ACP is advocating for passage of the Telehealth Modernization Act of 2024 to extend flexibilities through 2026
March 21, 2025 (ACP) -- Telehealth flexibilities implemented during the COVID-19 public health emergency, including coverage for audio-only visits and other provisions that allow Medicare beneficiaries to more easily access telehealth, are now extended through Sept. 30, 2025, but the ƹϵεapp is advocating for these flexibilities to become more permanent.
At the end of 2024, Congress passed a continuing resolution temporarily extending several telehealth reimbursement policies for three months until March 31, 2025. A new appropriations package, passed on March 14, includes an extension of telehealth flexibilities until Sept. 30, 2025.
This short-term extension is welcome; however, the uncertainty surrounding the long-term availability of Medicare coverage for telehealth services looms and remains a significant concern.
“The College has urged Congress to avoid quick-fix solutions and instead work toward more permanent legislation to secure these flexibilities. We are collaborating with lawmakers to address the short-term and long-term need for stability in telehealth services within the Medicare program and beyond,” said Dejaih Johnson, ACP manager of regulatory affairs. “Without more permanent action from Congress, telehealth coverage will be limited to patients in rural areas, and they will be required to visit approved sites for care.”
ACP supports the Telehealth Modernization Act of 2024, which would extend existing telehealth flexibilities through 2026. Other provisions include removal of geographic restrictions, expansion of originating sites required for telehealth visits, and audio-only telehealth access. This act also allows Federally Qualified Health Centers and Rural Health Clinics to continue providing telehealth services to senior citizens.
The end of existing telehealth flexibilities could lead to a decrease in the range of Medicare reimbursement for telehealth services that both physicians and patients have come to expect, according to Johnson.
If coverage for audio-only services gets cut, for example, it would create further barriers for patients and impact physicians' ability to provide care to the Medicare population, Johnson explained, noting that pay parity for audio-only telehealth visits greatly benefits rural and disadvantaged patients.
“If the waivers expire, commercial payers, including Medicare Advantage plans, may still offer reimbursement for telehealth services beyond what traditional Medicare covers,” she said. “However, these payers may alter their reimbursement policies in response to the expiration of these flexibilities.”
Johnson recommended physicians review the telehealth services they currently provide to patients and the potential financial impact on the practice if these services are removed. “Members should refer to ACP Online for up-to-date information on telehealth reimbursement and rules,” Johnson said. “Physician practices should prepare for potential disruptions but remain engaged in ACP's advocacy activities that push for more enduring reform.”
Many patients have come to rely on telehealth services and audio-only visits with their physicians for various reasons. “Members should prepare patients for future treatment plans, stay informed and adapt their practice to potential changes,” she said.
Back to the March 21, 2025 issue of ACP Advocate