Government Shutdown Halts Medicare Telehealth, Hospital-At-Home Services
Healthcare Dive
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Contributed by: Kate Gamble
Summary
The federal government is currently in a partial shutdown, resulting in the lapse of crucial telehealth flexibilities under Medicare and waivers for acute hospital-at-home care. This situation stems from stalled legislation aimed at funding the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) due to disputes over appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). While there is hope for a swift resolution, the shutdown raises significant concerns for healthcare providers relying on telehealth and hospital-at-home resources, potentially impacting patient access to care. Healthcare professionals will need to closely monitor developments, as the outcome could shape future telehealth policies and related legislation.