Supporting Health Care Providers During the COVID–19 Pandemic Act

Supporting Health Care Providers During the COVID-19 Pandemic Act

This bill makes several budgetary and technical changes in relation to Medicare.

Specifically, the bill continues to exempt Medicare from sequestration until March 31, 2022. (Sequestration is a process of automatic, usually across-the-board spending reductions under which budgetary resources are permanently cancelled to enforce specific budget policy goals.)

The bill also temporarily extends other provisions under Medicare, including a payment increase under the physician fee schedule.

Bill 117 HR 6143, also known as the Supporting Health Care Providers During the COVID-19 Pandemic Act, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress. The main purpose of this bill is to provide support and resources to health care providers who are on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The bill includes provisions for increasing funding for health care providers, including hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities, to ensure they have the necessary resources to respond to the pandemic. This funding can be used for a variety of purposes, such as purchasing personal protective equipment (PPE), hiring additional staff, and expanding testing and treatment capabilities.

Additionally, the bill aims to improve access to telehealth services for patients, allowing them to receive care remotely and reducing the risk of exposure to the virus. This includes provisions for expanding telehealth coverage under Medicare and Medicaid, as well as providing funding for the development of telehealth infrastructure. Furthermore, the bill includes measures to address the mental health and well-being of health care providers, who are facing increased stress and burnout due to the demands of the pandemic. This includes funding for mental health resources and support services for providers, as well as initiatives to promote wellness and resilience. Overall, the Supporting Health Care Providers During the COVID-19 Pandemic Act seeks to provide critical support to health care providers as they continue to navigate the challenges of the ongoing pandemic. By increasing funding, expanding telehealth services, and addressing mental health needs, this bill aims to ensure that providers have the resources and support they need to effectively care for patients during this difficult time.