Requiring modifier for use of telehealth to conduct face-to-face encounter prior to recertification of eligibility for hospice care

Section 1814(a)(7)(D)(i)(II) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395f(a)(7)(D)(i)(II)), as amended by section 209(f) of the Health Improvements, Extenders, and Reauthorizations Act, is further amended by inserting, but only if, in the case of such an encounter occurring on or after January 1, 2026, any hospice claim includes 1 or more modifiers or codes (as specified by the Secretary) to indicate that such encounter was conducted via telehealth after as determined appropriate by the Secretary.