U.S. Senator Mike Crapo announced on Mar. 30 new health care measures under the Working Families Tax Cuts law, emphasizing support for doctors and expanded access to care, especially in rural communities.
The announcement coincided with National Doctors’ Day and focused on how recent policies are designed to help physicians deliver affordable, high-quality care. These efforts include lowering costs, improving patient outcomes, and increasing options for patients who live far from medical centers.
Crapo said, “Health care policy should help physicians provide high-quality, affordable care.” He added that the law offers more resources and choices for doctors when creating treatment plans, particularly where in-person visits are difficult.
Key elements of the legislation include a $50 billion five-year Rural Health Transformation Program, broader access to Health Savings Accounts and zero-deductible telehealth services, expanded home-based care for people with developmental disabilities, repeal of a nurse staffing rule affecting rural nursing homes, and higher Medicare payments starting in 2026. Kyle Zebley of the American Telemedicine Association Action said: “Since the pandemic, when this telehealth flexibility was introduced under President Trump’s first administration in 2020, this has been a top priority for ATA Action. Making this permanent will provide certainty for healthcare providers and employers, improve health outcomes, strengthen employer-sponsored health benefits and reduce disparities in care.”
Dr. Lee Gross of DPC Action said: “…[Y]ou and your doctor can now work directly together without having to go through insurance. You can pay a simple flat monthly fee for care — no co-pays, no deductibles, no surprises. Just you and your doctor. And here’s the best part: the IRS now officially recognizes this as a valid medical expense so your payments can be tax-deductible.”
Crapo serves as chair of the Senate Committee on Finance according to his official website. He has advocated for responsible forest management and natural resource protection according to his official website, served three terms representing Idaho’s Second Congressional District according to his official website, grew up in Idaho Falls with his wife Susan raising five children according to his official website, earned degrees from Brigham Young University and Harvard Law School according to his official website, assists Idahoans with federal agencies as well as service academy nominations while continuing advocacy work according to his official website.
Looking ahead, these reforms are expected by supporters to improve access across remote areas while providing additional support tools for both patients and their doctors.
