Senators Padilla and Cassidy Unite to Expand Access to Digital Health Services and Modernize the Healthcare System

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-La.) have teamed up to introduce a new bipartisan bill aimed at enhancing digital health services. The Health Accelerating Consumers’ Care by Expediting Self-Scheduling (ACCESS) Act seeks to make it easier for patients to find and book health care appointments online, all while protecting their private health information.

“Every American should have easy access to health care, whether for physical or mental health,” Senator Padilla said. He emphasized that as wait times for care grow, it’s vital to incorporate digital solutions in our health care system. “We can’t let scheduling challenges keep people from getting help when they need it most,” he added.

Dr. Cassidy echoed these sentiments, stating, “Dealing with illness is tough enough. Patients should have straightforward access to the care they require.” His focus is on utilizing existing tools to deliver affordable, quality health care.

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the urgent need for digital health services, driving many to seek innovative solutions. However, the current laws do not clearly differentiate between illegal referral practices and legitimate scheduling services that help patients access the care they need. The ACCESS Act aims to clear up this confusion, enabling digital health platforms to collaborate more effectively.

By doing this, the bill hopes to improve the patient experience, expand options for providers, and enhance how care is delivered. For instance, a survey by Telehealth Adoption Report found that nearly 76% of consumers are now comfortable using digital tools for health care, showing a shift in public attitudes toward telehealth services.

The bill has garnered support from a wide array of health organizations, including Advanced Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery and Boston Medical Center, highlighting its broad appeal and importance in today’s health landscape.

Senator Padilla has been a strong advocate for equitable health care access. Just last week, he collaborated with Senators Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) to propose legislation aimed at improving access to specialty care for underserved populations. He’s also introduced the Health Equity and Accountability Act (HEAA) of 2024 to tackle health disparities affecting racial and ethnic minorities, among other groups. These efforts are essential in addressing systemic issues within America’s health care system.

The full text of the ACCESS Act can be found here.

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