The AAMC submitted a statement for the record in support of extending the Acute Hospital Care at Home (AHCaH) program and key COVID-19 telehealth waivers in advance of a March 12 House Ways and Means Committee hearing on “Enhancing Access to Care at Home in Rural and Underserved Communities.” The statement highlighted the importance of AHCaH and telehealth in ensuring that patients have comprehensive access to the care they need. It specifically highlighted the promising advancements in the AHCaH program, including strong patient satisfaction and the ability to alleviate capacity issues in teaching hospitals.
During the hearing, members of the committee expressed strong support for AHCaH and telehealth, with many highlighting the importance of home-based care for rural and underserved communities. In particular, some members highlighted audio-only telehealth as a critical option for patients in areas with unreliable or no broadband. Members also noted that AHCaH has the potential to help support rural health care workers, particularly in light of recent rural hospital closures.
Congress must act to extend both the ACHaH and telehealth waivers before their expiration on Dec. 31.
- Washington Highlights