House extends virtual care flexibilities beyond public health emergency

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed a spending bill that extends telehealth flexibilities under Medicare beyond the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill, which now heads to the Senate, aims to ensure that telehealth policies remain in place for several months after the public health emergency ends. The bill also includes emergency funding for Ukraine, climate change investments, and a renewal of the Violence Against Women Act. Industry groups and advocates have applauded the provisions and hope for longer-term extensions or permanent solutions for telehealth.