What is the official ID of this bill?
The official print number for this legislation is S 1636.
Permanent Medicare Telehealth Expansion: Ending Geographic and Home Restrictions.
This bill permanently expands access to telehealth services under Medicare by eliminating geographic restrictions and allowing patients to receive covered services in their homes starting in 2025. These changes significantly improve healthcare access for Medicare beneficiaries, especially those in rural areas, including coverage for behavioral health services via audio-only technology.
Key points
Effective January 1, 2025, Medicare will cover telehealth regardless of the patient's location (ending geographic requirements).
Permanently allows patients to receive Medicare-covered telehealth services in their homes, increasing convenience and access.
Establishes permanent coverage for certain telehealth services (like behavioral health) using only audio technology (phone calls).
Provides new payment flexibilities and incentives for rural hospitals and clinics to offer remote care.
Status:
Expired
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