ATA Commends Texas Governor Abbott For Making Access To Telehealth A Priority To Expand Quality Care And Address Health Disparities
WASHINGTON, DC, FEBRUARY 1, 2021 — The American Telemedicine Association (ATA) applauds Texas Governor Greg Abbott for his leadership in seeking to expand telehealth access for Texans. Tonight, in his 2021 State of the State address, Governor Abbott outlined his healthcare priorities, recognizing telehealth as an important tool to extend quality care, whenever and wherever it is needed. He also made the expansion of broadband access an emergency item this session.
“The ATA applauds Governor Abbot for recognizing the unique role that telehealth can play in bringing quality care to those who need it most, including underserved and rural communities,” said Ann Mond Johnson, CEO, the ATA. “As a result of the public health emergency, many of the challenges our healthcare system faces were brought to light, and telehealth was able to bridge many of the gaps in care delivery. We are also encouraged by Governor Abbott’s support for expanding broadband access, to close the ‘digital divide’ to help address the indefensible inequities that currently exist in healthcare. It is essential for states, such as Texas, to ensure telehealth remains available and becomes a permanent option for care delivery.”
“The ATA is hopeful that the Texas state legislature will work with Governor Abbott to pass this needed telehealth legislation. We remain available to act as a resource to Texas policymakers and to policymakers in state capitals across the country,” added Mond Johnson.
About the ATA
As the only organization completely focused on advancing telehealth, the American Telemedicine Association 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. The ATA represents a broad and inclusive member network of leading 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. @americantelemed #telehealthishealth #ATApolicy
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