provided separately from the telehealth visit.

If the originating site is a physician’s office, clinic or other location that bills on a professional claim, POS code 02 must be used for Q3014, along with modifier 95. If other services are provided on the same date as the telehealth service, the medical professional should bill Q3014 as a separate line item from other professional services.

If the originating site is an FQHC or RHC, additional billing requirements apply. See the Telehealth Services for FQHCs and RHCs section.

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs, Telehealth and Virtual Services, Provider Reference Module (Feb. 29, 2024), p. 5.  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Effective immediately, and retroactive to dates of services (DOS) on or after July 21, 2022, the following specialties under provider type 11 – Behavioral Health Provider will be able to receive reimbursement for procedure code Q3014 when their offices or facilities are acting as an originating telehealth site for members:

  • 616 – Licensed Psychologist
  • 617 – Licensed Independent Practice School Psychologist
  • 618 – Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
  • 619 – Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
  • 620 – Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)
  • 621 – Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor (LCAC)

SOURCE: ICHP Expands Procedure Code Q3014 to Additional Providers BT 202332 (Apr. 25, 2023). (Accessed Aug. 2024).

When the FQHC or RHC is the originating site (the location where the patient is physically located), the FQHC or RHC may be reimbursed if it is medically necessary for a medical professional to be present with the member, and the service provided includes all components of a valid encounter code. The claim must include the following:

  • Encounter code T1015 (or D9999 for valid dental encounters), billed with POS code 02, 03, 04, 11, 12, 31, 32, 50 or 72
  • Procedure code Q3014 – Telehealth originating site facility fee, billed with POS code 02 and modifier 95
  • One or more appropriate procedure codes for the specific services rendered, billed with modifier 93 or 95, and a POS code of either 02 or 10, depending on the originating site/location of the patient

Note: The procedure code must appear on one of the code tables in this bulletin, and must be on the list of procedure codes allowable for an FQHC/RHC medical or dental encounter.

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs IHCP Bulletin BT 202239 (May 19, 2022). IHCP Bulletin BT 202253 (July 14, 2022). (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Last updated 08/07/2024

Miscellaneous

In response to Indiana House Enrolled Act 1352 (2023), the Indiana Health Coverage Programs (IHCP) has implemented a new telehealth-only provider enrollment for providers that wish to perform only telehealth services (with no physical site where patients are seen) and that meet the Indiana licensure and other special requirements outlined in this bulletin. This telehealth-only provider enrollment option is currently available on the IHCP Provider Healthcare Portal.

SOURCE: IHCP Bulletin “IHCP to begin enrollment for telehealth-only providers”, BT202417 (Feb. 15, 2024).  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Special Considerations for Telehealth

The following special circumstances apply to telehealth services:

  • The practitioner who will be examining the patient from the distant site must determine if it is medically necessary for a medical professional to be at the originating site. Separate reimbursement for a provider at the originating site is payable only if that provider’s presence is medically necessary. Documentation must be maintained in the patient’s medical record to support the need for the provider’s presence at the originating site during the visit. Such documentation is subject to post-payment review. If a healthcare provider’s presence at the originating site is medically necessary, billing of the appropriate evaluation and management code is permitted.
  • When ongoing services are provided, the member should be seen by a physician for a traditional clinical evaluation at least once a year, unless otherwise stated in policy. In addition, the distant provider should coordinate with the patient’s primary care physician.
  • Office visits conducted via telehealth are subject to existing service limitations for office visits. Telehealth office visits billed using applicable codes from Telehealth and Virtual Services Codes (accessible from the Code Sets page at in.gov/medicaid/providers) are counted toward the member’s office visit limit. See the Evaluation and Management Services module for information about office visit limitations.
  • Although reimbursement for end-stage renal disease (ESRD)-related services is permitted in the telehealth setting, the IHCP requires at least one monthly visit for ESRD-related services to be a traditional clinical encounter to examine the vascular access site.
  • A provider can use telehealth to prescribe a controlled substance to a patient who has not been previously examined. Opioids, however, cannot be prescribed via telehealth, except in cases in which the opioid is a partial agonist (such as buprenorphine) and is being used to treat or manage opioid dependence.

Providers should always give the member the choice between a traditional clinical encounter versus a telehealth visit. Appropriate consent from the member must be obtained by the provider prior to delivering services. Providers must have written protocols for circumstances when the member requires a hands-on visit with the provider.

