Congress extends Medicare telehealth services until September 30

Congress has passed a new federal spending bill that extends Medicare telehealth services until September 30. This decision comes just weeks before many Medicare recipients were set to lose their access to these services. More than 66 million Americans rely on Medicare for health coverage. During the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth became more common. However, funding for these services was originally scheduled to end at the end of March. The telehealth program started during Donald Trump's presidency to support patients during the pandemic. Under Joe Biden, the American Relief Act 2025 expanded telehealth options and relaxed in-person requirements for mental health care. With the new spending bill, coverage will continue for another six months. This extension is particularly important for rural residents, who often face challenges in traveling to medical facilities. It allows Medicare-certified hospitals to provide care at home and ensures some reimbursement for audio-only visits, benefiting those without reliable internet access. Many experts voiced their opinions on the extension. Kyle Zebley, from the American Telemedicine Association, called the vote a victory for essential healthcare services. Others, like Chris Fong, emphasized the need for a permanent solution rather than temporary fixes. Despite ongoing political disagreements, telehealth enjoys bipartisan support because of its benefits for both rural voters and increased access to care. However, as the October deadline approaches, uncertainty remains about the future of telehealth services. Providers may be reluctant to invest in technology due to fears that the rules may change again.