ACEP Emergency Telehealth: Building the Future, Together

Michael Baker, MD, FACEP
Chair, ACEP Emergency Telehealth Section

As Chair of the ACEP Emergency Telehealth Section, I’m proud to work with a community of innovative physicians who are not only advancing how we deliver high-quality emergency care but also tackling the complex challenges that come with innovation. Whether you're a telehealth veteran or just beginning to explore its potential at your site, our section is your home for connection, advocacy, and growth. Be sure to visit us at ACEP 25 for our annual section meeting and the section social crawl to learn more about how the ACEP telehealth section enhances your ACEP membership.

Why Emergency Telehealth Needs You

Telehealth is poised to become a growing tool in emergency medicine, but realizing its full potential is far from guaranteed. Our members have identified telehealth strategies to manage boarding, improve department metrics, reduce physician burnout, and improve access to acute unscheduled care. Yet, emergency Telehealth faces significant hurdles, including:

• Uncertain Long-Term Commitment from CMS/Medicare
  While temporary waivers expanded access during the pandemic, we still lack a durable, long-term policy framework to support emergency telehealth services.
• Inconsistent and Fragmented Regulations
  The patchwork of state and federal rules creates confusion and administrative burdens. We need clear, consistent standards to ensure safe, effective, and scalable care.
• Lack of National Physician Licensing/Registration
  The inability to practice across state lines remains a major barrier. A national telehealth licensure pathway or registry would unlock access and flexibility for emergency physicians.
• Integrating AI into Telehealth Workflows
  As artificial intelligence tools emerge, we must ensure they enhance—not complicate—our clinical decision-making and patient interactions.
• Privacy and Security Risks
  Protecting patient data in a digital environment is paramount. We need robust safeguards and best practices to maintain trust.
• Patient Access to Technology
  Telehealth is only effective if patients can use it. Disparities in broadband access, digital literacy, and device availability must be addressed to ensure equitable care.

These challenges are real, but so is our resolve.

Why Join the ACEP Emergency Telehealth Section?

Our section brings together emergency physicians to shape the future of telehealth. Here’s what you’ll gain:

• Networking & Like-Minded Friendship
  Connect with peers who share your passion for innovation and patient-centered care. Our section sponsors monthly section meetings where members can share ideas and learn from each other.
• Real-Time Policy & Regulatory Updates
  Stay informed about the latest developments and help shape the policies that impact your practice.
• Representation in ACEP Council
  Ensure emergency telehealth has a strong voice in ACEP’s decision-making body. Our councilor speaks on behalf of telehealth, whether it is debating resolutions or choosing our next ACEP leaders.
• Collaboration Across Sections & Committees
  Work with colleagues across specialties to integrate telehealth into broader emergency medicine initiatives. The ACEP Telehealth section has been involved with the HIT Committee, Education Committee, Disaster Section, and Communication Committee over the past year, bringing telehealth experts to the conversation.
• Deeper Engagement with ACEP
  Take on leadership roles, contribute to educational content, and help shape the national conversation. Hone your skills and learn about ways to lend your skills and leadership to ACEP. There are roles both within our section and throughout ACEP to help you achieve your professional goals.
• Lifelong Learning
  Access cutting-edge discussions, expert panels, and resources that keep you at the forefront of telehealth.

Emergency telehealth is at a crossroads, and your voice matters more than ever. Join us in building a future where technology enhances care, expands access, and empowers emergency physicians to do what we do best: save lives.

Join us at ACEP 25!