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Telemental Health Care Access Act of 2021

12/31/2022, 4:59 AM

Summary of Bill HR 4058

Bill 117 HR 4058, also known as the Telemental Health Care Access Act of 2021, aims to improve access to mental health care services through telehealth technology. The bill seeks to address the growing need for mental health services, especially in underserved and rural areas where access to in-person care may be limited.

The Telemental Health Care Access Act of 2021 would expand coverage for telehealth mental health services under Medicare, Medicaid, and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). This would allow individuals to receive mental health care services remotely, using video conferencing or other telecommunication technologies.

The bill also includes provisions to ensure that telehealth services are provided by qualified mental health professionals and that patient privacy and confidentiality are protected. Additionally, the bill aims to increase funding for telehealth infrastructure and training programs to support the expansion of telehealth services. Overall, the Telemental Health Care Access Act of 2021 seeks to improve access to mental health care services for individuals across the country, particularly those in underserved communities. By leveraging telehealth technology, the bill aims to make mental health care more accessible and convenient for those in need.

Congressional Summary of HR 4058

Telemental Health Care Access Act of 2021

This bill eliminates certain restrictions relating to Medicare coverage of mental health services that are provided through telehealth.

Current law allows for coverage of such services regardless of the geographic location of the originating site (i.e., the location of the beneficiary) after the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency, as long as the beneficiary previously received in-person services and continues to receive in-person services at specified intervals. The bill eliminates these in-person requirements.

Current Status of Bill HR 4058

Bill HR 4058 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since June 22, 2021. Bill HR 4058 was introduced during Congress 117 and was introduced to the House on June 22, 2021.  Bill HR 4058's most recent activity was Referred to the Subcommittee on Health. as of June 23, 2021

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 4058

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
1
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
62
Democrat Cosponsors
46
Republican Cosponsors
16
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 4058

Primary Policy Focus

Health

Potential Impact Areas

- Accounting and auditing
- Congressional oversight
- Fraud offenses and financial crimes
- Government studies and investigations
- Health care coverage and access
- Health programs administration and funding
- Health technology, devices, supplies
- Internet and video services
- Internet, web applications, social media
- Medicare
- Mental health

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 4058

To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to ensure coverage of mental and behavioral health services furnished through telehealth.
Telemental Health Care Access Act of 2021
Telemental Health Care Access Act of 2021

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