To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to remove in-person requirements under Medicare for mental health services furnished through telehealth and telecommunications technology.

HR 8497 removes a requirement that Medicare patients must have an initial in-person visit before receiving mental health services via telehealth. This change directly affects Medicare beneficiaries seeking mental health care, particularly those in rural areas or with mobility challenges, by allowing them to access these services remotely from their first appointment. Key provisions eliminate geographic restrictions for telehealth mental health visits starting July 1, 2019 (for substance use disorder treatment) and after the end of the pandemic emergency period (for general mental health care). The bill applies to services provided through standard telehealth platforms and does not alter Medicare coverage amounts or funding.