MedPAC signals support for telehealth in risk-based payment models

The Medicare Payment Advisory Commission Friday discussed principles to guide the expansion of Medicare telehealth coverage. The 21st Century Cures Act of 2016 requires the commission to report to Congress on how Medicare telehealth coverage might be expanded. During the meeting, commissioners voiced widespread support for lifting restrictions on telehealth for risk-based payment models such as accountable care organizations and Medicare Advantage. The commission expects to review and vote on the final report in January. MedPAC Executive Director Mark Miller Friday announced he will leave the commission after 15 years to become vice president of health for the Laura and John Arnold Foundation, a public policy and philanthropy group.