Columbus Standard

Washington D.C. – U.S. Congressman Greg Pence (IN-06) highlighted the success of telehealth flexibilities during a House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee Hearing focused on supporting patient access to telehealth services. Pence emphasized the importance of building upon the advancements made during the pandemic to ensure continued access to quality care, particularly for rural communities.

Pence expressed his support for the Telehealth Modernization Act, stating, "My colleague Congressman Buddy Carter’s legislation, which I am proud to cosponsor, the Telehealth Modernization Act, would make permanent several of these flexibilities to allow patients to receive care in the comfort of their home." He also stressed the significance of expanding telemedicine for mental health services to improve access for individuals, especially those in rural areas.

The Congressman highlighted the collaboration between various agencies during the Trump-Pence Administration to enhance telehealth services, aiming to connect rural patients with necessary care. Pence urged the current administration to continue building upon these efforts to ensure equitable access to healthcare services for all individuals, particularly those in underserved areas.

Furthermore, Pence referenced successful implementations of telehealth services in Indiana during the pandemic, noting the efforts of healthcare institutions like IU Health and Hancock Regional Hospital in utilizing telehealth for various medical needs. He posed important questions to Dr. Schwamm regarding the benefits of patients receiving treatment at home and how telehealth services can assist individuals with acute care conditions.

Congressman Greg Pence's active involvement in promoting telehealth advancements underscores the ongoing efforts to enhance healthcare accessibility and quality for all Americans, particularly those in rural and underserved communities.