Balderson’s bipartisan bill bolstered by new federal telehealth guidance

Following the recent introduction of bipartisan legislation by U.S. Rep. Troy Balderson (R-OH) to expand telehealth access, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) last week issued new guidelines to bolster the reach of telehealth services by including those offered by physical therapists, occupational therapists and speech language pathologists, according to the congressman’s office.

“Just because Ohioans are staying at home doesn’t mean they don’t need continued care,” Rep. Balderson said on May 6. “The challenges posed by this pandemic require innovative solutions and accommodations.”

Rep. Balderson on May 1 signed on as the lead original cosponsor of the Emergency COVID Telehealth Response Act, H.R. 6654, with bill sponsor U.S. Rep. Cynthia Axne (D-IA), to amend the Social Security Act to ensure the extension of the telehealth waiver authority of the Secretary of Health and Human Services to physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech language-pathologists, and certain other providers, according to the text of the bill.

“This legislation will help connect Ohioans — especially those living in rural areas or at high risk for COVID-19 — to essential treatments while also supporting our state’s ongoing efforts to reduce the virus’ spread,” said Rep. Balderson.

Subsequently, CMS on May 5 issued the new COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for State Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Agencies document, which includes information on expanded telehealth options.

H.R. 6654 has garnered support from numerous organizations, including the Ohio Hospital Association, the Ohio Association of Community Health Centers, the American Physical Therapy Association, the Alliance for Physical Therapy Quality and Innovation, and the American Occupational Therapy Association, among many others.

The measure is under consideration by the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee and the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee.