July 8, 2021

Question:
We have been providing Telehealth visits using audio and visual means to many of our patients during the Covid-19 pandemic. Can we bill telehealth visits by time alone?

Answer:
For Medicare claims, telehealth visits can now be billed according to medical decision-making (MDM) or time, so yes, as long as the code indicates it can be a time-based service in the CPT (e.g., 99202-99215). For all other payors, you will need to check to find out if they are following CMS guidelines or other guidelines for telehealth coverage. Just make sure to document the exact number of minutes spent with the patient in the medical record, along with the visit summary. As always medical necessity is the driving force behind all visits, and this should be reflected in the medical record whether billing by time or MDM.

*This response is based on the best information available as of 7/08/21.