Is Telemedicine Legal in Michigan? (2026)
Yes. In Michigan, telemedicine is legal. Michigan broadly permits telemedicine, requiring providers to be licensed in Michigan and adhere to the same standard of care as in-person services..
Key facts
- Status
- Legal
- Permit required
- No
- Jurisdiction
- Michigan
- Last reviewed
- 2026-04-09
Telemedicine laws in Michigan
Michigan's Public Health Code defines and regulates telemedicine. Generally, a healthcare professional must hold a valid, unencumbered license in Michigan to provide telemedicine services to patients located within the state. This applies to physicians, and other licensed health professionals when their scope of practice allows. The law emphasizes that telemedicine services must meet the same standard of care as in-person care. While Michigan allows for telemedicine, it does not broadly participate in interstate telehealth compacts that would permit out-of-state licensed providers to practice without obtaining a Michigan license. For interstate practice, a healthcare professional generally needs to be licensed by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) to provide services to patients located in Michigan. There are limited exceptions, such as for consultations with another Michigan-licensed practitioner or in emergency situations, but these do not typically allow for routine, direct patient care without a Michigan license. Michigan has adopted the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact for physicians, which can streamline the process for eligible physicians already licensed in a compact state to obtain a Michigan license. However, this is not a universal solution for all types of healthcare professionals.
Frequently asked questions
Is telemedicine legal in Michigan for travelers?
For travelers visiting Michigan, telemedicine is currently legal. Michigan's Public Health Code defines and regulates telemedicine. Generally, a healthcare professional must hold a valid, unencumbered license in Michigan to provide telemedicine services to patients located within the state. This applies to physicians, and other licensed health professionals when their scope of practice allows. The law emphasizes that telemedicine services must meet the same standard of care as in-person care. While Michigan allows for telemedicine, it does not broadly participate in interstate telehealth compacts that would permit out-of-state licensed providers to practice without obtaining a Michigan license. For interstate practice, a healthcare professional generally needs to be licensed by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) to provide services to patients located in Michigan. There are limited exceptions, such as for consultations with another Michigan-licensed practitioner or in emergency situations, but these do not typically allow for routine, direct patient care without a Michigan license. Michigan has adopted the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact for physicians, which can streamline the process for eligible physicians already licensed in a compact state to obtain a Michigan license. However, this is not a universal solution for all types of healthcare professionals.
Do I need a permit for telemedicine in Michigan?
Michigan does not specifically require a permit for telemedicine, though general regulations apply.
Can I transport telemedicine through Michigan?
Transport laws for telemedicine in Michigan depend on the specific item and your route. Generally, transport is allowed if you comply with state regulations. Always check states you pass through.
What are the penalties for telemedicine violations in Michigan?
Penalties for telemedicine violations in Michigan vary based on the specific offense. Always verify current laws before traveling.