Telemedicine is gaining popularity in the world of medicine, and for good reason. It allows patients to interact with medical providers through an interactive two-way telecommunication system. This allows for flexibility as well as access to physicians who are not physically in your immediate area. Telemedicine is becoming an ever-important presence in the medical world, and it’s increasing popularity and utility means that its coverage is spreading to Medicare as well. However, you will need to know exactly what kind of coverage is allowed under Medicare, how you can access it, and how you can pay for it.
Does Medicare allow telemedicine?
Medicare Part B will cover telemedicine since Part B is responsible for outpatient service coverage, and telemedicine falls under this category. However, the telemedicine consultation must be conducted using two-way, interactive telecommunication which utilizes both audio and video feeds. Medicare has an approved list with different types of providers that are allowed to perform telemedicine, which includes doctors, nurses, midwives, clinical psychologists, and dieticians, among others.
Does Medicaid pay for telemedicine?
Medicare Part B will pay for certain services. However, you will want to ask your doctor or physician about which services are covered and how much you will need to pay. As with any other medical procedure, the actual cost can depend on a lot of different factors. For instance, do you have any other type of insurance that may help to cover the costs? Also, what your individual doctor or provider ultimately charges you will also determine how much you end up paying for your services.
Does Medicare pay for telephone psychotherapy?
Although Medicare Part B covers outpatient services, which also encompasses telemedicine, all consultations delivered via telemedicine must be carried out over a two-way telecommunication interaction. These consultations must include both audio and video equipment which is being utilized by both the doctor and the patient. Each state can determine what exactly they are willing to cover in regard to telehealth services, so it’s important to check with your individual state to ensure that any service you require is covered and if it is not then what alternatives exist.
Does insurance pay for telemedicine?
Just like any other insurance service, Medicare Part B will cover the majority of the expenses for a telehealth consultation. However, there are still fees that will be incurred, such as copays, coinsurance, and deductibles, all of which you will be responsible for. As with other forms of insurance, once your deductible is met, Medicare Part B will cover your consultation at 80 percent. To help with expenses, you have the option to enroll in Medigap, or you may opt for Medicare Advantage Part C. If you have a Medicare Part C plan, your physician can work with you to ensure that your telehealth provider falls within the network eligible providers.
Telemedicine is becoming a more cost-effective way for doctors and patients to meet and consult regarding the patient’s health. At Anserve, we recognize the unique responsibilities that doctors have to their patients, and we are here to offer our support. Our telehealth platform includes mobile apps and cloud software, offering you the latest in technology to ensure that you can support your clients.
