ATA Supports Expanded Access to Telehealth Services in the COVID-19 Supplemental Appropriation
WASHINGTON, DC, FEBRUARY 28, 2020 — The ATA, the premier organization working to accelerate the adoption of telehealth, joined other organizations urging Congress to consider Sec. 9 of the CONNECT for Health Act of 2019 (S. 2741/H.R. 4932) in the upcoming COVID-19 supplemental legislation, which would empower the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to waive telehealth restrictions for Medicare beneficiaries during national emergencies. This provision would give health care professionals the support they need to fully address the COVID-9 outbreak in order to provide safe and efficient care to those in need.
“Telehealth can improve access to care, speed diagnosis, and treatment, and limit the risk of person-to-person spread of the virus. We believe Congress should provide the Administration with as many tools as possible, including the ability to waive Medicare restrictions on telehealth to give health care professionals the support they need to effectively meet the urgent health needs of their communities,” said Ann Mond Johnson, CEO, the ATA. “Many ATA members are already playing a key role in addressing this public health emergency, enabling the timely and effective treatment of patients in quarantine and at home with telehealth and virtual care technologies. We are inspired by the response of our members and remain committed to working with HHS and the CDC to stem the growing public concern and combat the spread of COVID-19.”
Read the Full ATA Statement to Congress Here
About the ATA
As the only organization completely focused on advancing telehealth, the ATA is committed to ensuring that everyone has access to safe, affordable, and appropriate care when and where they need it, enabling the system to do more good for more people. ATA represents a broad and inclusive member network of technology solution providers and payers, as well as partner organizations and alliances, working to advance industry adoption of telehealth, promote responsible policy, advocate for government and market normalization, and provide education and resources to help integrate virtual care into emerging value-based delivery models. #gotelehealth #ATApolicy
The ATA Contact:
Gina Cella
gcella@cellapr.com
857-239-9198
