Providers Scaling Back Telehealth Amidst Shutdown Concerns, Says ATA

The ongoing government shutdown is severely disrupting telehealth services, particularly impacting Medicare patients due to uncertainties over expired COVID-19-era flexibilities. Healthcare providers are scaling back telehealth offerings amid payment ambiguities and compliance risks, leading to increased patient cancellations and unnecessary in-person visits that exacerbate the strain on healthcare systems. Stakeholders, including the American Telemedicine Association, warn that these disruptions could delay care and prompt more emergency room visits in the coming months. The situation underscores the urgent need for clarity around telehealth policies as providers and patients navigate this challenging landscape.

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