6. Continuation of Telehealth Flexibilities and Other Permanent Changes
Medicare has finalized several telehealth provisions that were temporarily expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic, making them permanent for 2026 and beyond. These changes ensure continued access to remote healthcare services, particularly for beneficiaries in rural areas or those with mobility challenges.
As of January 1, 2026, frequency limits on telehealth services for patients in hospitals and skilled nursing facilities have been eliminated. Medicare will also permanently allow virtual direct supervision for most services requiring supervision, meaning supervising physicians can provide oversight remotely rather than being physically present.
Additionally, teaching physicians can now provide virtual supervision to residents offering telehealth services in all training sites, not just rural areas. This expanded flexibility supports medical education while ensuring patients receive appropriate care.
All “provisional” telehealth services, including developmental, psychological, and neuropsychological testing services, have moved to the permanent Medicare Telehealth Services List. Two new codes have been added: multiple-family group psychotherapy and group behavioral counseling for obesity, expanding access to mental health and preventive care services.
CMS has also clarified guidance regarding physician enrollment addresses for those providing telehealth services. Physicians who have a practice location other than their home can continue using that location as their Medicare enrollment address, even if they provide some telehealth services from home.
Only physicians whose entire practice involves providing telehealth exclusively from home without another practice location need to report their home address.
However, it’s important to note that Medicare officially ended coverage for most telehealth services that were temporarily allowed during the pandemic as of January 1, 2026. Beneficiaries should contact CMS or their Medicare Advantage plan provider for specific details about which telehealth services remain covered.
Conclusion
The Medicare changes coming in 2026 represent a mix of cost increases and significant improvements in affordability and access.
While beneficiaries will face higher premiums and deductibles for Part B coverage, they’ll also benefit from groundbreaking negotiated drug prices, comprehensive out-of-pocket protections, and enhanced tools for choosing the right coverage.
If you want to learn more about Medicare, this book might help you: 10 Costly Medicare Mistakes You Can’t Afford to Make
You should also read: 13 Ways to Manage Diabetes: Seniors Edition
