Medicare Telehealth Coverage Extended: How Long Will Virtual Care Last?

Congress has approved a multiyear extension of Medicare telehealth coverage, keeping expanded virtual care benefits in place until December 31, 2027.

Previously, these benefits were set to expire on January 30, 2026, which would have limited access for millions of seniors and people with disabilities.

Why the Extension Matters

• Maintains pandemic-era telehealth flexibilities

• Lets patients receive virtual care from home, not just rural sites

• Ensures continued coverage for mental health, chronic care, and follow-ups

• Provides stability for providers to plan technology and staffing

Telehealth use grew from less than 7% of Medicare beneficiaries pre-2020 to nearly 50% by mid-2020.

How It Affects Patients

• Seniors and people with disabilities can continue virtual visits without disruption

• No action is required — coverage continues automatically

• Services include chronic disease check-ins, mental health care, and routine follow-ups

What Providers Need to Know

• Can continue offering telehealth as part of routine care

• Have a multiyear window to invest in technology and training

• Avoids disruptions caused by short-term extensions

Is Telehealth Permanent?

• Not yet. This is a temporary extension through 2027

• Broader reforms, like the Telehealth Modernization Act, are still under consideration

• Policymakers will revisit the issue before the 2027 expiration