Rounds unveils bipartisan bill to replenish federal COVID-19 Telehealth Program

U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds (R-SD) on Oct. 1 introduced bipartisan legislation that would make $200 million in emergency supplemental appropriations available for the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) COVID-19 Telehealth Program.

“Our legislation would allow for an existing FCC program to continue investing in telehealth technology so more Americans can utilize these services,” the senator said.

Sen. Rounds is the original cosponsor of the COVID-19 Telehealth Program Extension Act, S. 4794, with bill sponsor U.S. Sen. Tina Smith (D-MN) to provide the additional funds for the COVID-19 Telehealth Program, which ran out of funding in July.

“As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, South Dakotans — especially those in rural areas — need to know they can access medical attention when they need it,” Sen. Rounds said. “Fortunately, telehealth services have become an easy and safe way for folks to speak with a medical professional from their home.”

The FCC established the COVID-19 Telehealth Program in April to help healthcare providers purchase telehealth technology to prevent, prepare for and respond to the COVID-19 crisis, according to information provided by Sen. Rounds’ office, including infrastructure such as telehealth platforms, wireless access points for patients, tablets, and remote monitoring devices.

However, many health centers that were eligible and applied for funding did not receive it because of the limited program funds, according to the information.

“Telehealth has been incredibly valuable during COVID-19,” said Sen. Smith. “But gaps in access to telehealth, particularly in rural areas, are preventing people from getting the care they need. Our bipartisan legislation will help health care providers accelerate the use of technology to expand care in rural communities.”

The legislation has been referred for consideration to the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee.