Hogan issues orders to expand telehealth, upgrade designation of disabilities services personnel

ANNAPOLIS, Md. – On Wednesday, Governor Larry Hogan issued two emergency orders to further support Marylanders during the coronavirus pandemic.

The first order expands telehealth services beyond audio-only methods. Healthcare providers may engage in asynchronous telehealth services, such as email, provided that any and all telehealth services are clinically appropriate, properly documented, and otherwise comply with proper standards of care.

The second order ensures that workers who provide important support services to the disabled will be treated as health care providers under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. This order officially recognizes the essential function of services for the disabled, including in-home care, interpreting services, social services, and support systems for substance abuse and mental illness. It also designates those who provide these services as essential health care providers.

As of Wednesday morning, Maryland reported 1,985 confirmed cases of COVID-19, which is the largest one-day increase to date, up 325 cases from yesterday. An additional 13 deaths were also announced, bringing the state total to 31.