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What is telemedicine/teletherapy?
The American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA) defines telepractice ( the act of providing Telehealth services) as "the application of telecommunications technology to delivery of professional services at a distance by linking clinician to client, or clinician to clinician, for assessment, intervention, and/or consultation." This service delivery model is supported by the California licensing board, the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association (ASHA), and is payable by most insurance carriers per the Telehealth Enhancement Act of 2013- H.R.3306, 113th Congress and California Insurance Code 10123.85, Sections 2290.5 of the Business and Professions Code. Telepractice is viewed as a mode of delivery of health care services, not a separate form of practice. There are no legal prohibitions to using technology in the practice of speech language pathology, as long as, the practice is done by a California licensed practitioner. The standard of care is the same whether the patient is seen in-person, through telehealth (telepractice) or by other methods of electronically enabled health care.
Is teletherapy covered by Medicare?
Yes. Speech-language pathology services have been temporarily added to the list of covered services through Medicare Part B. This service is covered through December 2023.
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If you do not have Medicare and desire to submit an invoice to your insurance provider, you will need to contact your insurance company to determine whether telemedicine is a covered service.
What do I need to participate in teletherapy?
You will need a device with a screen, a camera/microphone, and an internet connection. Ideally, this would be a computer, laptop, or large tablet. Teletherapy works best when both parties are in a quiet environment with a reliable internet connection. You are also welcome to have a caregiver or family member join the sessions to assist with any technology challenges. A family member or caregiver may be asked to be present for the evaluation to ensure the completion of all measures of the assessment.