Since the PHE ended on May 11, 2023, we have had numerous questions regarding both Medicare and Medicaid. Please find the most frequently asked questions we have received from our Medicare clients. Please note that we are not insurance specialists and these answers pertain to what we have discovered in helping our clients navigate their Medicare insurance. Also, the below answers reflect Traditional Medicare and not Medicare Advantage plans.
Q: Will there be any changes to my Medicare coverage?
A: There should be no changes to your Medicare coverage. For additional questions regarding your policy, contact the customer service number found on the back of your Medicare card.
Q: Will there be changes to telehealth services?
A: The Consolidates Appropriations Act of 2023 extended many telehealth flexibilities through December 31, 2024. This includes audio only telehealth.
Q: What are the some other telehealth services I may not be aware of?
A: Medicare recipients can utilize telehealth services in any geographic area in the United States; Medicare recipients can remain in their homes rather than traveling to a health care facility, telehealth visits can be video or audio only.
Q: Will COVID testing still be covered by Medicare?
A: Medicare members can continue to receive COVID-19 PCR and antigen tests with no cost sharing when the test is ordered by a physician, a physician assistants, or registered nurse.
Q: If I have an acute case of COVID, can I still utilize the Hospital at Home Option?
A: Medicare recipients have the option receive inpatient care in their own home, rather than stay in a hospital setting. This is known as the Acute Hospital Care at Home initiative.
For additional information, please call your Medicare plan. Additional resources can be found on the following websites:
https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2023/05/09/fact-sheet-end-of-the-covid-19-public-health-emergency.html
https://www.cms.gov/files/document/frequently-asked-questions-cms-waivers-flexibilities-and-end-covid-19-public-health-emergency.pdf
