We’re here to help explain what that means for you.

The last few years have been full of challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Like other healthcare organizations across the country, Health First met these challenges by reimagining how care could be delivered, like creating telehealth options that made it possible to get care without seeing a provider face-to-face.

Although the federal public health emergency officially ended on May 11, 2023, we’re proud to continue offering several virtual care options like eVisits and Virtual Visits – choices that make it easier and more convenient than ever to access expert care.

However, the state of Florida is implementing new regulations that are creating changes to virtual care services. We want our patients and community to be aware of these changes, and we’re here to help you understand what it means for you.

May 2023 update.

• Audio-only virtual visits are no longer acceptable. Face-to-face communication must be a component of any telehealth care.
• Controlled substances will no longer be prescribed via virtual visits unless the prescribing provider previously performed an in-person medical evaluation for the controlled substance.
• If a patient has not been seen in person for evaluation of medication, providers must discontinue prescribing a controlled substance until further evaluation in person.
• Health First Health Plans Comprehensive Health Assessments are no longer acceptable to conduct via virtual visits.
• Virtual Visits are no longer an option for required face-to-face visits for home dialysis patients.
• Virtual Visits are no longer an option for required face-to-face visits for inpatient rehabilitation facility patients.

We’re committed to helping our patients continue to access high-quality, convenient care. And we’re proud to support your journey toward wellness and health. The future is well.