Telehealth Advocacy in Oklahoma
A Voice for Telehealth in Oklahoma
Telehealth Alliance of Oklahoma (TAO) works to keep virtual care accessible, sustainable, and safe for patients and providers across the state.
TAO is independent and nonpartisan, which is why lawmakers, regulators, and health systems treat it as a reliable source on how telehealth policy affects Oklahoma.
Policy Landscape
Telehealth and telemedicine rules in Oklahoma shift often, and the distinctions between them carry real consequences for how care is delivered and paid for. TAO keeps members current on what’s changing and gives policymakers a clear read on what those changes mean for providers and patients
Legislative and Regulatory Tracking
TAO monitors state and federal telehealth legislation as bills are introduced and amended. When a rule change affects how Oklahoma providers deliver care, members hear about it while there’s still time to prepare.
Reimbursement
Oklahoma has addressed telemedicine reimbursement since 1997, when the Oklahoma Telemedicine Act required health plans to cover telemedicine services. Rules have changed repeatedly in the years since, particularly after the COVID-19 public health emergency. TAO tracks reimbursement across private insurers and SoonerCare so members aren’t caught off guard.
Current Advocacy Priorities
Payment parity. Equal reimbursement for virtual visits and in-person care, across Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial insurers.
Broadband access. Infrastructure investment so rural and underserved Oklahoma communities can connect to care reliably.
Audio-only coverage. Continued coverage for audio-only visits, so patients without high-speed internet or video capability still have access.
Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI is rapidly development along with related legislation and regulation. TAO continues to monitor AI bills for alignment with the TAO AI guiding principles.
