As the clock ticks toward a December 31 deadline, a major House subcommittee is considering 15 bills aimed at expanding access to telehealth services. This legislative push is crucial as pandemic-era flexibilities face expiration, potentially affecting countless patients who have come to rely on virtual care.
The American Telemedicine Association has dubbed 2024 the “Super Bowl” of telehealth regulation, advocating for the permanent establishment of Medicare flexibilities introduced during COVID-19. According to FierceHealthcare, this regulatory showdown is critical for the future of telehealth.
The Push for Permanency
Healthcare systems and providers are urging lawmakers to secure permanent Medicare coverage for telehealth services. The absence of legislative action could result in a significant loss of access, particularly for vulnerable populations. Lee Schwamm, M.D., from Yale New Haven Health System, emphasized the need for permanent solutions, stating that telehealth allows for patient-centered care, especially when in-person visits pose challenges.
Prior to the pandemic, telehealth was often a cash-only service, inaccessible to many. However, the integration of virtual and in-person care has become a new standard, as highlighted by Eve Cunningham, M.D., from Providence health system. Telehealth now represents about 20% of ambulatory care visits at Providence, and its services extend to rural and underserved urban areas.
Legislative Proposals
Two significant bills, the CONNECT for Health Act and the Telehealth Modernization Act, aim to solidify telehealth flexibilities. These proposals seek to remove geographic restrictions, expand provider eligibility, and extend audio-only telehealth coverage. The American Hospital Association supports these measures, citing telehealth’s potential to address clinician shortages and enhance patient care.
Debate Over Costs and Quality
While telehealth has shown promise in improving chronic disease management and reducing emergency visits, concerns about increased healthcare spending remain. A previous extension was estimated to raise Medicare costs by over $2 billion. However, experts like Ateev Mehrotra, M.D., argue that the value of telehealth should guide policy decisions, despite modest spending increases.
Payment parity is another contentious issue. Some advocate for lower reimbursement rates for telehealth, while others, like Schwamm, caution against significant pay cuts that could discourage virtual care. The ongoing debate highlights the need for a balanced approach to telehealth reimbursement.
Fred Riccardi from the Medicare Rights Center urged for greater oversight before expanding Medicare coverage for telehealth. The organization emphasizes policies that increase access, promote health equity, and ensure high-quality care.
Conclusion
As lawmakers deliberate these legislative moves, the future of telehealth hangs in the balance. The decisions made in the coming months will shape the landscape of healthcare delivery, determining whether telehealth remains a core function or reverts to a limited service.
More Articles
Getting licensed or staying ahead in your career can be a journey—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Grab your favorite coffee or tea, take a moment to relax, and browse through our articles. Whether you’re just starting out or renewing your expertise, we’ve got tips, insights, and advice to keep you moving forward. Here’s to your success—one sip and one step at a time!
After nearly 20 years under uniquely harsh lending rules, Florida may finally see its condo market freed from a 25% down payment requirement imposed only on the state. Industry leaders say Fannie Mae could announce changes as early as December—potentially restoring the standard 10% down payment used everywhere else in the country. Experts believe the shift would boost maintenance funding, improve affordability, and stabilize Florida’s condo market after years of strain.
Phoenix’s commercial real estate market is shaking off years of uncertainty as broker optimism hits its highest level since interest rates began climbing. The latest ASU Commercial Broker Sentiment Index soared to 62.7, signaling strong confidence across multifamily, retail, office, and capital markets. With population growth accelerating, interest rates easing, and AI boosting industry efficiency, Phoenix is positioning itself for a powerful run into 2026—offering meaningful opportunities for both new and seasoned real estate professionals.
Michigan’s House Rules Committee heard testimony on a proposal that would let licensed professionals complete all required continuing education online. Supporters say the change would modernize outdated rules, reduce costs, and improve access for rural and busy workers. The state licensing department backs the measure, and lawmakers noted it could reshape CE options across industries from real estate to insurance and healthcare.
Florida homeowners are now paying an average of $5,838 per year for insurance — nearly $3,000 above the national average — making it one of the most expensive states in the country. As premiums continue to triple for some residents, many are being forced into tough decisions, from delaying home improvements to dropping coverage altogether. With more than 40% of claims closed with no payment and lawmakers pushing for aggressive reforms, the crisis is reshaping Florida’s housing market and placing growing pressure on real estate, mortgage, and insurance professionals statewide.
Griffin Funding has elevated John Jones to Senior Vice President of Growth and EOS Integrator, marking a major step in the company’s long-term expansion strategy. Already a key operational leader since April 2025, Jones will now drive performance optimization, market expansion, and leadership development as the lender pursues an ambitious goal of reaching $3 billion in annual non-QM loan volume by 2030. His promotion underscores Griffin Funding’s commitment to scaling strategically while strengthening its position in the fast-growing non-QM space.
Despite recent Federal Reserve rate cuts, commercial real estate remains frozen. Long‑term Treasury yields continue to climb, keeping borrowing costs high and preventing the relief investors expected. With nearly $1 trillion in commercial loans coming due, refinancing at today’s elevated rates is squeezing owners, slowing transactions, and creating a widening gap between buyers and sellers. For patient, well‑capitalized investors, this period of recalibration may offer some of the strongest opportunities in years.
