1. United States
2. Ore.
3. Letter

I urge you to support and pass the 'CONNECT for Health Act of 2025' (S.1261/ H.R. 4206). This crucial legislation would make pandemic-era telehealth flexibilities permanent, significantly improving healthcare access for millions of Americans, especially those with chronic diseases and disabilities like myself. As someone living with ME/CFS (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome), I can attest to the life-changing impact of telehealth. For many of us, traveling to medical appointments can be physically impossible, financially burdensome, or medically risky. Telehealth has become a vital lifeline, allowing us to receive necessary care without exacerbating our conditions. The CONNECT for Health Act would remove geographic restrictions, expand eligible sites, and widen the range of providers able to offer telehealth services. Critically, it would eliminate the six-month in-person requirement for telemental health, a barrier that has prevented many from accessing essential mental health support. This act isn't just about convenience; it's about equity and accessibility. For rural residents, the bedbound, those with limited mobility, and individuals facing barriers such as travel expenses or childcare needs, telehealth is often the only feasible way to access medical care. By making these services permanently available, we can ensure that healthcare is more equitable, accessible, and affordable for all. Moreover, telehealth reduces the burden on both patients and physicians. It saves time, cuts down on unnecessary travel, and allows for more efficient scheduling. This efficiency can lead to better health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs in the long run. The pandemic has clearly demonstrated the value and viability of telehealth. Now is the time to cement these advancements into our healthcare system permanently. I implore you to support the CONNECT for Health Act of 2025 and help create a more inclusive and accessible healthcare system for all Americans, regardless of their location or physical abilities. Your support for this bill would make a tangible difference in the lives of countless constituents like me who rely on telehealth for our well-being and quality of life. Please vote in favor of S.1261/ H.R. 4206 and help secure a future where quality healthcare is truly accessible to all.