Political and legal considerations for the future of telehealth in the United States following the covid-19 public health emergency

Telehealth capabilities greatly changed during the COVID-19 pandemic, as the United States was under a Public Health Emergency (PHE). However, when this designation was unwound in May of 2023, the flexibilities and extensions of important coverage for patients became jeopardized. To date, there is still question regarding permanent implementation of these policies, because Congressional directive has only granted extensions for the PHE modifications through the ends of the following fiscal years, stalling for time. To adapt with the ever-growing capabilities and imminence of telehealth, direct legislation is needed. This paper will examine the political, legal, and patient considerations by highlighting specific instances where telehealth expansions during the PHE have been useful but must be reexamined in the present time. Examples noted include licensure requirements and security through the lens of mifepristone prescription across state lines, equitable treatment access for rural patients in question with buprenorphine tele-prescription requirements, and payment differences in provider systems.