Telehealth for Seniors on Medicare

Telehealth lets seniors see a provider from home. Here's what Medicare covers in 2026, what it costs, and how to get help understanding your benefits.

What telehealth does Medicare cover in 2026?

Under flexibilities Congress extended in February 2026, Original Medicare covers a wide range of telehealth services through December 31, 2027. Seniors can receive eligible visits from home, with no geographic restrictions, from doctors and many other providers. This includes routine check-ins, medication management, specialist consults, and more. Separately, telehealth for behavioral and mental health from home is now a permanent Medicare benefit, with no expiration. Some visits can use audio-only phone where appropriate. Coverage rules can shift with legislation, so confirming current details with Medicare.gov or a licensed agent ensures you have the latest information for your situation.

What does telehealth cost seniors on Medicare?

Under Part B, covered telehealth visits are generally treated like in-person services: after meeting your annual Part B deductible, you typically pay 20% coinsurance of the Medicare-approved amount. If you have a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan, it may cover some or all of that coinsurance and deductible, lowering or eliminating your out-of-pocket cost. Medicare Advantage plans set their own telehealth copays, which vary by plan. Because costs depend on your specific coverage, it's worth confirming before your visit. To understand exactly what you'd pay—or how a Medigap plan could reduce telehealth costs—call 1-800-MEDIGAP (1-800-633-4427) for free help.

How Medigap helps with telehealth costs

Telehealth visits under Original Medicare leave you responsible for the Part B deductible and 20% coinsurance unless you have additional coverage. A Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan is designed to fill those gaps—many plans cover the 20% coinsurance, and some cover the deductible too, so a telehealth visit could cost you little or nothing out of pocket. Because Medigap plans are standardized but priced differently by carrier and area, comparing matters. The licensed agents at 1-800-MEDIGAP (1-800-633-4427) offer free, no-obligation help comparing Medigap plans so your telehealth and in-person care are better protected.

Tips for a successful telehealth visit

To get the most from a telehealth appointment, prepare ahead. Test your device's camera, microphone, and internet connection beforehand, and find a quiet, well-lit, private spot. Keep a current list of medications, your pharmacy info, and any symptoms or questions handy. If you use a blood pressure cuff or glucose monitor, have recent readings ready. Ask a family member to help with technology if needed. After the visit, confirm next steps, prescriptions, and any follow-up. If you have trouble connecting, many providers offer audio-only phone visits for certain services. For coverage questions, call 1-800-MEDIGAP (1-800-633-4427).

Frequently asked questions

Does Medicare cover telehealth for seniors in 2026?+

Yes. Original Medicare covers telehealth from home with no geographic restrictions through December 31, 2027, under flexibilities Congress extended in February 2026. Behavioral and mental health telehealth from home is a permanent benefit. Covered visits are billed under Part B like in-person care.

How much does a Medicare telehealth visit cost?+

Under Part B, you typically pay 20% coinsurance of the Medicare-approved amount after meeting your annual deductible. A Medigap plan may cover some or all of that, and Medicare Advantage plans set their own copays. Costs vary, so confirm yours before the visit.

Can seniors do telehealth from home on Medicare?+

Yes. Through December 31, 2027, Medicare allows seniors to receive eligible telehealth visits from home with no geographic restrictions. Behavioral and mental health telehealth from home is permanent. Some services can be delivered audio-only by phone when appropriate, helping seniors without video access stay connected to care.

Will telehealth coverage expire for Medicare?+

Most Original Medicare telehealth flexibilities—including home visits and expanded providers—are extended through December 31, 2027. Behavioral health telehealth from home is permanent. Coverage can change with future legislation, so check Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDIGAP (1-800-633-4427) for the latest before relying on it.

Does Medigap cover telehealth costs?+

Medigap plans help cover Original Medicare's out-of-pocket costs, including the Part B coinsurance—and sometimes the deductible—that apply to telehealth visits. The exact coverage depends on the plan. To compare Medigap plans that reduce telehealth costs, call 1-800-MEDIGAP (1-800-633-4427) for free help.