1.   GA 09 and the TMB rules allow providers to use their judgment in determining whether a surgery or procedure will prevent serious adverse medical consequences or death;

2.   If you normally could or would wait a few weeks to provide the surgery or procedure being considered for a specific patient based on the patient’s unique circumstances, then that might help you decide what to do;

3.   If you normally could not or would not wait a few weeks to provide the surgery or procedure being considered for a specific patient based on the patient’s unique circumstances, then that might help you decide what to do;

4.   If you do proceed with a surgery or procedure during this time, then be sure to clearly document why you made that decision;

5.   Referencing legitimate literature and guidelines, such as the CDC, CMS, or specialty guidelines will be very helpful;

6.   TMB cannot put anyone in jail;

7.   The decision to hold a temporary suspension or restriction hearing will meet the same standard as before the COVID-19 disaster;

8.   TMB understands the importance of having as many safe licensees available as possible during this time;

9.   The TMB Board Members include 12 physicians that also must navigate these times, the Executive Order, and the rules while providing safe patient care; and

10.  TMB is and will continue to be understanding that these are unprecedented times.

As the COVID-19 public health disaster is a rapidly evolving event, the TMB encourages licensees to continue visiting its website for the agency’s most up-to-date information and guidance.

To view the updated FAQs, please visit the TMB’s webpage: http://www.tmb.state.tx.us/page/coronavirus.

You can find more information on COVID-19 on the AAAAI and ACAAI websites:

AAAAI – Clinician Covid-19 Resources
AAAAI – Practice Resources Telemedicine
AAAAI – Physician Wellness
ACAAI – Coronavirus Resources 

TMA and AMA also have links for physicians trying to find more information, as well as handouts/signs for their offices:

TMA – Coronavirus
AMA – Resource Center for Physicians

Please see the CMS announcement on March 17th temporarily broadening Telehealth Benefits:

CMS Announcement

This link allows the use of popular video calling technology to reach out to patients during this emergency declaration:

US Department of Health and Human Services Announcement