Since when has Medicare been reimbursing for telehealth services?

Medicare began reimbursing for telehealth services in 2001. This marked a significant step in expanding access to healthcare for individuals in rural or underserved areas, allowing them to receive care without the need for travel to a healthcare facility. The reimbursement policies established during this time recognized the potential of telehealth technologies to enhance the delivery of health services and address barriers to access, effectively integrating them into the Medicare program. This development paved the way for further innovations and expansions in telehealth as technology and the healthcare landscape evolved, especially highlighting its importance during situations like the COVID-19 pandemic.