Private insurance coverage for telehealth
Many commercial health plans have broadened coverage for telehealth (telemedicine) services in response to COVID-19.
Quick resources
State Telehealth Laws and Reimbursement Policies (PDF) — from National Policy Center – Center for Connected Health Policy
Forty-two states and the District of Columbia require private insurance providers to reimburse telemedicine. To find the most up-to-date regulations in your state, use this Policy Finder tool.
Most insurance providers cover at least some form of telehealth service. Contact the insurance providers you accept to see if they cover reimbursement for any telehealth services.
There are additional code changes for COVID-19 reimbursement and related care that cover telehealth, virtual/digital, audio-only, and in-person services. You should verify each payer’s policy and ask patients to verify their coverage ahead of appointments.
For tips on coding private insurance claims, see:
- Coding Scenarios during COVID-19 — from the American Academy of Family Physicians
- Tip Sheet: Billing for Providers - What Should I Know? (PDF) — Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)