SOURCE:  Indiana Health Coverage Programs, Provider Reference Manual, Telehealth and Virtual Services (Feb. 29, 2024), p. 2-3.  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

All services delivered through telehealth are subject to the same limitations and restrictions as they would be if delivered in-person.

Documentation must be maintained by the provider to substantiate the services provided and that consent was obtained. Documentation must indicate that the services were rendered via telehealth, clearly identify the location of the provider and patient and be available for post-payment review.

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs (IHCP) Bulletin, BT202142, June 8, 2021, (Accessed Mar. 2024).

A Medicaid recipient waives confidentiality of any medical information discussed with the health care provider that is:

  • Provided during a telehealth visit; and
  • Heard by another individual in the vicinity of the Medicaid recipient during a health care service or consultation.

SOURCE: IN Code, 12-15-5-11(e) (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Skills training and development rendered via telehealth

As published in BT202249, the IHCP reimburses for H2014 – Skills training and development, per 15 minutes when the service is rendered through an audiovisual telehealth modality. Skills training and development is covered only for members who have access to Medicaid Rehabilitation Option (MRO) services. The OMPP, in partnership with the Division of Mental Health and Addiction (DMHA), developed the following service parameters for when telehealth delivery satisfies the “face-to-face” contact required for this service.  (See bulletin for additional details).

SOURCE: ICHP Expands and Clarifies Telehealth Coverage BT 202297 (Nov. 8, 2022).  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Adult Mental Health Habilitation Services

The method of the interview (face to face or via telehealth) must be verified by a progress note entry in the clinical documentation. Signed attestation forms will no longer constitute proof of a method of interview.

When delivering services via telehealth, the following service parameters satisfy the “face-to-face” contact required for this service:

  • All clients being considered for telehealth services must be given the option of in-person services prior to telehealth being selected as modality.
  • Client must indicate that telehealth is their preferred method for receiving services.Client must have documented acknowledgement of receipt of informed consent about risks/benefits of the telehealth modality.
  • Within 30 days of the first telehealth session occurring, a licensed behavioral health practitioner, health service provider in psychology (HSPP) or overseeing psychiatric medical professional must document verification that telehealth is thought to be an effective modality for client based on symptoms, severity and access to services.
  • Telehealth modality must be formally reviewed with client every 90 days and adjusted based on need/efficacy.
  • If client is not progressing/stabilizing, evaluation of how treatment will be adjusted must be documented. This adjustment may include increasing in-person sessions.
  • All habilitation and support sessions should have clearly documented connection to diagnosis and/or treatment goals.
  • At minimum, client must have an in-person session with a member of the treatment team every 90 days. This session may be in the home, community or office setting.
  • The number of in-person visits and the percentage of time telehealth will be the delivery method of service will be based on what is clinically appropriate and in agreement with the consumer and/or legal guardian.
  • The use of telehealth should protect against isolating participants by offering services that are in person and shall be invoked to prioritize and facilitate community integration.
  • As required by 45 CFR 164.308 (a)(1)(ii), an accurate and thorough risk analysis shall be conducted for any functions using telehealth services to assess the potential risks and vulnerabilities to the confidentiality, integrity and availability of patient data.
  • All telehealth services will be delivered in a way that respects privacy of the individual especially in instances of toileting, dressing, and so on. Video cameras/monitors are not permitted in bedrooms and bathrooms. Participants are able to turn all telehealth-related devices on/off at their discretion to ensure privacy. The provider that is responsible for the treatment of the individual is responsible for training participants on the use of any telehealth-related devices both initially and ongoing.
  • Telehealth services shall consider and respond to all accessibility needs, including whether hands-on or physical assistance is needed to render the service.
  • Telehealth services must ensure the health and safety of the individual receiving services by adhering to all abuse, neglect and exploitation prevention practices that apply to in-person treatment, as well as by providing participants with resources on how to report incidences of abuse, neglect and exploitation.

SOURCE: IHCP, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Adult Mental Health Habilitation Services (July 25, 2024), p. 33, 63-64.  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

 

Effective July 1, 2024, the Indiana Health Coverage Programs (IHCP) is updating the Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP) guidelines surrounding preventive care services from what was previously announced in IHCP Bulletin BT201969. An updated list of procedure codes will take effect and be included for HIP preventive care services now that the public health emergency has concluded, and copays will once again be assessed.

