Committee hears bill to extend telehealth study commission for two years

Senator Kevin Avard, billing for Representative Jess Edwards, introduced House Bill 72, which would extend the Commission to Study Telehealth Services and require a supplemental report by June 30, 2026, with the commission repealed on that date.

Holly Stevens, director of public policy at NAMI New Hampshire, told the committee that telehealth has become critical to behavioral health care and that the commission’s data show psychotherapy and substance‑use counseling account for roughly half of those providers’ client services delivered via telehealth; mental‑health visits make up an estimated 80–90% of telehealth visits in the state. Stevens said the commission recommended continued study and oversight because telehealth’s effective adoption is still evolving, particularly for behavioral health and for regions with provider shortages.

Jonathan Ballard, chief medical officer at the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services and former chair of the commission, testified on areas the commission identified for further work. He highlighted potential gains from expanding remote patient monitoring and “hospital‑to‑home” models that could allow patients to leave hospitals earlier while receiving comparable care at home through telehealth and home health services. Ballard also noted opportunities in correctional settings, where the Department of Corrections is installing telehealth booths to reduce transportation needs and security risks.

After testimony and questions, Senator Avard moved that the bill “ought to pass,” seconded by Senator Birdsall; the committee approved the motion by voice consent.

Proponents urged the committee to continue the commission’s work so the state can explore telehealth’s role in improving access, reducing costs, and preparing for an aging population that will increase demand for home‑based services.