WASHINGTON—The American Telemedicine Association (ATA), a telehealth organization, and ATA Action, the company’s affiliated trade organization, have urged Congress to extend access to necessary virtual care services in a year-end legislative package. With many telehealth flexibilities set to expire at the end of the Congressional year, the company aims to gain the support of Congress members.
Kyle Zebley, senior VP of public policy for ATA and executive director of ATA Action, released a statement urging Congress to maintain currently telehealth flexibilities, which is detailed below.
“Our health care system and millions of Americans have benefitted from unprecedented bipartisan, bicameral support for telehealth across presidential administrations of both parties, underscoring the value of virtual care delivery. Now, with the end-of-year deadline fast approaching, it is incumbent on Congress to do the right thing and pass legislation extending telehealth flexibilities for as long as possible, including both the existing Medicare telehealth flexibilities and the critical (high deductible health plan-health savings account) provision that allows Americans to access telehealth services before meeting their deductible.
“By acting in the best interest of patients and health care providers, Congress can swiftly address mounting ramifications that are already hindering care delivery and ensure all patients receive the care they need, no matter where they live.
“The ball is squarely in Congress’ court. By eliminating lingering uncertainties around telehealth access, including through Medicare and tax policy provisions, policymakers can ensure the uninterrupted delivery of safe, convenient and timely virtual care services, support overburdened health care providers and provide clinically appropriate care to millions of patients in need.
“Congress has been a great champion for telehealth, and we remain grateful for their unwavering support. We urge these upstanding policymakers to allow continued access to appropriate and necessary care that patients and providers have come to rely on since early 2020.”