Table 1 and Table 2 list the updates for procedure codes used for HIP preventive care services, effective for dates of service (DOS) on or after July 1, 2024. These preventive care services qualify for exemption from copayment for members in HIP Basic, HIP State Plan Basic and HIP State Plan Plus Copay. These services are also not deducted from Personal Wellness and Responsibility (POWER) Accounts for members in any HIP category of coverage.

The inclusion of a procedure code on these tables does not necessarily indicate coverage. Providers should check with the member’s managed care entity (MCE) to determine if the service is covered for that member.

See Bulletin for codes.

SOURCE:  IHCP Bulletin, BT 202476 (Jun. 4, 2024).  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Last updated 08/07/2024

Out of State Providers

Out-of-state providers can perform telehealth services without fulfilling the out-of-state prior authorization requirement if they have the subtype “Telemedicine” attached to their enrollment.  See Module for requirements.

SOURCE:  Indiana Health Care Coverage Program, Provider Reference Module, Telehealth and Virtual Services (Feb. 29, 2024), p. 11.  (Accessed Aug 2024).

A provider that is licensed, certified, registered, or authorized with the appropriate state agency or board and exclusively offers telehealth services (as defined in IC 12-15-5-11(a)) to maintain a physical address or site in Indiana to be eligible for enrollment as a Medicaid provider.

A telehealth provider group with providers that are licensed, certified, registered, or authorized with the appropriate state agency or board to have an in-state service address to be eligible to enroll as a Medicaid vendor or Medicaid provider group.

SOURCE: IN Code 12-15-11-10 & ICHP Bulletin “IHCP to begin enrollment for telehealth-only providers” BT202417, (Feb. 15, 2024). (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Prior Authorization for Out-of-State Services

All out-of-state services rendered to IHCP members require prior authorization (PA), with the following exceptions: …

  • Telemedicine services if providers have the subtype “telemedicine” attached to their enrollment – See the Telemedicine and Telehealth Services module for more information (IHCP has marked the Telemedicine and Telehealth Services module “obsolete.”)

SOURCE: IN Medicaid Out-of-State Providers Module (March 28, 2024) p. 1, (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Subject to federal law, the office may not impose any location requirements concerning the originating site or distant site in which a telehealth service is provided to a Medicaid recipient.

SOURCE: IN Code 12-15-5-11(d) (Accessed Aug. 2024)

Last updated 08/07/2024

Overview

Indiana Medicaid reimburses for live video telemedicine for certain services and providers and remote patient monitoring (RPM).  Indiana Medicaid does not reimburse for store-and-forward although store-and-forward can still be used to facilitate other reimbursable services.  Certain services may be provided via audio-only and be reimbursed by the program.

 

Last updated 08/07/2024

Remote Patient Monitoring

POLICY

The Indiana Health Coverage Programs (IHCP) covers select medical, dental and remote patient monitoring services delivered via telehealth.

Remote patient monitoring (RPM) is the scheduled monitoring of clinical data transmitted through technologic equipment in the member’s home. Data is transmitted from the member’s home to the provider location to be read and interpreted by a qualified practitioner. The technologic equipment enables the provider to detect minute changes in the member’s clinical status, which allows providers to intercede before the member’s condition advances and requires emergency intervention or inpatient hospitalization.

The IHCP has implemented a single RPM coverage and prior authorization policy to be used for fee-forservice (FFS) and managed care delivery systems. This coverage and PA policy applies to all IHCP programs that offer such services – including but not limited to Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP), Hoosier Care Connect, Hoosier Healthwise and Traditional Medicaid.

The IHCP covers the RPM services listed in the Procedure Codes Covered for Remote Patient Monitoring table on Telehealth and Virtual Services Codes, accessible from the Code Sets page at in.gov/medicaid/providers. The service must be billed with POS code 02 or 10 and with modifier 95, as described in the Billing and Reimbursement for Telehealth Services section.

Prior authorization is required for specified RPM services, as indicated in the Procedure Codes for Remote Patient Monitoring Services table, in Telehealth and Virtual Services Codes, accessible from the Code Sets page at in.gov/medicaid/providers.

See manual for further details.

SOURCE:  Indiana Health Coverage Programs, Provider Reference Module, Telehealth and Virtual Services (Feb. 29, 2024), p. 1, 9.  (Accessed Mar. 2024).

Effective for dates of service on or after July 21, 2022, procedure codes 99091, 99453, 99454, 99457 and 99458 will be covered RPM services. RPM or “remote patient monitoring technology” is listed under the definition of telehealth services per Indiana Code IC 25-1-9.5-6.

