Legislation seeks to leverage telehealth for veterans
New legislation would expand coverage of telehealth services to active-duty service members, their departments, retirees and veterans.
The 21st Century Care for Military & Veterans Act (H.R. 3507)—introduced by Reps. Mike Thompson (D-Calif.), Scott Peters (D-Calif.), Gregg Harper (R-Miss.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.)—would establish and expand reimbursement policies covering the use of telehealth services. Audio and video conferencing, smart devices and remote monitoring all would be leveraged to bring the doctor to the patient.
The bill aims to close access gap for servicemembers and veterans residing in rural and underserved communities, according to an announcement on the legislation.
“This bill will make sure our men and women of the Armed Forces and their families can get the highest quality care in a timely manner no matter where they live or how far away they are from the doctor they need to see. It’s the right thing to do for those who have sacrificed so much for us,” Thompson said in a statement.
H.R. 3507 has been endorsed by the American Telemedicine Association.