Telehealth rules lapse: keep patients informed
Pandemic-era telehealth flexibilities for Medicare patients expired when federal funding lapsed. Patients will be confused; clear communication from practices matters now.
By the Xuru Technologies team · 4 October 2025
Key takeaways
- Many Medicare telehealth flexibilities expired on 1 October 2025 when Congress did not extend them before the shutdown.
- Restrictions on where patients can receive telehealth and which providers can bill largely returned for many services.
- Some services, such as behavioural health, have different rules.
- Practices should update patients, booking options and website information quickly.
Patients who've relied on video visits for years may suddenly find their next appointment needs to be in person. How you tell them shapes their trust.
What happened
Foley & Lardner and Bradley explained which flexibilities lapsed and what providers should consider while waiting for possible congressional action.
What it means for practices
- Scheduling changes for some Medicare patients.
- Billing risk if services are delivered under expired rules.
- Patient communication must be clear and timely.
- Other payers may have different telehealth policies.
What to update
| Channel | Action |
|---|---|
| Website | A dated notice explaining current telehealth availability |
| Online booking | Adjust appointment types for affected patients |
| Reminders | Tell patients if a visit must be in person |
| Staff | Brief front desk on how to answer questions |
Frequently asked questions
Can we still offer telehealth to Medicare patients?
Some services and situations remain eligible. Review current CMS guidance and get billing advice.
Will the flexibilities come back?
Congress could restore them, possibly retroactively. Keep watching and update patients when rules change.
Should we stop offering telehealth altogether?
Not necessarily. Many commercial payers and non-Medicare patients may still be covered.
Clear updates, easy rebooking.
Healthcare websites with editable notices, flexible booking types and automated patient reminders.
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