We are pleased to share an important policy development. With the passage of H.R. 5371, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2026, and its expected signature by the President, key Medicare telehealth reimbursement flexibilities have been extended through January 30, 2026. This new continuing resolution reopens the federal government and restores many of the telehealth rules that were set to expire, providing much needed stability for providers and patients.
Below is a summary of what the extension covers, why it matters for Mississippi, and what comes next for our telehealth community.
What Has Been Extended
Under the continuing resolution, the following temporary telehealth flexibilities have been extended through January 30, 2026:
- Removal of geographic restrictions and expansion of allowable originating sites for Medicare telehealth services, including continued allowance for the beneficiary’s home.
- Expansion of the list of eligible practitioners who may furnish telehealth under Medicare, including physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech language pathologists, and audiologists.
- Continued authority for federally qualified health centers and rural health clinics to serve as distant site telehealth providers.
- Continued coverage of audio only telehealth services for non behavioral health services.
- Delayed implementation of the in person visit requirement for mental and behavioral health telehealth services.
- Retroactive coverage through January 30, which means Medicare claims held since the expiration of the previous waiver period are expected to be eligible for reimbursement.
In summary, telehealth reimbursement rules that were at risk of lapsing have been restored for the next several months, giving providers time to adjust and plan.
Why This Matters for Mississippi
This extension is particularly important for Mississippi, where telehealth has become a lifeline for rural communities, medically underserved areas, and residents with limited access to transportation.
- Access is protected. Patients may continue receiving care from their homes without geographic limitations, which is essential for rural counties.
- Provider participation is preserved. Allied health professionals who depend on telehealth to deliver care can continue offering these services under Medicare.
- Financial stability is maintained. Practices that rely on telehealth reimbursement avoid sudden revenue disruption and can plan staffing and scheduling with greater confidence.
- Continuity of care is ensured. Retroactive coverage helps providers receive payment for services already performed and prevents gaps in patient care.
- Advocacy momentum continues. The extension provides time for our association to work with state and federal leaders on achieving permanent telehealth reforms.
Important Caveats and What to Watch
While this extension is a meaningful victory, it is not a permanent solution. The flexibilities automatically expire on January 30, 2026 unless Congress passes additional legislation.
Telehealth providers should also be aware of the following:
- CMS will issue guidance on how retroactive claims will be processed, and providers must monitor instructions from their Medicare Administrative Contractor.
- Several restrictions that existed prior to the pandemic may return if the extension is not followed by long term reforms.
- Mississippi Medicaid and commercial payers maintain their own telehealth policies, and this extension applies specifically to Medicare.
- The Drug Enforcement Administration is preparing an additional temporary extension for remote prescribing of controlled substances, which is expected soon.
- Federal rulemaking related to remote prescribing, behavioral health, and controlled substance policies may be delayed due to the continuing resolution and reopening process.
Key Next Steps for Mississippi Telehealth Stakeholders
To prepare for the months ahead, we encourage members to:
- Review telehealth workflows and billing systems to ensure correct coding and compliance under the restored rules.
- Submit or resubmit pending claims that were held due to uncertainty during the lapse period.
- Educate staff and patients about the renewed telehealth coverage rules and their expiration date.
- Participate in upcoming advocacy efforts to promote permanent telehealth reform at the federal level.
- Monitor CMS and MAC guidance for claim processing and program instructions.
- Confirm alignment with Mississippi Medicaid and private payer policies.
Final Thoughts
This extension reaffirms the value of telehealth and its role in modern health care delivery. For Mississippi providers, this decision protects access, stabilizes reimbursement, and preserves continuity of care across the state. However, it also reminds us that long term telehealth policy remains unresolved. Our association will continue working closely with state and national partners to secure permanent reforms and ensure telehealth remains a dependable option for Mississippi patients.
We will soon announce a member briefing to walk through operational details, billing considerations, and our advocacy plans for 2026.
Thank you for your continued commitment to improving access to care through telehealth in Mississippi.