AAHPM Board President: Telehealth access ‘critical’ for hospice patients

AAHPM Board President: Telehealth access ‘critical’ for hospice patients
Hospice News; by Jim Parker; 10/17/24 
The forthcoming expiration of telehealth flexibilities implemented during the pandemic could have a devastating impact on vulnerable populations, including those receiving hospice or palliative care. This is according to Dr. Holly Yang, board president of the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine (AAHPM). Currently, temporary federal rules allowing for greater access to telehealth are set to expire on Dec. 31. While legislation is in play to extend them, the outcome is uncertain, and the end of the year is approaching. Hospice News sat down with Yang to discuss the importance of these flexibilities and how their impending departure could impact patients and families, particularly those in rural areas or with limited mobility, poor health equity or social determinants of health needs.