Hot Take: If telehealth billing were simple, we wouldn’t be drowning in claim denials and confusing codes right now.
Last month, a close friend — a doctor who fully switched to telehealth — shared her frustration: after three claim attempts, she still hadn’t been paid in full. Changing codes, payer denials, missing documentation — the obstacles felt endless. Sound familiar? You’re not alone.
Telehealth billing today feels like juggling flaming torches on a moving train — frustrating, confusing, and exhausting. But it doesn’t have to be this way.
5 Real-World Tips to Stop Losing Your Mind Over Telehealth Billing 🎯
1. Question “Best Practices” — Don’t Blindly Follow 🚩
The so-called best practices may not fit your clinic’s setup or payer mix. Blindly copying others can cost you thousands in denied claims. Instead, double-check payer rules regularly — what worked last year could cause denials today.
2. Know Your CPT Codes Inside and Out — Watch Medicare’s Curveballs 🎳
Medicare recently rejected the new audiovisual E/M CPT codes (98000-98007), causing denials for many providers. Don’t get caught by surprise. Bookmark CMS updates and verify all codes before billing.
3. Document Like Your Bottom Line Depends On It (Because It Does) 📝
Proper documentation is your best defense during audits. Log time spent, platform used, patient consent, and detailed visit notes. Over-document rather than under-document to protect reimbursement.
4. Stay Updated — Or Hire a Pro 🔍
Billing rules change fast. I learned this the hard way and paid for ignoring updates. Commit to at least weekly 30-minute policy reviews, or hire experts who do this full-time.
5. Talk Cost With Patients Upfront 💬
Many payers now count telehealth fees toward deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums. Being transparent with patients about these costs avoids surprises and builds trust.
What Experts Say 💡
Dr. Ateev Mehrotra, Harvard Medical School:
“Telehealth improves access and quality but demands vigilant billing to prevent reimbursement delays.”
Eve Cunningham, Providence Health System:
“Telehealth doesn't erase overhead. Proper documentation and billing are still essential.”
Erin Solis, American Academy of Family Physicians:
“Medicare’s refusal to adopt new audiovisual CPT codes means providers must stay sharp or face denials.”
My Biggest Failure — And What It Taught Me 💥
When I first helped a clinic switch to telehealth billing, we blindly copied industry standards. The result? Nearly 20% of claims denied. Minor coding errors and documentation gaps were costing thousands.
Lesson? The devil is in the details. Small mistakes add up — and no one warns you until you’re drowning in denials.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) ❓
Q1: Are telehealth visits reimbursed the same as in-person?
A: It depends on your payer and state. Some have payment parity, others don’t. Always confirm with insurers.
Q2: What causes most telehealth claim denials?
A: Incorrect CPT codes, incomplete documentation, and policy changes.
Q3: How often should I update my telehealth billing knowledge?
A: Weekly is best. If not feasible, consider outsourcing to billing experts.
Q4: Will telehealth billing get simpler after the public health emergency?
A: Some flexibilities expire Sept 30, 2025, but telehealth coverage will continue evolving.
Q5: How can I prepare patients for telehealth billing costs?
A: Be upfront about fees and deductible impacts. Transparency avoids patient surprise and dissatisfaction.
Why Is Telehealth Billing Such a Mess?
Because the system prioritizes payer flexibility over provider ease. Policies change frequently, confusing codes abound, and reimbursements can feel impossible to predict. The truth? The system is built to attract eyeballs, not to close deals.
Ready to Take Control?
Telehealth billing won’t get simple overnight. But with the right info, grit, and persistence, you can go from “Why me?!” to “Got it done!” 👊
References You Can Trust
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Telehealth advocates turn up the pressure as Medicare deadline nears — February 27, 2025.
Read more here. -
Telehealth Billing in 2025: What Healthcare Providers Need to Know — January 30, 2025.
Check it out here. -
Telehealth Billing Services in 2025 — February 2025.
Find it here.
Join the Movement — Take Action Today! 🚀
Don’t just watch the telehealth billing chaos unfold. Get involved, raise your hand, and be part of the change. Start your journey here — build your knowledge base, explore insights, and share your voice. Together, we can create a future where telehealth billing works for you — not the other way around.
Let’s do this. Ignite your momentum. Claim your spot today.
Stay Connected with the Conversation
Want to stay in the loop and share your experiences? Join the discussion on social media using these hashtags:
#TelehealthBilling #HealthcareReimbursement #VirtualCare #MedicalBilling #MedicareUpdates #TelemedicineTips #BillingSolutions #HealthcareFinance #ProviderSupport #HealthTech
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