CMS rules on telehealth practice due to COVID-19 in the USA

The US Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) published new policies and regulatory measures in response to the COVID-19 public health emergency. The rule addresses practice needs for patients and health care service providers in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the possibility of telehealth practice. It allows for the use of mobile phones that have video options for telehealth services and provides flexibility for providers to waive or reduce cost sharing for telehealth visits paid by the federal government. It also allows physicians to provide virtual check-in services to new and established patients and clinical social workers, psychologists, and speech language pathologists to provide e-visits.