The federal government has officially reopened following the recent shutdown, bringing relief and important updates for healthcare professionals and policy watchers. As part of the reopening, significant developments regarding telehealth billing and Medicare flexibilities have been enacted that are crucial for providers to understand.
On November 2025, Congress passed and the President signed H.R. 5371, a Continuing Resolution that ended the government shutdown. This legislation not only funds the government but also extends several Medicare telehealth flexibilities that were set to expire, ensuring continuity of care and operational stability for providers across the country.
H.R. 5371 extends select Medicare telehealth flexibilities through January 30, 2026. This extension allows providers to continue delivering vital services remotely, supporting patient access and practice sustainability.
The requirement for an in-person visit prior to and during ongoing behavioral health telehealth services is also delayed until January 30, 2026. This alignment offers continuity for behavioral telehealth care without disrupting established patient relationships.
While these extensions provide immediate clarity, further guidance from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is expected. Upcoming updates will cover operational details, billing instructions, and any additional compliance requirements. Providers should stay tuned for future announcements to ensure continued adherence with federal policies.
The extension of Medicare telehealth flexibilities following the government shutdown offers critical support for healthcare delivery through January 2026. Providers are encouraged to review these changes on the CMS website, maintain compliance, and monitor for further CMS guidance.