WASHINGTON (WAVY) — U.S. Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) has joined other lawmakers calling on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to allow seniors with Medicare continued access to telehealth.
Pandemic telehealth benefits are slated to expire on December 31, 2024.
According to the HHS, the telehealth services that would be impacted include geographic restrictions on audio-only services in homes, and in-person visit requirements prior to telebehavioral services.
The group of bipartisan lawmakers sent a letter to HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra urging the need for permanent telehealth benefits.
“Telehealth is a cost-effective way to improve access to care, especially for rural and underserved communities,” lawmakers wrote in the letter. “Telehealth also allows patients to choose a medical provider that best suits their personal medical needs. Medicare beneficiaries have come to rely on expanded access to telehealth and are satisfied with the care they have received.”
To view the full letter, click here.
