CMS finalizes 2026 RTM reimbursement rules, effective January 1

New Remote Therapeutic Monitoring reimbursement rules are finalized and take effect January 1, 2026. The update clarifies billing parameters for CPT codes 989X1, 989X2, and 989X3, which cover monitoring of musculoskeletal system status and therapy adherence. CMS established a 16-day monitoring period as the minimum for billing the initial set-up and patient education code. Subsequent monthly monitoring codes require at least 16 interactions or data transmissions per 30-day period. Practices using RTM for physical therapy or respiratory therapy must update their clinical documentation and billing workflows to meet the 16-day interaction threshold. Claims submitted after January 1 that do not meet the new parameters will be denied.