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Information Medicare Benefits & Services resources-health

Medicare Telehealth Flexibilities Extended Through End of 2026

Seniors can continue seeing their doctors virtually from home—Medicare telehealth flexibilities have been extended through December 31, 2026.

The extension covers a broad range of services: routine office visits, behavioral health therapy, diabetes self-management training, and even audio-only calls for those without reliable internet. Geographic restrictions and originating-site requirements remain waived for all beneficiaries.

While telehealth has proven popular and effective, long-term policy is still under debate. For now, the status quo remains safe for the rest of the year.

Learn about telehealth coverage at Medicare.gov

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Medicare Benefits & Services

US Spending Package Extends Telehealth, Regulates Pharmacy Benefit Managers

Rheumatologists welcomed provisions in a recently enacted US federal spending package that extended some telehealth coverage and may eventually lower drug prices, but they found mixed results in terms of direct federal support for arthritis programs. (Source: Medscape, Michigan State Medical Society)