Does Your Insurance Cover Massage Therapy?
Posted: June 8th, 2018
In addition, Massage therapy is moving into the mainstream as one of the first treatments that many people seek out for pain and discomfort. If you carry private healthcare insurance, your plan may cover the cost of treatment.
Health Insurance
Some health insurance plans will cover massage if prescribed by a primary care physician, chiropractor, or osteopath. On the referral, the doctor will need to include appropriate diagnosis codes and a treatment plan. An authorization may be needed under certain plan restrictions. Health insurance coverage for massage therapy varies from plan to plan. Typically, most plans will cover up to a certain number of visits or a maximum dollar amount annually. The experienced massage therapist utilizes a variety of techniques to help relieve chronic and acute pain. Massage therapists are trained in techniques such as medical massage, neuromuscular therapy, trigger point therapy, sports massage, and rehabilitative stretching. In addition, hydrotherapy and hot or cold packs may also be part of the treatment plan. As a result, the therapist may also recommend at-home exercises and therapy to continue with healing progress between visits.
Medical Necessity
Without medical necessity, your insurance may not cover certain treatments received at a medical or day spa. However, reimbursement may be possible for some out of pocket expense for spa treatments. Proper wording on forms is very important.
Ask Questions
To get a better understanding of the types of massage your insurance may cover, call the customer service number listed on the front or back of your insurance card. Ask specific questions about the referral process. How many visits can I have? Which providers are covered in my area? A simple phone call will discover if your plan covers these services. You can be on a treatment table and pain-free in no time!
Finally, there are some steps to follow when you are seeking a
physician medical massage referral.
