U.S. Rep. Troy Balderson (R-OH) on Feb. 2 unveiled a newly created bipartisan caucus that seeks to shape policies supporting the integration of cutting-edge digital health technologies into the nation’s healthcare landscape.
The Congressional Digital Health Caucus, which Rep. Balderson will lead alongside U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (D-IL), aims to inform policymakers of the rapid advancements in digital health innovation, according to the lawmakers.
“Congresswoman Robin Kelly and I are excited to launch the Digital Health Caucus, which will bring together members of Congress who are passionate about improving healthcare outcomes and making health systems more efficient,” Rep. Balderson said. “As lawmakers, we must foster innovation in health care and ensure accessibility and affordability for patients.”
Key objectives of the Congressional Digital Health Caucus include educating policymakers about the latest developments in digital health, providing insights into the potential benefits for patients, healthcare providers, and the broader healthcare system, and ensuring accessibility for all Americans, according to a summary provided by Rep. Balderson’s staff.
“Quality health care has too often been isolated to areas around bigger cities, limiting access for rural Americans,” said Balderson. “Thanks to rapid advancements in healthcare technology, we can achieve all three. Digital health care can finally close the urban-rural divide and make quality care available to all, regardless of zip code.”
Additionally, the caucus will serve as a hub for collaboration between government agencies, private-sector innovators, and healthcare professionals, and advocate for policies that strike a balance between fostering innovation and ensuring patient safety and data security, the summary says.
The caucus also will work to advance research and development in the digital health space.
“From telehealth visits to virtual treatment monitoring, digital technology is transforming medicine and improving prevention and treatment options at a rapid pace,” Rep. Kelly said. “I’m proud to co-chair the bipartisan Digital Health Caucus with Congressman Troy Balderson to identify innovative applications for digital technology in healthcare.”
The Consumer Technology Association endorsed the caucus.