Telemedicine , for the purpose of Medicaid,  aims to improve a patient's health by allowing two-way, real-time interactive communication between the patient, and the physician or practitioner at the distant site. This would use interactive telecommunications equipment that includes, at a minimum, audio and video. It is a cost-effective alternative to the more traditional face-to-face way of providing medical care that states can choose to cover under Medicaid. This definition is modeled on Medicare's definition of telehealth services (42 CFR 410.78). Note that the federal Medicaid statute does not recognize telemedicine as a distinct service. Terms used in Telemedicine Distant or Hub site:  Site at which the physician or other licensed practitioner delivering the service is located at the time the service is provided via the telecommunications system. Originating or Spoke site:  Location of the Medicaid patient at the time the service being furnished via a...