# Plain Language Summary: Audio-Only Telehealth Access Act of 2025

This bill makes it easier for Medicare patients to have doctor visits using only a phone call, without needing video. Right now, Medicare has strict rules about telehealth—most remote doctor visits require both audio and video so the doctor can see the patient. This bill changes that by allowing doctors to provide certain medical services through audio-only phone calls and still get paid by Medicare for those visits.

The practical impact is that seniors and people with disabilities on Medicare would have more flexibility in how they access healthcare. If someone doesn't have reliable internet, a smartphone, or a computer with a camera, they could still have a telehealth visit with their doctor using just a regular phone call. This removes a barrier for people in rural areas with poor internet connections, elderly patients who aren't comfortable with technology, or anyone who simply prefers a phone call. Doctors would be reimbursed by Medicare for these audio-only visits just as they are for video visits, so there's no financial penalty for offering this option.

The bill specifically applies to telehealth services that Medicare already covers, so it's not expanding what types of medical care are available—it's just changing how those services can be delivered. The change would take effect during the emergency period referenced in the law, which relates to the COVID-19 public health emergency timeframe. Essentially, this makes permanent or extends a flexibility that was introduced during the pandemic, recognizing that phone-only visits work well for many types of medical consultations, follow-ups, and routine care.

Audio-Only Telehealth Access Act of 2025

Feenstra, Randy

Audio-Only Telehealth Access Act of 2025This bill permanently allows for Medicare coverage of audio-only telehealth services for evaluation and management and behavioral health services.