Medicare Telehealth: Virtual Visits From Home and What to Ask

Medicare covers many telehealth services, allowing you to see your doctor or other providers from home or another U.S. location. This flexibility for where you receive telehealth services is in place through December 31, 2027. You generally pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after meeting your Part B deductible.

Key takeaways

• Medicare Part B covers many virtual health services, including doctor visits and mental health care.
• You can receive telehealth services from your home or any U.S. location through December 31, 2027.
• Your cost for telehealth is typically 20% coinsurance after you meet your Part B deductible.
• Medicare Advantage plans must cover the same telehealth services as Original Medicare but may have different costs or rules.
• Always confirm with your doctor's office and your specific Medicare plan about telehealth options and costs.

What is Medicare telehealth?

Telehealth means getting healthcare services using technology. This often involves video calls with your doctor or other healthcare providers. You might also use telehealth for phone calls or secure messaging.

Medicare uses telehealth to help you get care without an in-person visit. This can be convenient, especially for routine follow-ups or if you live far from your doctor's office. Many different types of care can be provided through telehealth.

Which services does Medicare cover?

Medicare Part B (medical insurance) covers many telehealth services. These include common doctor visits, certain mental health counseling, and some preventive health services. For example, you can have a virtual check-up or a therapy session.

Medicare covers these services when they are medically necessary. The service must be one that Medicare would cover if it were an in-person visit. The goal is to provide similar care, just in a different way.

Where can I get telehealth services?

Currently, you can receive Medicare telehealth services from almost any location in the U.S. This includes your own home. This flexibility is temporary and is set to continue through December 31, 2027.

After this date, rules about where you can receive telehealth might change. It is always wise to check Medicare.gov for the latest information. This helps you understand where your virtual visits can take place.

What do telehealth visits cost?

When you receive telehealth services, you pay the same amount as an in-person visit. This means you typically pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount. This cost is your coinsurance.

Before coinsurance begins, you must meet your annual Part B deductible. For 2026, the Part B deductible is $283. So, for example, if a Medicare-approved telehealth visit costs $100 after your deductible is met, you would pay $20.

Do Part B deductibles apply?

Yes, the Part B deductible applies to most telehealth services. You must pay this deductible amount first each year. After you meet the deductible, Medicare pays 80% and you pay 20%.

For example, if your first Medicare-covered service of the year is a telehealth visit costing $150, you would pay that full amount. This would count towards your $283 deductible. The next services would then go toward meeting the rest of your deductible. Once met, your 20% coinsurance would apply.

What about Medicare Advantage plans?

Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) must cover the same telehealth services as Original Medicare. However, your costs might be different. These plans may have their own copayments or coinsurance amounts for telehealth visits.

Your plan may also have specific rules about which providers you can see. They might require you to use providers within their network. Always check with your specific Medicare Advantage plan for details on telehealth coverage and costs.

This table shows general differences. Your specific costs and rules depend on your plan. Medicare Advantage plans vary widely by carrier and location.

What to ask your doctor's office

Before scheduling a telehealth visit, speak with your doctor's office. Ask if they offer virtual appointments for your specific needs. Not all doctors offer telehealth, or they may only offer it for certain types of visits.

You should also confirm if they accept Medicare for telehealth services. Most do, but it is good to be sure. Ask what technology you will need, such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Make sure you are comfortable using it. For example, some mental health care providers offer telehealth, and you can learn more about Medicare Mental Health Coverage: Therapy, Doctors, Hospital Limits.

What to ask your Medicare plan

It is important to understand your plan's specific rules for telehealth. If you have Original Medicare, your costs are generally standard. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, costs can vary. Ask your plan these questions:

• What is my copayment or coinsurance for a telehealth visit?
• Do I need to use a specific telehealth platform or app?
• Are there any limits on the types of telehealth services covered?
• Do I need a referral for telehealth specialist visits?
• Are there specific providers I must use for telehealth?

Understanding these details helps avoid unexpected bills. You can find your plan's contact information on your member ID card. You can also check your plan's website or member handbook.

How to prepare for a virtual visit

Preparing for a telehealth visit can help it go smoothly. First, make sure you have a quiet, private space for your appointment. Test your internet connection and device (computer, tablet, or phone) beforehand.

