Relating to the provision of telehealth and telemedicine medical services by certain health professionals located outside of this state; requiring registration to engage in an occupation; authorizing fees.

HB 997 requires out-of-state health professionals (including physicians, dentists, and their authorized assistants) to register with Texas to provide telehealth or telemedicine services to Texas patients. The bill creates a registration system administered by the Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation, with associated fees for providers. It amends the Insurance Code and Occupations Code to define "telemedicine medical service" and clarify that out-of-state providers must register to legally deliver remote care. This policy change directly affects healthcare professionals practicing across state lines without Texas licensure.