New NASW Practice Alert: Medicare Telehealth Psychiatric CPT Codes Used by Clinical Social Workers

Mirean Coleman, MSW, LICSW, CT

NASW Clinical Manager

With the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)has temporarily expanded its telehealth policies on an emergency basis under the 1135 waiver authority and the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act. During the waiver period which began March 6, 2020, cost-sharing may be reduced or waived and clinical social workers (CSWs) may seek reimbursement for telehealth psychotherapy services furnished via telehealth to patients whether they are in their home or in an outpatient setting such as an office, assisted living facility, or nursing home. For telehealth services, CSWs will also be reimbursed at the same rate as an in-person service.

Please click the following link for a new NASW Practice Alert: Medicare Telehealth Psychiatric CPT Codes Used by Clinical Social Workers.