Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SR368

Introduced

9/26/23

Caption

A resolution supporting the designation of the week of September 17 through September 23, 2023, as "Telehealth Awareness Week".

Impact

If passed, SR368 would not create any binding laws but serves as a formal recognition and acknowledgment from the Senate of the significance of telehealth services. The resolution aims to foster ongoing discussions and awareness related to telehealth benefits, which may influence future legislative initiatives aiming to improve healthcare access and delivery mechanisms. The designation of a specific week emphasizes the importance of telehealth in enhancing patient care and might lead to more robust telehealth policies and practices moving forward.

Summary

SR368 is a resolution supporting the designation of the week of September 17 through September 23, 2023, as 'Telehealth Awareness Week.' This week is intended to raise awareness of the role that telehealth plays in delivering healthcare services, especially in light of its significant expansion during the COVID-19 pandemic. The resolution acknowledges the surge in telehealth service utilization among Medicare beneficiaries, highlighting that usage increased substantially during the first year of the pandemic and has continued to be an essential healthcare delivery method. The resolution reflects bipartisan support and recognizes the critical importance of telehealth in improving healthcare access for all individuals, particularly those in rural and underserved communities.

Contention

While the resolution itself may not contain points of contention, discussions surrounding telehealth often involve debates over access, quality of care, and potential disparities in healthcare delivery. Supporters argue that telehealth is an innovative and necessary adaptation to modern healthcare needs, particularly following the experience of the public health emergency. Critics, on the other hand, may raise concerns regarding the quality of care delivered through telehealth versus in-person visits, funding for telehealth infrastructure, and equitable access for all communities. The resolution's passing may catalyze further scrutiny and discussions around these paramount issues.