Medicare Has Extended Virtual Speech Therapy
Here’s What That Means for You
We were hoping for good news, and we got it! Medicare has officially extended coverage for virtual outpatient speech therapy until September 30, 2025. If you have Parkinson’s and need expert care for your voice, thinking, or swallowing, but can’t find a specialist in your town, virtual therapy makes it possible to get the help you need.
What This Means for You
If you have traditional Medicare Part B insurance, you can see a specially trained speech therapist virtually for your Parkinson’s needs.
Your speech therapist must be licensed in your state, but they don’t have to live nearby.
This is a limited-time extension—this Medicare covered benefit is currently only until September 30, 2025.
Why Virtual Speech Therapy Works for Parkinson’s
Many (possibly up to 90%) of people with Parkinson’s experience changes in speech, thinking, and swallowing and this requires expert guidance. Virtual therapy offers:
Specialized care from a therapist trained in Parkinson’s needs.
Convenience—no need to drive, wait in a waiting room, or be impacted by "white coat syndrome." You practice in the place where you use it the most - your home!
One in the same—receiving in-person care is very similar to virtual care.
The specialized speech therapy programs for Parkinson’s are also able virtually: LSVT-LOUD® eLoud and SPEAK OUT!® Learn more about Speech Therapy for Parkinson’s.
How to Use Your Medicare Benefit
If you’re eligible for Medicare and interested in virtual speech therapy:
Check your coverage – Confirm that you have traditional Medicare coverage. Several people that actually have Managed Medicare insurance still have a Medicare card however this virtual benefit does not apply to all Managed Medicare insurances.
If you do have traditional Medicare, virtual speech therapy is covered at 80% by Medicare Part B if is medically necessary and it is with a speech therapist that is a Participating Provider of Medicare.
You may be responsible for a 20% co-payment if you do not have supplemental insurance. Chat with me about the expected costs!
Find a qualified therapist – Look for someone who specializes in Parkinson’s and is licensed in your state. Use the following listservs to support your search:
Start therapy – Virtual therapy sessions can help strengthen your communication, improve thinking skills, and address swallowing challenges for the journey ahead.
What’s Next?
While I hope this coverage becomes permanent, I encourage you to take advantage of it now while it’s available. If you or a loved one could benefit from virtual speech therapy, now is the time to explore your options.
What to learn more about Parkinson’s and Speech Therapy? Click here! Looking for Before-and-After videos, click here!
Have more questions? Feel free to reach out—I’d love to help!
Ready for Free Virtual Wellness Classes for Voice?
-Andrea