Bill > K00612

This resolution memorializes Governor Kathy Hocul to proclaim May 21, 2025, as Telepractice Awareness Day in New York State, highlighting the importance of telehealth services in speech, language, and hearing care. Telepractice is defined as using telecommunications technology to deliver professional services remotely, linking clinicians with clients or other clinicians for assessment, intervention, and consultation. The resolution notes that during the COVID-19 pandemic, less than 27% of speech and language services were being delivered, potentially delaying patient development, and acknowledges that many New York households lack adequate internet services to support telepractice. The resolution is supported by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and the Lehman College National Student Speech Language and Hearing Association (NSSLHA), which advocate for expanding telehealth services. The legislative body urges New Yorkers to support improving telehealth access, particularly for medically underserved areas, and aims to raise awareness about the potential of telepractice to overcome barriers such as distance, specialist availability, and mobility limitations. The resolution will be transmitted to Governor Hocul and relevant educational institutions.

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/K612