Insurers Cut Telehealth Benefits
UnitedHealthGroup and Anthem customers were set to face out-of-pocket charges on certain telehealth visits starting October 1.
- (opens in new tab)
- (opens in new tab)
- (opens in new tab)
- Newsletter sign up Newsletter

Some insurers are rolling back the more-generous telehealth benefits they extended to policyholders this spring (see Finding Affordable Health Care Now (opens in new tab)).
Many insurers have been waiving co-payments or requirements to meet a deductible for virtual visits. But UnitedHealthGroup and Anthem customers were set to face out-of-pocket charges on certain telehealth visits starting October 1.
Insurers are using an array of deadlines, reimbursement strategies and charges, depending on factors such as the type of plan or the purpose of the medical visit. Doctors and hospitals say the complex rules are leading to confusion, and the cost-sharing charges are creating concern that patients who must pay more for telehealth might delay or avoid visits.

Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
-
-
Can My Pension Trigger a Retirement Tax Bomb?
Key planning strategies like asset location and Roth conversions can dramatically reduce the taxes you pay throughout retirement and your heirs’ tax liability.
By David McClellan • Published
-
Being on a First-Name Basis Can Make Everything Better
This story of a doctor’s entitled spouse illustrates how establishing a friendly connection can sometimes resolve a spiraling situation with an unreasonable customer.
By H. Dennis Beaver, Esq. • Published
-
Stock Market Holidays in 2023: NYSE, NASDAQ and Wall Street Holidays
Markets When are the stock market holidays? Take a look at which days the NYSE, Nasdaq and bond markets are off in 2023.
By Kyle Woodley • Last updated
-
Stock Market Trading Hours: What Time Is the Stock Market Open Today?
Markets When does the market open? While it's true the stock market does have regular hours, trading doesn't stop when the major exchanges close.
By Michael DeSenne • Published
-
Bogleheads Stay the Course
Bears and market volatility don’t scare these die-hard Vanguard investors.
By Kim Clark • Published
-
Best Cash Back Credit Cards March 2023
Smart Buying Looking for the credit card that pays the most cash back? These lenders may pay hundreds of dollars, with minimum hassle.
By Lisa Gerstner • Last updated
-
I-Bond Rate Is 6.89% for Next Six Months
Investing for Income If you missed out on the opportunity to buy I-bonds at their recent high, don’t despair. The new rate is still good, and even has a little sweetener built in.
By David Muhlbaum • Last updated
-
What Are I-Bonds?
savings bonds Inflation has made Series I savings bonds enormously popular with risk-averse investors. How do they work?
By Lisa Gerstner • Last updated
-
Your Guide to Open Enrollment 2023
Employee Benefits Health care costs continue to climb, but subsidies will make some plans more affordable.
By Rivan V. Stinson • Published
-
Watch Out for Flood-Damaged Cars from Hurricane Ian
Buying & Leasing a Car In the wake of Hurricane Ian, more flood-damaged cars may hit the market. Car prices may rise further because of increased demand as well.
By Bob Niedt • Last updated