Free Telehealth Services: How to Get Healthcare from Home

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Your Guide to HRSA Telehealth Services

This guide helps you understand how the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), makes healthcare more accessible through telehealth.

Understanding HRSA: Your Partner in Health Access

What is HRSA? Mission and Goals

The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) is a key federal agency with a clear mission: “To improve health outcomes and address health disparities through access to quality services, a skilled health workforce, and innovative, high-value programs.” It plays a vital role in enhancing healthcare for millions of Americans, particularly those who are vulnerable or live in underserved areas.

Telehealth is deeply intertwined with HRSA’s core strategic objectives. One of HRSA’s primary goals is to “Improve Access to Quality Health Services,” and a specific strategy to achieve this is to “Increase access to quality patient care through the use of telehealth and innovative technology solutions.”

This strategic focus underscores that HRSA views telehealth as a critical instrument for achieving health equity and reaching populations that have historically faced barriers to care. The agency’s commitment is to technology as a powerful means to ensure better health outcomes for everyone, especially those most in need.

Who HRSA Serves: Reaching Underserved Communities

HRSA programs are specifically designed to support a diverse range of individuals and communities across the United States. These include people who are geographically isolated, such as those living in rural areas, as well as individuals who are economically or medically vulnerable.

HRSA’s reach extends to people with HIV, pregnant women, mothers and their families, individuals and families with low incomes, American Indians and Alaska Natives, and many others who might otherwise struggle to access high-quality healthcare services.

The scale of HRSA’s impact is substantial. Tens of millions of Americans benefit from HRSA-funded programs each year. In Fiscal Year (FY) 2024, HRSA awarded over $11.2 billion through more than 6,400 grants. Its network of nearly 1,400 health center grantees operates over 15,500 sites, providing care to more than 31 million patients annually.

A key part of HRSA’s work involves identifying areas with healthcare shortages. HRSA designates Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs)—which can be geographic areas, specific population groups, or facilities lacking sufficient health professionals—and Medically Underserved Areas/Populations (MUAs/MUPs), which identify regions and groups with limited access to primary care services.

Telehealth services are particularly valuable in these designated areas, offering a way to connect patients with needed medical expertise and bridge the gaps created by distance and provider shortages.

The wide variety of populations HRSA serves means its telehealth initiatives must be highly adaptable. These programs need to address a broad spectrum of specific needs and potential barriers, which can range from linguistic and cultural differences to varying levels of technological literacy and trust in new systems.

How HRSA Connects You to Healthcare Through Telehealth

What is Telehealth? HRSA’s Definition and Vision

HRSA defines telehealth as “the use of electronic information and telecommunication technologies to support long-distance clinical health care, patient and professional health-related education, health administration, and public health.” This definition encompasses a range of technologies, including the internet, live video conferencing, “store-and-forward” imaging (where medical information like X-rays or photos are collected and sent to a specialist for later review), streaming media, and both landline and wireless communications.

Telehealth has seen significant growth, particularly during and after the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, which accelerated its adoption and highlighted its potential to improve care coordination through technology.

A traditional telehealth model often involves a “hub-and-spoke” setup, where a patient located at one site (the “spoke,” which could be a local clinic or even their home) receives care from a specialist or provider located at another site (the “hub,” often a larger medical center).

From HRSA’s perspective, telehealth is a vital tool for improving access to quality healthcare by integrating these technologies into the broader system of care. The agency’s comprehensive definition—which includes not only clinical care but also patient and professional education, health administration, and public health—suggests a vision for telehealth that extends far beyond simple virtual doctor appointments.

It points towards a systemic integration of technology aimed at enhancing the entire healthcare ecosystem that HRSA supports. This broader view means telehealth can play a role in training the health workforce (for example, through telementoring programs), improving administrative efficiency within health centers, and supporting wider public health initiatives like disease surveillance or health education campaigns.

Such a holistic approach is essential for addressing the multifaceted health needs of underserved populations.

The Office for the Advancement of Telehealth (OAT): Leading the Way

Within HRSA, the Office for the Advancement of Telehealth (OAT) is the dedicated entity spearheading efforts to improve access to quality health care through the strategic integration of telehealth services. OAT’s work involves supporting direct telehealth services, funding research to build the evidence base for telehealth, and providing technical assistance to providers and organizations.

Key activities of OAT include:

Managing Telehealth.HHS.gov: This comprehensive website serves as a central resource for patients, providers, and policymakers on behalf of the entire Department of Health and Human Services. This site has served over 5 million users.

Advising Leadership: OAT advises HRSA leadership, HHS, policymakers, and other telehealth stakeholders on a wide range of telehealth-related topics and policies.

Supporting Telehealth Resource Centers: OAT supports a national network of Telehealth Resource Centers (TRCs), which offer expert guidance and technical assistance to organizations implementing or expanding telehealth services. These centers have handled over 6,000 technical assistance requests.

Funding Telehealth Networks: OAT funds telehealth network programs that provide direct care to patients; these programs have served approximately 22,000 patients.

Supporting Research: OAT supports telehealth research centers dedicated to expanding knowledge about the effectiveness and impact of telehealth.

The existence of OAT and its wide-ranging responsibilities—from policy advice and resource management to funding and direct technical support—signals a strong, centralized, and strategic commitment by HRSA. This commitment goes beyond simply promoting telehealth; it focuses on actively developing and maturing the telehealth landscape, particularly for the vulnerable populations HRSA serves.

OAT functions as both a coordinating body and a vital knowledge hub, indicating that HRSA understands that achieving widespread and equitable telehealth adoption requires more than just financial investment. It necessitates ongoing guidance, evidence-building, and practical support for providers and communities.

Powering Telehealth: HRSA’s Investment in Your Virtual Care

Funding Telehealth Initiatives and Research

HRSA makes significant financial investments to support and expand telehealth services across the nation, providing over $38 million annually to communities for these initiatives. The primary purpose of this funding is to build a stronger evidence base for how telehealth can best serve underserved populations, to inform the development of effective policies and programs, and to directly address disparities in healthcare access and quality.

