Yes, Medicare patients can use telehealth services. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services expanded telehealth coverage for Medicare beneficiaries to help reduce the spread of the virus and ensure that seniors could continue to receive necessary medical care.
Under the expanded telehealth coverage, Medicare beneficiaries can receive a wide range of services, including virtual check-ins, telehealth visits, and remote evaluation of recorded video and images, from the comfort of their homes. This coverage applies to all Medicare beneficiaries, regardless of where they live, and is available for both original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans.
It is important to note that not all telehealth services are covered by Medicare, and some services may require prior authorization. Beneficiaries should check with their healthcare provider or Medicare plan to determine what telehealth services are covered and what, if any, out-of-pocket costs they may be responsible for.