What Are Medicare’s Telehealth Benefits, and How Can I Use Them?

Healthcare from the comfort of home? It’s more possible than ever.

You want to stay on top of your health, but getting to the doctor’s office isn’t always simple.

Maybe you live a bit outside of town. Maybe driving isn’t as easy as it used to be. Maybe you’re feeling under the weather and just don’t want to leave the house.

Whatever the reason, you still want to be proactive about your health — you just need care that’s easier to access.

That’s where Medicare-covered Telehealth comes in.

Is Telehealth included in Medicare? Will it cost extra? Do you need fancy technology? And what types of appointments can be done virtually?

These are common questions — and they often keep people from using a benefit they already have.

Yes, Medicare covers Telehealth — and it’s easier to use than you think.

Medicare now covers a wide range of Telehealth services, including:

• Primary care visits

• Mental health counseling

• Follow-up appointments

• Chronic care management

• Physical therapy and occupational therapy (in some cases)

These appointments can often be done by video call, and in some cases, even by phone.

And if you’re enrolled in Original Medicare (Parts A & B) or have a Medicare Advantage plan, these benefits are already built in — you just need a provider who offers Telehealth and accepts Medicare.

Here’s how to use it

1. Ask your doctor if they offer telehealth. Many providers now do. If not, we can help you find one who does.

2. Schedule the appointment just like you would an in-person visit. You’ll be given instructions on how to log in or dial in. You don’t need anything fancy — often just a phone, tablet, or computer with a camera.

3. Show up from the comfort of home. Whether it’s a routine check-in, a medication follow-up, or a mental health conversation — you can handle it without leaving your couch.

4. Know what it costs. For most services, you’ll pay the same as an in-person visit — usually 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after you meet your deductible (unless you have a plan that covers more).

Telehealth lets you stay connected to your doctor, keep your health on track, and avoid unnecessary trips — especially when getting out isn’t easy.

And it’s not a second-rate substitute. For many types of care, it’s just as effective and far more convenient.

Bottom line

Medicare covers more Telehealth services than ever before — and most people aren’t using them simply because they don’t realize they’re available.

If you’re not sure what your plan covers or how to schedule a virtual visit, reach out. We’ll help you take advantage of the care that’s already available to you — right from home.