A key component of this investment strategy is the funding of specialized telehealth research centers:

Telehealth Rapid Response Center (HRSA-25-044): This center is designed to conduct quick-turnaround data analyses and short-term, issue-specific research studies. Its goal is to provide policymakers, providers, and the public with timely information to understand the impact of current telehealth policies and regulations, and to identify ways to improve telehealth access for underserved populations. The center is expected to receive approximately $950,000 in FY2025 and aims to deliver critical information promptly as telehealth continues to evolve.

Telehealth Research Center (HRSA-25-045): This center focuses on conducting more extensive, clinically informed, and evidence-based health services research. Its work aims to expand the overall evidence base for telehealth, addressing gaps in knowledge concerning its effectiveness, costs, and optimal delivery methods, including the use of various telehealth technologies. It also evaluates nationwide telehealth investments in rural and underserved communities. The research generated helps healthcare providers and decision-makers at local, state, and federal levels understand the impact of telehealth on healthcare access, population health indicators, and healthcare spending for both payers and patients. This center is also expected to receive around $950,000 in FY2025.

Eligibility for these and other HRSA telehealth funding opportunities is typically broad, welcoming applications from a variety of domestic organizations including public and private institutions of higher education, non-profit organizations (with or without 501(c)(3) status), and for-profit entities, including small businesses. This approach allows HRSA to leverage diverse expertise from across different sectors. It is important to note, however, that the availability and specifics of these funding programs can depend on annual congressional appropriations and are subject to change.

HRSA’s dual investment in both a “Rapid Response” center and a longer-term “Research” center reflects a nuanced understanding of the dynamic telehealth landscape. The policy environment surrounding telehealth is constantly shifting, as seen with the temporary flexibilities enacted during public health emergencies.

A Rapid Response Center allows HRSA to quickly analyze the effects of new regulations or emerging telehealth trends, providing essential data for timely decision-making. This agility is particularly crucial for an agency dedicated to serving vulnerable populations, who can be disproportionately affected by such policy changes.

Simultaneously, the Telehealth Research Center undertakes deeper investigations into fundamental questions about the effectiveness, cost-efficiency, and best practices for different telehealth models. This foundational research is vital for long-term strategic planning and ensuring that investments in telehealth are sound, sustainable, and truly impactful.

This two-pronged approach enables HRSA to be both responsive to immediate needs and proactive in shaping the future of telehealth.

Spotlight on Key Programs: The Optimizing Virtual Care (OVC) Project

One notable example of HRSA’s commitment to advancing telehealth is the Optimizing Virtual Care (OVC) project. Funded through HRSA’s Quality Improvement Fund (QIF), this initiative provided support to 29 health centers across the country to develop, implement, and rigorously evaluate innovative, evidence-based virtual care strategies.

The primary goals of the OVC project were to:

Build upon and expand the significant surge in virtual care utilization seen at health centers, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Optimize the use of virtual care to specifically increase access to services and improve clinical quality for populations who are medically underserved and have historically faced significant barriers to receiving care.

Develop virtual care models that are not only effective but also adaptable and scalable, so they can be adopted by other health centers within HRSA’s extensive Health Center Program network.

The OVC project ran from March 2022 to February 2024. During this period, the participating health centers provided a wide variety of virtual services, with a particular focus on supporting patients with chronic illnesses and those with mental health needs.

The project yielded valuable insights and demonstrated tangible benefits. For example, one OVC awardee reported a substantial improvement in blood pressure control among their patients with diabetes and hypertension, with rates increasing from 54% to 73% after implementing telehealth-guided decision trees for care.

Data from September 2023 to February 2024 also showed that mental health services accounted for a significant portion (51%) of audio-only or video-based virtual visits within the project, underscoring the high demand and utility of telehealth for behavioral healthcare. Furthermore, the use of Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) among OVC awardees increased, a trend possibly linked to improvements in reimbursement for these services.

The OVC project did more than just implement services; it actively generated practical knowledge. It highlighted effective strategies for balancing virtual and in-person care, emphasizing the importance of considering patient preferences, providing support for digital literacy, and maintaining robust quality standards for virtual encounters.

These field-tested findings offer concrete evidence of both the significant benefits of telehealth in HRSA-supported settings—such as improved chronic disease management and enhanced access to mental health services—and the ongoing challenges that need to be addressed, including concerns about long-term reimbursement and the persistent need for digital literacy support.

This practical knowledge is invaluable for other health centers and providers looking to implement or optimize their own telehealth programs, effectively serving as a learning laboratory for the broader HRSA network.

To provide a clearer overview of HRSA’s diverse investments, Table 1 summarizes some key telehealth programs and initiatives.

Table 1: Key HRSA Telehealth Programs/Initiatives

What Kind of Care Can You Get? HRSA Telehealth Services Explained

HRSA-supported healthcare providers offer a broad spectrum of clinical services through telehealth, often mirroring the care one might receive during an in-person visit. These virtual services can take many forms, including e-visits (secure electronic communication, often through a patient portal), live virtual visits using synchronous (real-time) audio and/or video technology, remote patient monitoring (RPM) where health data is collected from a patient at home and transmitted to their provider, and various mobile health (mHealth) applications that utilize smartphones and tablets.

HRSA’s approach to telehealth is not simply about replicating all possible medical services remotely. Instead, there is a clear pattern of strategically deploying telehealth to address the most pressing unmet needs and access gaps for its target populations.

This is particularly evident in areas like mental health, substance use disorder treatment, maternal health, and specialty care for rural communities—services that are often scarce, difficult to access, or carry stigma, especially for the underserved populations HRSA is mandated to support. This needs-driven strategy, rather than a purely technology-driven one, guides the expansion and focus of HRSA’s telehealth initiatives.

