CMS Ends Key Telehealth Waivers, Impacting Virtual Care Access Nationwide
HealthLeaders
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Contributed by: Kate Gamble
Summary
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will not extend several key telehealth waivers that were implemented during the pandemic, which may restrict virtual care accessibility, particularly for older Americans in various regions. While most waivers will expire, CMS has extended the waiver allowing providers to bill Medicare for telehealth services conducted from home, a change advocated for by over 100 organizations seeking its permanence to enhance patient access. Additionally, CMS plans to include new services in the Medicare Telehealth Services List, such as caregiver training and PrEP counseling, and permit telehealth via two-way, real-time audio.
