The Federal government has taken steps to expedite the adoption and awareness of telehealth. Some flexibilities have been made permanent, while others are extended temporarily. Key updates include:
- Medicare Coverage at Home: Medicare beneficiaries may receive non-behavioral/mental telehealth services from their home through September 30, 2025.
- No Geographic Restrictions: There are no geographic limitations on originating sites for non-behavioral/mental telehealth services through September 30, 2025.
- Eligible Providers: All Medicare-eligible providers may furnish telehealth services through September 30, 2025.
- FQHCs and RHCs as Distant Site Providers: Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) and Rural Health Clinics (RHCs) may provide non-behavioral/mental telehealth services through September 30, 2025.
- For qualifying telehealth encounters (real-time video or approved audio-only), these providers will be reimbursed at the national average physician fee schedule rate through December 31, 2025.
- Behavioral/Mental Health In-Person Visit Requirement Waived:
- For most providers, the requirement for an in-person visit within six months of an initial behavioral/mental health service (and annually thereafter) is waived through September 30, 2025.
- For FQHCs and RHCs, this requirement is not in effect until January 1, 2026.
- Audio-Only Telehealth Services:
- Non-behavioral/mental telehealth services may be provided via audio-only communication through September 30, 2025.
- Audio-only technology may also be used permanently when the provider is capable of video, but the patient is not able or does not consent to video.
As a reminder, the NTCA Group Health Program (GHP) includes access to a variety of telehealth services, offering a convenient and cost-effective option for care. This means employees covered under GHP plans can consult with licensed healthcare providers remotely—often 24/7—for common conditions, dermatology, behavioral health support, and more. With the ongoing flexibility at the federal level, companies participating in the NTCA GHP are well-positioned to provide accessible, timely healthcare to their employees no matter where they are located. This is just one more way NTCA member organizations can enhance workforce well-being!
To learn more about the NTCA Group Health Program, contact your member relations manager.