Due to a declaration on March 17, 2020, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will now pay providers to care for Medicare beneficiaries via TeleHealth anywhere in the country, in any setting from nursing homes to patients’ homes, using any device.
Historically, fewer than 1% of Medicare beneficiaries have been offered TeleMedicine visits. But COVID-19 changed all of that. Whether it be that patients were reluctant, providers were not interested, or the apprehension of navigating the complicated regulatory landscape, medical providers and patients have adapted. The previous restrictive laws that limited TeleHealth have now dissipated. That landscape has changed in the face of a global crisis and brought healthcare providers and patients together again; it’s both likely and hopeful that this will persist well past this global crisis.
Steven Atkinson PA-C, MS, has extensive experience, delivering care to patients virtually. He will share the clinical insights he has accrued regarding assessment of the patient, potential technology challenges, documentation best practices and reimbursement guidance.
