Telehealth

Telehealth has emerged as a convenient and accessible method of healthcare delivery, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Offering flexibility and efficiency, telehealth visits allow individuals to consult with healthcare professionals from the comfort of their homes or any location of their choosing, saving both time and effort. With options ranging from phone calls to video conferences and secure text messaging, telehealth facilitates routine wellness checks, mental health counseling, nutrition counseling, and medication management, among other services.

Medicare coverage for telehealth services has expanded significantly, with Original Medicare Part B now providing coverage for a wide range of telehealth visits. While beneficiaries may be responsible for the Part B deductible and a portion of the costs, providers may opt to reduce or waive patient fees, particularly in response to the ongoing pandemic. Previously restricted to rural areas, telehealth services are now accessible to all Medicare beneficiaries, encompassing various healthcare needs such as monthly home dialysis, acute stroke evaluation, mental health treatment, emergency visits, and routine check-ins. This accessibility underscores the growing importance and relevance of telehealth in modern healthcare delivery.