Primary Care and Preventive Services

Telehealth is increasingly used to deliver essential primary care and preventive services. A significant focus for HRSA is the integration of behavioral health services into primary care settings using telehealth technologies, particularly to reach patients in rural and underserved areas who might otherwise lack access to mental health specialists.

Furthermore, HRSA supports programs like the Telehealth Technology-Enabled Learning Program (TTELP). TTELP connects medical specialists at academic centers with primary care providers (PCPs) in rural, frontier, and other underserved communities.

Through telementoring models (such as Project ECHO or similar approaches), these programs provide evidence-based training and ongoing support to PCPs, helping them manage patients with complex conditions directly within their local communities. The conditions covered often include infectious diseases like COVID-19 and HIV/AIDS, as well as mental health conditions and substance use disorders.

Mental and Behavioral Health Support

Access to mental and behavioral healthcare is a critical need, and telehealth has become an invaluable tool in expanding these services. HRSA programs support the treatment of various behavioral health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders, frequently utilizing telehealth to connect patients with care.

For younger populations, the Pediatric Mental Health Care Access (PMHCA) Program leverages telehealth to bolster the capacity of pediatric primary care providers. This program supports state or regional networks of pediatric mental health care teams that offer tele-consultation, training, technical assistance, and care coordination to PCPs, enabling them to better diagnose, treat, and refer children and adolescents with behavioral health conditions.

Maternal mental health is another key area. The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline, reachable at 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262), provides free, confidential mental health support for pregnant and postpartum individuals and their families.

The importance of tele-behavioral health is further underscored by findings from HRSA’s OVC project, where mental health services constituted 51% of all audio or video-based virtual visits between September 2023 and February 2024, indicating high patient demand and the platform’s utility. Indeed, tele-behavioral health has been recognized as a particularly successful model for integrating telehealth into care, especially with the increased adoption seen during the pandemic.

Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Treatment

HRSA is making substantial investments to expand access to substance use disorder (SUD) treatment and prevention services, especially in rural communities where such services are often scarce. Telehealth plays a significant role in these efforts.

For example, the Rural Communities Opioid Response Program (RCORP) utilizes telehealth for workforce development, training, and the direct delivery of SUD services.

To build a skilled workforce, HRSA’s Integrated Substance Use Disorder Training Program (ISTP) focuses on training nurse practitioners, physician assistants, psychologists, counselors, nurses, and social workers to provide integrated mental health and SUD services, including in community-based settings that can be supported by telehealth.

For individuals living with HIV who also face challenges with substance use, HRSA’s HIV/AIDS Bureau (HAB) has funded initiatives like “Telehealth Strategies to Maximize HIV Care.” This project aims to identify and implement telehealth strategies that are most effective in improving linkage to HIV care, retention in treatment, and ultimately, viral suppression.

Recognizing the interconnectedness of HIV and SUDs, HRSA also collaborates with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to encourage integrated care models that address both conditions simultaneously.

Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Services

Telehealth is enhancing the delivery of maternal and child health services. The Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Block Grant program, which supports health services for an estimated 61 million people, including a vast majority of pregnant women and infants, can incorporate telehealth as a tool to improve access and quality.

Home visiting programs, such as the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Program, provide crucial support to expectant and new parents. These programs, which involve visits from nurses, social workers, or other trained professionals, can be augmented and extended through telehealth technologies, allowing for more frequent check-ins or specialized consultations.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, HRSA directed funding to rapidly expand telehealth capacity for a range of MCH services. This included support for telehealth in prenatal care, labor and delivery support, and postpartum care; services for children and youth with special health care needs (CYSHCN); and support for state Title V public health systems to promote telehealth for services like newborn screening and evidence-based early childhood home visiting.

Additionally, HRSA funds programs that provide maternal health providers with psychiatric consultation (which can be delivered in person or virtually) and training on screening, assessment, and treatment for maternal mental health conditions and SUDs.

Managing Chronic Conditions

Telehealth offers powerful tools for individuals managing chronic health conditions. HRSA, through its informational portal Telehealth.HHS.gov, provides best practice guides and patient resources specifically for using telehealth in diabetes management and for addressing heart disease.

The success of HRSA’s OVC project also demonstrated significant improvements in managing chronic conditions like hypertension through virtual care strategies. A key technology in this area is Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM), which allows providers to track patients’ health data (like blood pressure or glucose levels) from a distance. RPM is increasingly being used and has shown promise in helping patients and providers co-manage long-term illnesses.

Dental Consultations and Oral Health (Teledentistry)

Teledentistry is emerging as an innovative way to expand access to oral healthcare, particularly for individuals who may find it difficult to visit a traditional dental office. This can involve synchronous (real-time video) consultations or asynchronous (“store-and-forward”) methods where dental information like images or X-rays are securely sent to a dentist for review and treatment planning.

An example of teledentistry in action involves a dental assistant or hygienist seeing a child in a community setting, such as a school. They can collect necessary dental information (e.g., photos, X-rays, clinical notes) and transmit it to a pediatric dental resident or dentist located elsewhere. The dentist then reviews the information and develops a treatment plan, which the school-based dental team can then implement.

Services provided via teledentistry can include triage for urgent issues, follow-up care, non-procedural consultations, advice before complex procedures, and even support for earlier diagnosis of conditions like oral cancer.

The “Virtual Dental Home” (VDH) is a model that utilizes teledentistry to create community-based oral health delivery systems. In a VDH, allied dental personnel (like hygienists or assistants) provide preventive and early intervention services in community settings, linked by telehealth technology to dentists in clinics or offices for supervision and consultation.

Access to Specialists

One of the most significant advantages of telehealth is its ability to connect patients and primary care providers with medical specialists who may be located far away. HRSA’s Telehealth Network Grant Program (TNGP), for instance, has focused on promoting rural tele-emergency services, including tele-stroke, tele-behavioral health, and Tele-Emergency Medical Services (Tele-EMS), linking rural emergency departments with specialist expertise.

