VirtuAlly advocates for expanded telehealth access in Charleston

Charleston-based telehealth provider VirtuAlly is advocating for expanded access to telehealth services. Their efforts gained attention after a recent showcase on Capitol Hill where they met with lawmakers. The company aims to improve telehealth accessibility for vulnerable populations. At the event, VirtuAlly leaders Angela Bozard and Morgan Sires discussed the importance of telehealth, especially as public health emergency waivers are set to expire. Many seniors and rural residents risk losing access to essential virtual care, according to the Center for Telehealth and eHealth Law (CTeL). While a six-month extension for Medicare telehealth reimbursement was included in a recent budget bill, VirtuAlly is pushing for longer-term solutions. Sires noted that reimbursement regulations became more flexible during the COVID pandemic. As the situation stabilizes, there are concerns that these regulations might tighten, making it harder for hospitals and patients to access telehealth services. Currently, VirtuAlly operates in 11 facilities across South Carolina, and they plan to expand their services, including remote patient monitoring, in the future. The company also aims to integrate artificial intelligence to enhance efficiency. This technology could improve patient intake and documentation, allowing their staff to manage more patients safely. Looking ahead, VirtuAlly plans to grow beyond its current markets in South Carolina, Florida, Georgia, and California. They are exploring opportunities in North Carolina, the Midwest, and the Northeast. Overall, VirtuAlly is optimistic about their advocacy efforts in Washington. They believe that their message about the importance of telehealth reimbursement was well received at the recent event.