As the coronavirus epidemic spreads, interrupting the global economy and causing mass disruption to societies the world over, federal agency officials and governors in the United States are taking some critical steps to loosen healthcare regulations that stand in the way of a robust, effective response. But more must be done. While all eyes are on Washington, some of the most important steps that can be taken are at the state level. Telehealth, license portability, and rules that govern how many health facilities are allowed to operate need and must be the focus for health regulators and can have a massive benefit going forward.

The coronavirus pandemic threatens to strain the supply of hospital beds, pharmaceutical products, medical devices, lab supplies, and more — basically every part of the healthcare system is at risk. Whenever a regulation stands in the way of increasing the supply of items and services and can be relaxed without harming patient health and well-being, policymakers should take a good look at increasing regulatory flexibility.