The national network of Telehealth Resource Centers (TRCs), supported by HRSA, also plays a crucial role by providing technical assistance and training to healthcare providers on how to effectively use telehealth, which often involves establishing connections between primary care settings and specialists.

Furthermore, HRSA-supported National Health Service Corps (NHSC) sites, which serve communities with shortages of health professionals, are required to either offer or ensure their patients have access to ancillary services, inpatient care, and specialty referrals. Telehealth can be a key facilitator in meeting this requirement, especially in rural and underserved areas.

Table 2 offers a summary of common clinical services that may be available via telehealth through HRSA-supported providers.

Table 2: Common Telehealth Services via HRSA Providers

Locate Care: Finding a HRSA Telehealth Provider Near You

HRSA provides several online tools and resources to help individuals find healthcare providers and programs that receive HRSA funding and may offer telehealth services. It’s important to note that HRSA offers multiple, distinct locator tools tailored to different program areas, rather than a single, unified search engine for all its telehealth providers.

This structure reflects the diverse nature of HRSA’s grant programs and allows for more specific search parameters relevant to each type of service. While this might require users to know which program best fits their needs, it enables more focused results.

Using the “Find a Health Center” Tool

The primary tool for locating many HRSA-supported providers is the “Find a Health Center” tool.

Purpose: This tool helps you search for HRSA-funded health centers, also known as Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs). These centers are community-based, patient-directed organizations that deliver comprehensive, culturally competent, high-quality primary healthcare services. A key feature of these health centers is that they provide care regardless of an individual’s ability to pay, often utilizing a sliding fee scale based on income and family size.

How it Works: You can search for a health center by entering an address, city, state, county, or ZIP code. The tool will then list nearby health centers.

What it Finds: The directory includes nearly 1,400 health center grantees that operate more than 15,500 service sites across all U.S. states, territories, and the District of Columbia. Importantly, a very high percentage—97%—of all HRSA health centers nationwide offer virtual care services, making this tool highly relevant for finding telehealth options.

For Health Centers: The HRSA website also provides information for health center grantees and “look-alikes” (organizations that meet FQHC requirements but don’t receive federal grant funding) on how to update their service site information in the HRSA Electronic Handbooks (EHBs) system. This helps ensure the locator tool has the most current information.

Finding Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program Providers

For individuals living with HIV/AIDS, HRSA offers a specialized locator tool for its Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program.

Purpose: This tool is designed to help people with HIV access medical care, medications, and essential support services funded through the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program.

How it Works: Users can search for Ryan White-funded medical care providers by entering a specific complete address, city and state, state and county, or ZIP code. The search results are typically sorted by distance and include the facility’s name, address, approximate distance from the search point, telephone number, website address (if available), and a link for driving directions.

Direct URL: While the search interface is prominently featured on the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program homepage, the direct URL for the locator tool itself is https://findhivcare.hrsa.gov/.

Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Service Locators

HRSA’s Maternal and Child Health Bureau (MCHB) also provides ways to find specific MCH programs:

Healthy Start Locator: You can find local Healthy Start sites by entering your ZIP code at https://mchb.hrsa.gov/programs-impact/healthy-start/locator. HRSA funds over 100 Healthy Start projects nationwide. These programs provide a range of services and links to resources (like transportation, education, or housing assistance) to help pregnant individuals and families with young children thrive.

Home Visiting Locator: To find HRSA-supported Home Visiting programs, part of the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Program, use the locator at https://mchb.hrsa.gov/programs-impact/maternal-infant-early-childhood-home-visiting-miechv-program/locator. By entering your ZIP code, this tool searches within a 50-mile radius for organizations that may serve your county. These voluntary programs offer ongoing home visits from nurses, social workers, or other trained counselors who provide support, education, and resources to promote the well-being of young families.

National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: A critical resource for maternal mental health is the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline. It provides free, confidential mental health support and can be reached by calling or texting 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262). TTY users can use their preferred relay service or dial 711, then 1-833-852-6262.

Other HRSA-Supported Providers Offering Telehealth

Beyond the specific locators, it’s useful to know that other types of HRSA-supported entities also provide telehealth:

Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs): As mentioned, these are found via the “Find a Health Center” tool. FQHCs are permitted to serve as distant site providers for telehealth services and are reimbursed for these services under the FQHC prospective payment system. Studies show FQHCs had higher telehealth utilization compared to Rural Health Clinics during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Rural Health Clinics (RHCs): RHCs are also authorized to act as distant site telehealth providers and are paid for these services based on RHC all-inclusive rates. Some RHCs have historically been hesitant to make significant investments in telehealth infrastructure due to uncertainty about the permanence of their distant site status, which could stifle telehealth growth in rural areas where it is greatly needed.

Health Center Controlled Networks (HCCNs): These are networks that support health centers with various operational aspects, including health information technology (IT) which is foundational for telehealth. HRSA provides a tool to locate HCCNs at https://findanetwork.hrsa.gov/.

Table 3 provides a consolidated list of these resources to help you find HRSA-supported telehealth care.

Table 3: Finding HRSA-Supported Telehealth Care

Are You Eligible? Accessing HRSA-Supported Telehealth

General Eligibility for HRSA-Funded Services

A cornerstone of HRSA’s mission is to serve those who face the greatest barriers to healthcare. As such, HRSA programs primarily target individuals and communities that are geographically isolated, economically disadvantaged, or medically vulnerable.

For example, the Health Center Program, which includes FQHCs, is designed to provide comprehensive primary care services to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. These health centers achieve this by:

Offering services on a sliding fee scale, where the amount a patient pays is based on their income and family size.

Providing services for free or for a nominal charge to individuals and families with annual incomes at or below 100% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPL).

Offering discounted services to individuals and families with incomes above 100% FPL but at or below 200% FPL.

Ensuring that services are provided without discrimination based on a person’s ability to pay or their source of payment, whether it’s Medicare, Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), or if they are uninsured.

