Telehealth lets you see providers from home, and Medicare covers a wide range of it. Here's what to know.
What telehealth does Medicare cover?
Medicare Part B covers a broad range of telehealth services delivered by video, and in some cases audio-only phone. Covered services include office visits, mental and behavioral health counseling, preventive health screenings, and certain specialist consultations. Behavioral and mental health telehealth has the broadest, most durable coverage, you can receive these services from home, including by phone if needed. For other telehealth services, coverage rules and the locations where you can receive care have shifted over time based on federal policy, so it's wise to confirm current rules. You generally pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after your Part B deductible. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP at 1-800-633-4427 to confirm what's covered.
What you'll pay and how plans differ
Under Original Medicare you typically pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for a covered telehealth visit after your Part B deductible, the same cost-sharing as an in-person visit for the same service. A Medigap plan can cover that 20%. Medicare Advantage plans also cover telehealth and often add their own virtual care benefits, sometimes with low or $0 copays, but with network rules. Because telehealth policy has evolved, especially for services delivered outside rural areas, confirming current coverage before your visit avoids surprises. For free help understanding your telehealth benefits and costs, call 1-800-MEDIGAP at 1-800-633-4427.