In Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa, South Dakota and Colorado, a practitioner must be licensed in the state in which the patient is located. Thus, if you are a specialist in Kearney, Nebraska who would like to consult with a patient in Norton, Kansas, you must be currently licensed in Kansas. While a few states allow exceptions in irregular circumstances and for Shriners' visits, one should consult with the state licensure board before attempting consult over state lines.

In following with the recent development of the nurse licensure compact, there is discussion about the benefits of developing a national physician medical license or a provision allowing states to accept licensure from bordering states.

Malpractice

While it is recommended that any practitioner who wishes to provide telemedicine consults first ensure that his/her existing malpractice coverage applies, it is generally found that telemedicine is indeed covered and at no additional cost ot the provder.

Credentialing

Hospitals should follow their existing bylaws to determine credentialing requirements as they relate to telehealth. The Nebraska Statewide Telehealth Network is currently looking as specific recommendations for telehealth credentialing.