Does Medicare Cover Telehealth Services?

Posted by Ellen Miller
Estimated Reading Time 1 minute 12 seconds

Telehealth has become an essential part of modern healthcare, especially for beneficiaries who prefer to receive care from the comfort of home. If you’re a Medicare beneficiary, you may be wondering whether your plan covers telehealth services.

The short answer is yes: Medicare does provide coverage for many telehealth visits. Traditional Medicare, also known as Part B, covers a range of virtual healthcare services when they are provided by a doctor or specialist. This includes primary care, mental health counseling, follow-up appointments, and even physical therapy in some cases.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Medicare expanded its telehealth coverage. Many of these expanded services are still available today, though it is important to check whether the provider offers telehealth and if the service is approved under your plan.

Medicare Advantage plans, or Part C plans, may offer telehealth coverage. These plans are issued by private insurance companies.

If you’re unsure what your specific Medicare plan covers, consider doing the following:

• • Call the number on the back of your Medicare or Medicare Advantage card to ask about telehealth coverage.
  • Talk to your licensed insurance broker at our next appointment. Review your plan’s coverage online or in your policy booklet.
  • Ask your doctor’s office if they accept Medicare for virtual appointments.

Telehealth services are especially useful for routine care, medication management, and ongoing health monitoring. They are also a great way to connect with healthcare providers if you have mobility challenges or live in a rural area.

If you need help understanding your Medicare plan or finding a plan that supports telehealth, contact our team of licensed insurance agents for a free plan review. We’re here to help you make informed decisions about your healthcare.