Assemblywoman Addie A.E. Jenne (D-Theresa) has announced legislation she sponsored to expand telehealth services to schools and childcare centers in the state has been signed by Governor Andrew M. Cuomo.

The legislation will allow physicians, dentists and mental health professionals to use telehealth to connect with and provide care to students in public, private and charter elementary and secondary schools, school-age child care programs and day care centers.

"This is another important step in expanding health care access for New York State residents. It will be extremely beneficial for areas of the state, including the North Country, that struggle with healthcare provider shortages," Assemblywoman Jenne said.

Assemblywoman Jenne said pilot programs that have used telehealth services at schools around the state have had encouraging results.

That program allows a student to be seen by a physician without having to leave the school grounds.

A video connection, typically from a school nurse's office, allows a medical professional to communicate with the student and their guardian, review digital images through instruments such as ear and throat scopes, make a diagnosis and write any necessary prescriptions.

The telehealth model of providing medical care to students from a remote location has proven successful in addressing issues such as ear infections, sore throats and respiratory illnesses.

A University of Rochester study found that 96 percent of acute care illness visits could be successfully treated without the need for in-patient care.