Face-to-Face Encounter Definition

5.4 – Face-to-Face Encounter Definition (Rev. 10190; Issued: 06-19-2020; Effective: 01-01-2020; Implementation: 07-01- 2020) A face-to-face encounter means an in-person or telehealth encounter between the treating practitioner and the beneficiary. The face-to-face encounter must be used for the purpose of gathering subjective and objective information associated with diagnosing, treating, or managing a clinical condition for which the DMEPOS is ordered. Telehealth encounters used to satisfy the face-to-face requirement must meet the requirements of 42 CFR §§ 410.78 and 414.65 for purposes of DMEPOS coverage.