To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to expand practitioners eligible to furnish telehealth services under the Medicare program.

# HR 1614 Summary **What the Bill Does** HR 1614 would make permanent a temporary allowance for certain healthcare providers to offer telehealth services (remote video appointments) through Medicare. Specifically, it would let audiologists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech-language pathologists provide care to Medicare patients via telehealth on an ongoing basis, rather than having this option expire. **Who It Affects** This bill impacts Medicare beneficiaries (primarily seniors age 65+) who could access hearing, rehabilitation, and speech therapy services remotely instead of traveling to in-person appointments.

It also affects the four types of healthcare providers listed above, who would gain permanent authorization to offer telehealth services under the Medicare program. **Current Status** The bill was introduced by Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. Key provisions would remove the expiration date on telehealth services for these practitioners, making remote care a permanent Medicare option rather than a temporary one.