The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), has awarded nearly $55 million to 29 health centers funded by HRSA to increase virtual health care access.
“Virtual care has been a game changer for patients, especially during the pandemic,” DHHS Secretary Xavier Becerra said, according to the DHHS website. “This funding will help health centers leverage the latest technology and innovations to expand access to quality primary care for underserved communities. Today’s announcement reflects the Biden-Harris administration’s commitment to advancing health equity and putting essential health care within reach for all Americans.”
The funding builds on over $7.3 billion in American Rescue Plan funding.
DHHS has reported that there has been an increase of 130% in the number of health centers offering virtual visits. This number grew from 592 in 2019 to 1,362 in 2022. The centers have immediately responded and addressed the pandemic by intensifying their use of remote care for patients’ access to much-needed primary care services.
The department has also reported that over 90% of health center patients are individuals or families living at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
