Representative Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) has introduced the RPM (remote patient monitoring) Cost Sharing Elimination Study Act of 2023.
The bill is tailored to eliminate the existing copay for RPM for two years under Traditional Medicare and “study the effects of the elimination on patient outcomes in home health, as well as potential cost savings to Medicare.”
This measure requies Medicare to cover 100% of the service by eliminating the current 20% copay.
RPM requires the use of technology such as smartphones to track patients’ statuses in between visits regarding diabetes, heart failure, cardiac disorders, and high blood pressure according to Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick’s press release.
“As a former home care executive, I know how valuable remote monitoring can be in equalizing care and giving seniors the tools they need to manage their health from home,” said Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick. “My colleagues and I hope to identify what steps are needed to improve remote monitoring services and ensure better health outcomes for Medicare enrollees.”
Representatives Raul Ruiz (D-CA) and Terri Sewell (D-AL) joined the Florida congresswoman in the effort.
Rep. Ruiz mentioned that this bill would “save more lives” should it make its way to the President’s desk.
“As an emergency physician, my main priority has always been to protect and strengthen Medicare, especially for our seniors in rural and underserved communities where travel to medical facilities is a challenge,” said Rep. Ruiz (D-CA). “This bill would improve remote patient monitoring and allow us to save more lives by catching emergencies early on.”
Additionally, Rep. Sewell that the legislation could help those in rural areas to address their health concerns without fear of costs.
“With an increasing number of Americans relying on telehealth, we must ensure that these services are affordable and accessible to those who need them,” said Congresswoman Sewell. “This legislation would eliminate cost sharing for remote patient monitoring under the Medicare program, allowing older Americans, especially those in rural areas, the ability to utilize RPM services without the concern for costs.”
The bill is sponsored by the National Rural Health Association, the National Association for Home Care & Hospice, and the Partnership for Quality Home Healthcare.
Cherfilus-McCormick represents Florida’s 20th Congressional District.
