VA set to waive co-pays on telehealth visits

A U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs proposal could lower one barrier to telehealth--the agency is considering waiving patient co-pays for remote visits, saying it aims to make "the home a preferred place of care," whenever appropriate.

"Telehealth helps ensure that veterans are able to get their care in a timely and convenient manner, by reducing burdens on the patient as well as appropriately reducing the utilization of VA resources without sacrificing the quality of care provided," the VA says in its proposed rule. "The benefits of using this technology include increased access to specialist consultations, improved access to primary and ambulatory care, reduced waiting times, and decreased veteran travel."

The VA notes that it has the power to set fees for service and that the fees are based on the complexity of care provided and the resources needed to provide that care.

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http://www.fiercehealthit.com/story/va-set-waive-co-pays-telehealth-visits/2012-04-10?utm_medium=nl&utm_source=internal