What Does the 90-Day Extension of the Public Health Emergency Mean for the Country?
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought the world to its knees, with the healthcare sector at the forefront of the fight. With over 200 million cases and more than 4 million deaths recorded worldwide, the pandemic has challenged medical systems’ capacities and affected economies and industries worldwide.
To mitigate the adverse effects of the pandemic, the US government has implemented several measures, including the declaration of a Public Health Emergency (PHE) in January 2020. Since its declaration, several extensions have been granted, the most recent being the 90-day extension issued in July 2021. But what does this extension mean for the country?
The Purpose of Public Health Emergency Declarations
Before we delve into the significance of the 90-day PHE extension, let’s understand the purpose of such declarations. According to the Public Health Service Act, the Secretary of Health and Human Services can declare a PHE if he or she determines that a disease outbreak or public health emergency, including natural disasters or bioterror attacks, exist or is imminent.
The declaration allows the government to take necessary actions that are beyond what is available through regular laws and regulations to combat the crisis effectively. Such measures could include deploying medical resources, establishing quarantine and isolation measures, and coordinating with local health departments.
The Significance of the 90-Day Extension
The 90-day extension of the PHE is significant as it allows the government to continue implementing measures that are critical to mitigating the pandemic’s adverse effects. Through the extension, the Department of Health and Human Services can leverage the Public Health Service Act to implement various measures, including:
1. Allocating resources: The declaration allows the government to allocate resources to states and local health departments to combat the pandemic. This includes deploying vaccines, testing supplies, and medical equipment to areas with surging cases.
2. Telehealth Benefits: The PHE declaration allows Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries nationwide to receive telehealth benefits and services. This allows citizens to access medical services conveniently, reducing the burden on physical healthcare facilities.
3. Increased Coverage: The extension allows increased coverage for COVID-19 testing and treatment. This ensures that patients receive the necessary care, regardless of their financial status.
4. Restrictions on Evictions: The extension applies to some eviction prevention measures for renters. This protects individuals, who may be facing financial challenges due to the pandemic, from being forced to move homes during the crisis.
Conclusion
The 90-day extension of the Public Health Emergency is significant in the continued fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. It allows the government to implement necessary measures to combat the pandemic effectively, including allocating resources, providing telehealth benefits, increasing coverage, and protecting vulnerable individuals from eviction. While the country may face challenges ahead, the extension allows the government to continue supporting its citizens through the crisis.
