HEALTH Act of 2023

Helping Ensure Access to Local TeleHealth Act of 2023 or the HEALTH Act of 2023

This bill modifies requirements relating to Medicare coverage of telehealth services, including services that are furnished by federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) and rural health clinics (RHCs).

Specifically, the bill expands coverage to include audio-only telehealth services. It also permanently allows FQHCs and RHCs to serve as the distant site (i.e., the location of the health care practitioner) for telehealth services and excludes such services from certain geographic restrictions. Payment must be made in the same manner as for non-telehealth services, rather than in accordance with a separate methodology determined by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

The HEALTH Act of 2023, also known as Bill 118 hr 5611, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The main goal of this bill is to improve access to healthcare for all Americans by addressing various issues within the healthcare system.

One key aspect of the HEALTH Act is the expansion of telehealth services, which have become increasingly important during the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill aims to increase access to telehealth services for individuals in rural and underserved areas, as well as for those with limited mobility or transportation options.

Additionally, the HEALTH Act includes provisions to address the rising costs of prescription drugs. The bill seeks to increase transparency in drug pricing and promote competition among pharmaceutical companies to lower prices for consumers. It also includes measures to improve access to generic and biosimilar drugs, which can help reduce costs for patients. Another important component of the HEALTH Act is the focus on mental health and substance abuse treatment. The bill includes provisions to expand access to mental health services, including telehealth options, and to increase funding for substance abuse treatment programs. These measures aim to address the growing mental health crisis in the United States and provide support for individuals struggling with addiction. Overall, the HEALTH Act of 2023 is a comprehensive piece of legislation that seeks to improve access to healthcare for all Americans. By addressing issues such as telehealth services, prescription drug costs, and mental health treatment, the bill aims to create a more equitable and affordable healthcare system for individuals across the country.