American Telemedicine Association Supports Changes to Make Telehealth and Remote Patient Monitoring Permanently Available In Medicare Program
Remote healthcare recommendations set guidelines for policymakers
WASHINGTON, D.C., SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 – The American Telemedicine Association (ATA) today submitted comments to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) on the CY 2021 Physician Fee Schedule proposed rule (CMS-1734-P), strongly supporting increased access to telehealth services in the Medicare program, including for underserved populations.
“With Congressional authority, CMS has led the way in expanding access to remote care during the COVID-19 public health emergency. With this proposed rule, CMS seeks to make some of those regulatory flexibilities permanent,” said Ann Mond Johnson, CEO, the ATA. “While perhaps well-intentioned, CMS proposes new changes to remote patient monitoring codes that are not consistent with current practice. The ATA looks forward to working with the agency to solve these issues and ensure that this type of remote care is available to patients.”
The ATA’s comments focus on three key areas:
- expanding access to more telehealth services and more telehealth providers
- changes to remote patient monitoring services
- telehealth in federally qualified health centers and rural health clinics
“The ATA strongly supports increased access to telehealth services in the Medicare program to increase access to clinically and cost-effective care, particularly for our most vulnerable populations. We are pleased that telehealth is further integrated into reporting and beneficiary assignment requirements in the Quality Payment Program. Telehealth will be particularly effective in value-based care arrangements as it can produce better outcomes at a lower cost,” added Mond Johnson. “The ATA appreciates CMS’ efforts to expand access to telemedicine.”
Please click here to read the ATA’s full comments on the 2021 Physician Fee Schedule proposed rule.
About the ATA
As the only organization completely focused on advancing telehealth, the ATA is committed to ensuring that everyone has access to safe, affordable, and appropriate care when and where they need it, enabling the system to do more good for more people. ATA represents a broad and inclusive member network of health care delivery systems, academic institutions, technology solution providers and payers, as well as partner organizations and alliances, working to advance industry adoption of telehealth, promote responsible policy, advocate for government and market normalization, and provide education and resources to help integrate virtual care into emerging value-based delivery models. Visit the ATA COVID-19 Resource Center. @americantelemed #telehealthishealth #ATApolicy
