Gov. Markell signs House Bill 69

Governor Jack Markell signed two bills on Tuesday, one regarding e-cigarettes and another regarding telemedicine services.

This is bill require private health insurers to be reimbursed for telemedicine technologies. This means people with mobility issues, among others, who are not able to travel long distances for specialized care can see their doctors and receive treatment via telephone, internet or videoconferencing. This can all be done from the comfort of their own homes.

We spoke to Governor Markell over the phone moments after he signed this bill, and he says he believes this provide health care to more Delawareans.

“For some people, it can be complicated and costly to get to the doctor’s office and if you can meet with the doctor in your home while the doctor is in her or office then it means you don’t have to do the traveling.” He says. “It becomes much more convenient.”

Governor Markell says this can also help promote the use of telemedicine.