Chairman of Federal Communications Commission, Ajit Pai announced plans for telehealth funding. This proposal sets aside $200 million to assist healthcare providers purchase technology and broadband connectivity for telehealth services.
Congress has approved $200 million to the FCC for this program as part of its $2 trillion COVID-19 relief package under the CARES Act. The program must be approved by the FCC’s five-person commission.
Federal agencies have encouraged relaxation of telehealth restrictions to minimize transmission of COVID-19. Last week, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services loosened limitations on telehealth reimbursement by letting seniors to receive telehealth appointments from their home. Many private insurers have been directing members to telehealth services.
Health systems with telehealth systems in place have quickly repurposed those tools to provide care to patients with chronic conditions wary of visiting the hospital right now. They’ve been introducing digital tools to triage patients and keeping people with symptoms similar to COVID-19 away from other patients in critical conditions.
As per this program, healthcare providers need to submit streamlined applications to the FCC. Providers who are selected would receive full funding for eligible telehealth services and devices. FCC will continue to extend funds on a rolling basis till the $200 million fund gets exhausted or the pandemic ends.
Pai said that as everyone self-isolates and engages in social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth continues to become extremely vital across the country.
Pai is also seeking approval for a separate pilot program to make funds available over a longer term to offset the cost of telehealth services. The program plans to designate $100 million for connected care services that are extended to low-income patients and veterans.