It might seem like something out of the future, but a neurologist miles away can now virtually diagnose and prescribe care for stroke patients via stroke telemedicine or telestroke. Telestroke can help ensure that more stroke patients receive clot-busting therapy and that they receive it more quickly, greatly improving the chances of a full recovery.

But this vital technology is not available to everyone.

Medicare only pays for the telestroke evaluation if the stroke patient is located in a rural area. With over 90% of strokes happening in urban or suburban areas, current law can restrict patient access to telestroke care.

However, there is a bill in Congress called the FAST (Furthering Access to Stroke Telemedicine) Act (HR. 2799/ S. 1465). This bill would expand Medicare’s coverage of telestroke services by reimbursing for a telestroke consultation, regardless of where the patient lives.

Join us and tell your lawmakers to cosponsor this bill today!