More and more Americans are turning to telehealth—seeing a doctor by phone or video instead of going into the office. For years, these virtual visits were covered by insurance just like in-person appointments. Now, however, some providers, including Medicare, the federal health program for adults 65 and older, may be ending coverage. Here’s what you need to know about when the changes could take effect.
When does Medicare’s telehealth coverage expire?
Telehealth has been covered under Medicare Part B for several years, but that coverage is set to expire on September 30. A temporary stopgap bill introduced by House Republicans would have extended access for rural Medicare patients until November 21, but because the measure failed to pass the Senate, the deadline remains September 30.
Why telehealth matters for seniors on medicare
For many older adults, telehealth has been more than a convenience—it’s been a lifeline. Virtual visits save seniors from long trips to the doctor’s office, reduce exposure to contagious illnesses and make it easier to manage chronic conditions from the comfort of home. For those living in rural areas or with limited mobility, telehealth can mean faster access to care and fewer missed appointments. Losing that option could make it harder for millions of Medicare users to get the consistent, safe care they need.
As the American Medical Association warned, “Congressional action is required to prevent the severe limitations on telehealth that existed before the COVID-19 pandemic from being restored. We must make these flexibilities permanent and secure telehealth’s future as an essential element of our patient toolbox—ensuring that all Americans, including rural, underserved, and historically marginalized populations, have full access to the care they need.”
Other Medicare programs affected by the spending bill
The stopgap resolution that included a short-term extension of telehealth also aimed to keep several other Medicare programs running through November 21. These included the Medicare-Dependent Hospital (MDH) program, add-on payments for ground ambulances, the Acute Hospital Care at Home initiative, Medicare Part D coverage of certain oral antiviral drugs and hospice survey funding from the IMPACT Act of 2014. Lawmakers also wanted to extend funding for low-income assistance programs and continue Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) work on quality measures.
But because the Senate rejected the bill, none of these extensions passed. For now, the fate of these programs—and Medicare telehealth—remains tied up in negotiations. Congress has until October 1 to approve a broader government funding package. If they don’t, the deadlines move up, and the government could shut down.
How to get help if Medicare telehealth ends
If Medicare’s telehealth coverage does expire, support is still available. Start by calling 1-800-MEDICARE for up-to-date information and guidance specific to your situation. Your doctor’s office can also walk you through alternatives, including safe ways to schedule in-person visits or connect with local clinics that may offer low-cost options. Some community health centers and hospital systems provide their own telehealth services, so ask if those are available. And remember—Woman’s World will continue to share updates and resources to help you navigate any changes.
