New Bill Expands Telemedicine Coverage for Service Members

As part of the 2014 National Defense Authorization Act, U.S. President Barack Obama has signed a bill into law that would increase the scope of telemedicine coverage for military service members.

The measure was first introduced by Rep. Glenn Thompson (R-Pa.) as a way to provide more access to health care services for any service members who suffer from mental illnesses such as post-traumatic stress disorder.

Under the Transitional Assistance Management Program, military service members currently get 180 days of health insurance coverage as they transition back into civilian life. Under the new measure, an additional 180 days will be tacked on for all services delivered via telemedicine.

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