578 July 8, 2020 The Honorable Ajit Pai Chairman Federal Communications Commission 445 12th Street SW Washington, DC 20554 Dear Chairman Pai: I write in support of the application from Monadnock Community Hospital to the Federal Communications Commission s COVID-19 Telehealth Program for reimbursement for eligible costs associated with the provision of telehealth services during the COVID-19 pandemic. As our country continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth has been critical to expanding and ensuring access to necessary health care services. Telehealth not only connects individuals with care where they live, it also allows health care providers to care for patients without putting themselves at risk. This funding will empower Monadnock Community Hospital to significantly upgrade its telehealth program to reach patients while minimizing non-critical in-person care and services, limiting the transmission of COVID-19, and preserving valuable and incredibly limited reserves of personal protective equipment. Monadnock Community Hospital serves Cheshire and Hillsborough County residents, many of whom live in rural areas where telehealth plays an important role in expanding access to health care services. An award under the COVID-19 Telehealth Program would allow Monadnock Community Hospital to purchase additional technologies and devices to better reach and serve patients during the pandemic. In this time of crisis, it is imperative that we all do our part to ensure the safety and security of our health care providers and patients, and Monadnock Community Hospital has a strong record as a leader in improving health outcomes across the region. I strongly urge you to look favorably upon their application. Please do not hesitate to contact Dorothy Parsons at 603-622-2204 or dorothy_parsons@hassan.senate.gov for any questions or if we can be of further assistance. Thank you for your consideration. With every good wish, Margaret Wood Hassan United States Senator