Telehealth

Telehealth uses electronic information and telecommunications technologies to provide healthcare when you and your provider are in different locations. It includes secure video calls, phone consultations, remote monitoring devices, and other digital tools that let you receive medical assessments, diagnoses, consultations, and treatments without visiting a doctor’s office or hospital. Telehealth has improved access to care, especially for people in rural areas, those with transportation challenges, and anyone seeking more convenient healthcare options.

How Telehealth Services Work

Telehealth visits often involve real-time, two-way communication through secure video or audio calls connecting you with healthcare professionals. It also includes store-and-forward technology, where you send medical data or images for later review, remote patient monitoring with devices tracking your health metrics, and mobile health apps. All telehealth services follow federal privacy rules like HIPAA to protect your information.

Coverage and Getting Started

Medicare and Medicaid cover many telehealth services, although coverage rules vary by program and state. If you have Medicare, Navigating Telehealth with Medicare: Your Guide to Coverage, Costs, and Rules offers details on your coverage options, costs, and eligibility. For low-cost or free telehealth services, Free Telehealth Services: How to Get Healthcare from Home explains how federal health centers and HRSA-supported providers can connect you to remote care at minimal or no cost.