Key Takeaways
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Telehealth coverage under Medicare has expanded significantly in 2025, with more services, locations, and providers now eligible for reimbursement.
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Your future doctor visits could happen via smartphone or computer, but knowing what is covered and what isn’t is key to making the most of it.
Why Telehealth Is a Big Deal in 2025
Telehealth is no longer a temporary solution. In 2025, it’s a permanent part of Medicare—and it’s evolving rapidly. Whether you live in a city or a rural area, you now have access to a wider range of healthcare services without leaving your home.
Medicare began covering telehealth more broadly during the COVID-19 pandemic, and many of those emergency changes have now become long-term policy. That means new opportunities—and responsibilities—for you as a Medicare enrollee.
What Medicare Covers Under Telehealth in 2025
Medicare now pays for many telehealth services that were once only covered in-person. These include:
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Primary care visits
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Specialist consultations
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Mental health and behavioral health therapy
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Chronic condition management
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Preventive screenings and check-ins
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Remote patient monitoring (when medically necessary)
Most of these services are available under both Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, although coverage may vary slightly between the two.
Expanded Provider Eligibility
You can now receive telehealth from a broader group of medical professionals, including:
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Physicians and nurse practitioners
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Clinical psychologists and licensed counselors
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Physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech-language pathologists
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Rural health clinic providers and federally qualified health centers
These changes give you more flexibility in choosing who provides your care, even if they’re miles away.
What You Need to Access Telehealth Services
Telehealth visits can be done from your home, a clinic, or any location with internet access. Here’s what you’ll need:
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A reliable internet connection
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A smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera and microphone
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An email address or patient portal account (depending on your provider)
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A quiet, private space to talk with your doctor
You don’t need high-end equipment. Many services work well on standard mobile devices.
When and Where Telehealth Applies
In 2025, you can access Medicare-covered telehealth services from any location in the U.S., including:
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Your home
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Assisted living facilities
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Nursing homes
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Rural and urban areas alike
There is no longer a geographic restriction for telehealth under Original Medicare, which means you’re not limited by where you live. This is especially helpful if you’re in an area with fewer local specialists.
Cost and Coverage Basics
You typically pay the same amount for a telehealth visit as you would for an in-person visit under Medicare. That includes:
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Your usual Part B deductible (currently $257 in 2025)
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Coinsurance (usually 20% of the Medicare-approved amount)
If you have a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policy, it may cover some or all of your out-of-pocket costs.
Some Medicare Advantage plans may offer additional telehealth services beyond what Original Medicare covers, but the costs and scope vary by plan. You should check your plan documents or contact a licensed agent listed on this website for help.
Telehealth for Mental Health and Substance Use
Behavioral health is one of the fastest-growing areas in telemedicine. In 2025, Medicare continues to support:
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Teletherapy for anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more
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Substance use disorder treatment and counseling
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Psychiatric evaluations and medication management
Importantly, if you’re receiving regular mental health services, at least one in-person visit is still required every 12 months. This ensures continuity and safety of care.
Remote Patient Monitoring Is On the Rise
Medicare now covers more devices and services for remote patient monitoring (RPM), especially if you have a chronic condition like:
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Diabetes
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Heart failure
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High blood pressure
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COPD
These services allow your provider to track vital signs and symptoms through wearable or home-based devices. Data is securely transmitted and reviewed by your care team.
RPM typically requires your provider to collect and analyze your health data at least 16 days per month to qualify for Medicare coverage.
Virtual Check-Ins and E-Visits
Medicare also covers brief check-ins and communications that aren’t full telehealth visits. These can be useful when you:
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Have a quick question for your doctor
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Need to follow up on lab results
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Want to discuss side effects or medication changes
These services include:
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Virtual check-ins via phone or secure online portal
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Remote evaluation of pre-recorded videos or images
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E-visits conducted through your provider’s communication platform
You must have an established relationship with the provider, and they must document the interaction.
Limitations to Be Aware Of
Even with expanded access, there are still boundaries. You should be aware of the following:
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Not all services are telehealth-eligible. Some physical exams, imaging tests, and procedures still require in-person care.
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Technology can be a barrier. If you’re not comfortable using smartphones or computers, ask a family member or your provider for help.
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Some providers may not offer telehealth. Always check with your provider to ensure they support it and accept Medicare.
Fraud and Security Considerations
With increased use of telehealth, fraud risks are also rising. Here’s how to protect yourself:
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Use only trusted, secure platforms recommended by your provider.
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Never share your Medicare number with someone who contacts you unexpectedly.
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Verify appointments and services directly with your provider.
Medicare will never call or text you to offer telehealth services or ask for your information. Be cautious about unsolicited offers.
How Telehealth Is Evolving Beyond 2025
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) continues to study telehealth’s long-term impact. New policies may be introduced to:
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Expand the types of covered services
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Allow greater flexibility in mental health and chronic care
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Promote more accessible technologies
Future changes will likely focus on improving care quality while reducing unnecessary visits. Policymakers are watching closely to ensure telehealth remains a safe, cost-effective option for you.
Getting the Most From Your Telehealth Coverage
If you want to take full advantage of telehealth in 2025, follow these tips:
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Talk to your doctor about telehealth options for your ongoing care
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Review your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) to understand what’s been billed
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Keep a list of symptoms or concerns before your virtual visit
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Make sure your contact information is up to date with your providers
Telehealth is a tool. Like any tool, it works best when you’re prepared to use it.
Telehealth Is Changing the Way You Access Care
Telehealth isn’t replacing in-person care—it’s complementing it. For many Medicare beneficiaries, it adds flexibility, reduces transportation barriers, and allows quicker access to care. As this benefit continues to evolve in 2025, you have more choices than ever.
If you’re unsure whether your needs are covered under telehealth, or if you want help evaluating your Medicare plan‘s telehealth options, get in touch with a licensed agent listed on this website.
