Congressman David G. Valadao Calls for Prioritization of Rural Communities for Telehealth Funding

WASHINGTON — Today, Congressman David G. Valadao joined a bipartisan group of 30 members of Congress to request the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) prioritize rural areas for COVID-19 Telehealth Program funding. The letter to FCC Chairwoman Rosenworcel highlights the importance of telehealth flexibilities for rural communities where residents may not have access to healthcare facilities without significant travel.

“Members of rural communities often live miles away from healthcare services, and many cannot afford the time or do not have adequate transportation to seek care for themselves and their loves ones,” said Congressman Valadao. “The COVID-19 pandemic made clear the importance of healthcare access for these underserved communities, and telehealth services have proven to be especially beneficial for patients in rural areas.”

A second round of funding through the COVID-19 Telehealth program, which provides grants to enable healthcare providers to serve their patients remotely, was recently announced by the FCC.

The letter can be found here.

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