With just days remaining before a January 30 funding deadline, Medicare telehealth flexibilities remain in jeopardy as Congress works to finalize a broader government funding package.

Last week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) funding bill that would extend Medicare telehealth flexibilities for two years, through December 31, 2027, and continue the Acute Hospital Care at Home program through September 30, 2030.

The measure now awaits action in the U.S. Senate, where lawmakers face a narrow window to approve the package amid emerging obstacles that have increased the risk of a partial government shutdown. Without Senate passage and enactment, federal telehealth flexibilities will lapse as scheduled on January 30.

Since the end of 2024, providers have faced a series of short-term telehealth extensions tied to ongoing funding negotiations, creating continued uncertainty across the health care sector.

In the meantime, home health agencies are being advised to prepare for the potential expiration of federal telehealth flexibilities. This should include an immediate review of upcoming face-to-face (F2F) encounter timing related to new admissions. Under Medicare, F2F encounters may occur within 90 days prior to the start of care or within 30 days after the start of care.

Agencies are encouraged to proactively communicate with physicians, allowed practitioners, and patients and adjust scheduling now to avoid delays in care initiation or potential payment issues.

Medicaid telehealth policies remain governed at the state level and are not affected by the January 30 federal deadline.

HCAF is closely monitoring developments in Congress and will provide members with timely updates as additional information becomes available.

Until Congress takes final action, agencies are strongly encouraged to prepare for a worst-case scenario and plan operations accordingly.