Yes, telemedicine can satisfy the FMLA’s “in-person visit” requirement if it meets the DOL’s criteria. A qualifying visit must:
- Include an exam/evaluation/treatment by a health care provider (not just advice or scheduling).
- Be permitted under state licensing rules for the provider and patient location(s).
- Be conducted by live video (two-way, real-time). Phone calls, emails, texts, or voicemails don’t count.
HR quick wins:
- Update your FMLA policy and certification FAQs to explicitly recognize qualifying video telehealth visits.
- Ask for documentation that shows date/time, provider credentials/licensure state(s), and that an exam/evaluation occurred.
- Ensure managers understand that virtual visits alone are not grounds to reject identifying qualifying leave requests. Apply the same review standards used for in-person care.
- Apply the same standard for recertifications and intermittent leave.
How ConnectBridge helps: Capture visit details in one case file, flag non-qualifying “phone-only” contacts, and keep audit-ready timelines for certifications, recerts, and intermittent usage.