SALINAS — Sen. Anna Caballero (D-Salinas) was honored as California Telehealth Policy Coalition’s 2021 Telehealth Champion at its annual conference Nov. 2.
The virtual event drew close to 100 telehealth policy experts and stakeholders from around the country.
“There is no greater example of the potential for telehealth to transform access and equity in health care than what we’ve been through in the last year with Covid-19,” said Mei Kwong, executive director of the Center for Connected Health Policy. “Today, we are proud to honor Sen. Anna M. Caballero, a legislative leader who has championed equitable telehealth access for every Californian — including those served by the safety net.”
Caballero authored SB 28 and SB 365 during the current legislative session with support from the Coalition and its members.
SB 28 was signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom and will significantly expand broadband access by tackling digital redlining head on. SB 365, which the governor vetoed, would make electronic consultation services reimbursable under the Medi-Cal program for enrolled providers.
“We look forward to continuing work with Sen. Caballero to see the policies set forth in SB 365 enacted by the state,” Kwong added.
Caballero thanked the California Telehealth Policy Coalition for honoring her with the 2021 Telehealth Champion award.
“One of my top priorities since being elected to Senate District 12 has been to broaden access to health care services, especially for those who are greatly impacted in rural areas,” she said. “I was proud to author SB 365 this year, which created expedited access to specialty services for the most vulnerable of our patients on Medi-Cal. Despite the disappointing veto of the bill, I remain committed to work on issues that expand healthcare services, as that is a top concern for residents in my district.”
Center for Connected Health Policy convenes and leads a group of more than 100 state and national entities dedicated to advancing California’s leadership in telehealth policy. The Coalition is made up of consumer groups, medical systems, payers, providers and technology representatives.
