What are the general rules for telemedicine in Massachusetts podiatry practice?

• A. A physician-patient relationship must be established, standard of care maintained, patient records secured, and applicable MA privacy and professional conduct rules followed
• B. Telemedicine is prohibited in MA podiatry
• C. Telemedicine requires only patient consent
• D. Telemedicine requires no record keeping

Answer: (A)

Telemedicine in Massachusetts podiatry practice is governed by rules that require establishing a physician-patient relationship, delivering care that meets the standard of practice, maintaining complete and secure patient records, and complying with privacy and professional conduct requirements. This ensures remote care is clinically accountable and protected just like in-person care. Telemedicine is not prohibited, and it isn’t enough to rely on consent alone or to skip record-keeping—the patient record and privacy protections, along with professional conduct standards, are essential components of providing telemedicine care.