Georgia Mountain News

The Energy and Commerce Committee has unanimously advanced the Telehealth Modernization Act of 2024, a bipartisan effort led by Representatives Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Greg Steube (R-FL), Terri Sewell (D-AL), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), Jefferson Van Drew (R-NJ), Joe Morelle (D-NY), and Debbie Dingell (D-MI). The legislation extends telehealth flexibilities for Medicare beneficiaries through 2026, including federally qualified health centers and rural health clinics.

Rep. Carter expressed his satisfaction with the committee's bipartisan approach: “I am thrilled that the Energy and Commerce Committee came together in a bipartisan manner to extend telehealth flexibilities for Medicare patients. Seniors, individuals with mobility issues, and those living in rural areas rely on telehealth to bring qualified health care professionals right to their home. I urge a swift House floor vote on this bill so that we can get Medicare beneficiaries the life-saving health care they need.”

Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester highlighted the significance of telehealth services initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic: “One of the few positive outcomes of the COVID-19 pandemic was the rapid progress we made in utilizing telehealth services to meet patients where they are. It’s why I was proud to introduce the Telehealth Modernization Act with Congressman Carter – a bipartisan solution to extending the telehealth flexibilities that so many have come to rely on in Delaware and across the country.”

Rep. Steube emphasized its importance for his constituents: “Many of my constituents in Florida value both in-person care as well as the advantage of telehealth services. Legislation like the Telehealth Modernization Act will protect access to these technologies for Americans, especially our seniors."

Rep. Sewell noted its critical role for Alabama seniors: “So many Alabama seniors rely on telehealth for access to critical services. We must ensure that they continue to get the care they need and deserve.”

Rep. Miller-Meeks stressed its necessity for rural communities: "This legislation is essential for rural Iowans and others living in underserved areas, ensuring that seniors and individuals with mobility and transportation challenges have access to high-quality healthcare from the comfort of their homes."

Congressman Van Drew underscored its impact on breaking down healthcare barriers: “This bill will make a real difference for people in rural areas and those who struggle to visit a doctor’s office due to mobility issues by allowing Medicare beneficiaries to access essential care from the comfort of their homes.”

Congressman Joe Morelle remarked on its potential benefits: “Telehealth services help ensure everyone can access affordable, high-quality healthcare—especially the most vulnerable in our community.”

Rep. Dingell reflected on its adoption during COVID-19: “We saw telehealth widely and successfully adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic. I’m glad to see the Telehealth Modernization Act one step closer to becoming law."

The bill has garnered support from numerous organizations including American Telemedicine Association/ATA Action, Consumer Technology Association, Health Innovation Alliance, Alliance for Connected Care, The Partnership to Advance Virtual Care, HIMSS, American Hospital Association, American Medical Association, The Society of Thoracic Surgeons, among others.

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