The current statutory and regulatory framework for use of technology in healthcare prevents many patients and providers from taking advantage of telemedicine's advancements, according to a release written by U.S. Rep. Peter Welch (D-Vt.), a sponsor of H.R. 2948, the Medicare Telehealth Parity Act of 2015.
"This legislation recognizes and embraces these technological advancements and the impact it can have on improving patient care and outcomes, and lowering healthcare costs," Rep. Welch wrote.
Additionally, Rep. Welch argues that the widespread adoption of telemedicine as a way to make good on the promise of offering affordable, quality healthcare to all Americans, no matter where they live. The bipartisan bill is crucial for improving access to care and the cost-effective delivery of services that can improve patient outcomes, he wrote.
The Medicare Telehealth Parity Act of 2015 would phase in the expansion of the following telehealth services, according to the release.
• Removing the geographic barriers under current law and allowing the provision of telehealth services in rural, underserved and metropolitan areas.
• Expanding the list of providers that are eligible to offer telehealth services to include respiratory therapists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech language pathologists and audiologists.
• Expanding access to telestroke services, regardless of where the patient is located.
• Allowing remote patient monitoring for patients with chronic conditions such as heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and diabetes.
• Allowing the beneficiary's home to serve as a site of care for home dialysis, hospice care, eligible outpatient mental health services and home health services.