Manchin, Capito Announce COVID-19 Telehealth Funding for Ritchie County Primary Care Association

Charleston, WV – U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $960,444 for the Ritchie County Primary Care Association in Harrisville, WV. This funding was made available through Round 2 of the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) COVID-19 Telehealth Program. Specifically, the funding will support the purchase of telehealth kiosks and software to assist COVID-19 screening and primary medical care for vulnerable, low-income, and elderly patients with chronic conditions.

“Ensuring every West Virginian has access to quality, affordable healthcare is one of my top priorities, which is why I authored and championed the inclusion of funds to support the second round of the FCC COVID-19 Telehealth Program during the bipartisan negotiations at the end of last year. Telehealth services are vital to caring for our fellow West Virginians, but many lack broadband access, which can prevent them from getting the healthcare services they need. These funds will help Ritchie County Primary Care Association provide the care residents deserve, and I will continue to fight for funding that supports broadband expansion and telehealth services for every West Virginian,” Senator Manchin said.

 

“Telehealth is an essential tool that will help improve accessibility in health care in West Virginia. Providing top of the line care, regardless of location or logistical challenges, is a major factor for our more rural communities, and can lead to better health outcomes for our residents. This is especially true during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has added many challenges to our normal primary care practices. That is why I have worked to extend these services and streamline their arrival in West Virginia so we can take full advantage of their potential. I have also made it a priority to make sure that telehealth services remain at expanded levels both during and after the pandemic because of the difference this technology can make it our communities. I’m thrilled to see Ritchie County Primary Care Association receive this support today, and I look forward to the impact it will have for so many residents,” Senator Capito said.