Important MHC Provider Alert: Telehealth in Response to Coronavirus (Covid-19) Pandemic

Providing timely, accessible, and safe behavioral health services.

At MHC, we take the health and safety of our members and providers very seriously. As the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak evolves MHC continues to closely monitor information from the World Health Organization (WHO), U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the individual state departments of health.

Because the health of our members and the safety of those who deliver their care are our top priorities, w e encourage everyone to to take the following preventative measures as recommended by the CDC:

Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, then dispose of the tissue.
Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with 60–95% alcohol.
Routinely clean frequently touched surfaces and objects.
Stay home when you are sick with respiratory disease symptoms, cough or fever. Ask those you are working with to do the same.

In addition to this, MHC is working diligently to ensure that behavioral health services are not disrupted to members in impacted communities. To provide timely, accessible, and safe appointments, MHC is encouraging the use of telehealth services for eligible members and dependents. Through the use of telehealth services MHC aims to prioritize the health of all members and providers, reduce the risk of community exposure, and continue to ensure that members receive quality clinical care to meet their behavioral health needs.

If you are unsure if a member's plan covers telehealth services or have additional questions, please contact a clinical care manager at 215-343-8987 option 1 or by e-mail at

[email protected]

Telehealth Frequently Asked Questions

What is telehealth?

MHC defines telehealth as a method of delivering behavioral health services using interactive telecommunications when the member and the behavioral health provider are not in the same physical location. Telecommunications must be the combination of audio and live, interactive video.

What equipment is required to provide telehealth?

You will need a broadband internet connection and a computer with a microphone and a built‐in or external web camera. And you must use a HIPAA‐compliant telehealth software/platform.

What types of services can be delivered via telehealth?

The same services that are provided in a face‐to‐face session can be offered via telehealth. *Note that telehealth services must be a covered benefit under the member’s benefit plan to be reimbursed. Please contact an MHC case manager at 215-343-8987 option 1 or by e-mail at [email protected] to review your patient's benefit plan.

Are there different rates for delivering services via telehealth?

Your contracted rates remain the same for services delivered via telehealth and face‐to‐face. For telehealth, you must submit your claim with a “GT” or “95” modifier added, to indicate telehealth. Claims should also include the telehealth place of service code “02.” Telehealth services must be a covered benefit under the member’s benefit plan to be reimbursed.

How are claims and billing handled?

As a MHC provider, you will continue to verify benefits and eligibility, as well as submit claims, exactly as you do now. You must bill using the “GT” or “95” modifier to signify telehealth services. Claims should also include the telehealth place of service code “02.”

How do I know if my telehealth software/platform is HIPAA compliant?

Your software/platform vendor is required to have a Business Associate Agreement (BAA). To remain HIPAA compliant and protect a member’s PHI, this BAA must outline methods used by the vendor to ensure the protection of the data and provisions for regular auditing of the data’s security. At present, commonly used tools such as Skype™ and FaceTime® are not considered secure, HIPAA compliant technology.

Visit these websites for additional telehealth resources:

American Telemedicine Association: www.americantelemed.org/home

Center for Connected Health Policy: The National Telehealth Policy Resource Center: www.cchpca.org

MHC | www.mhconsultants.com | 215-343-8987