Sen. Josh Miller says his reputation seems to be pegged to his legislative efforts to legalize the recreational use of marijuana, harm reduction centers or the banning single use plastic bags.

But that's not what he considers to be the most important legislation he has authored. 

“I consider the telemedicine legislation to be the most impactful and significant bill I have sponsored for several years,” said Miller. 

The legislation expands telemedicine coverage requirements for insurers and requires all Rhode Island Medicaid programs cover telemedicine visits —visits with health care providers via telephone or audio-video enabled device.

Miller said that the legislation was one of the first bills introduced in the Senate during the last General Assembly session. 

“What was becoming clear before the pandemic and then exacerbated by sharply reduced access of the Covid19 restrictions, is a lack of access to a range of services both medical and behavioral health,” said Miller. “Access to health care ASAP avoids more expensive acute care later in diagnosis, whether in dermatology, pulmonary, psychiatry or other sectors where delayed care could become an expensive crisis.”

Last week Miller and Rep. Stephen Casey of Woonsocket were recognized for their efforts in passing the legislation by the Rhode Island Coalition for Children and Families during the organization’s virtual awards presentation. 

“During the Pandemic and subsequent necessary lockdown, telemedicine was critical for maintaining the stability of hundreds of clients who were able to visit with their psychiatrists and other professionals who prescribe medication as well as receive ongoing therapy and case management services,” said Benedict F. Lessing, President/CEO of Community Care Alliance and Co-Chair of the RICCF Children’s Behavioral Health Committee. “Given the Coronavirus variants and community members who remain unvaccinated , telemedicine remains an essential behavioral health tool and means of reducing isolation for the people we serve."

The Legislative Champion Awards went to legislators who spearheaded legislation to address key service issues for Rhode Island children, youth and families in foster care, in need of behavioral health services, and with disabilities, according to a press release. 

Miller said last week that he was honored to receive the award. 

“This took a tremendous amount of work by dedicated advocates and legislators. The value to our healthcare system is why we were so motivated, but an award is a refreshing acknowledgment,” said Miller.