The inquiry centers on actions taken during the Trump administration related to the provision of remote healthcare services. Telehealth encompasses the utilization of electronic information and telecommunication technologies to support and promote long-distance clinical health care, patient and professional health-related education, public health, and health administration. It can involve video conferencing, streaming media, and other digital platforms.
The expansion of remote healthcare was significantly influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic. During the public health emergency, regulatory flexibilities were implemented to facilitate wider adoption, addressing barriers related to reimbursement, licensing, and HIPAA compliance. These changes enabled healthcare providers to reach patients who could not access in-person care, particularly those in rural or underserved areas, and minimize exposure risks during the pandemic.