Representatives Glenn “GT” Thompson (PA-15) and Ann Kuster (NH-02) introduced the bipartisan Helping Ensure Access to Local TeleHealth, or the HEALTH Act, as part of National Telehealth Awareness Week. This legislation secures Medicare reimbursement for telehealth services provided by community health centers and rural health clinics. It will continue to allow providers to utilize audio-only telehealth visits for patients who do not have access to broadband services. PACHC worked with Rep. Thompson’s office on the legislation. “As the nation’s largest network of primary care providers, Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) provide a wide array of services in underserved areas of the country, both rural and urban,” said Cheri Rinehart, President and CEO of Pennsylvania Association of Community Health Centers (PACHC). “The ability to use telehealth throughout and after the pandemic has clearly demonstrated how vital telehealth is in improving health equity by increasing access to care for the vulnerable populations FQHCs serve and contributing to positive outcomes. Telehealth must remain an available service to ensure continued access to critical primary and behavioral health care services.” Click here to learn more.
