Starting this January, Medicare has broadened its coverage for telehealth appointments, enabling more people aged 65 and older to consult their doctors by phone or video call. This change comes as part of ongoing efforts to make healthcare more accessible for those who may face difficulties visiting medical offices in person.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced that the list of services eligible for telehealth reimbursement has been expanded. This includes mental health counseling, physical therapy check-ins, and consultations with specialists. Previously, Medicare limited telehealth mostly to primary care and a few other types of visits, primarily during the COVID-19 public health emergency.
For many older adults, traveling to appointments can be challenging due to mobility issues, transportation barriers, or concerns about exposure to illnesses. Expanding telehealth coverage means these patients might more easily maintain regular contact with their healthcare providers. Doctors can monitor chronic conditions, adjust medications, and address new symptoms without requiring in-person visits unless absolutely necessary.
Medical professionals have expressed cautious optimism about the changes. Dr. Susan Meyers, a geriatrician in Boston, noted that telehealth has proven useful for routine follow-ups and mental health support. “My patients appreciate not having to make long trips, especially in the winter months,” she said. However, she also pointed out that remote consultations are not a perfect substitute for physical exams when those are needed.
Technology access remains a key factor. While telephone visits are included, video calls offer added benefits like visual assessment but depend on having a smartphone, tablet, or computer with internet access. Older adults without reliable technology may face hurdles. Organizations like AARP have urged continued efforts to improve digital literacy and provide affordable connectivity.
Financially, the changes could help reduce out-of-pocket costs by cutting down on travel expenses and potentially preventing complications through earlier intervention. Medicare will reimburse providers for qualifying telehealth services at rates similar to in-person visits. This aligns with recommendations from some experts who argue telehealth can improve care coordination and reduce emergency room visits for chronic illness flare-ups.
Still, questions remain about how permanent these changes will be. Some provisions that were expanded under the pandemic emergency initially had expiration dates or required congressional approval to continue. Recent legislation has extended many of the telehealth flexibilities through 2024, but advocates are pressing for longer-term reforms.
For older adults who want to take advantage of telehealth, experts suggest checking with their healthcare providers and Medicare plan about what services are covered. It is also helpful to become familiar with basic technology platforms that doctors use, and to ask for technical assistance if needed.
This expansion of Medicare coverage reflects a broader shift in healthcare delivery, blending traditional office visits with remote care options. While not a replacement for all medical needs, telehealth can be a valuable tool for many people aged 65 and older to preserve their independence and manage their health more conveniently. The changes mark a step toward a more flexible system that accounts for the diverse realities of aging patients.
