Telehealth Stabilizes Access, Fedor Says

Published in Complex Rehab on March 18, 2026

This article was originally written by Liz Beaulieu, Editor of HME News. View original article here.

The continued expiration and extension of Medicare telehealth flexibilities has been a roller coaster ride for complex rehab technology (CRT) professionals. While the latest extension provides temporary relief, uncertainty remains about the future of remote care options that many CRT providers say are critical to timely access and continuity of care.

Dan Fedor, director of reimbursement and education for U.S. Rehab, a division of VGM & Associates, explains why maintaining Medicare telehealth access matters so much for CRT providers and the patients they serve.

Latest Medicare Telehealth Extension

President Donald Trump on Feb. 3 signed H.R. 7148, the “Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026,” ending a four-day partial government shutdown. The legislation, part of a broader “minibus” spending package, includes an extension of Medicare telehealth flexibilities that expired Jan. 31, 2026.

“That’s been a big question I’m getting: Do you know what’s going on with telehealth?” said Fedor.

For CRT providers, the most relevant flexibilities include:

Geographic and originating site flexibility, which allows Medicare beneficiaries to receive telehealth services from any location, including their homes, through Dec. 31, 2027; and
Expanded practitioner flexibility, which allows occupational therapists (OTs) and physical therapists (PTs) — including those who specialize in wheeled seating and mobility — to continue providing Medicare-covered services via telehealth through Dec. 31, 2027.

Why COVID-Era Flexibilities Changed the Game

While telehealth has long been permitted under Medicare, Fedor notes that access was far more limited before COVID-era expansions. Previously, beneficiaries' visits had to take place at an approved originating site, such as a wheelchair and seating clinic.

“That kind of deflates the purpose of it entirely,” he said.

Keeping Care Moving for CRT Patients

Telehealth flexibilities are especially important for CRT patients who rely on wheelchairs and may face significant transportation barriers. Remote visits allow beneficiaries to receive care in their homes, avoiding long travel times and delays in scheduling in-person appointments.

“These flexibilities help to keep things rolling without delays,” Fedor said.

Using Telehealth When it Makes Sense

Fedor emphasizes that telehealth is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Specific requirements apply, including the need for a qualified healthcare professional – such as an assistive technology professional (ATP) – to be present in the home during the virtual visit to facilitate the connection with the OT or PT.

Telehealth is also not appropriate for every patient. According to Fedor, someone with a new, high-level injury may require an in-person evaluation, while a beneficiary seeking a replacement wheelchair after five years may be well-suited for a remote visit.

“When I talk to members, I always say, ‘Yes, use it when it’s appropriate, but it’s not a brush stroke,’” he said. “It’s not everyone gets telehealth or no one gets telehealth. It’s a case-by-case basis.”