Virtual check-ins
Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers virtual check-ins (also called “brief communication technology-based services” or "e-visits") with your doctor or certain other health care providers (like nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, physician assistants, or clinical social workers and clinical psychologists in specific circumstances).
Your costs in Original Medicare
After you meet the Part B deductible you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for your health care provider's services.
What it is
Virtual check-ins allow you to talk to your health care providers using audio and video communication technology (like your phone or a computer) without going to the doctor’s office. During a virtual check-in, your health care provider can:
- Conduct remote assessments using photo or video images you send for review to decide if you need to go to the doctor's office.
- Respond to you using a phone, virtual delivery, secure text message, email, or a patient portal.
Virtual check-ins can be used for the treatment for the Coronavirus (COVID-19) from anywhere, including places of residence (like homes, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities).
Things to know
You can have a virtual check-in if you meet these conditions:
- You've talked to your doctor or other provider about starting these types of visits.
- The virtual check-in doesn't relate to a medical visit you've had within the past 7 days, and doesn't lead to a medical visit within the next 24 hours (or the soonest appointment available).
- You verbally consent to the virtual check-in, and your doctor documents your consent in your medical record. Your doctor may get one consent for a year’s worth of these services.
Medicare Advantage Plans may offer more virtual check-in services than Original Medicare. Check with your plan to find out what they offer.