Since the pandemic, high deductible health plans (HDHPs) have been allowed to provide benefits for telehealth or other remote care services before plan deductibles were met. Temporary relief to HDHPs regarding the ability to continue utilizing telemedicine and other remote medical services, before meeting their plan’s minimum deductible and without imposing any restrictions affecting health savings account (HSA) eligibility has been extended again. The most recent extension applies for plan years beginning after December 31, 2022, and before January 1, 2025.
It should be noted that the adoption of this provision is optional; HDHPs can continue to choose to apply any telehealth services toward the deductible.
Next Steps for Employers
If adopted, plan sponsors should communicate the HDHP pre-deductible telehealth coverage provision to plan enrollees.
