An IT group is pushing Congress to unify telehealth regulations nationwide and penalize states that do not move to make the technology available to physicians and patients. According to a report released Monday by the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF), telemedicine technology, which allows physicians to treat patients remotely, could make the healthcare system more efficient. However, conflicting federal regulations and state laws have created barriers that the group says need to be torn down. "The only thing holding back telehealth right now is outdated rules and regulations," said Daniel Castro, senior policy analyst with the ITIF. "Given the high cost of care and lack of access to doctors in many parts of the country, it's imperative that policymakers clear the remaining roadblocks to widespread adoption."
