What this is, in plain language
A first visit with a clinician done by telephone only (no video), about 15 minutes of total provider time or straightforward decision-making.
Why a clinician orders it
Simple problems when video is not available or not needed — a medication question, a cold, or a quick check-in.
Medical necessity — what insurers usually look at
Audio-only coverage varies the most of any telehealth type. Many commercial plans stopped paying for phone-only visits after the public health emergency; Medicare covers them only in limited situations. Confirm before the visit.
New to this? Read what medical necessity means and how to appeal a denial.
Documentation to ask about
- ✓That the visit was audio only, and why video was not used
- ✓Your location at the time of the visit
- ✓Reason for the visit and total time or decision-making elements
Questions for your provider
- ?Does my plan pay for phone-only visits, or do I need video?
- ?What will I be charged if my plan does not cover it?
Why this code is in our seed set
Part of the new CPT 98000–98015 telehealth E/M family introduced for 2025; audio-only codes (98008–98015) have the narrowest payer acceptance.
Validated against
- •AMA CPT 2025 E/M telehealth code set (98000–98015)
- •CMS telehealth services list
Terms you'll see
The insurer is reviewing whether the service is clinically appropriate for your situation.