WASHINGTON, D.C. – Matt Eyles, president and CEO of America’s Health Insurance Plans (AHIP), issued this statement as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) dramatically expanded Medicare’s coverage of telehealth services. The action is another part of the Administration’s continuing leadership to contain and mitigate risks related to COVID-19:
Americans are working together to protect themselves and one another from the spread of the coronavirus. Health insurance providers are fully engaged in many efforts – at the federal, state, and local level – to help overcome this threat we are all facing together. By working together with our health care partners, reaching out to engage and support the people we serve, and leveraging our insights and technical capabilities, we will successfully curb the spread of COVID-19.
Social distancing is key to reducing the risk of infection, and keeping people out of doctor’s offices and hospitals whenever possible will go a long way to help protect those who are vulnerable to the most dire effects of this virus. We thank CMS for its continued leadership to break down barriers and encourage innovation and technology to be fully leveraged during this urgent time.
Americans need to take good care of their health, especially now. We encourage everyone who needs to see a doctor during this time to please consider using telehealth or other technologies that allow you to consult with your doctor virtually – particularly if you are a senior, or someone with a disability or underlying health condition. Many health insurance providers offer telehealth services and are eager to help people get virtual care as we battle this pandemic.
We will continue to work with doctors, hospitals, labs, and drug manufacturers, as well as Congress, the Administration, and state and local leaders to keep America strong.”
About AHIP
AHIP is the national association whose members provide coverage for health care and related services to hundreds of millions of Americans every day. Through these offerings, we improve and protect the health and financial security of consumers, families, businesses, communities and the nation. We are committed to market-based solutions and public-private partnerships that improve affordability, value, access, and well-being for consumers. Visit www.ahip.org for more information.