Do Medical Plans Cover Holistic Services?

Wellness is not just the absence of disease symptoms, but it also implies the proactive pursuit of healthy alternatives, holistic therapies and preventative services. Since these pursuits are not necessarily free, it is prudent for each consumer to consider the coverage limitations of their insurance plan to help afford a desirable lifestyle.

As healthy lifestyle choices are resulting in additional longevity, disease and illness prevention, the mounting evidence is persuading some insurance plans to support more and more holistic therapy coverage. Many experts feel that the numbers will eventually demonstrate that it is far cheaper for an insurance company to support the consumption of additional holistic benefits vs. traditional medical services.

The Federal Government has already granted massive savings to assist holistic-minded consumers by allowing them to buy services with pre-tax dollars using an HSA (health savings account). Many plans offer HSA benefits in their coverage. In some cases, healthy families willing to convert to a higher deductible plan can use HSA benefits to save thousands of dollars per year in healthcare costs.

Many plans already cover holistic and healing therapies such as:

• Chiropractic care
• Naturopathic care
• Nutritionist
• Acupuncture
• Massage therapy
• Physical therapy

If your plan indicates "Partial coverage" for alternative therapies, this often refers to a provided discount card accepted by participating therapists to receive 20-30% off holistic wellness services. Often times, if consumers are paying out of pocket, providers will offer similar levels of discount with or without a card. Keep in mind that shopping for holistic services or a health plan with more holistic coverage, you “the consumer” are in the driver’s seat. Comparison shopping for the best services at the best value is just as important in healthcare as it is anything else.

At the very least, ask your medical insurance company to see if they partner with holistic health providers to provide you with a discount. Also don’t be shy about asking your holistic wellness providers for an uninsured discount if you are not covered.

Be aware of exclusions and limitations like such as pre-set number of visits for each condition or direct co-payment responsibilities.

If you are self-employed, uninsured, self-insured, unemployed, currently on Cobra, or want to get the best possible insurance with the most holistic service coverage, our insurance experts are standing by now to answer your questions. Fill out the form to the right.

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