House Democrats Concur on Bipartisan Legislation to Expand Telehealth
Contact Name: Sara Persechino
Phone: (603) 271-3479
Email: Sara.Persechino@leg.state.nh.us
CONCORD - Today, the New Hampshire House of Representatives voted to concur with the Senate recommendation of Ought to Pass as Amended on HB 1623 in a vote of 204-117. As amended, the omnibus legislation seeks to ensure coverage and reimbursement for health care services provided through telemedicine on the same basis as services provided in person, in office visits. HB 1623 will next be enrolled with the Secretary of State’s office and then go to the governor’s desk, at which time he will have five days to act.
After the vote, Senator Tom Sherman (D-Rye) and Senator Jay Kahn (D-Keene) issued the following statements:
“The emergence of telehealth in our rural and vulnerable communities has been instrumental in combating the impacts of COVID-19 across New Hampshire,” said Senator Tom Sherman (D-Rye). “The benefits of remote health care cannot be understated. Telehealth has given our providers the ability to diagnose and address problems early on, improving the public health and welfare of Granite Staters while saving the state substantial long-term medical costs. We must continue to improve on this progress, and I look forward to the Governor’s signature of this vital legislation.”
“Throughout this crisis, telemedicine has been the bridge between health and mental health providers and their patients,” added Senator Jay Kahn (D-Keene). “As we continue to work towards expanded broadband, we will continue our efforts to expand access to telehealth. It has proven to be a critical tool in providing timely and efficient access to diagnosis and treatment. It has helped our children with disabilities receive school based services from the safety of their homes. The experiences of clients and students will inform future evaluation as we continuously work together to improve access across New Hampshire. I thank my House colleagues for their concurrence and look forward to the day expanded telehealth is signed into law.”
###