OpEd: Congress should strengthen rural access to broadband for communities to utilize telehealth services
Today, the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the urgent need for high-speed connectivity as more Americans are turning to the internet to access vital services – such as telehealth – than ever before. In fact, one expert study found that virtual health interactions surged by 50% at the outset of the pandemic and are projected to top 1 billion by the end of 2020.
Our leaders in Washington deserve credit for their swift action to meet this public health challenge. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act Congress passed earlier this year helped expand coverage for telehealth services to enable patients to access vital care and consultations without having to put themselves at greater risk of catching COVID-19. Congress has also introduced standalone legislation to mandate insurance companies to cover telehealth services just as they would any other service necessary to meet patients’ needs.
