Medicare Extends Coverage for Telehealth Visits Through 2024: What You Need to Know

If you've found telehealth visits with your doctors helpful during the pandemic, you'll be pleased to know that Medicare has extended coverage for these virtual appointments through the end of 2024. This means you can continue to arrange phone or video calls with your doctor instead of in-person visits, and Medicare will cover them just as they would for in-person appointments.

What Telehealth Services Are Covered by Medicare?

Medicare's extended telehealth coverage includes:

• Phone or video calls with your doctor

• Virtual visits with occupational therapists

• Telehealth appointments with physical therapists

• Remote consultations with speech-language pathologists

• Telehealth sessions with audiologists

This extension ensures that you can continue to access a wide range of healthcare services from the comfort and safety of your own home.

The Benefits of Telehealth Visits

Telehealth visits offer several advantages, including:

• Reduced exposure to illness by avoiding waiting rooms

• Increased convenience and accessibility

• Eliminated travel time and expenses

• Improved continuity of care for chronic conditions

According to the American Telemedicine Association, telehealth has been shown to improve patient outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and increase patient satisfaction.

When In-Person Visits May Be Necessary

While telehealth visits are incredibly useful, they may not be appropriate for every health situation. As Dr. Joseph Kvedar, a Harvard dermatologist and member of the American Telemedicine Association board of directors, notes, "More often than not, your first visit with a doctor has a greater impact if done in person, especially if the doctor needs to carry out certain physical exam steps, such as listening to your heart or manipulating a joint."

In-person visits may be necessary for:

• Initial consultations with a new doctor

• Physical examinations

• Diagnostic tests or procedures

• Vaccinations and injections

Your healthcare provider will help you determine when a telehealth visit is appropriate and when an in-person appointment is required.

Private Insurance Coverage for Telehealth

Private insurance companies are expected to follow Medicare's lead and continue paying for telehealth visits during this extension period. However, it's always a good idea to check with your specific insurance provider to confirm coverage and any potential out-of-pocket costs. You can find more information about telehealth coverage from the Center for Connected Health Policy.

Embracing the Future of Healthcare

The extension of Medicare coverage for telehealth visits through 2024 reflects the growing recognition of the value and effectiveness of virtual healthcare. As technology continues to advance and more people become comfortable with remote consultations, telehealth is likely to become an increasingly integral part of the healthcare landscape. By understanding your options and working with your healthcare provider, you can make informed decisions about when to use telehealth services and when to opt for in-person visits, ensuring that you receive the best possible care for your individual needs.

For more information on telehealth and its benefits, visit the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology.