By: Chaunte’ Causey, Communications Manager, PCC
Telehealth has become a lifeline for many South Carolinians—especially in rural and underserved communities where patients often face long drives, transportation barriers, and limited provider availability. With current flexibilities set to expire on September 30, 2025, patients and providers are looking for clarity on what comes next.
The Creating Opportunities Now for Necessary and Effective Care Technologies (CONNECT) for Health Act of 2025 (H.R. 4206/S. 1261) is the most comprehensive proposal under consideration. It would
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Permanently remove outdated geographic restrictions so Medicare patients can receive care at home.
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Eliminate in-person requirements for telemental health visits, protecting consistent access to counseling and behavioral health services.
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Preserve audio-only telehealth options for patients without broadband or video devices.
For South Carolina, this would mean seniors, patients managing chronic diseases, and those seeking mental health care could continue receiving services without unnecessary barriers.
Medicare Reimbursement for Providers:
Right now, Medicare reimbursement for telehealth is only secure through September 30, 2025. Providers are reimbursed at rates comparable to in-person visits—a policy that has enabled rural clinics and small practices to deliver care virtually.
If these policies are not extended, reimbursement could revert to outdated limits, leaving many providers unable to sustain their telehealth programs. For South Carolina, that means uncertainty in long-term planning, staffing, and investment in telehealth technology.
Why Action Is Urgent
If Congress does not act before October 1:
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Patients may once again have to travel to designated facilities for virtual visits.
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Audio-only telehealth could disappear, cutting off those without internet or devices.
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Mental health care could face new restrictions, delaying access to critical services.
The progress of the last five years would be lost—and South Carolina patients would feel the impact immediately.
Why It Matters for South Carolina
Telehealth is not just convenience; it’s access.
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Patients in rural areas can avoid hours of travel.
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Chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease can be monitored more effectively.
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Mental health services can be delivered faster and more consistently.
Take Action
Patients, providers, and advocates all have a role to play. Contact your representatives in Congress and urge them to support legislation that makes Medicare telehealth flexibilities permanent.
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Find your House representative: house.gov (search by zip code in the top right corner).
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Contact South Carolina’s Senators: senate.gov (click “Senators” → “Contact Your Senators”).
Looking Ahead
As the September 30 deadline approaches, Palmetto Care Connections will continue to share timely updates. Telehealth has proven its value. Ensuring its long-term stability will help providers continue delivering high-quality care to South Carolinians wherever they are.
