How Telehealth Is Changing Medical Billing

The rapid growth of telehealth has transformed how healthcare is delivered — and how it is billed. As virtual care becomes a permanent part of the healthcare landscape, understanding telehealth billing is essential for every practice.

Key Telehealth Billing Considerations

Place of Service Codes

Telehealth visits require specific place of service (POS) codes that differ from in-person visits. Using the wrong POS code can result in denials or incorrect reimbursement.

Modifiers

Many payers require specific modifiers for telehealth claims, such as modifier 95 or GT. Requirements vary by payer and change frequently.

Payer Policies

Each payer has its own telehealth coverage policies, including which services are covered, reimbursement rates, and originating site requirements. These policies have been evolving rapidly.

State Regulations

Telehealth regulations vary by state, including requirements for provider licensing, patient consent, and billing practices.

Staying Current

The telehealth billing landscape is still evolving. Practices need to:

Looking Ahead

Telehealth is here to stay, and billing practices need to evolve with it. Practices that master telehealth billing will be well-positioned to serve patients through virtual care while maintaining healthy revenue.