Allergy & Asthma Network Joins Coalition Urging Support for Telehealth Services in the CARES Act

A doctor wearing a headset sits at a desk with a clipboard, conducting a video call on a laptop. The screen shows another person with curly hair, resting their chin on their hand, participating in the virtual consultation.

Allergy & Asthma Network is joining with the Alliance for Connected Care, doctor and patient organizations and employer coalitions in urging Congress to support telehealth in the CARES Act.

The group is sending a letter to Congress urging support for a telehealth safe harbor provision that will expire on Dec. 31, 2021.

The provision, part of the CARES Act, allows employers and insurers to provide pre-deductible telehealth coverage for employees with high-deductible health plans along with Health Savings Accounts (HDHP-HSAs).

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress took action to ensure telehealth services were covered for employees before their deductible is met.

The provision is not tied to the public health emergency (PHE). It will expire on Dec. 31 if Congress does not act.