TRENTON, NJ – The Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee has approved legislation extending pay parity for telehealth services through the end of 2024. Sponsored by Senator Vin Gopal (D-Monmouth), the bill mandates equal reimbursement rates for telemedicine and in-person healthcare services.
The initiative, rooted in the successful application of telemedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic, aims to integrate telehealth as a permanent fixture in healthcare provision.
Senator Gopal emphasized the importance of telehealth services, stating that they should be “built out smartly and fairly” and remain affordable in New Jersey. The bill, S-4127, not only ensures continued reimbursement equality for telehealth providers but also encourages the utilization of these services beyond the public health emergency.
The legislation, which aims to promote and facilitate telehealth, especially in mental healthcare, passed the committee unanimously with a 7-0 vote. This development marks a significant step in recognizing and integrating telemedicine into the broader healthcare system in New Jersey.