The news that Medicare telehealth coverage could expire next month has sent shockwaves among senior citizens, and for good reason. The expansion of telehealth services during the Covid-19 pandemic has been a game-changer for many, particularly those living in rural areas or with mobility issues. For individuals like Kaye Peterson, a 67-year-old with Type 1 diabetes, telehealth has been a lifeline, allowing her to access routine primary care from the comfort of her own home.
The current telehealth flexibilities, which were enacted in March 2020, have been a boon for older adults who struggle to access in-person medical care. With the ability to attend virtual appointments, seniors can receive timely medical attention without having to worry about transportation or mobility issues. However, if Congress fails to act, these flexibilities will expire on March 31, leaving millions of Medicare beneficiaries without access to this vital service.
The potential consequences of allowing telehealth coverage to expire are dire. Dr. Cecil Bennett, a family medicine physician, estimates that half of his clinic’s patients are on Medicare, and many rely on telehealth for routine care. Without it, he fears that some patients may miss necessary appointments, allowing conditions to worsen. This is particularly concerning for older adults who may have underlying health conditions or limited mobility.
Advocates are hopeful that telehealth services will remain a bipartisan cause, and efforts are underway to make the current flexibilities permanent. Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester has co-introduced a bill to solidify the provisions, and Representative Ro Khanna plans to introduce similar legislation. As Khanna so aptly put it, “What is the rationale for this other than making life more difficult for many seniors?”
As the clock ticks down to the March 31 deadline, it’s essential that lawmakers take action to protect this vital service. Telehealth has proven to be a lifeline for many seniors, and its expiration would have far-reaching consequences for their health and wellbeing. It’s time for Congress to put aside partisan differences and work towards a solution that prioritizes the needs of older adults. By doing so, we can ensure that seniors like Kaye Peterson continue to have access to the medical care they need, when they need it.