Texas bill would allow impairment via telemedicine

The Texas House of Representatives on Tuesday unanimously passed a bill that would allow physicians to certify maximum medical improvement or impairment ratings remotely.

H.B. 3098 would amend the state’s labor code to allow a medical examination to certify maximum medical improvement or an impairment rating to be conducted via telemedicine. However, a health care professional — which may include licensed or certified individual authorized to administer health care — must be physically present in the same room as the employee being assessed to assist in administering any necessary tests during the certifying physician’s remote evaluation.

If signed into law, the legislation would take effect Sept. 1, 2021.