02/21/2026
Important Medicare Telehealth Update
Susan Dixon, President Emerita, Federal Liaison
Telehealth has become an essential tool for older adults, especially retired educators who value timely access to care without unnecessary travel. Recognizing its importance, the federal government has taken action to expand and extend telehealth policies for Medicare beneficiaries. Some of these changes are now permanent, while others have been extended through December 31, 2027, ensuring continued flexibility for CalRTA members.
Medicare beneficiaries may receive non-behavioral and non-mental health telehealth services directly in their homes through the end of 2027. There are no geographic restrictions, meaning members can access care regardless of whether they live in urban, suburban, or rural communities. This removes long-standing barriers that once limited telehealth availability based on location.
All eligible Medicare providers are authorized to deliver telehealth services through 2027. This allows CalRTA members to continue seeing their existing physicians and specialists without disruption. In addition, Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) and Rural Health Clinics (RHCs) may serve as Medicare telehealth providers, expanding options for members who rely on these community-based clinics.
For behavioral and mental health care, Medicare has relaxed in-person visit requirements. Through December 31, 2027, patients are not required to have an in-person visit within six months of an initial telehealth appointment, nor are annual in-person visits required. This change supports continuity of care while reducing transportation and scheduling challenges.
Technology should not be a barrier to care. Medicare allows audio-only telehealth visits for non-behavioral services through 2027. Additionally, Medicare permanently allows two-way, real-time audio-only communication for telehealth services provided to patients in their homes when video technology is not available, not feasible, or not consented to by the patient.
These telehealth policies promote independence, convenience, and access to care—values that directly benefit retired educators. By reducing travel, increasing provider availability, and accommodating varying levels of technology access, telehealth ensures CalRTA members can maintain their health while aging with dignity.
I will continue to monitor federal policies affecting Medicare and advocates for the preservation and expansion of telehealth services that support the health and well-being of retired educators.
CalRTA Is Your Voice at CalSTRS
Dr. Kathy Kinley, Governmental Relations Committee Chair
CalSTRS Retirement is the first plank of CalRTA’s policy platform. CalSTRS pensions are the main income for most of our members. Because of this, President Mark Allen, Legislative Advocate Jennifer Baker and I meet regularly with CalSTRS staff. We also attend all State Teachers Retirement Board meetings such as the one held January 28-29 where we addressed member concerns with the myCalSTRS login process and the long waits at CalSTRS call centers. Your concerns were heard, and we will continue to monitor the process.
Here are helpful suggestions if you have not yet registered your new login to your myCalSTRS account:
Allot time to calmly complete the process.
Be sure you have a computer available. You will not be able to do this on your phone.
Go the www.calstrs.com. Click on the red oval my CalSTRS login.
Watch the “Registering a my CalSTRS account” help video.
It may be helpful to write notes of questions you will be asked and your answers.
Complete the process carefully. Be sure to review all information before submitting.
Keep login information in a safe place separate from your computer.
(Communications and Technology Committee Chair Sue Breyer created a "How to Create Your New myCalSTRS Account" tip sheet.)
Many members have been concerned about their 1099-R forms. CalSTRS mailed all forms by January 31, 2026. The forms can also be found by logging into your account. One change this year was the consolidation of 1099-R forms. In the past, members received two 1099-R forms if they received benefits from multiple payment types. This year most members will receive a single consolidated 1099-R.
Information was updated on the www.calstrs.com website on February 5, 2026. You can find information by clicking on “What is my CalSTRS?” It addresses multiple questions you may have. You can also find Form 1099-R FAQ (frequently asked questions). We will continue to dialogue with CalSTRS staff to help see that your issues are addressed.
Your Form 1099-R will be mailed by January 31 using your address on file and is available to download on myCalSTRS. Get answers to more of your tax form questions in our FAQ.
