In 2020, the healthcare sector showed remarkable adaptability. Amidst numerous shifts, a major highlight was CMS’s forward-thinking approach to telehealth. Recognizing the undeniable potential of video conferencing tools, they made it feasible for healthcare providers, notably physical therapists, to extend their services beyond the confines of clinics.
CMS Widens the Net
Initially, telehealth services were exclusive to a select fields of practice. But as the pandemic progressed, CMS expanded its horizons. They took the decisive step to reimburse physical therapists for services provided in outpatient scenarios. This emergency waiver, a reaction to the global Covid-19 pandemic, encompassed the PT, OT, and SLP specialties, enabling practices to bill the following codes:
- G2061: Qualified non-physician healthcare professional online assessment and management, for an established patient, for up to seven days, cumulative time during the 7 days; 5–10 minutes
- G2062: Qualified non-physician healthcare professional online assessment and management service, for an established patient, for up to seven days, cumulative time during the 7 days; 11–20 minutes
- G2063: Qualified non-physician qualified healthcare professional assessment and management service, for an established patient, for up to seven days, cumulative time during the 7 days; 21 or more minutes.
Delve deeper into the CMS policy change with their detailed fact sheet.
The Continued Relevance of Telehealth
Telehealth isn’t just a fleeting response to a global health crisis—it signifies the future trajectory of healthcare. Virtual consultations eliminate geographical restrictions, allowing patients everywhere, even in remote locations, to access top-tier healthcare. Beyond consultations, telehealth now facilitates patient education, post-treatment follow-ups, and continuous remote monitoring.
Applications of Telehealth for Rehabilitation Therapy
Rehabilitation therapy, under the telehealth umbrella, opens doors to endless possibilities. Whether it’s physical therapists demonstrating exercises in real-time, speech-language pathologists conducting therapy sessions, or occupational therapists devising home-based strategies, all can occur virtually. This ensures uninterrupted care, even when face-to-face sessions are logistically challenging.
Raintree’s Role in the Telehealth Transition
Even as we move forward, we look back with pride at how our telehealth platform became a trusted ally for thousands in 2020. With a steadfast commitment to delivering top-notch virtual communication tools, we continue to innovate, ensuring patient care remains seamless and adaptive.
Our Connect software stands as a testament to this commitment. Beyond scheduling capabilities, it packs in features like availability management and automated messaging. Most importantly, it provides telehealth solutions, some of which were initially offered at NO COST during the pandemic’s peak. We stand ready, with tools in hand, to usher in a future that combines the best of traditional and virtual healthcare, guaranteeing safety, efficiency, and holistic care.