This commitment to reducing financial barriers is a common thread across many HRSA-supported programs. It means that telehealth services offered through these providers are intentionally designed to be more financially accessible for a broad range of people, which is a key distinction from many commercial telehealth platforms and directly addresses the need for “affordable virtual care” that many individuals seek.

Specific Program Considerations

While the overarching goal is to serve the underserved, specific eligibility criteria can vary somewhat from one HRSA program to another:

Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program: This program is specifically for low-income individuals living with HIV, providing them with access to medical care, medications, and support services.

Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Programs: These programs generally target pregnant women, mothers, infants, children, and adolescents, including families with children who have special healthcare needs or those living in communities identified as at-risk for poor maternal and child health outcomes.

Telehealth Network Grant Program (TNGP): While the applicant organization for this grant (e.g., a hospital system) can be located in an urban area, the telehealth services delivered through the grant-funded network must be provided to patients located in rural areas.

Importance of Checking with Specific Providers

Although general eligibility guidelines are in place, the most reliable way to determine if you qualify for services at a particular HRSA-supported facility or program, and what telehealth options are available, is to contact them directly. The specific services offered via telehealth and any program-specific eligibility details can be confirmed by reaching out to the health center, clinic, or program in your area.

Your Telehealth Visit: A Simple Guide to Getting Started

Accessing telehealth services through a HRSA-supported provider is generally straightforward. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process, from making an appointment to preparing for your virtual visit.

Making an Appointment

Contact Your Provider: If you already have a healthcare provider at a HRSA-supported health center or clinic, start by asking them if they offer telehealth services and how to schedule them. Many providers now integrate telehealth into their regular practice.

Scheduling Methods: The way you schedule a telehealth appointment can vary. In some cases, your provider’s office may schedule the appointment for you, much like an in-person visit. In other instances, especially with larger systems or dedicated telehealth platforms, you might be able to schedule an appointment “on-demand” as needed, often through a secure website or a mobile application.

Appointment Confirmation: Once your telehealth appointment is scheduled, you will typically receive a confirmation via email or text message. This confirmation will usually include important instructions on how to connect for your virtual visit. It might contain a direct hyperlink (a web address) to join the session, or sometimes a private, unique link that takes you straight to the appointment without needing to enter a separate username or password.

Patient Portals: Some healthcare providers use secure online “patient portals” for telehealth visits. To join your appointment through a portal, you will likely need to sign in with a username and password. If this is the case, it’s a good idea to log in early, especially if it’s your first time, as you might need to set up an account or download a specific app beforehand. Don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider’s office in advance which method they will be using for your upcoming telehealth appointment.

Audio-Only Appointments: Make sure your phone can accept calls, especially if your provider might call you for an audio-only telehealth appointment, which is an option for certain types of services.

Technology You’ll Need

The technology requirements for a telehealth visit are generally minimal:

Basic Equipment: For most video telehealth visits, you will need a device with a camera and microphone, such as a computer (desktop or laptop), a smartphone, or a tablet.

Internet Connection: A reliable internet connection is also necessary. This can be through a Wi-Fi network or a cellular data plan on your mobile device.

Audio-Only Option: For some services, particularly in behavioral health or when video is not feasible, telehealth can be conducted via an audio-only telephone call. This is an important option for individuals who may not have access to video-capable devices or stable broadband.

Assistance if Lacking Technology: If you do not have access to a suitable electronic device or a reliable internet connection, it’s important to talk with your provider’s office about your options. They may have suggestions or alternative ways to connect you with care.

The availability of audio-only options and the guidance on patient preparation indicate an awareness that successful telehealth goes beyond just having a device and internet. Digital literacy—your comfort and skill in using technology—and a supportive environment for the call are also crucial. These considerations reflect a practical approach to making telehealth more accessible.

Preparing for Your Virtual Visit

To ensure your telehealth visit goes smoothly and you get the most out of it, a little preparation can go a long long way:

Find a Suitable Space: Choose a quiet, private, and well-lit location for your appointment where you won’t be interrupted. This helps protect your privacy and allows you to focus on the conversation with your provider.

Camera and Lighting: If using video, try to position your camera at eye level. Make sure any bright light sources, like windows, are behind your device (and shining on your face), not behind you (which can make you appear as a silhouette). If your device is low, you can use books to raise it. For mobile devices, a stand can help keep the image steady.

Have Information Ready: It’s helpful to have a pen and paper handy to take notes during your visit. Also, prepare a list of any questions you have for your provider, a list of your current medications, and any relevant health history information you want to discuss.

Complete Forms in Advance: If your provider sent you any forms to fill out (e.g., consent forms, intake questionnaires), try to complete them before your appointment.

Test Your Technology: If you’re using a new telehealth platform or app, or if it’s your first virtual visit, it’s a good idea to log in a few minutes early to make sure everything is working correctly. Check your internet connection, camera, and microphone.

Language Assistance: If you need an interpreter, inform your provider’s office when you schedule your appointment. Many health plans and providers can arrange for interpreter services, often delivered virtually during your telehealth visit.

Minimize Distractions: Try to avoid eating or drinking during the visit, unless it’s medically necessary. If there are other people in the room with you, they should ideally be on camera or at least introduced to the provider at the start of the visit.

The Advantages of Telehealth: Convenience, Access, and Quality Care via HRSA

Telehealth services offered through HRSA-supported providers bring numerous benefits to patients, particularly those who have historically faced barriers to accessing traditional in-person healthcare. These advantages range from overcoming geographic and financial hurdles to enhancing the management of chronic conditions and ensuring care continuity during public health emergencies.

Improved Access, Especially for Rural and Underserved Areas

One of the most significant benefits of telehealth is its ability to dramatically improve access to healthcare services. HRSA’s Office for the Advancement of Telehealth (OAT) is fundamentally focused on improving access to quality care through integrated telehealth services.

For individuals living in rural or geographically isolated areas, telehealth can be transformative. It helps overcome challenges such as long travel distances to the nearest clinic or hospital, limited transportation options, and shortages of healthcare providers, especially specialists.

