Medicare to Cover More Telehealth Services

By Amanda Fields and Todd Schluesche

Because of coronavirus, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has increased access to Medicare telehealth services.  Medicare beneficiaries are being encouraged to use technology to get needed healthcare.    Doctors can provide more services by phone calls and video chats.  As a result, beneficiaries can reduce travel outside the safety of their home.

Medicare formerly paid for telehealth in designated rural areas only.  Now, Medicare beneficiaries can use telehealth for common doctor’s office visits and preventive health screenings.  Telehealth is also available for mental health counseling.  Medicare will still pay for telehealth at the same rates as in-person visits.

Telehealth expansion started March 6, 2020 and will continue for the duration of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency.  For more information, view the CMS fact sheet.

Telehealth can help Medicare beneficiaries get the care they need during the coronavirus outbreak.  If you have questions or would like to discuss your particular needs, please don’t hesitate to call us at (608) 325-2500.  During the outbreak we are continuing to serve people by telephone conferences, email, and videoconferences.