The IHCP is implementing a single RPM coverage and prior authorization (PA) policy to be used for fee-for service (FFS) and managed care delivery systems. This coverage and PA policy apply to all IHCP programs that offer such services – including but not limited to Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP), Hoosier Care Connect, Hoosier Healthwise and Traditional Medicaid.

See Bulletin for more information.

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs IHCP Bulletin BT 202238 (May 17, 2022).  (Accessed Aug 2024).

Indiana Code requires Medicaid to reimburse providers who are licensed as a home health agency for telehealth services.

SOURCE: IN Code, 12-15-5-11(b)(5). (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Medicaid will reimburse Home Health Agencies for telehealth services.

SOURCE: IN Admin Code Title 405, 1-4.2-3 & 5-16-2 & IHCP Home Health Services (Oct. 3, 2023), p. 2. (Accessed Aug. 2024).


CONDITIONS

The member must meet one or more of the following criteria to receive prior authorization for an RPM service:

  • Received an organ transplantation within one year following the date of surgery
  • Had a surgical procedure (three-month service authorization following the date of surgery)
  • Had one or more uncontrolled chronic conditions that significantly impaired the patient’s health or resulted in two or more related hospitalizations or emergency department visits in the previous 12 months
  • Had been readmitted within 30 days for the same or similar diagnosis or condition
  • Identified as having a high-risk pregnancy (up to three-month service authorization postpartum); see the Obstetrical and Gynecological Services provider reference module for more information about high-risk pregnancy

The duration of initial service authorization is six months, unless otherwise indicated. Reauthorizations will be permitted for select services as appropriate.

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs, Provider Reference Module, Telehealth and Virtual Services (Feb. 29, 2024, p. 9-10.  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

The member must be receiving services from a home health agency.  Member must initially have two or more of the following events related to one of the conditions listed below within the previous twelve months:

  • Emergency room visit
  • Inpatient hospital stay

An emergency room visit that results in an inpatient hospital admission does not constitute two separate events.

The two qualifying events must be for the treatment of one of the following diagnoses:

  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
  • Congestive heart failure
  • Diabetes

SOURCE: IN Admin Code, “Article 5” Title 405, 5-16-3.1(d), p. 48-29 (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Personal Emergency Response System

The following activities are allowed under the PERS service:

  • Device installation
  • Ongoing monthly maintenance of the device
  • Electronic service that is usually a portal help button; however, it can also be an electronic device that includes, but is not limited to GPS or video monitoring service (Note: Remote monitoring will not be placed in participant bedrooms or bathrooms.)

SOURCE: IHCP Office of Medicaid Policy and Planning, Home and Community Based Services: Indiana PathWays for Aging Waiver, p. 80 (Jul. 1, 2024). (Accessed Aug. 2024).


PROVIDER LIMITATIONS

Reimbursement for home health agencies under certain conditions.  A licensed registered nurse must perform the reading of transmitted health information provided from the member in accordance with the written order of the physician.

SOURCE: IN Admin Code, “Article 5” Title 405, 5-16-3.1(d)(5), p. 49. (Accessed Aug. 2024).


OTHER RESTRICTIONS

The IHCP is implementing a single RPM coverage and prior authorization (PA) policy to be used for fee-for service (FFS) and managed care delivery systems. This coverage and PA policy apply to all IHCP programs that offer such services – including but not limited to Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP), Hoosier Care Connect, Hoosier Healthwise and Traditional Medicaid.

See Bulletin for more information.

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs IHCP Bulletin BT 202238 (May 17, 2022). (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Treating physician must certify the need for home health services and document that there was a face-to-face encounter with the individual.

SOURCE: IN Admin Code, “Article 5” Title 405, 5-16-3.1(e), p. 49 (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Approved telehealth services are reimbursed separately from other home health services. The unit of reimbursement for telehealth services provided by an HHA is one (1) calendar day.

Reimbursement is available for telehealth services as follows:

  • One-time amount per client of fourteen dollars and forty-five cents ($14.45) related to an initial face-to-face visit necessary to train the member to appropriately operate the telehealth equipment.
  • One (1) payment of nine dollars and eighty-four cents ($9.84) for each day the telehealth equipment is used by a registered nurse (RN) to monitor and manage the client’s care in accordance with the written order from a physician.

Rates for telehealth services shall not be adjusted annually.

SOURCE: IN Admin Code, “Article 1” Title 405, 1-4.2-6, p. 42 (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Last updated 08/07/2024

Store and Forward

POLICY

Telehealth means the delivery of healthcare services between a practitioner in one location (the distant site) and a patient in another location (the originating site), using interactive electronic communications and information technology, in compliance with the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), including any of the following:

  • Secure videoconferencing
  • Store-and-forward technology
  • Remote patient monitoring technology

SOURCE: Indiana Health Coverage Programs, Telehealth and Virtual Services, Provider Reference Module (Feb. 29, 2024), p. 1.  (Accessed Aug. 2024).

“Store and forward” means the transmission of a patient’s medical information from an originating site to the provider at a distant site without the patient being present for subsequent review by a health care provider at the distant site. Restrictions placed on store and forward reimbursement in this rule shall not disallow the permissible use of store and forward technology to facilitate reimbursable services.

Store and forward technology is not reimbursable by Medicaid. The use of store and forward technology is permissible as defined under section 2(4) of this rule.

SOURCE: IN Admin. Code, Title 405, “Article 5” 5-38-2 & 4., p. 199-200  (Accessed Aug. 2024)


ELIGIBLE SERVICES/SPECIALTIES

No Reference Found


GEOGRAPHIC LIMITS

No Reference Found


TRANSMISSION FEE

No Reference Found

Last updated 08/07/2024

Cross State Licensing

A practitioner who is physically located outside Indiana is engaged in the provision of health care services in Indiana when the practitioner:

  • Establishes a provider-patient relationship under this chapter with; or
  • Determines whether to issue a prescription under this chapter for;

an individual who is located in Indiana.

A practitioner as described above agrees to be subject to:

  • The jurisdiction of the courts of law of Indiana; and
  • Indiana substantive and procedural laws;

Concerning any claim asserted against the practitioner, the practitioner’s employer, or the practitioner’s contractor arising from the provision of health care services under this chapter to an individual who is located in Indiana at the time the health care services were provided. The provision of health care services described in subsection (a)(1) and (a)(2) by a practitioner described in subsection (a) constitutes a voluntary waiver by the practitioner, the practitioner’s employer, or the practitioner’s contractor of any respective right to avail themselves of the jurisdiction or laws other than those specified in this subsection concerning the claim.

SOURCE: IN Code, 25-1-9.5-9. (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Telehealth Provider Certification

Effective July 1, 2024, all “Telehealth Certificates” and “Telehealth Facility Certificates” that have been previously issued in accordance with the requirements of Indiana Code § 25-1-9.5-9 will be terminated, permanently. Beginning July 1, 2024, any “practitioner,” as defined under Indiana Code § 25-1-9.5-3.5, who engages in the provision of telehealth services, in accordance with the requirements of Indiana Code § 25-1-9.5, will no longer be required to complete the certification requirements previously required under Indiana Code § 25-1-9.5-9 (i.e., the Telehealth Certificate). Beginning July 1, 2024, any practitioner’s employer or contractor will no longer be required to complete the certification requirements previously required under Indiana Code § 25-1- 9.5-9 (i.e., the Telehealth Facility Certificate). Additionally, beginning July 1, 2024, any previously issued “Telehealth Certificates” will no longer need to be renewed in conjunction with the practitioner’s primary, unlimited Indiana license. Please be advised that all practitioners must still be properly licensed in the state of Indiana in order to practice in the state of Indiana, even to provide telehealth services under the requirements of Indiana Code § 25-1-9.5.

SOURCE: Indiana Professional Licensing Agency, Telehealth Regulatory Changes and Termination of Telehealth Certifications for Out-Of-State Practitioners (June 7, 2024). (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Last updated 08/07/2024

Definitions

“Telehealth means the delivery of health care services using interactive electronic communications and information technology, in compliance with the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), including:

  • Secure videoconferencing
  •  store-and-forward technology; or
  • Remote patient monitoring technology;

Between a provider in one location and a patient in another location.  The term does not include the following unless the practitioner has an established relationship with the patient:

  • Electronic mail
  • An instant messaging conversation
  • Facsimile
  • Internet questionnaire
  • Internet consultation

The term does not include a health care service provided by:

  • An employee of a practitioner; or
  • An individual who is employed by the same entity that employs the practitioner;

who is performing a health care service listed in previous sections under the direction and that is customarily within the specific area of practice of the practitioner.

