Updated: Medicare Telehealth Waivers Refresher

Updated: October 2, 2023

In 2020, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) instituted flexibilities that waived many of the generally applicable rules governing Medicare telehealth services in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of these waivers were in effect through the duration of the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE).

The Biden administration ended the COVID-19 PHE on May 11, 2023. This decision came after multiple renewals over the previous three years. MGMA appreciates that the Administration heeded our call to provide at least 90-days’ notice prior to concluding the PHE. The end of the PHE has ramifications for a variety of flexibilities afforded by the pandemic over the last several years. Due to recent congressional action (discussed below), many of these flexibilities will now remain in effect through Dec. 31, 2024. Please keep in mind that this resource addresses Medicare payment policy, and that Medicaid and commercial payers may institute their own payment rules.

Please keep in mind that this resource addresses Medicare payment policy, and that Medicaid and commercial payers may institute their own payment rules.