
Telehealth Services Update for Medical Providers
Telehealth allows medical providers to deliver certain healthcare services remotely using audio and video communication technologies, including phones and computers. In some cases, audio-only communication is also permitted.
Current CMS Policy (Through December 31, 2024): * Patients can access telehealth services from any location within the U.S., including their homes.
Updated CMS Policy (Effective January 1, 2025): *For most telehealth services, patients must be located in an office or medical facility situated in a rural area within the U.S. However, exceptions apply to specific Medicare telehealth services, which can continue regardless of location, including:
- Monthly End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Visits *For home dialysis patients.
- Acute Stroke Services *Services for the diagnosis, evaluation, or treatment of symptoms of an acute stroke, including in mobile stroke units.
- Mental and Behavioral Health Services *Diagnosis, evaluation, or treatment of mental health disorders, including substance use disorders, provided in the patient’s home.
Providers should review these guidelines to ensure compliance with the updated policies and inform patients accordingly.
For commercial plan and some self-insured plan members, audio-only visits are covered for the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of certain mental health conditions until Dec. 31, 2025. Reimbursement rates for audio-only visits will be paid at 80% of the standard in-person rate.