Does Medicare Pay for Telehealth Physical Therapy?

Introduction

Telehealth physical therapy is an innovative type of medical care that allows patients to receive treatment through remote video or audio sessions. With the help of modern technology, physical therapists can assess and diagnose a patient’s condition from a distance, then create a personalized treatment plan that can be implemented remotely. This form of care has become increasingly popular in recent years as it offers numerous benefits, including greater convenience and flexibility, reduced travel costs, and improved access to care for those living in rural areas.

One of the main questions many patients have is whether Medicare will cover telehealth physical therapy services. In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question and provide an overview of Medicare coverage for telehealth physical therapy, including eligibility requirements, cost savings, and other important information.

Overview of Telehealth Physical Therapy and Medicare Coverage

Before we dive into the specifics of Medicare coverage for telehealth physical therapy, let’s discuss what Medicare is and which services it covers. Medicare is a federal health insurance program available to individuals over the age of 65, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities or end-stage renal disease.

In general, Medicare covers a wide range of medical services, including doctor visits, preventive care, hospitalizations, laboratory tests, and more. It also covers certain types of outpatient therapy services, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech-language pathology. It’s important to note that coverage for these services may vary depending on the individual’s particular plan.

So, does Medicare cover telehealth physical therapy? The answer is yes. As of 2021, Medicare-approved providers are able to offer telehealth physical therapy services to eligible beneficiaries. These services must meet certain criteria in order to be covered by Medicare, which we’ll discuss in more detail later in this article.

How Medicare Can Help You Access Telehealth Physical Therapy

In order to receive Medicare-covered telehealth physical therapy services, you must first meet certain eligibility requirements. First and foremost, you must be enrolled in a Medicare Part B plan. Additionally, you must receive your care from a Medicare-approved provider who is located in one of the states where telehealth physical therapy is covered. Currently, Medicare covers telehealth physical therapy services in all 50 states as well as Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Once you’ve determined that you’re eligible for Medicare-covered telehealth physical therapy, the next step is to find a provider who offers this service. You can use Medicare’s online provider search tool to locate a provider in your area who is approved to offer telehealth physical therapy services.

Cost Savings with Medicare-Covered Telehealth Physical Therapy

One of the biggest advantages of Medicare-covered telehealth physical therapy is the potential for significant cost savings. In general, telehealth physical therapy services are much less expensive than traditional in-person services, as they don’t require the same level of overhead costs. Plus, since telehealth services can be offered remotely, they don’t require the same amount of travel time or transportation costs as in-person services.

In addition to the cost savings associated with telehealth physical therapy, Medicare also offers copayment and deductible discounts for certain services. For example, if you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you may be eligible for a lower copayment for your telehealth physical therapy sessions. Additionally, if you have a Medicare-approved high-deductible health plan, you may be eligible for a lower deductible for certain services.

What Patients Need to Know About Medicare’s Coverage of Telehealth Physical Therapy

When it comes to Medicare coverage for telehealth physical therapy, there are some important things you should know. First and foremost, not all services are covered by Medicare. For example, Medicare does not cover any services that are considered experimental or investigational, nor does it cover services that are deemed medically unnecessary. Additionally, Medicare does not cover any services that are provided by a non-Medicare-approved provider.

It’s also important to note that Medicare may limit the number of telehealth physical therapy sessions that are covered per year. Generally speaking, Medicare will only cover up to 10 telehealth physical therapy sessions per year, although this number may vary depending on the individual’s particular plan.

Making the Most of Medicare-Covered Telehealth Physical Therapy

If you’re eligible for Medicare-covered telehealth physical therapy, there are several steps you can take to ensure you get the most out of your sessions. First, it’s important to prepare for your session by gathering all relevant medical information and having a list of questions ready for your therapist. Additionally, be sure to dress comfortably for your session and find a quiet, distraction-free space to participate in your session.

Finally, it’s important to stay engaged during your telehealth physical therapy sessions. Ask questions, provide feedback, and follow your therapist’s instructions carefully. By doing so, you can maximize the effectiveness of your telehealth physical therapy and get the most out of your sessions.

Conclusion

Telehealth physical therapy is an increasingly popular form of medical care that offers numerous benefits, including greater convenience and flexibility, reduced travel costs, and improved access to care for those living in rural areas. Thanks to Medicare coverage, many individuals are now able to access these services at a discounted rate. By understanding the eligibility requirements and cost savings associated with Medicare-covered telehealth physical therapy, as well as taking steps to prepare for and maximize the benefits of your sessions, you can make the most of this valuable benefit.