Write down any questions or concerns you have for your doctor. Have a list of your current medications ready. This helps you make the most of your time with the provider. Be ready a few minutes before your appointment starts.

What about fraud and telehealth?

It is important to protect your Medicare information during telehealth visits. Only share your Medicare Number with trusted providers. Be wary of unsolicited calls or offers for "free" telehealth services.

Always check your Medicare Summary Notices (MSNs) for services you did not receive. If you suspect fraud, report it to Medicare. You can learn more about checking your statements in Reading Your Medicare Summary Notice: Spot Errors, File Appeals.

Will telehealth coverage change?

The current flexibility for telehealth location is temporary. It is set to end on December 31, 2027. This means after that date, where you can receive telehealth services might become more limited.

Medicare continuously reviews its policies. It is a good idea to stay updated on any changes. You can always check Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE for the most current information about telehealth coverage.

Telehealth and preventive care

Some preventive services covered by Medicare Part B can be done through telehealth. For example, certain mental health screenings or follow-up visits after a wellness exam. This makes it easier to keep up with important health screenings.

However, not all preventive services are suitable for telehealth. Some require in-person exams or lab tests. Always check with your doctor to see if a preventive service can be done virtually. You can also review information about your Welcome to Medicare Visit & Part B Preventive Coverage.

Using telehealth for mental health

Telehealth has become a common way to receive mental health care. Medicare Part B covers many mental health services provided virtually. This includes psychotherapy, medication management, and counseling.

This can make it easier to access mental health support from your home. It can also reduce barriers like travel or scheduling conflicts. Check with your mental health provider to see if they offer telehealth options and if they accept Medicare.

Telehealth and out-of-state doctors

Currently, you can receive telehealth services from any location in the U.S. This includes if your doctor is in a different state. However, doctors must be licensed in the state where you are located to provide care. This is an important rule.

If your doctor is in a different state, confirm they are licensed to practice in your state. This ensures your visit is legally compliant and covered by Medicare. Rules about state licensure can be complex and may vary.

Technology for virtual visits

To have a telehealth visit, you will need a device with a camera and microphone. This could be a smartphone, a tablet, or a computer. You will also need a reliable internet connection.

Your doctor's office will tell you which platform or app they use. They might use a video conferencing tool or a specific patient portal. If you need help, ask a family member or the doctor's office staff for assistance.

Remote patient monitoring

Medicare also covers some remote patient monitoring services. This involves using technology to collect health data from your home. Examples include blood pressure cuffs or glucose monitors that send readings to your doctor.

Your doctor then reviews this data to manage your condition. These services are typically covered under Medicare Part B. Ask your doctor if remote patient monitoring is an option for your health needs.

Telehealth for chronic conditions

Telehealth can be especially helpful for managing chronic conditions. Regular virtual check-ins can help you stay on track with your treatment plan. Your doctor can monitor your progress and adjust medications as needed.

This can reduce the need for frequent in-person office visits. It offers a convenient way to get ongoing care for conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or arthritis. Discuss with your doctor if telehealth is suitable for managing your chronic condition.

Medicare telehealth in emergencies

Telehealth is generally not for medical emergencies. If you have a serious medical emergency, you should call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Telehealth is primarily for routine care, follow-ups, and managing ongoing health conditions.

If you are unsure if your condition is an emergency, contact your doctor's office first. They can advise you on the course of action. Do not delay urgent care by trying to use telehealth for an emergency.

Benefits of telehealth services

Telehealth offers several benefits for Medicare beneficiaries. It can save time and travel costs, especially if you live far from your doctor. It also makes it easier to access specialists who may not be in your local area.

For those with mobility issues, telehealth provides a more comfortable way to receive care. It can also help reduce the risk of exposure to illness in waiting rooms. Overall, telehealth can make healthcare more convenient and accessible. Before making decisions on your Medicare plan choices, consider whether you want a plan that provides greater flexibility for telehealth. To compare the types of plans, you can review Medicare Parts A, B, C, D: What Each Covers & Your Choices.

Have questions? Call 1-877-443-3251 to talk it through with a licensed insurance agent. You never pay the agent; the plans they represent do, and the decision stays yours.

We do not offer every plan available in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options. Medicare has neither reviewed nor endorsed this information.