How Do Payer Contracts Handle Telehealth Services?

Telehealth contract provisions vary widely by payer. Some contracts specifically address telehealth reimbursement rates, which may match in-person rates or be discounted. Contracts may limit which services can be provided via telehealth, specify acceptable technology platforms, and define geographic restrictions for where patients must be located. Some require specific telehealth-related modifiers on claims. As telehealth expands, reviewing and negotiating telehealth terms in payer contracts becomes increasingly important for practices offering virtual services.