Teaching Physicians: Get the Scoop On When to Report Telehealth

Why This Topic Matters

Telehealth billing can be especially nuanced in teaching physician settings, and misunderstanding the relationship between the resident, teaching physician, and site of service can affect whether a service is reportable. This article helps readers understand the scope of CMS discussion on these situations without relying on the premium content.

Article Sections

1. Background on CMS telehealth coverage

   Introduces CMS telehealth coverage context, including the kinds of patient and location requirements discussed in the article. It also references the general telehealth communication framework used in the CMS guidance.

2. Coding rules for telehealth services

   Summarizes the general types of billing options referenced for telehealth services and the related CMS guidance discussed in the article. It also notes the modifier mentioned in connection with submission to a Medicare contractor.

3. CMS offers 2 examples

   Presents two broad telehealth scenarios discussed by CMS involving teaching physicians, residents, and distant-site participation. The section focuses on how the article frames these situations for billing context.

4. Know the rules if the TP and resident are together

   Addresses a forum question about a telehealth setting where the resident and teaching physician are at the remote site. It summarizes the documentation and attestation theme discussed by the source.