Is an exam required before a patient can be treated in Maine?

Short answer
Chapter 15 generally requires a clinical interview and physical exam by a physician, PA or APRN; telehealth must support an informed diagnosis as though in person. Static questionnaires are insufficient. IV therapy needs an appropriate exam and diagnosis.

Chapter 15 requires a valid licensee-patient relationship and generally an in-person clinical interview and physical examination by a physician, physician associate or APRN. Telehealth may substitute when its technology supports an informed diagnosis as though in person; the licensee must collect relevant history and perform a pertinent examination when clinically necessary, sufficient for diagnosis and treatment. Static questionnaires are insufficient. IV preparations, including saline, require an appropriate examination and diagnosis. Informed consent and complete, accurate, timely records are required, and standing orders cannot replace individualized assessment, diagnosis and treatment. Maine’s telehealth statutes also preserve scope, professional standards and confidentiality obligations.