Expansion of teleconsults eyed; Medicare claims still “minuscule”

Why This Topic Matters

The piece provides context on early Medicare telemedicine reimbursement and the operational barriers affecting claim payment and program growth. It may help readers assess whether their organizations or services fall within the scope of the teleconsultation coverage discussed in the article.

Article Sections

1. Teleconsultation program activity and expansion plans

   Covers Medicare teleconsultation utilization, participating sites, and discussion of potential program growth. Also notes broader telemedicine activity and the organizations cited in the reporting.

2. Coverage, reimbursement, and claims processing concerns

   Discusses the reimbursement environment for teleconsultation services, including carrier payment issues and administrative concerns reported by program participants.

3. Stored-and-forward telemedicine and specialty use

   Addresses broader telemedicine applications involving remote review of images and other data, along with the specialties mentioned as using these services.