Subject: Newly Released from HHS: Guidance on How to Conduct Audio-Only Telehealth Services Consistent with HIPAA Privacy Rules

Newly Released from HHS:

Guidance on How to Conduct Audio-Only Telehealth Services Consistent with HIPAA Privacy Rules

The use of audio-video telehealth services has greatly expanded access to health care, especially during the COVID-19 public health emergency. Telehealth services may be provided through audio, text messaging, or video communication technology, including videoconferencing software. However, due to various factors such as internet access, broadband availability, disability, and cellular coverage, many individuals have difficulty accessing or using audio-video technology for telehealth services. 

 

Accordingly, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has released guidance on how health care providers and health plans who are subject to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) can deliver audio-only telehealth services through land and wireless communications, as well as other remote communication technologies such as internet, videoconferencing, store-and-forward imaging, or streaming media, when such communications comply with HIPAA.

This resource was supported by SAMHSA of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award with 100% funded by SAMHSA/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by SAMHSA/HHS, or the U.S. Government.

 

Funded by SAMHSA, the CoE-PHI develops and disseminates resources, training, and TA for states, healthcare providers, school administrators and individuals and families to improve understanding and application of federal privacy laws and regulations, including FERPA, HIPAA, and 42 CFR Part 2, when providing and receiving treatment for SUD and mental illness.

 

Resources, training, technical assistance, and any other information provided through the CoE-PHI do not constitute legal advice.