Federal Shutdown Jeopardizes Telehealth Access for Rural Patients
Healthcare IT News
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Contributed by: Kate Gamble
Summary
The recent federal government shutdown has disrupted virtual care services, particularly impacting rural and underserved patients, due to the expiration of Medicare telehealth flexibilities. Following Congress's failure to extend the Medicare program, healthcare organizations face uncertainty as many continue providing telehealth services without guaranteed reimbursement. This situation poses a significant threat to continuity of care, affecting not only Medicare recipients but potentially millions with private insurance, as commercial insurers often mirror federal policies. As healthcare professionals navigate this landscape, the advocacy for permanent telehealth solutions remains crucial for addressing gaps in care delivery.
