Medicare & Telehealth – Can You See a Doctor from Home?

Telehealth has revolutionized healthcare, making it easier than ever for patients to connect with doctors without leaving home. But how does Medicare cover telehealth services, and what do beneficiaries need to know? Let’s break down how Medicare & Telehealth work together and whether you can access medical care from the comfort of your home.

Does Medicare Cover Telehealth Services?

Yes! Medicare covers a wide range of telehealth services under Medicare Part B. This includes virtual visits with doctors, specialists, and mental health professionals. Thanks to recent expansions, Medicare beneficiaries can now receive many services via telehealth that were previously only available in person.

What Telehealth Services Does Medicare Cover?

✅ Routine doctor visits✅ Mental health therapy & counseling✅ Preventive health screenings✅ Chronic disease management✅ Specialist consultations✅ Physical and occupational therapy✅ Remote patient monitoring (for conditions like diabetes or heart disease)

Who Can Use Medicare Telehealth Services?

Most Medicare beneficiaries can access telehealth services if they have Medicare Part B coverage. Telehealth services can be provided to individuals:

• At home

• In a doctor’s office

• At a skilled nursing facility

• In a rural health clinic

Some services may require video conferencing, while others, like mental health check-ins, may be available over the phone.

How Much Do Telehealth Services Cost with Medicare?

• Part B covers 80% of the Medicare-approved amount for telehealth visits.

• Beneficiaries pay 20% of the cost after meeting the Part B deductible ($240 in 2024).

• Some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans may offer lower copays or expanded telehealth benefits.

  
  

💡 Tip: Some providers offer free virtual consultations—check with your plan to see what’s included!

How to Use Medicare Telehealth Services

1️⃣ Find a Medicare-approved provider offering telehealth services.2️⃣ Schedule an appointment with your doctor or specialist.3️⃣ Use a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera and internet connection for video visits.4️⃣ Confirm insurance coverage and copay costs before your visit.

What’s Next for Medicare Telehealth?

Telehealth services expanded significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, and many of these changes are now permanent for Medicare beneficiaries. Expect more specialist access, remote monitoring, and home-based care options in the future.

Final Thoughts

Telehealth is a convenient, affordable, and effective way for Medicare beneficiaries to receive medical care from home. Whether you need routine check-ups, mental health support, or chronic condition management, Medicare’s telehealth benefits ensure you have access to quality healthcare without unnecessary travel.

Want to explore Medicare plans with telehealth benefits? Lindbergh and Associates can help!

📞 Call us today or schedule a free consultation to learn more about your Medicare telehealth options!