I am a cancer specialist, regularly attending to patients in rural areas of Southern Colorado. Many of my patients live in rural communities, far removed from immediate healthcare access, or are homebound due to their conditions. Since the COVID pandemic, Medicare has allowed telehealth or "virtual visits" from the home setting. Beginning April 1, 2025, home telehealth visits will be greatly limited and rural patients will need to travel to a local clinic to complete a telehealth visit.
Rural patients exhibit higher mortality rates, with longer distances to travel for care acting as a significant barrier to treatment (Journal of Rural Health). Among the homebound population, a substantial portion live with multiple chronic conditions, and interruption of their telehealth services can lead to potential health crises (American Journal of Public Health).
For patients living with a cancer diagnosis or chronic conditions, telehealth provides an important link to their care team. Telehealth also helps alleviate costly travel to medical appointments, time off work, and child care expenses.
A review of studies of different telehealth implementations published on PubMed from January 2017 to December 2020 showed that "Telehealth models were associated with positive outcomes for patients and health care professionals, suggesting these models are feasible and can be effective." Butzner M, Cuffee Y J Med Internet Res 2021;23(8):e29575
doi: 10.2196/29575
Therefore, we ask that Medicare extend its coverage for home telehealth visits beyond April 1 2025. This measure would not only ensure that rural and homebound patients continue receiving the care they need but would also greatly contribute to alleviating healthcare disparities across rural America. Stand with us in the fight against insufficient healthcare access. Support rural and homebound patients by signing this petition today.
No comments:
Post a Comment