San Antonio Corridor News

Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) has joined a bipartisan group of representatives in introducing H.R. 7149, the Equal Access to Specialty Care Everywhere Act (EASE), which aims to expand virtual healthcare options to rural Texans. This legislation utilizes funds from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation to establish a virtual specialty network that would provide various virtual healthcare services, including clinical decision support, eConsults, and telehealth, in underserved and rural areas.

The EASE Act addresses the ongoing shortage of specialists by enhancing patient access to specialty care services such as cardiology, neurology, and endocrinology. This is particularly important for managing conditions like diabetes and chronic heart disease. The bill aims to reduce wait times, prevent unnecessary emergency room visits, and improve care coordination for Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries.

Congresswoman De La Cruz expressed her support for the EASE Act, stating, "I am proud to be an original cosponsor of the EASE Act, which I believe is a significant step toward improving healthcare access and quality in Texas and across America. It aligns with our shared goal of making healthcare more accessible, efficient, and patient-centered."

In addition to the EASE Act, Congresswoman De La Cruz has introduced and co-sponsored several other healthcare access bills since January 2023. These include the Personal Health Investment Today (PHIT) Act, the Equitable Community Access to Pharmacist Services Act, the National Plan to End Parkinson's Act, and the Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act, among others.

Through her efforts in co-sponsoring these bills, Congresswoman De La Cruz aims to address various healthcare challenges and improve access to vital services. Her dedication to expanding healthcare access and improving quality of care reflects her commitment to serving her constituents and ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their location or circumstances, have access to specialized medical services.

The EASE Act and the other healthcare access bills co-sponsored by Congresswoman De La Cruz demonstrate her commitment to making a positive impact on the healthcare landscape and improving the lives of Americans.