Summary

In this episode, the panel discusses the complexities and challenges surrounding telehealth services, particularly focusing on the regulations, compliance issues, and the evolving landscape of audio-only services. They explore the implications of recent legislative changes, the importance of understanding payer policies, and the need for careful navigation of telehealth guidelines to ensure compliance and effective patient care. The conversation also highlights the specific considerations for behavioral health services and the role of advanced beneficiary notices in the context of Medicare. In this conversation, the panel discusses the complexities of compliance in telehealth, emphasizing the importance of understanding the nuances between different insurance plans. They highlight the necessity of conducting internal audits to ensure adherence to regulations, especially with the Office of Inspector General's increased focus on audits in 2025. The discussion also covers the critical aspects of incident to services, stressing the need for proper supervision and documentation. The panel concludes with insights on optimizing revenue through better compliance practices.

Takeaways

• Telehealth regulations are constantly evolving and require careful navigation.
• Audio-only services have specific guidelines that must be followed to ensure compliance.
• Behavioral health services have exceptions that differ from general telehealth policies.
• Payer policies can vary significantly, necessitating thorough research by providers.
• Advanced Beneficiary Notices (ABNs) are not applicable for non-covered services.
• Patients may prefer audio-only visits for convenience, but compliance must be maintained.
• The abuse of audio-only services has led to stricter regulations and scrutiny.
• Providers must stay informed about the latest coding and billing practices for telehealth.
• Transparency in healthcare is often not prioritized by patients; they focus on out-of-pocket costs.
• The future of telehealth services remains uncertain as new regulations are anticipated. Understanding compliance nuances is crucial for telehealth services.
• Patients must take accountability for their care and coverage.
• Regular internal audits are essential for compliance and risk management.
• The OIG's focus on audits will significantly impact providers in 2025.
• Incident to services require direct supervision and established relationships.
• Billing data can reveal compliance issues beyond documentation quality.
• Providers must be aware of state-specific regulations regarding telehealth.
• The quality of medical records is deteriorating due to over-reliance on templates.
• Proper training and understanding of billing practices are vital for staff.
• Optimizing existing services can lead to increased revenue without adding new services.