Medicare Telehealth Flexibilities Extended Through September
With recent stopgap legislation, Congress once again extended Medicare Telehealth Flexibilities, from March 31 through the end of September. However, the shortened duration of this latest extension is a red flag, say some healthcare organizations.
Importance of the Extension
The FY2025 Continuing Resolution passed earlier this month prevented a federal government shutdown and offered telehealth extensions for Medicare patients for another six months.
According to Kyle Zebley, executive director of the American Telemedicine Association and ATA Action, this extension is a significant victory for telehealth services, especially for patients and clinicians in underserved communities.
Key Changes in Telehealth Flexibilities
Congress granted permission for telehealth visits to occur from a wider range of locations, including the patient’s home. Additionally, a wider range of qualified provider types may now deliver virtual care.
Challenges and Concerns
While the extension is welcomed, there are concerns about the short duration of the extension and the exclusion of certain essential telehealth programs from the resolution.
Specifically, the expiration of the First-dollar coverage of High Deductible Health Plans-HSAs program and the lack of extension for telehealth benefits for part-time or contracted employees are major concerns.
Future Outlook
HIMSS and ATA are advocating for a sustainable and long-term solution for telehealth access beyond the current fiscal year. They are working with Congress to make telehealth access permanent for all Medicare beneficiaries.
Recent Developments
The FY25 stopgap legislation also extended the Acute Hospital Care at Home Program through September, allowing Medicare-certified hospitals to provide inpatient-level care at patient homes. A study released by the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid showed lower Medicare spending and mortality rates with this program.
Conclusion
Telehealth has become vital to Medicare, particularly for behavioral health services. Congress made Medicare coverage of remote behavioral health permanent in December 2020. Lawmakers are still working on extending other telehealth benefits for Medicare beneficiaries.
For more information, please contact Andrea Fox, senior editor of Healthcare IT News, at afox@himss.org.
The Rise of Plant-Based Diets: A Healthier Alternative
In recent years, there has been a significant shift towards plant-based diets as people become more aware of the environmental, ethical, and health implications of consuming animal products. Plant-based diets, which focus on consuming whole, minimally processed plant foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains, have been gaining popularity for their numerous health benefits.
One of the main reasons why plant-based diets are becoming increasingly popular is their positive impact on health. Research has shown that plant-based diets can help lower the risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancers. This is because plant foods are rich in essential nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which help to boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and protect against oxidative stress.
Plant-based diets are also low in saturated fat and cholesterol, which are commonly found in animal products. By reducing the intake of these harmful substances, individuals following a plant-based diet can lower their risk of developing cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure. In addition, plant-based diets are typically higher in fiber, which can help with weight management and promote healthy digestion.
Another benefit of plant-based diets is their positive impact on the environment. The meat and dairy industry is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water pollution. By choosing to consume plant-based foods, individuals can help reduce their carbon footprint and support sustainable agricultural practices.
In addition to the health and environmental benefits, plant-based diets can also be more cost-effective and accessible for many people. Plant foods such as beans, lentils, and whole grains are often more affordable than animal products, making it easier for individuals to eat a nutritious diet on a budget. Furthermore, plant-based diets can be adapted to suit different cultural preferences and dietary restrictions, making them a versatile option for people from diverse backgrounds.
Overall, the rise of plant-based diets reflects a growing awareness of the importance of sustainable and healthy eating habits. By choosing to incorporate more plant foods into their diets, individuals can improve their health, support the environment, and contribute to a more sustainable food system. Whether someone is looking to improve their health, reduce their environmental impact, or simply enjoy delicious and nutritious meals, plant-based diets offer a viable and beneficial alternative to traditional diets centered around animal products.
