Sioux City Times

U.S. Representatives Randy Feenstra and Chris Pappas have introduced the Audio-Only Telehealth Access Act, a legislative proposal aimed at making Medicare's coverage of audio-only telehealth services permanent. This move seeks to address healthcare access challenges in rural areas where broadband connectivity may be unreliable.

"In rural Iowa, access to dependable and affordable telehealth services is critical to the health and wellbeing of our families and seniors," said Rep. Feenstra. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that individuals can receive care over the phone when road travel is hindered by severe weather or broadband issues arise. "I’m glad to work with my colleague from New Hampshire, Rep. Chris Pappas, to introduce legislation to permanently extend Medicare coverage of over-the-phone telehealth services so that Iowans can receive the care and advice that they need when they need it."

Rep. Pappas highlighted the necessity of quality, affordable healthcare for every community in New Hampshire. "Making Medicare coverage of audio-only telehealth services permanent will help ensure that communities facing broadband challenges, seniors without computers, and families in rural areas can access health care services by phone or any audio service," he stated.

Patricia Newland, M.D., President of UnityPoint Clinic, expressed support for the initiative: "UnityPoint Health thanks Congressman Feenstra for introducing legislation for audio only telehealth." She noted that this measure would benefit vulnerable patients in Iowa's rural communities by providing timely access to healthcare without concerns about internet stability or video technology proficiency.

The existing waiver allowing reimbursement for phone-based healthcare services by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is set to expire on March 31, 2025.