Primary and Virtual Care Affordability Act

HR 7681, the Primary and Virtual Care Affordability Act, extends the telehealth services exemption in tax law until January 2027 (previously expiring in 2025) and creates a new rule allowing high deductible health plans (HDHPs) to not charge deductibles for certain primary care services. The bill specifically exempts primary care visits from general practitioners, pediatricians, nurses, and physician assistants (as defined by law) from triggering HDHP deductible requirements through 2023. This directly affects HDHPs, primary care providers, and patients using these services by potentially lowering out-of-pocket costs for routine care. The bill also requires a study tracking how the policy impacts plan design, premiums, and healthcare utilization, with reports due to Congress within a year of enactment.