Palmetto State News

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) are leading the charge in reintroducing the Telehealth Modernization Act, aimed at updating coverage restrictions to ensure access to telehealth services for Medicare beneficiaries. The legislation is crucial as telehealth flexibilities are set to expire at the end of 2024.

Senator Scott emphasized the importance of telehealth during the pandemic, stating, "During the pandemic, telehealth was one of the few bright spots that helped us through one of the darkest times in our nation’s history."

Senator Schatz echoed the significance of telehealth, saying, "Telehealth has been a critical lifeline for millions of people who have come to rely on it."

Representative Carter also stressed the importance of telehealth accessibility, noting, "Telehealth is a vital part of our health care system, and we must ensure that it is available to patients who need it."

The Telehealth Modernization Act has garnered support from various organizations and associations, including the American Telemedicine Association, American Medical Association, and American Hospital Association.

The legislation is also cosponsored by Senators Marsha Blackburn, Tina Smith, Dan Sullivan, Raphael Warnock, Roger Marshall, and Angus King.

The initiative comes at a time when the need for telehealth services has been magnified by the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic highlighted the urgency of updating telehealth coverage rules to ensure safe access to care for seniors and vulnerable populations.

Without further congressional action, the temporary emergency waivers providing Medicare beneficiaries access to telehealth services will expire, impacting millions who rely on this mode of healthcare delivery.

Senator Scott's advocacy for telehealth extends beyond the Telehealth Modernization Act, as he continues to champion expanded telehealth access in the post-COVID world. His efforts are rooted in the recognition of telehealth as a crucial component of the healthcare system, especially in providing accessible care to seniors and individuals in rural communities.