Patients can receive a wide range of medical care from the comfort and safety of their own homes, which not only increases convenience but can also be crucial for individuals with mobility issues or those who need to avoid exposure to illnesses. Telehealth effectively connects rural patients and their local primary care providers to medical specialists who might be located hundreds of miles away, thereby reducing critical delays in diagnosis and treatment.

Convenience and Reduced Travel Time/Costs

The convenience factor of telehealth is a major advantage. By eliminating the need to travel to a provider’s office, telehealth saves patients valuable time and money that would otherwise be spent on transportation, parking, and potentially taking extended time off work or arranging for childcare.

This increased flexibility can make it easier for individuals to attend appointments and stay engaged with their healthcare.

Continuity of Care and Chronic Disease Management

Telehealth is proving to be a highly effective tool for ensuring continuity of care and for managing chronic health conditions. Regular virtual check-ins, remote patient monitoring (RPM), and telehealth-supported coaching can help patients with conditions like diabetes, hypertension, asthma, and heart disease better manage their health in partnership with their providers.

These technologies can lead to enhanced patient engagement, as individuals become more involved in tracking their health metrics and communicating with their care team. The ability to have more frequent, convenient interactions can lead to better adherence to treatment plans and earlier detection of potential problems.

Support During Public Health Emergencies (PHEs)

The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the critical role telehealth can play during public health emergencies. When in-person visits were severely limited or posed significant risks, telehealth emerged as a vital connection point between patients and their healthcare providers.

An impressive 98% of HRSA-funded health centers utilized telehealth or telephonic services to continue providing care during the pandemic.

HRSA supports the use of telehealth for early intervention, which can improve clinical outcomes and potentially reduce the need for more intensive care like hospitalizations. Furthermore, HRSA’s Evidence-Based Tele-Emergency Network Grant Program (EB TNGP) demonstrated the effectiveness of tele-emergency department (teleED) services in providing timely care for urgent and emergent conditions in rural settings, often serving as the first point of contact before a local provider examination.

The rapid and widespread adoption of telehealth by HRSA-funded providers during the COVID-19 PHE was more than just a temporary crisis response. It served as a large-scale demonstration of telehealth’s utility and likely created a lasting shift in both patient and provider expectations regarding how healthcare can be delivered.

This intensive experience has undoubtedly accelerated HRSA’s long-term telehealth strategy, providing a wealth of real-world data on its benefits, challenges, and potential. The fact that such a high percentage of health centers embraced telehealth means that a large base of providers and patients now have firsthand experience with virtual care, making it a more familiar and accepted modality.

This experience informs HRSA’s ongoing investments in telehealth research, infrastructure, and program development.

Bridging the Gap: HRSA’s Commitment to Telehealth Equity and Access for All

While telehealth offers immense potential to improve healthcare access and outcomes, HRSA recognizes that its benefits will not be realized by everyone unless proactive steps are taken to address existing inequities. If not implemented thoughtfully, telehealth could inadvertently widen health disparities.

Therefore, HRSA is committed to an equity-first approach, focusing on strategies to ensure that telehealth services are accessible and beneficial to all populations, especially those who are underserved and have been historically marginalized.

Addressing the Digital Divide (Broadband, Device Access)

A significant barrier to equitable telehealth access is the “digital divide”—the gap between those who have ready access to modern information and communication technology and those who do not. This includes:

Lack of Broadband Internet: Many individuals, particularly in rural and low-income urban areas, lack reliable, high-speed internet access, or have data plans with insufficient capacity for video consultations. In 2019, an estimated 25 million people in the United States did not have internet access at home, with Black, Latinx, and rural populations being disproportionately affected.

Limited Device Access: Access to functional devices such as smartphones, tablets, or computers with cameras is also a prerequisite for many telehealth services. Many low-income individuals may not own such devices or may have older devices that are not suitable for telehealth.

HRSA and its federal partners are actively working to address these challenges:

HRSA’s National Telehealth Conference consistently features discussions on expanding broadband connectivity as a means to improve health equity.

A key collaborative effort is the Rural Telehealth Initiative (RTI), a partnership between HHS (including HRSA), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). This initiative aims to promote broadband services and telehealth technology in rural America. The FCC’s Rural Health Care program and its Connected Care Pilot Program are important components that provide funding and support for broadband infrastructure and services for healthcare providers in rural areas.

HRSA has also funded specific projects like the Telehealth Broadband Pilot program, which focused on improving connectivity in states like Alaska, Michigan, Texas, and West Virginia, providing valuable lessons for broader efforts.

Improving Digital Literacy

Beyond access to devices and internet, a person’s ability to confidently and effectively use digital technologies—their “digital literacy”—is crucial for successful telehealth engagement.

The Challenge: Gaps in digital literacy can prevent individuals from navigating telehealth platforms, troubleshooting technical issues, or fully participating in virtual visits. Studies have shown that older patients, for example, may experience more difficulties adopting and using telehealth technologies compared to younger, more digitally native populations.

HRSA & Partner Efforts:

The American Medical Association (AMA), a key stakeholder in the healthcare ecosystem HRSA interacts with, has adopted policies promoting digital literacy initiatives, particularly those designed with and for historically marginalized populations.

Practical strategies identified through HRSA’s Optimizing Virtual Care (OVC) project include screening patients for digital literacy levels and providing tailored support and training as needed.

Patient education materials available on Telehealth.HHS.gov and through HRSA-supported Telehealth Resource Centers (TRCs) are designed to simplify the use of telehealth and provide clear, step-by-step guidance.

Ensuring Language Access and Cultural Competency

Effective healthcare communication is paramount, and this extends to telehealth. Language barriers and a lack of culturally sensitive care can significantly impede access and lead to misunderstandings or poorer health outcomes.

The Challenge: Patients with limited English proficiency (LEP) or from diverse cultural backgrounds may face difficulties if telehealth services are not designed to meet their specific needs.

