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Telemental Health Care Access Act of 2023

12/20/2024, 9:06 AM

Summary of Bill HR 3432

Bill 118 hr 3432, also known as the Telemental Health Care Access Act of 2023, aims to improve access to mental health care services through the use of telecommunication technologies. The bill seeks to address the shortage of mental health care providers in certain areas by allowing patients to receive care remotely.

Under this legislation, mental health care providers would be able to offer services to patients through video conferencing, phone calls, and other electronic means. This would make it easier for individuals in rural or underserved areas to access the care they need without having to travel long distances.

The bill also includes provisions to ensure that telehealth services are reimbursed by insurance companies at the same rate as in-person services. This would help to make mental health care more affordable and accessible to a wider range of individuals. Additionally, the Telemental Health Care Access Act of 2023 includes measures to protect patient privacy and confidentiality when receiving care through telecommunication technologies. Providers would be required to adhere to strict guidelines to ensure that patient information is secure and protected. Overall, this bill aims to expand access to mental health care services and improve outcomes for individuals who may otherwise struggle to receive the care they need. By leveraging telecommunication technologies, the Telemental Health Care Access Act of 2023 has the potential to make a significant impact on mental health care delivery in the United States.

Congressional Summary of HR 3432

Telemental Health Care Access Act of 2023

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), as long as the beneficiary previously received in-person services and continues to receive in-person services at specified intervals (effective January 1, 2025). The bill eliminates these in-person requirements.

Current Status of Bill HR 3432

Bill HR 3432 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since May 17, 2023. Bill HR 3432 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the House on May 17, 2023.  Bill HR 3432's most recent activity was Referred to the Subcommittee on Health. as of December 17, 2024

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 3432

Total Number of Sponsors
2
Democrat Sponsors
2
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
40
Democrat Cosponsors
30
Republican Cosponsors
10
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 3432

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, web applications, social media
- Medicare
- Mental health

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 3432

Telemental Health Care Access Act of 2023
Telemental Health Care Access Act of 2023
To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to ensure coverage of mental and behavioral health services furnished through telehealth.

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