Pa. Senate Passes Key Telehealth Bill

May 08, 2024

The Pennsylvania Senate this morning passed a bill that will support access to telehealth for thousands of Pennsylvanians.

The chamber passed Senate Bill 739 by a 47–1 vote. The HAP-supported bill, sponsored by Senator Elder Vogel (R-Beaver, Butler, Lawrence), defines reimbursement requirements for telehealth services and clarifies coverage for virtual care. It also helps ensure that payment cannot be denied simply because care is provided via telehealth.

The bill moves to the House for consideration.

Last month, HAP wrote to Senate and House lawmakers urging them to advance legislation to increase access to care via telehealth. “This is neither a Democrat v. Republican nor a Senate v. House issue,” the letter said. “It touches all Pennsylvanians, and we urge you to work together to get a telemedicine bill across the finish line this session.”

HAP will continue to advocate for policies and legislation that support access to care via telehealth. For information about HAP’s state advocacy, contact Heather Tyler, vice president, state legislative advocacy.