Telehealth, once a niche service used mainly in rural communities, surged into the spotlight during the COVID-19 pandemic. Suddenly, virtual doctor visits became a normal—and often necessary—part of healthcare. Now that the pandemic has eased, many patients and providers are wondering what’s next for telehealth. Will insurance still cover it? Is it here to stay? Here’s what you need to know about how telehealth coverage works, what services are typically included, and how health insurance is evolving to meet the growing demand for virtual care.
What Is Telehealth?
Telehealth refers to healthcare services delivered remotely using technology—usually via video chat, phone calls, or secure messaging. It can be used for:
Routine doctor visits
Follow-up appointments
Mental health counseling
Medication management
Chronic disease monitoring
Some urgent care services
Telehealth doesn’t replace all in-person care, but it offers a convenient option for many non-emergency needs.
How Telehealth Expanded During the Pandemic
Before 2020, many insurance plans had strict rules on telehealth coverage—limited provider networks, geographic restrictions, and lower reimbursement rates. During the pandemic, those rules changed rapidly to keep patients safe and reduce strain on the healthcare system.
Key temporary changes included:
Expanded Medicare and Medicaid telehealth coverage
Relaxed state licensing requirements so doctors could see patients across state lines
More private insurers covering telehealth at the same rate as in-person visits
Increased coverage for behavioral health services
These emergency measures made virtual care more accessible than ever before.
What Telehealth Services Are Typically Covered?
Coverage depends on your plan and provider, but many health insurance plans now cover:
Primary care visits for cold symptoms, infections, or check-ups
Mental health services like therapy or psychiatry
Chronic disease management for conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or asthma
Prescription refills and medication adjustments
Follow-up care after surgeries or hospital visits
Dermatology consults using photo uploads or live video
Some plans also include specialist visits, nutrition counseling, and physical therapy through telehealth, though availability varies.
Does Insurance Still Cover Telehealth After the Pandemic?
In many cases, yes—but it depends on your insurance provider and your state.
Medicare:
Still covers many telehealth services, including mental health and some home-based care
Coverage is expanding permanently in some areas, especially for behavioral health
Video visits are generally required (audio-only coverage may be more limited)
Medicaid:
Varies by state, but most states have kept or expanded telehealth options
Often includes mental health, primary care, and substance use treatment
Private Insurance (Marketplace & Employer Plans):
Many insurers continue to cover telehealth visits, though cost-sharing (co-pays or deductibles) may now apply
Some insurers partner with third-party platforms (like Teladoc or Amwell) for virtual care
Behavioral health is often included in telehealth benefits due to growing demand
Tip: Check your plan’s Summary of Benefits and Coverage (SBC) or contact your insurer to find out exactly what’s covered.
What’s Not Usually Covered by Telehealth
While telehealth is expanding, it can’t replace every medical need. Services that typically require in-person care include:
Imaging tests (X-rays, MRIs, CT scans)
Lab work
Vaccinations
Physical exams for injuries
Emergency care
Surgeries and procedures
Your provider may use telehealth for initial assessments or follow-ups, but some services still require an office visit.
How to Use Telehealth with Your Insurance Plan
To access telehealth services:
Log into your insurance company’s portal or mobile app to see covered providers
Contact your regular doctor—many offer virtual visits
Use your insurer’s partner platforms (like MDLIVE, Teladoc, or others)
Schedule your appointment and make sure you have a stable internet connection and private space
Your insurance card may include a telehealth contact number or website.
What You’ll Pay for Telehealth
Costs vary by plan, but you may pay:
A copay similar to an in-person visit
A coinsurance percentage after your deductible
$0 for preventive services or when using certain in-network platforms
Some plans still waive telehealth costs entirely—especially for mental health services—so it’s worth checking.
Pros and Cons of Telehealth
Pros:
Convenience—no commute or waiting rooms
Access to specialists in other cities or states
Safer for immunocompromised patients
Great for mental health care or check-ins
Often faster to schedule than in-person appointments
Cons:
Not suitable for all medical needs
Limited by technology access or digital literacy
Insurance coverage and costs can be unclear
Privacy concerns for some patients
Future Trends in Telehealth Coverage
Telehealth isn’t going away. In fact, it’s evolving:
Hybrid care models (mix of in-person and virtual visits) are becoming standard
More insurers are integrating virtual-first plans, with telehealth as the primary method of care
Mental health access continues to expand via telehealth due to high demand
Policy changes at the federal and state levels will shape long-term coverage and rules
Staying informed and checking your plan regularly will help you take full advantage of these changes.
Final Thoughts
Telehealth is no longer just a backup option—it’s a modern way to access healthcare, and insurance companies are starting to treat it that way. Whether you need a routine check-up, therapy session, or prescription refill, virtual visits can save you time, stress, and even money. As coverage continues to evolve, make sure you understand what your plan offers and how to access it. With the right setup, telehealth can be a reliable part of your healthcare toolkit.