HRSA & Partner Efforts:

Many HRSA programs and funding opportunities emphasize the importance of providing culturally and linguistically appropriate services. For example, the Rural Telehealth Training Centers (RTTC) program aims to develop resources that are adaptable to culturally and regionally diverse populations.

National Health Service Corps (NHSC)-approved sites are required to offer services that are tailored to the specific cultural and language needs of the communities they serve.

HRSA’s Maternal and Child Health Bureau (MCHB) programs also stress the delivery of patient-centered, culturally and linguistically appropriate care.

Resources like the “Coverage to Care (C2C) Roadmap to Care,” promoted by Telehealth.HHS.gov, are available in multiple languages to help diverse populations navigate their health coverage and care options.

Guidance for healthcare providers on obtaining informed consent for telehealth often includes considerations for ensuring patients understand the information in their preferred language, which may involve providing qualified interpreters. HRSA funding opportunities frequently encourage applicants to address the needs of diverse populations.

HRSA’s Strategies and National Health Equity Alignment

HRSA’s commitment to equity in telehealth is not an isolated effort but aligns with broader national strategies to reduce health disparities.

Equity-First Approach: HRSA actively promotes an “equity-first” approach to telehealth, viewing it as a tool that, when implemented correctly, can help reduce rather than exacerbate existing health care disparities.

Collaboration with CMS: The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has its own Rural Health Strategy, which includes advancing telehealth as a key component. CMS collaborates closely with HRSA in these efforts to better serve rural populations and support safety-net providers like FQHCs and RHCs. Both agencies share a common goal of advancing health equity across their programs.

Targeted Focus on Underserved Populations: A consistent theme across HRSA’s telehealth research funding, program development, and direct service support is the explicit targeting of underserved, low-income, and rural communities. The aim is to leverage telehealth to expand access and improve health outcomes for those who need it most.

This multi-faceted strategy—tackling the digital divide, enhancing digital literacy, ensuring language access and cultural competence, and aligning with national health equity goals—demonstrates a deep understanding within HRSA. It shows that the agency is aware that telehealth is a powerful tool, but like any tool, its impact depends critically on how it is designed, implemented, and for whom it is made truly accessible.

Without these dedicated efforts, the promise of telehealth could remain out of reach for the very populations who stand to benefit most.

Telehealth and Your Rights: Ensuring Safe and Private Virtual Care

When you use telehealth services, you have rights regarding your care and the privacy of your health information, just as you do with in-person medical visits. HRSA-supported providers are expected to uphold these rights.

Informed Consent for Telehealth Services

Before you receive care via telehealth, your provider should obtain your informed consent. This means you should understand what the telehealth visit will involve and agree to proceed.

Importance and Variability: While specific informed consent laws can vary from state to state, it is a best practice and often a requirement for providers to explain what patients can expect from a telehealth visit and what their rights are.

Key Elements of Consent: Generally, appropriate informed consent for telehealth should include:

• Clear identification of the patient, the physician (or other provider), and their credentials.
• Information about the types of services or transmissions that will be permitted using telehealth (e.g., diagnosis, treatment, prescription refills, patient education).
• The patient’s agreement that the healthcare provider will determine if the condition being diagnosed or treated is appropriate for a telehealth encounter.
• Details about the security measures taken to protect privacy during the telehealth interaction (such as encryption) and an acknowledgement of potential risks to privacy despite these measures.
• Information on how to obtain follow-up care or information from the provider after the telehealth visit.

Documentation and Timing: Your consent for telehealth should be documented by the provider. This might include written consent forms or, in some cases, documented verbal consent obtained at the beginning of the visit. Typically, informed consent is obtained before or at the time of your first telehealth appointment with a provider.

Resources for Information: Websites like Telehealth.HHS.gov and the National Policy Center – Center for Connected Health Policy offer detailed guidance and resources on informed consent for telehealth for both patients and providers.

Patient Data Privacy and Security (HIPAA Compliance)

Your personal health information shared during telehealth visits is protected by federal law, primarily the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA).

HIPAA Applies to Telehealth: Telehealth appointments, electronic messages exchanged with your provider, and any related health records or billing information are subject to the same HIPAA Privacy, Security, and Breach Notification Rules as in-person healthcare services.

Provider Responsibilities: Healthcare providers covered by HIPAA are required to use telehealth platforms and technologies that ensure secure communications and the secure storage of your health data. This involves implementing a combination of administrative safeguards (like policies and staff training), physical safeguards (like securing locations where telehealth is provided), and technological safeguards (such as encryption of data in transit and at rest, access controls to limit who can see your information, and audit controls to track access).

“Minimum Necessary” Standard: HIPAA’s “minimum necessary” standard also applies, meaning that providers should only use or disclose the minimum amount of your protected health information (PHI) necessary to accomplish the intended purpose (e.g., for treatment, payment, or healthcare operations).

Enforcement: The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office for Civil Rights (OCR) is responsible for enforcing HIPAA. OCR issues guidance and takes enforcement actions to ensure patient privacy and the secure handling of health data.

State Laws: In addition to federal HIPAA regulations, some states have their own data privacy protection laws that may provide additional protections or apply to entities not covered by HIPAA.

HRSA Policies on Patient Protections

While HRSA itself may not be the primary agency issuing overarching telehealth privacy regulations (that role largely falls to HHS OCR), its funding mechanisms and guidance for its grantees play a crucial role in reinforcing patient protections within the telehealth services they provide.

Research Informing Policy: HRSA funds research through its Telehealth Research Centers to expand the evidence base that informs policy and programs for telehealth services. This research can cover aspects related to patient access, flexibilities in care delivery, and service effectiveness, all ofwhich implicitly involve considerations for patient safety and protection.

Public Health Emergency (PHE) Flexibilities: During the COVID-19 PHE, OCR announced that it would exercise enforcement discretion and waive certain penalties for HIPAA violations against healthcare providers who served patients in good faith through everyday communication technologies for telehealth. However, this did not mean that HIPAA ceased to apply broadly, and providers were still expected to conduct telehealth in private settings and implement reasonable safeguards.

