How the Merged ATA Action and DTA Plans to Revolutionize Telehealth Advocacy

Stethoscope on tablet representing telehealth advocacy plans.

The Future of Telehealth: Advocacy Defined

As the landscape of healthcare continues to evolve, the newly merged entities of the American Telemedicine Association's ATA Action and the Digital Therapeutics Alliance are stepping forward with ambitious plans. Their focus is clear: ensuring that telehealth and digital therapeutics not only remain integral aspects of healthcare but also thrive as essential components. In recent discussions, Kyle Zebley and Andy Molnar shed light on four critical issues prioritizing this advocacy in the newly unified organization.

Securing Pandemic-Era Flexibilities

One of the paramount concerns is preserving the special telehealth flexibilities introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Zebley emphasized the urgency, particularly regarding Medicare regulations, advocating for the elimination of outdated geographic restrictions. Maintaining provider eligibility expansions and ensuring long-term access to virtual care are pivotal for adapting to the evolving needs of patients and healthcare providers alike.

Launching the Advancing Digital Health Coalition

The newly formed Advancing Digital Health Coalition will serve as a vital extension of the work initially laid out by the Digital Therapeutics Alliance. This initiative aims to amplify advocacy efforts for innovative healthcare technologies. As Molnar pointed out, fostering an environment where such advancements can flourish is essential for enhancing patient care and broadening access to cutting-edge treatments.

Long-term Policy Frameworks for Telehealth

Building a robust state and federal policy framework is integral to the coalition's mission. The goals include establishing telehealth and digital therapeutics as standard practices within the U.S. healthcare system. Achieving this requires a concerted effort to navigate regulatory landscapes and champion policies that safeguard the future of digital health services.

Momentum in Digital Therapeutics

Lastly, the coalition is dedicated to maintaining the momentum gained in the field of digital therapeutics. Zebley and Molnar both expressed that continuous advocacy is necessary to keep these technologies on the frontlines of patient care solutions, ensuring they remain relevant and beneficial to healthcare practices moving forward.

As the ATA Action and DTA merge, their collective efforts will be essential to shaping a future where telehealth and digital therapeutics are not merely options but are recognized as vital elements of the healthcare ecosystem.

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How the Merged ATA Action and DTA Plans to Revolutionize Telehealth Advocacy

The Future of Telehealth: Advocacy Defined

Securing Pandemic-Era Flexibilities

Launching the Advancing Digital Health Coalition

Long-term Policy Frameworks for Telehealth

Momentum in Digital Therapeutics

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