Congress passed a continuing resolution last week to fund the federal government through September 30 and avoid a government shutdown. The legislation extended some key healthcare provisions, letting them live on for another six months.
The resolution extends the enhanced low-volume adjustment program and the Medicare-dependent hospital program, extends add-on payments for ambulance services, and eliminates the Medicaid disproportionate share hospital cuts through the next six months. Notably, it also extended expiring Medicare telehealth flexibilities.
Telehealth CEOs view the passing of the resolution as a short-term win, but they think there is still more work to do to ensure Americans have permanent access to virtual care services in the future.
Brooke Boyarsky Pratt, CEO of obesity care company knownwell, said she is thrilled to see the telehealth extension included in the legislation. Her company provides both virtual and in-person care.
“This access matters for all seniors, not just seniors who live in rural areas. We’ve seen many patients with mobility issues, transportation issues, or folks who simply prefer the convenience of virtual care, who deserve access,” she remarked.
Boyarsky Pratt added that she wants to see a longitudinal Medicare ruling put in place so patients and clinicians don’t have uncertainty in the future.
Another telehealth CEO — Vanessa Rissetto, who is at the helm of virtual nutrition care company Culina Health — noted that while Congress’ temporary extension of telehealth coverage is good news, it’s only the beginning of the fight.
“We hope to see permanent telehealth coverage across government programs, ensuring consistent, high-quality nutrition care for all Americans. This isn’t just about convenience — it’s about health equity, bridging gaps in access across gender, race and age. Telehealth should be a mainstay in modern healthcare, not just a temporary solution,” Rissetto said.
Sunrise CEO Laurent Marinot agreed with Rissetto. Marinot’s company provides sleep diagnostics patients can use at home.
In Marinot’s eyes, telehealth will be a vital part of healthcare delivery for years to come.
“The pandemic truly changed what the U.S. expects from healthcare, and telehealth has remained a critical component of our healthcare system long after our ‘return to normalcy.’ I’d urge elected officials to take that into account and implement it further, ensuring telehealth stays accessible through public health coverage so people get the proper care they need, regardless of factors like income, time restraints, location, etc.,” she declared.
Ultimately, the passing of the resolution was a relief, but it is a temporary fix, according to Millie CEO Anu Sharma. Millie offers hybrid maternal care from midwives and doulas.
The uncertainty surrounding the future of telehealth coverage raises serious concerns about health equity disparities, Sharma noted.
“Most pregnancy and all of the postpartum period happens at home, outside of a doctor’s office. Our telehealth services enable us to provide the 24/7 care women need. While this extension allows us to continue addressing the needs of underserved communities, at a time when maternity care deserts are rapidly rising, and OB GYN shortages increase nationwide. Without coverage of this essential bridge, gaps will only widen,” she said.
Photo: elenabs, Getty Images
