Still in response to COVID-19, Governor Pritzker signed EO 2020-39 last week, which reissued the executive orders on telehealth ( EO 2020-09) and immunity for elective surgeries ( EO 2020-37), among others, through June 27, 2020. However, the new order did not reissue the executive order for civil immunity for healthcare facilities, professionals and volunteers ( EO 2020-19), which expired May 29. 

Here are highlights from the reissued EOs:

• Telehealth: All health insurers regulated by the Illinois Department of Insurance are required to cover telehealth services and reimburse health professionals at the same rates as in-person visits and are prohibited from imposing any cost-sharing for in-network providers. 

• Immunity for elective surgeries: Hospitals that conduct elective surgeries or procedures beginning May 11, or healthcare professionals providing services in such a hospital, are immune from civil liability for any injury or death related to the diagnosis, transmission or treatment of COVID-19 allegedly caused by the hospital or healthcare professional while rendering assistance to the State in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Be sure to review our detailed resource, which further explains this immunity and covers how it also applies to cancelled procedures in hospitals, among other scenarios.

  If you have questions, please contact us by email.

Bipartisan legislation was recently introduced in the House of Representatives ( H.R.7059) that would provide limited liability protections to healthcare professionals and facilities during the COVID-19 public health emergency. Those working on the front lines – our heroes – are vulnerable to medical liability lawsuits. ISMS will keep you updated on any developments pertaining to this federal legislation.

If you have questions, please contact us by email. 

The use of telemedicine has emerged as one of the key strategies to enable patients to receive necessary and appropriate care from their physician while facilitating social distancing.

Coverage and payment policies related to the use of telehealth technologies continue to be modified in an attempt to respond effectively and safely to the COVID-19 outbreak.

ISMS offers a new resource, COVID-19 Telemedicine FAQ, which answers common questions we have been receiving from our members and includes the latest guidance issued in response to the COVID-19 public health emergency.

If you have questions, please contact the ISMS Health Policy Research and Advocacy team by calling 800-782-4767 ext. 1470, or by sending an email.

Health insurers have begun announcing additional changes and updates to the waivers and flexibilities that have been in effect during the COVID-19 pandemic. These announcements include extensions of certain policies and waivers, as well as dates for reinstatement of prior authorization and other protocols that have been temporarily waived.

Be sure to check the insurer links on ISMS’ COVID-19 web page for updates, and also check with individual plans for the latest information.

If you have questions, please contact the ISMS Health Policy Research and Advocacy team by calling 800-782-4767 ext. 1470, or by sending an email.