SOURCE: IN Code, 25-1-9.5-6 (Accessed Aug. 2024)

 “Telehealth” means a specific method of delivery of services, including medical exams and consultations and behavioral health evaluations and treatment, including those for substance abuse, using technology allowed under IC 25-1-9.5-6 to allow a provider to render an examination or other service to a patient at a distant location.

SOURCE: IN code, 16-18-2-348.5 (Accessed Aug. 2024)

“Telehealth” means the practice of health care delivery, diagnosis, consultation, treatment, transfer of medical data, or exchange of medical education information by means of real-time video or secure chat or secure e-mail or integrated telephony while the patient is at any location and the health care provider is at any other location.

“Telehealth services” means the use of telecommunications and information technology to provide access to health assessment, diagnosis, intervention, consultation, treatment, supervision, and information across a distance.

SOURCE: IN Administrative Code, 844-Article 5-8-2, “Telehealth Services Pilot Program” p. 30 (Accessed Aug. 2024)

Last updated 08/07/2024

Licensure Compacts

Member of the Interstate Medical Licensing Compact.

SOURCE: IN Code 25-22.5-16Interstate Medical Licensing Compact. (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Member of the EMS Personnel Licensure Interstate Compact.

SOURCE: IN Code 16-31.5-4.EMS Compact. (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Member of Nurse Licensure Compact.

SOURCE: IN Code 25-42Nurse Licensure Compact. NCSBN. (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Member of Physical Therapy Compact

SOURCE: IN Code 25-27-2-1PT Compact, Map, (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Member of the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact.

SOURCE: IN Code 25-33.5-5-4PSYPACT Compact Map (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Member of the Audiology and Speech-language Pathology Interstate Compact.

SOURCE: IN Code 25-35.6-5; ASLP Compact. Compact Map. (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Member of the Professional Counselors Licensure Compact

SOURCE: IN Code 25-42.5-3, Counseling Compact Map.  (Accessed Mar. 2024).

Member of the Occupational Therapy Compact

SOURCE: IN Code 25-43, Occupational Therapy Compact. (Accessed Aug. 2024).

 

*See Compact websites for implementation and license issuing status and other related requirements.

Last updated 08/07/2024

Miscellaneous

A juvenile court may recommend telehealth services as an alternative to a child receiving a diagnostic assessment.

SOURCE: Indiana Code 31-37-19-11.7. (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Every practitioner who is renewing online a license issued by a board must include the following information related to the practitioner’s work in Indiana under the practitioner’s license during the previous two (2) years:

(1) The practitioner’s specialty or field of practice.

(2) The following concerning the practitioner’s current practice:

  • The location or address.
  • The setting type.
  • The average hours worked weekly.
  • The health care services provided.

(3) The practitioner’s education background and training.

(4) For a practitioner (as defined in IC 25-1-9.5-3.5), whether the practitioner delivers health care services through telehealth (as defined in IC 25-1-9.5-6).

SOURCE: IN Code 25-1-2-10,(Accessed Aug. 2024).

The medical records must be created and maintained by the practitioner for the patient

A patient waives confidentiality of any medical information discussed with the practitioner that is:

  • Provided during a telehealth visit; and
  • Heard by another individual in the vicinity of the patient during a health care service or consultation.

An employer may not require a practitioner, by an employment contract, an agreement, a policy, or any other means, to provide a health care service through telehealth if the practitioner believes that providing a health care service through telehealth would:

  • Negatively impact the patient’s health; or
  • Result in a lower standard of care than if the health care service was provided in an in-person setting.

Any applicable contract, employment agreement, or policy to provide telehealth services must explicitly provide that a practitioner may refuse at any time to provide health care services if in the practitioner’s sole discretion the practitioner believes:

  • That health quality may be negatively impacted; or
  • The practitioner would be unable to provide the same standards of appropriate practice as those provided in an in-person setting.

SOURCE: IN Code, 25-1-9.5-7. (Accessed Mar. 2024)

Veterinarian Services

(a) As used in this section, “board” refers to the Indiana board of veterinary medicine established by IC 25-38.1-2-1.

(b) As used in this section, “license or registration certificate” means a license or registration certificate issued by the board under IC 25-38.1.

(c) As used in this section, “practitioner” means an individual who holds a license or registration certificate.

