1. United States
2. N.M.
3. Letter

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my strong support for expanding and maintaining public access to telehealth services. As a concerned citizen, I believe that telehealth is essential for ensuring equitable access to healthcare, particularly for individuals with disabilities, and for minimizing public exposure to communicable diseases like SARS-CoV-2. One of the key reasons to prioritize telehealth access is its impact on individuals with disabilities or chronic health conditions. Many people face significant barriers to physically visiting healthcare providers due to mobility issues, transportation challenges, or the need for assistance to attend appointments. Telehealth allows these individuals to receive high-quality medical care from the comfort of their homes, reducing stress and logistical complications. For many, it provides a critical lifeline to routine medical care, specialist consultations, and mental health support that might otherwise be difficult to access. Moreover, the ongoing presence of SARS-CoV-2, along with other contagious illnesses, continues to pose a serious threat, particularly to vulnerable populations, including the elderly and immunocompromised. Requiring patients to visit healthcare facilities unnecessarily increases their risk of exposure to potentially life-threatening infections. Telehealth offers a safer alternative, allowing patients to consult with healthcare providers without the risk of infection or the burden of travel. This service helps to protect both patients and healthcare workers, reducing strain on our medical system by minimizing in-person visits when not strictly necessary. Telehealth also plays a crucial role in bridging the healthcare gap in rural and underserved communities, where access to specialists and mental health services may be limited. Expanding telehealth options can ensure that all Americans, regardless of geographic location, receive timely and appropriate medical care. It is vital that we continue to invest in and support policies that broaden access to telehealth services, including addressing broadband disparities and ensuring that telehealth is covered by insurance in a way that makes it accessible and affordable for all. I urge you to consider the immense benefits of telehealth and to advocate for legislation that will ensure continued and expanded access for everyone, especially those most vulnerable. Thank you for your attention to this important matter, and for your continued service to our country.