ZoomCare, the Pacific Northwest-based innovator and creator of on-demand healthcare, led the passing of House Bill 2508A alongside multiple healthcare organizations in Oregon, including the Oregon Medical Association, OCHIN, and The Portland Clinic. The passing of HB 2508A expands coverage of and reimbursement for telemedicine services in Oregon, ultimately promoting equitable and safe access to care.
“Working in conjunction with the broader healthcare community to better serve patients, we at ZoomCare supported HB 2508A because it benefits Oregonians and removes several barriers to accessing telemedicine, promoting the continuation of a hybrid model of in-person and telemedicine care,” said Torben Nielsen, CEO of ZoomCare. “This is the next big step in the healthcare industry, ensuring quality care for all patients during a pandemic and far beyond.”
As demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic, telemedicine has served as a mechanism to expand access to physical and behavioral health services to Oregonians. The bill requires Oregon Health Authority (OHA) to reimburse health services delivered via telemedicine if criteria are met, including reimbursing a provider at the same rate for a health service delivered in person. Additionally, applicable health plans are now required to reimburse providers at the same rate for a health service delivered in person or via telemedicine.
“We’re pleased that this critical bill has passed and are appreciative of the bill’s supporters,” said Erik Vanderlip, MD MPH, Chief Medical Officer at ZoomCare. “Telemedicine care is an important mainstream care option to offer to those who want it, not just a nice-to-have addition. HB 2508A recognizes that and brings it to fruition for Oregonians.”
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Source: Yahoo