Telehealth has transformed healthcare access for Medicare beneficiaries, making it easier to receive care from home. However, Medicare telehealth coverage involves complex rules that are changing significantly in 2025. Understanding what’s covered and how to access services helps you make informed healthcare decisions.

Current Coverage Through September 2025

Expanded Home Access: Through September 30, 2025, Medicare covers telehealth services at any location, including your home. This temporary flexibility allows you to receive many types of medical care without traveling to a healthcare facility.

Wide Range of Services: Medicare currently covers more than 250 telehealth services, including office visits, consultations, physical therapy, and certain specialty care services. This represents a significant expansion from pre-pandemic coverage.

No Geographic Restrictions: Until September 2025, you can access telehealth services regardless of whether you live in rural or urban areas.

Major Changes Starting October 2025

Location Requirements Return: Starting October 1, 2025, most telehealth services will require you to be in a medical facility located in a rural area or approved healthcare setting. If you’re not in a qualifying location, you’ll only be able to access certain specific services via telehealth.

Limited Exceptions: Even after October 2025, some services will remain available from home, including monthly End-Stage Renal Disease visits for home dialysis, acute stroke treatment services, and behavioral/mental health services.

Mental Health Services: Permanent Flexibility

Home-Based Care: Mental health and behavioral services can permanently be provided to your home via telehealth. This represents one of the most significant permanent changes to Medicare telehealth policy.

Audio-Only Options: Mental health services can be provided through audio-only platforms (like phone calls) when video isn’t available or preferred. This ensures access for those with limited technology or internet connectivity.

No In-Person Requirements: Through September 30, 2025, no in-person visit is required before starting mental health telehealth services. After that date, requirements may change depending on legislative action.

How to Access Services

Find Eligible Providers: Any healthcare provider who accepts Medicare and offers telehealth services can treat you virtually. This includes physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, clinical psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers.

Check Coverage: Before scheduling, verify that your specific service is on Medicare’s approved telehealth list and that your provider accepts Medicare.

Technology Requirements: Most telehealth visits require a device with video capability (smartphone, tablet, or computer) and reliable internet connection. Some services, particularly mental health care, can be conducted via phone if video isn’t available.

Cost and Coverage Details

Standard Medicare Costs: Medicare typically covers 80% of telehealth service costs after you meet your Part B deductible ($257 in 2025). You’re responsible for the remaining 20% unless you have supplemental insurance.

Medicare Advantage: Medicare Advantage plans must cover telehealth services at least to the same extent as Original Medicare, though they may offer additional telehealth benefits.

Alternative Virtual Care Options

Virtual Check-Ins: These brief audio or video consultations with your existing healthcare provider are available to all Medicare beneficiaries regardless of location. They’re designed for quick follow-ups and basic medical questions.

E-Visits: Conducted through patient portals, e-visits allow you to communicate with your healthcare provider online. Like virtual check-ins, these are available nationwide without geographic restrictions.

Remote Patient Monitoring: Medicare covers certain remote monitoring services that track your health data from home, particularly useful for managing chronic conditions.

Preparing for Policy Changes

Stay Informed: Telehealth policies continue evolving as Congress considers extending current flexibilities. Extensions have occurred multiple times, most recently extending coverage through September 2025.

Plan Ahead: If you rely on telehealth services and don’t live in a rural area, discuss alternatives with your healthcare provider before October 2025. This might include identifying nearby rural healthcare facilities or transitioning to in-person care.

Mental Health Exception: Mental health services via telehealth should continue to be available from your home regardless of location, providing stability amid changing policies.

Making the Most of Telehealth

Prepare for Your Visit: Test your technology beforehand, ensure good lighting and sound quality, have your medication list ready, and prepare questions in advance.

Create a Suitable Environment: Choose a quiet, private space with good internet connectivity. Have a comfortable place to sit and any needed medical devices nearby.

The future of Medicare telehealth coverage depends largely on Congressional action. While mental health services have gained permanent flexibility, other telehealth services face uncertainty. Understanding current coverage and preparing for changes helps you maximize these benefits while maintaining quality healthcare access.