Federal bill would increase availability of telemedicine

Though many studies have suggested that telemedicine can offer effective care, to date most payers have refused to reimburse for the use of such technology. However, if a new bill passes, Medicare may begin footing at least part of the telemedicine bill.

Right now, about 80 percent of Americans don't have access to telemedicine technology, due to restrictions limiting funding to rural areas. But the Medicare Telehealth Enhancement Act would change all of that. It would expand Medicare reimbursement to both urban and suburban areas, and include more facilities. It would also pay for doctors to monitor patients remotely--another hot area of medicine that is generating great results in pilot tests.

In addition to expanding Medicare payments, the legislation provides $30 million in funding for grants that will go to facilities to help pay for the equipment needed, or to expand what they already have in place.

To learn more about this legislation:
- read this Times-Standard piece

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