An Informal Discussion and Q&A on Approaches for Navigating to the Other Side of the Public Health Emergency
During the public health emergency (PHE), the use of telemedicine grew exponentially as providers sought alternatives to traditional patient care models. Congress temporarily lifted many restrictions related to reimbursement, and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services expanded coverage and reimbursement for communication technology-based services. When the PHE subsides, it will take a literal “act of Congress” to make permanent the coverage expansion. In the meantime, providers must consider high-risk areas, look for post-COVID opportunities in telemedicine, and prepare for changes that may lie ahead, particularly if laws revert to pre-pandemic status.
PYA Principals Angie Caldwell and Valerie Rock joined Foley & Lardner’s TJ Ferrante and Jana Kolarik for an informal virtual discussion and Q&A as part of the PYA and Foley & Lardner LLP “Let’s Talk Compliance” series. Attendees were encouraged to bring questions and participate in a dialogue about telehealth and the end of the PHE.
The 45-minute discussion was held on October 8, 2021.
Update November 15, 2021:
Not long after our event, on October 15 the HHS Secretary extended the PHE through January 16, 2022, the sixth renewal since the PHE was first declared in January 2020. An article released by Foley & Lardner on November 10, 2021 includes key takeaways and resources to monitor.
If you would like additional guidance related to telemedicine compliance, or for assistance with any matter related to compliance, valuation, or strategy and integration, contact a PYA executive below at (800) 270-9629.