WeVote

Bill

Bill

S 354

SHOW UP Act of 2025

119th Congress Introduced by Marsha Blackburn and 6 co-sponsors

Bill S 354 expands telehealth services, improving access for patients in underserved areas and ensuring fair reimbursement for providers delivering remote care.

Introduced in Senate
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 354

Summary of Bill S 354: Expansion of Telehealth Services

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: S 354
  • Title: Expands the healthcare services provided by telehealth
  • Status: Referred to Health Committee
  • Introduced: January 08, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill S 354 is to enhance access to healthcare services through the expansion of telehealth. This legislation aims to improve the delivery of medical care, particularly in underserved areas, by allowing a broader range of services to be provided remotely. The intent is to leverage technology to facilitate patient care, reduce barriers to access, and improve health outcomes.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes several significant changes to existing telehealth regulations, including:

  • Expanded Service Offerings: The legislation will allow additional healthcare services to be delivered via telehealth, including but not limited to:

    • Mental health services
    • Chronic disease management
    • Preventive care consultations
    • Follow-up appointments
  • Reimbursement Policies: It seeks to establish clearer reimbursement guidelines for telehealth services, ensuring that providers are compensated fairly for remote consultations.

  • Licensure Flexibility: The bill may include provisions that allow healthcare providers to offer telehealth services across state lines, thereby increasing access for patients in rural or remote areas.

  • Technology Standards: Establishment of minimum technology standards to ensure secure and effective communication between patients and providers.

Affected Parties

The following groups will be directly impacted by the provisions of Bill S 354:

  • Patients: Individuals seeking healthcare services will benefit from increased access to a wider range of telehealth options, particularly those in rural or underserved communities.

  • Healthcare Providers: Physicians, mental health professionals, and other healthcare practitioners will have the opportunity to expand their practice through telehealth, potentially reaching more patients.

  • Insurance Companies: Insurers will need to adapt their policies to align with the new reimbursement guidelines established by the bill.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 08, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Health Committee.
  • May 13, 2025: First report calendar.
  • May 14, 2025: Second report calendar.
  • May 15, 2025: Advanced to third reading.
  • May 28, 2025: Bill passed in the Senate and delivered to the Assembly, where it was again referred to the Health Committee.

Related Legislation

  • S 9584: A related bill from a prior session that may address similar telehealth issues.
  • S 2776: Another prior-session bill that could provide context or background on telehealth legislation.
  • A 6334: A companion bill in the Assembly that aligns with the objectives of S 354.

Conclusion

Bill S 354 represents a significant step towards modernizing healthcare delivery through telehealth. By expanding the range of services available and improving reimbursement policies, the bill aims to enhance patient access to care and support healthcare providers in delivering effective remote services. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications for the healthcare system will continue to unfold.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.