NE Washington News

On May 16, 2024, House Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) delivered opening remarks at the Health Subcommittee markup of 23 legislative proposals. The proposed legislation aims to extend Americans' access to telehealth services, strengthen and preserve Medicaid, and encourage innovation to help children with rare diseases.

McMorris Rodgers stated, "Today we will consider bipartisan legislation to extend telehealth flexibilities that are set to expire at the end of this year. While continuing these flexibilities for seniors will require an investment by Congress, it is crucial that we continue to allow seniors to access health care via telehealth if they choose."

The bills under consideration aim to protect seniors' access to telehealth for an additional two years. They build upon the bipartisan work of past Congresses by adding new program integrity safeguards. Some of the bills also propose expanding how seniors can benefit from telehealth.

"I commend Representatives Carter, Joyce, Balderson, James, Bilirakis, and the many other members on both sides of the aisle for their continued hard work on advancing these policies," said McMorris Rodgers.

Telehealth has proven essential for patients across the country—especially in rural areas like Eastern Washington. The committee chair expressed her commitment to advancing this legislation while addressing any outstanding concerns and ensuring full funding before considering them at the full committee level.

The committee is also considering several bipartisan bills related to autism and lung cancer. These bills aim to increase access to care, raise awareness, and improve coordination across federal government programs.

The committee is working on a six-year reauthorization of the rare pediatric disease priority review voucher program ahead of its Sept. 30 expiration. This program has been critical in spurring research and development for rare diseases requiring different gene replacement therapies.

"Without the Rare Pediatric Disease Priority Review Voucher Program, Maggie and Peter’s parents say their chances of getting treatments for their kids becomes almost impossible," said McMorris Rodgers, sharing the story of the Dion family, whose children were diagnosed with a form of muscular dystrophy.

The National Organization of Rare Diseases recently released an analysis of the importance of the PRV program. The report highlighted that while the program is successful, it also shows how long it can take to see that success. Drugs take years—and hundreds of millions or even billions of dollars—to develop.

"I am proud of all the work and patient voices reflected in the legislation before us today. I also know that more can and should be done," concluded McMorris Rodgers.