(d) After December 31, 2024, a practitioner must provide the following information when renewing the practitioner’s license or registration certificate electronically:

  • The practitioner’s specialty or field of practice.
  • The practitioner’s current:
  1. business address or location;
  2. practice setting type;
  3. average hours worked per week;
  4. average distance traveled between patients (if applicable); and
  5. type of services provided.
  • The practitioner’s educational background and training.
  • The approximate outstanding balance of student loans taken out by the practitioner to finance veterinary or veterinary technician schooling.
  • Whether the practitioner currently delivers veterinary services through telehealth (as defined in IC 25-1-9.5-6).

(e) After December 31, 2024, a notice of renewal sent under this chapter to a practitioner must notify the practitioner of the requirements of subsection (d).

(f) Not later than December 31 of each year, the board shall do the following:

  • Compile the information collected under this section into a report.
  • Post the report compiled under subdivision (1) on the board’s website.

(g) A report compiled under subsection (f) may not contain personal identifying information.

SOURCE: IN Code 25-1-2-11. (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Last updated 08/07/2024

Online Prescribing

A documented patient evaluation, including history and physical evaluation adequate to establish diagnoses and identify underlying conditions or contraindications to the treatment recommended or provided, must be obtained prior to providing treatment, including issuing prescriptions, electronically or otherwise.

SOURCE: IN Admin. Code, “Article 5” Title 844, 5-3-2. p. 10 (Accessed Aug. 2024). 

Telehealth may not be used to provide any abortion, including the writing or filling of a prescription for any purpose that is intended to result in an abortion.

SOURCE: IN code, 16-34-1-11 & 25-1-9.5-8(a)(4) & 25-1-9.5-0.5. (Accessed Aug. 2024).

A practitioner who:

  • Provides health care services through telehealth; or
  • Directs an employee of the practitioner to perform a health care service listed in the chapter;

shall be held to the same standards of appropriate practice as those standards for health care services provided at an in-person setting.

A practitioner who uses telehealth shall, if such action would otherwise be required in the provision of the same health care services in a manner other than telehealth, ensure that a proper provider-patient relationship is established. The provider-patient relationship by a  practitioner who uses telehealth must at a minimum include the following:

  1. Obtain the patient’s name and contact information (see regulation for other related requirements);
  2. Disclose the practitioner’s name and practitioner’s licensure, certification or registration;
  3. Obtain informed consent from the patient;
  4. Obtain the patient’s medical history and information necessary to establish a diagnosis;
  5. Discuss with the patient the diagnosis, evidence for the diagnosis and risks and benefits of the various treatment options;
  6. Create and maintain a medical record for the patient. If a prescription is issued for the patient, and subject to the consent of the patient, the prescriber shall notify the patient’s primary care provider of any prescriptions the provider has issued (see regulation for other related requirements);
  7. Issue proper instructions for appropriate follow-up care
  8. Provide a telehealth visit summary to the patient, including information that indicates any prescriptions that is being prescribed.

SOURCE: IN Code, 25-1-9.5-7. (Accessed Aug. 2024)

A prescription for a controlled substance can be issued for a patient the prescriber has not previously examined if the following conditions are met:

  1. The prescriber has satisfied the applicable standard of care in the treatment of the patient.
  2. The issuance of the prescription is within the prescriber’s scope of practice and certification
  3. The prescription meets the requirements outline in the following section and it is not an opioid.  However, opioids may be prescribed if the opioid is a partial agonist that is used to treat or manage opioid dependence.
  4. The prescription is not for an abortion inducing drug

If the prescription is for a medical device, including an ophthalmic device, the prescriber must use telehealth technology that is sufficient to allow the provider to make an informed diagnosis and treatment plan that includes the medical device being prescribed.

Additionally, the following conditions must be met for a prescription for a controlled substance:

  • The prescriber maintains a valid controlled substance registration under IC 35-48-3.
  • The prescriber meets the conditions set forth in 21 U.S.C. 829 et seq.
  • A practitioner acting in the usual course of the practitioner’s professional practices issues the prescription for a legitimate medical purpose.
  • The telehealth communication is conducted using an audiovisual, real time, two-way interactive communication system.
  • The prescriber complies with the requirements of the INSPECT program (IC 35-48-7).
  • All other applicable federal and state laws are followed.

SOURCE: IN Code 25-1-9.5-8. (Accessed Aug. 2024).

A pharmacy does not violate this chapter if the pharmacy fills a prescription for an opioid and the pharmacy is unaware that the prescription was written or electronically transmitted by a prescriber providing telehealth services under this chapter.

