WASHINGTON, DC, JULY 3, 2025 — ATA Action, the advocacy arm of the American Telemedicine Association, marks a major milestone for telehealth and millions of American workers who will benefit from permanent access to critical telehealth services on a pre-deductible basis. The final reconciliation package now approved by both the U.S. Senate and House, reinstates and makes permanent first-dollar coverage for High-Deductible Health Plan-Health Savings Accounts (HDHP-HSAs).
“Telehealth stands out as a bright spot in the final reconciliation package – a policy unicorn – achieving unwavering support from both sides of the isle, in both chambers. We believe this bodes well for the future of other critical telehealth policies requiring Congressional action,” said Kyle Zebley, executive director of ATA Action and senior vice president, public policy at the ATA. “While many of the provisions in final ‘big beautiful bill’ now awaiting President Trump’s signature will create challenges for our healthcare system and the Medicare population, inclusion of this permanent telehealth provision clearly demonstrates the relentless bipartisan, bicameral support that telehealth has experienced over the past five years.
“Importantly, this legislation will give millions of American workers permanent access to coverage of telehealth services without jeopardizing their HSA eligibility. We could not be more pleased and proud of our Congressional policy champions for their steadfast commitment to virtual care, especially amidst significant deliberations and concessions made in order to pass a final bill before the July 4 deadline,” Zebley added.
Individuals with HDHP-HSAs would be able to access telehealth services without first meeting their deductible, retroactive to December 31, 2024, when the original, temporary provision expired.
“Since the pandemic, when this telehealth flexibility was introduced under President Trump’s first administration in 2020, this has been a top priority for ATA Action,” said Zebley. “Making this permanent will provide certainty for healthcare providers, and employers, improve health outcomes, strengthen employer-sponsored health benefits, and reduce disparities in care.”
About ATA Action
ATA Action recognizes that telehealth and virtual care have the potential to transform the healthcare delivery system by improving patient outcomes, enhancing the safety and effectiveness of care, addressing health disparities, and reducing costs. ATA Action is a registered 501c6 entity and an affiliated trade organization of the American Telemedicine Association (ATA).