The rise of telehealth in recent years has introduced new challenges to the healthcare industry, particularly concerning Corporate Practice of Medicine (CPOM) compliance. As more healthcare providers in Arkansas move toward telemedicine, understanding the impact of CPOM regulations on these virtual practices has become increasingly important.

Arkansas CPOM laws prohibit non-physicians from owning or operating medical practices, ensuring that clinical decision-making remains the sole responsibility of licensed medical professionals. However, as telehealth evolves, it is crucial for medical businesses in Arkansas to ensure that their virtual healthcare operations adhere to these same strict guidelines.

With the rise of telehealth and evolving CPOM regulations in Arkansas, staying compliant in 2025 is more critical than ever. Access Plus Health provides essential insights and tailored compliance solutions for telehealth providers and medical businesses. Our expertise ensures that you understand Arkansas's CPOM laws and implement necessary measures to keep your practice compliant. Let Access Plus Health be your partner in navigating the CPOM landscape."

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The Role of CPOM in Telehealth

Telemedicine allows healthcare providers to extend their reach, offering virtual consultations, diagnoses, and follow-up care to patients across the state. However, Arkansas CPOM laws still apply to telehealth practices in the same way they apply to in-person care. Healthcare businesses must ensure that:

1. Non-Physician Ownership Is Restricted
   In telehealth, non-physician investors can have a financial interest in the practice but cannot control clinical decisions or employ physicians to practice medicine. CPOM laws ensure that medical decisions made during virtual consultations remain in the hands of licensed healthcare providers.
2. Supervision Requirements for Telemedicine
   Physicians are required to supervise non-physician providers, including nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs), even in telehealth settings. Clear supervision protocols should be established for remote care to remain compliant with CPOM regulations.

Navigating CPOM Compliance in Telehealth

Healthcare providers operating telemedicine practices in Arkansas must adhere to CPOM guidelines while leveraging the benefits of digital healthcare. Some essential steps to ensure compliance include:

1. Incorporating Telehealth into CPOM Structure
   If establishing a telemedicine practice, ensure that the business structure complies with CPOM regulations. The practice should be a professional corporation or PLLC, with physicians in control of clinical decisions.
2. Clarifying Supervision and Employment Contracts
   Telehealth providers should have clear employment contracts outlining the roles and supervision of healthcare professionals, especially when non-physician providers are involved.
3. Ensuring Licensing and Compliance Across State Lines
   Since telehealth often involves treating patients from multiple states, healthcare providers must ensure they comply with licensing regulations across state lines. Physicians must hold the necessary licenses to practice in Arkansas and in any other states where they provide telemedicine services.

As telehealth continues to expand in Arkansas, healthcare providers must remain vigilant about CPOM compliance. By establishing the right legal structures, defining supervision protocols, and ensuring that non-physician ownership is limited to financial roles, telehealth providers can navigate the complexities of CPOM and continue to deliver quality virtual care in a compliant manner.