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To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to expand access to telehealth services relating to substance use disorder treatment, and for other purposes.
12/30/2022, 8:03 AM
Summary of Bill HR 5837
The main goal of the bill is to increase access to treatment for individuals with substance use disorder, especially in rural and underserved areas where access to in-person treatment may be limited. By expanding coverage for telehealth services, individuals will be able to receive treatment and support from the comfort of their own homes, reducing barriers to care and improving overall outcomes.
In addition to expanding access to telehealth services, the bill also includes provisions to ensure that providers offering telehealth services for substance use disorder treatment meet certain quality and safety standards. This will help to ensure that individuals receive high-quality care and support through telehealth services. Overall, the Telehealth Services for Substance Use Disorder Treatment Act aims to improve access to treatment for individuals struggling with substance use disorder, particularly in areas where access to in-person care may be limited. By expanding coverage for telehealth services and ensuring quality standards are met, the bill seeks to improve outcomes for individuals seeking treatment for substance use disorder.
Congressional Summary of HR 5837
This bill modifies requirements relating to coverage of certain telehealth services under Medicare. Specifically, the bill permanently allows telehealth services for substance-use disorders and mental health disorders to be provided via audio-only technology and without an initial in-person evaluation.
Schedule III or IV controlled substances may also be prescribed online if a practitioner has conducted a telehealth evaluation with video; certain opioid agonists may be prescribed via audio-only technology if the beneficiary initially lacks access to video technology but receives a follow-up evaluation via video within 10 days.
The Department of Health and Human Services must establish an interagency task force to study the utilization and effect of opioid agonist prescriptions that are issued via telehealth.

