Lawmakers are facing a year-end deadline to decide on covid-era payment changes for telehealth services, including allowing patients to stay at home for medical visits. During a Capitol Hill hearing, Rep. Brad Wenstrup and other House members shared personal stories of how telehealth has benefited patients. The proposals primarily focus on how Medicare covers telehealth, but the rules impact all types of insurance. Telehealth has seen a surge in popularity during the pandemic, with surveys showing high usage among Medicare and Medicaid enrollees, particularly among people of color and those with lower incomes. Lawmakers are considering a temporary extension of payments for telehealth services.
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