Background:
Access to timely, high-quality cancer care remains a challenge for many patients, particularly those living in rural and underserved communities. Telehealth has emerged as a proven solution to bridge these gaps, enabling patients to consult with oncology specialists without the burden of long travel times or logistical barriers. For individuals facing complex cancer diagnoses, the ability to connect virtually with their care team can mean faster treatment decisions, improved adherence to care plans, and better health outcomes. Current extensions are done by budget year with coverage for Telehealth set to expire again on January 30th.
The Creating Opportunities Now for Necessary and Effective Care Technologies (CONNECT) for Health Act (H.R. 4206/S. 1261) would extend coverage of Medicare telehealth services, make COVID-19 telehealth flexibilities permanent, improve health outcomes, and make it easier for patients to connect with their doctors.
How Can YOU Help?
You have a powerful voice. Reaching out to lawmakers is a critical step in protecting vital services for patients. Please contact your members of Congress and urge them to cosponsor and advance the legislation. While this message is written from the perspective of an oncology nurse, everyone is invited to personalize this message with your own experiences.
How do I know if my representative is already supporting this?
Our systems will do the work for you! When you enter your information, it will check your representatives' status and only show you those who are not yet supporting the bill.