In recent years, telehealth has become a vital part of healthcare, especially for seniors and individuals with mobility challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated its adoption, and now, even as in-person visits return to normal levels, many patients continue to prefer virtual care for its convenience and accessibility. Fortunately, Medicare benefits now include a wide range of telehealth services to help beneficiaries get the care they need from the comfort of home.
At MO Senior Advisors, LLC, we help individuals across Missouri understand how these digital healthcare solutions fit into their overall Medicare coverage. Whether you’re considering telehealth for regular checkups or specialist care, it’s important to know what’s covered and how to access it.
What Is Telehealth?
Telehealth—also referred to as telemedicine—allows patients to consult with healthcare providers using video conferencing, phone calls, and other digital tools. This form of care can include:
- Routine visits with primary care doctors
- Mental health counseling
- Chronic condition management (like diabetes or hypertension)
- Dermatology consultations
- Prescription refills and medication management
For older adults and those living in rural or underserved areas, telehealth helps eliminate transportation barriers and offers more timely access to providers.
What Telehealth Services Does Medicare Cover?
Telehealth services were expanded significantly under Medicare during the pandemic. As of 2025, many of these changes have been made permanent or extended through legislative updates. Original Medicare (Parts A and B) and Medicare Advantage plans both offer telehealth options, although the specifics may vary.
Medicare typically covers telehealth for:
- Office visits
- Behavioral health services
- Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech-language pathology
- Preventive health screenings and counseling
- Emergency and urgent care (in some cases)
These services are covered under Part B, meaning standard coinsurance and deductibles apply. It’s a good idea to consult with a Medicare Consultant in St. Louis, MO to fully understand your out-of-pocket costs based on your current coverage.
How Telehealth Works for Medicare Beneficiaries
Using telehealth is easier than ever. Most providers use HIPAA-compliant platforms that can be accessed via smartphone, tablet, or computer. Some providers even offer telephone-only appointments, especially for those without internet access or smartphones.
To schedule a telehealth appointment, you typically:
- Contact your provider to confirm they offer telehealth
- Receive a secure link or instructions via email or text
- Log in at the time of your appointment
- Discuss your symptoms, medications, and concerns just like you would in person
For mental health services, some plans allow beneficiaries to use audio-only communication, which is a game-changer for seniors who may be less tech-savvy.
Telehealth Through Medicare Advantage Plans
Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans often go beyond what Original Medicare offers. Many plans include 24/7 virtual access to doctors, wellness apps, and remote monitoring for chronic conditions. Some even cover telehealth visits with specialists, which can be harder to access in rural parts of Missouri.
If you’re comparing plans during the Annual Enrollment Period, working with a medicare broker in my area can help you find the best combination of virtual care and in-person benefits.
Benefits of Telehealth for Seniors
Here are just a few reasons why telehealth is especially beneficial for Medicare recipients:
- Convenience: No need to leave home for appointments.
- Safety: Reduced exposure to germs, especially during flu or COVID season.
- Accessibility: Faster scheduling, especially for mental health or follow-up care.
- Continuity of care: Easier to maintain frequent check-ins for chronic conditions.
Telehealth also makes it easier for caregivers and family members to join appointments, offering better support and communication between patients and healthcare providers.
Limitations to Be Aware Of
While telehealth is a powerful tool, it’s not a complete replacement for in-person care. Some procedures, diagnostics, and exams must still be performed face-to-face. Additionally, coverage can vary between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, so it’s important to verify the details of your specific plan.
This is where MO Senior Advisors, LLC steps in. Our experienced team is here to help you understand what’s included in your plan and whether a telehealth-friendly option might be better suited to your needs.
Get Help Navigating Medicare Telehealth Options
Whether you’re new to Medicare or already enrolled and evaluating your coverage, professional guidance can make all the difference. At MO Senior Advisors, we specialize in simplifying Medicare and guiding clients toward better healthcare decisions.
Want to learn more about us? Visit our website to explore how we help seniors make the most of their Medicare benefits. If you’re ready to speak to a licensed advisor, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Telehealth is here to stay—and Medicare is adapting to make healthcare more accessible than ever.