SOURCE: IN Code 25-1-9.5-11. (Accessed Aug 2024)

A prescriber may not issue a prescription for an ophthalmic device unless the following conditions are met:

  • If the prescription is for contact lenses or eyeglasses, the patient must be at least eighteen (18) years of age but not more than fifty-five (55) years of age.
  • The patient must have completed a medical eye history that includes information concerning the following:
    • Chronic health conditions.
    • Current medications.
    • Eye discomfort.
    • Blurry vision.
    • Any prior ocular medical procedures.
  • The patient must have had a prior prescription from a qualified eye care professional that included a comprehensive in person exam that occurred within two (2) years before the initial use of telehealth for a refraction under subdivision (5)(A).
  • If the patient desires a contact lens prescription, at the discretion of the eye care professional, that patient must have had a prior contact lens fitting or evaluation by a qualified eye care professional that occurred within two (2) years before the initial use of telehealth for a refraction under subdivision (5)(A).
  • The patient:
    • May not use telehealth more than two (2) consecutive times within two (2) years from the date of the examination that occurred under subdivision (3) for a refraction without a subsequent in person comprehensive eye exam; and
    • Must acknowledge that the patient has had a comprehensive eye exam as required under clause (A) before receiving an online prescription.
  • The patient may allow the prescriber to access the patient’s medical records using an appropriate HIPAA compliant process.
  • The prescriber must ensure that the transfer of all information, including the vision test and prescription, comply with HIPAA requirements.
  • The prescriber must use technology to allow the patient to have continuing twenty-four (24) hour a day online access to the patient’s prescription as soon as the prescription is signed by the prescriber.

SOURCE: IN Code 25-1-9.5-13. (Accessed Aug. 2024)

If a veterinarian is required to establish a veterinarian-client-patient relationship to perform a health care service, the veterinarian shall ensure that a proper veterinarian-client-patient relationship is established, when providing the service using telehealth.

SOURCE: IN Code 25-1-9.5-15. (Accessed Aug. 2024)

Telehealth Services Pilot Program

Prescriptions may not be issued for a controlled substance or an abortifacient.

Telehealth shall not include any encounter in which the patient is assured that any outcome, including the issuance of a prescription, will be issued as a quid pro quo for the payment of the provider’s consultation fee or solely on the basis of an online questionnaire.

SOURCE: IN Code, 844-Article 5-8-3, p. 31. (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Last updated 08/07/2024

Professional Boards Standards

Medical Licensing Board

The board may adopt rules establishing guidelines for the practice of telehealth in Indiana. Adoption of rules may not delay the implementation and provision of telehealth services by a provider under IC 25-1-9.5.

SOURCE: IN Code 25-22.5-2-7(c) (Accessed Aug. 2024)..

Ocular Telemedicine and Telehealth

The board may not establish standards concerning the practice of ocular telemedicine or ocular telehealth that are more restrictive than the standards that are set:

  • under this article; or
  • by rule and applicable to the practitioner’s in-person ocular practice.

SOURCE: IN Code 25-24-1-5.5, (Accessed Aug. 2024).

Telehealth Provider Certification

Effective July 1, 2024, all “Telehealth Certificates” and “Telehealth Facility Certificates” that have been previously issued in accordance with the requirements of Indiana Code § 25-1-9.5-9 will be terminated, permanently. Beginning July 1, 2024, any “practitioner,” as defined under Indiana Code § 25-1-9.5-3.5, who engages in the provision of telehealth services, in accordance with the requirements of Indiana Code § 25-1-9.5, will no longer be required to complete the certification requirements previously required under Indiana Code § 25-1-9.5-9 (i.e., the Telehealth Certificate). Beginning July 1, 2024, any practitioner’s employer or contractor will no longer be required to complete the certification requirements previously required under Indiana Code § 25-1- 9.5-9 (i.e., the Telehealth Facility Certificate). Additionally, beginning July 1, 2024, any previously issued “Telehealth Certificates” will no longer need to be renewed in conjunction with the practitioner’s primary, unlimited Indiana license. Please be advised that all practitioners must still be properly licensed in the state of Indiana in order to practice in the state of Indiana, even to provide telehealth services under the requirements of Indiana Code § 25-1-9.5.

SOURCE: Indiana Professional Licensing Agency, Telehealth Regulatory Changes and Termination of Telehealth Certifications for Out-Of-State Practitioners (June 7, 2024). (Accessed Aug. 2024).