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Board takes first read of new telehealth policy to allow parent‑driven in‑school telehealth visits for grades 6–12
Summary
The board reviewed a newly required telehealth policy and procedure (JLCF) intended to offer parent-initiated, in-school telehealth appointments for grades 6–12; the policy is a first reading and will return for final action.
The Garrett County Public Schools Board of Education reviewed a newly created telehealth policy and procedure (JLCF) presented as a first reading. The policy implements a state legislative requirement and aims to give families a process to schedule parent‑driven telehealth appointments for students in grades 6–12 during the school day.
The presenter said the policy was prompted by state action during the most recent legislative session and that county school systems were required to establish guidelines and stakeholder processes. Under the proposed procedure, parents would submit an application 30 days before an appointment; providers would connect using the parent's or provider's device (not a district device), and the school would make a private space available for the session where feasible.
Dr. McCartney said the policy is intended to limit lost instructional time for students who otherwise would travel out of county for appointments. "This gives our students ... the opportunity for having in school, parent driven telehealth appointments," she said. The presenter noted the district lacks on‑site clinics and emphasized HIPAA and confidentiality considerations; the parent and provider bear primary responsibility for clinical privacy and consent.
The presentation covered public‑information and recordkeeping steps: the district will include the policy and the application form in the handbook and online pupil‑services and school‑health handbooks, and staff will notify parents annually about procedures. The policy was presented for review and will be brought back for formal approval at a subsequent meeting.
