WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman David Schweikert’s telehealth provision from the CONNECT for Health Act to waive existing telehealth restrictions was included in the Coronavirus National Emergency Declaration. This provision will give the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services the authority to ensure health care services are available through telehealth.

“Ensuring Americans have access to their provider during a national emergency is critical to reducing community spread and infection of the coronavirus. I am pleased to see this provision included and am hopeful Americans will take advantage of this convenience when consulting their doctor. Telehealth is just one facet of the future of our healthcare delivery, and I look forward to seeing how we can expand telehealth services for everyone.”

Background:

This provision would extend existing waiver authorities under Section 1135 of the Social Security Act to include originating site requirements for telehealth services furnished in an emergency area. This authority allows the Secretary of Health and Human Services to waive Medicare, Medicaid, or CHIP requirements to ensure health care services are available during a disaster or emergency as declared under the Stafford Act or National Emergencies Act.

For more information on the CONNECT for Health Act, click HERE.

For more information on the Coronavirus National Emergency Declaration, Section 1, Emergency Authority, click HERE.

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