Rep Theresa Mah introduces Illinois bill to expand telehealth to acupuncturists

The Illinois House of Representatives convened on March 19, 2025, to introduce House Bill 3343, a legislative proposal aimed at expanding the scope of telehealth services within the state. This bill, sponsored by Representative Theresa Mah, seeks to amend both the Telehealth Act and the Acupuncture Practice Act, specifically by including acupuncturists among the recognized health care professionals eligible to provide services via telemedicine.

The primary objective of HB3343 is to establish a clear standard of care for acupuncture patients, regardless of whether they receive treatment in person or through electronic means. This change is significant as it acknowledges the growing role of telehealth in delivering health care services, particularly in the wake of increased demand for remote care options.

Key provisions of the bill include the requirement for the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation to consult with the Board of Acupuncture to determine which acupuncture services can be offered through telemedicine. Additionally, the bill outlines penalties for individuals practicing telemedicine without the necessary licensure, reinforcing the importance of regulatory compliance in this expanding field.

During the introduction, discussions highlighted the potential benefits of integrating acupuncture into telehealth, particularly for patients in underserved areas who may have limited access to traditional in-person treatments. However, concerns were raised regarding the adequacy of care provided through telemedicine, with some legislators questioning whether remote consultations could meet the same standards as face-to-face interactions.

The bill has been categorized as a partisan initiative, with support primarily from Democratic representatives. As it progresses through the legislative process, it will be placed on the calendar for a second reading, where further debates and potential amendments may occur.

The implications of HB3343 extend beyond the immediate scope of acupuncture. By formalizing telehealth practices for additional health care providers, the bill could pave the way for broader acceptance and integration of telemedicine across various disciplines, potentially transforming how health care is delivered in Illinois.

As the legislative session continues, stakeholders in the health care community will be closely monitoring the developments surrounding HB3343, assessing its potential impact on patient care and the regulatory landscape for telehealth services in the state.