Guidance for Health Centers (UDS Reporting): HRSA requires health centers to report data through its Uniform Data System (UDS). The UDS reporting guidance for virtual visits specifically notes that such visits should be conducted using technology that is compliant with HIPAA. This is a clear example of how HRSA embeds national privacy and security standards into its operational expectations for the health centers it funds.

By setting these expectations for its grantees, HRSA helps ensure that patient protections are not an afterthought but an integral component of the telehealth services delivered through its supported network. This creates a system where adherence to privacy and security standards is a condition of participation and funding, thereby safeguarding patient rights.

Stay Informed: Essential HRSA Telehealth Resources

Navigating the world of telehealth can be easier with the right information. HRSA and its partners offer a wealth of resources designed to help both patients and healthcare providers understand, access, and effectively utilize telehealth services.

The availability of such extensive support—from basic guides to complex policy analyses—underscores that successful telehealth implementation is recognized as an ongoing process. It requires continuous learning, adaptation, and support to ensure its benefits are fully realized, especially among vulnerable populations who may need additional assistance in navigating these evolving systems.

Telehealth.HHS.gov: Your Go-To Information Hub

The website Telehealth.HHS.gov is the primary federal resource for telehealth information.

Managed by HRSA’s OAT: This site is managed by HRSA’s Office for the Advancement of Telehealth on behalf of the entire U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

Comprehensive Content: It provides a wide array of information for both patients and healthcare providers. This includes updates on federal telehealth policies and reimbursement, best practice guides for various clinical applications of telehealth, practical tips on how to get started with virtual care, guidance on preparing for telehealth visits, and specific considerations for using telehealth to serve diverse populations and manage various health conditions.

Patient Education Materials

Clear and accessible information is key for patients to feel comfortable and confident using telehealth.

From Telehealth.HHS.gov: The “For Patients” section of Telehealth.HHS.gov offers easy-to-understand guides on topics such as “Why use telehealth?”, “How do I schedule a telehealth appointment?”, “What do I need to use telehealth?”, and “What should I know before my telehealth visit?”.

From Telehealth Resource Centers (TRCs): The national network of HRSA-supported TRCs develops and disseminates numerous patient education materials. These resources often cover telehealth basics, explain the technology involved, and offer tips for preparing for virtual appointments. Examples include straightforward handouts like “How Patients Can Engage Telehealth” and practical guides such as “10 Tips To Help You Master Your Telemedicine Visit: A Patient Guide”.

HRSA Health Center Guidance: While primarily aimed at providers, HRSA’s Uniform Data System (UDS) virtual visit reporting guides help standardize how health centers deliver and document telehealth services, which indirectly contributes to a more consistent and understandable patient experience.

Video Resources: HHS also provides video resources that visually explain how to connect for telehealth appointments and what to expect.

Toolkits and Resources for Providers

Healthcare providers looking to implement, expand, or optimize their telehealth services can find extensive support through HRSA and its partners.

From Telehealth.HHS.gov: The “For Providers” section of Telehealth.HHS.gov includes valuable resources such as best practice guides (covering areas like privacy and security, telehealth for chronic conditions, and teledentistry), information on telehealth policy and billing, and practical tips on getting started with virtual care delivery.

Telehealth Resource Centers (TRCs): The TRCs are a cornerstone of telehealth support for providers. They offer a wide range of toolkits, detailed guides on starting and administering telehealth programs, assessments of different telehealth technologies, information on state-specific regulations and licensure, sample forms and workflows, and regular webinars and training sessions.

The National TRCs include the Center for Connected Health Policy (CCHP), which is the definitive source for up-to-date information on telehealth laws, regulations, and reimbursement policies, and the National Telehealth Technology Assessment Resource Center (TTAC), which helps providers select and assess various types of telehealth technology.

The 12 Regional TRCs provide more localized support, technical assistance, and networking opportunities tailored to the specific needs of providers in their respective geographic areas. You can find the TRC serving your region by visiting the National Consortium of Telehealth Resource Centers website or the HRSA Telehealth Resource Centers page.

Rural Health Information Hub (RHIhub): Available at https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/, RHIhub is a national clearinghouse on rural health issues and offers a curated collection of resources specifically for rural healthcare providers. This includes information on telehealth models, funding opportunities, and links to TRC materials.

National Telehealth Toolkit for Educators: Developed by the Center for Telehealth, Innovation, Education & Research (C-TIER), this toolkit provides resources for academic programs looking to integrate telehealth training into their curricula. It includes materials for developing telehealth didactics, simulation exercises, and clinical practicum experiences for health professions students.

HRSA Data and Reports on Telehealth

For those interested in data, research findings, and policy developments related to telehealth, HRSA provides several avenues:

Office for the Advancement of Telehealth (OAT) Webpage: The main OAT page on the HRSA website serves as a portal to information about HRSA’s telehealth grants and programs, policy and research initiatives, and reports from national telehealth conferences.

HRSA Data Warehouse: Accessible at https://data.hrsa.gov/, the HRSA Data Warehouse offers a wealth of data related to HRSA programs. Users can find data dashboards, interactive maps, downloadable datasets, and official reports concerning Health Centers, Maternal and Child Health programs, rural health initiatives, and more. This data can provide valuable context for understanding the landscape in which telehealth services are being implemented.

National Telehealth Conference Reports: HRSA often publishes summary reports from its National Telehealth Conferences. These documents typically highlight key themes, session takeaways, and provide links to presentation slides and recordings, offering insights into current trends and future directions in telehealth.

Research from Funded Centers: The HRSA-funded Telehealth Rapid Response Center and Telehealth Research Center are tasked with conducting research and disseminating their findings through various channels, including policy briefs, webinars, and publications, contributing to the public knowledge base on telehealth.

Our articles make government information more accessible. Please consult a qualified professional for financial, legal, or health advice specific to your circumstances.