The Chronic Care Policy Alliance submitted the following letter to Congressional leadership, urging them to extend critical telehealth flexibilities:
“Dear Leadership,
On behalf of the Chronic Care Policy Alliance (CCPA), I am writing to urge you to take swift action to extend the telehealth flexibilities currently set to expire on March 31, 2025, under the “American Relief Act, 2025.” These critical flexibilities have enabled millions of Americans –especially those in rural and underserved communities – to access timely, high-quality care through telehealth services.
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, temporary waivers have allowed Medicare to cover a broader range of telehealth services, including lifting geographic restrictions, expanding eligible providers, allowing audio-only visits, and enabling federally qualified health centers and rural health clinics to serve as distant-site providers. These flexibilities have not only increased access to care but also enhanced the patient experience and helped bridge healthcare gaps for those who need it most.
As the March 31st deadline rapidly approaches, the patients faces uncertainty. Without legislative action, Medicare coverage of telehealth services will revert to previous policies, which could severely limit access to virtual care. This would create unnecessary barriers for patients who have come to rely on telehealth as a safe, effective, and convenient option for managing their health.
Telehealth has become an essential tool in improving healthcare access, especially for individuals in rural areas, those with disabilities, and people without reliable transportation. For many, traveling long distances or facing provider shortages can be a significant barrier to receiving timely care. Telehealth eliminates this challenge by allowing patients to consult healthcare providers from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for travel and ensuring continuous care.
Even in urban areas where access should be easier, provider shortages are making it increasingly difficult for people to find the care they need. This is particularly critical in fields like behavioral health, where a shortage of mental health professionals leaves many without support. Telehealth has proven to be a solution, enabling patients to receive care without the burden of travel, even in underserved regions.
Telehealth innovation, such as improved video conferencing, mobile health apps, and secure patient portals, has made services more accessible. Increased broadband connectivity and affordable devices are expanding access, even in areas where internet infrastructure has traditionally been limited. As a result, patients now have access to high-quality, convenient care, no matter where they live.
CCPA believes that extending telehealth flexibilities is a commonsense, patient-centered approach to ensure continuity of care, reduce disparities, and maintain the momentum of healthcare innovation. We respectfully request that you prioritize extending these waivers, providing much-needed stability for patients and healthcare providers alike.
Thank you for your leadership on this important issue. We look forward to working with you to support policies that prioritize patients and advance equitable access to healthcare for all Americans.
Sincerely,
Liz Helms
Founder and Director
Chronic Care Policy Alliance”
If you would like to learn more about the importance of the telehealth flexibilities and the positive impact they have had on patients, check out CCPA’s webinar, “Telehealth Forecast 2025,” here.