(1) It is the intent of the general assembly to recognize the practice of telemedicine as a legitimate means by which an individual may receive medical services from a health care provider without person-to-person contact with a provider.

(2) For the purposes of this section, "telemedicine" shall have the same meaning as set forth in section 12-36-106 (1)(g), C.R.S.

(3) On or after January 1, 2002, face-to-face contact between a health care provider and a patient is not required under the statewide managed care system created in this part 4 for services appropriately provided through telemedicine, subject to reimbursement policies developed by the state department to compensate providers who provide health care services covered by the program created in section 25.5-4-104. Telemedicine services may only be used in areas of the state where the technology necessary for the provision of telemedicine exists. The audio and visual telemedicine system used must, at a minimum, have the capability to meet the procedural definition of the most recent edition of the current procedural terminology that represents the service provided through telemedicine. The telecommunications equipment must be of a level of quality to adequately complete all necessary components to document the level of service for the current procedural terminology fourth edition codes that are billed. If a peripheral diagnostic scope is required to assess the patient, it must provide adequate resolution or audio quality for decision-making.

(4) Repealed.

(5) The statewide managed care system is not required to pay for consultation provided by a provider by telephone or facsimile machines.

(6) The state department may accept and expend gifts, grants, and donations from any source to conduct the valuation of the cost-effectiveness and quality of health care provided through telemedicine by those providers who are reimbursed for telemedicine services by the statewide managed care system.

(7) Nothing in this section shall be construed to:

(a) Alter the scope of practice of any health care provider; or

(b) Authorize the delivery of health care services in a setting or manner not otherwise authorized by law.