Telehealth is already being used to treat patients with chronic conditions such as renal disease, diabetes,

mental health, and substance use disorders. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has

concluded that telehealth offers the promise of a technology and approach to care for a broad range

of populations, including those enrolled in Medicare. Emerging evidence indicates that telehealth can

empower both patients and health care providers to offer the best approaches to care that consider a

patient’s age, race/ethnicity, geographic location, and diagnoses, as well as provide high-quality care

without increasing costs.

Telehealth also can reduce disparities in care, especially in rural communities.

While it does not eliminate the need for in-person visits, telehealth does increase access to a greater

variety of providers and can enhance delivery and coordination of care.

The following studies demonstrate the potential for cost-savings, improved outcomes, increased access,

and higher patient satisfaction through the use of tele rehabilitation.