Alternative Health Care Coverage with Medicare
December 9, 2024 | Kathy Ingulsrud
Alternative health care options like acupuncture, supplements, and therapeutic massage are becoming increasingly popular. With this growing interest, many find themselves wondering if Medicare covers these alternative healthcare treatments. Our licensed agents, who specialize in Medicare coverage, can guide you on knowing if, when, and how those benefits are available to you.
Traditionally, Medicare has provided little to no coverage for alternative healthcare; however, recent changes have expanded coverage for certain treatments, and Medicare Advantage plans may offer more options. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at which alternative treatments are covered by Medicare, the limitations of coverage, and which services are still excluded. So, if you’re hoping for more natural methods of healing, you’ll be able to gain a better understanding of Medicare’s alternative medical coverage so you can make informed decisions about your insurance needs.
Alternative Health Care Offered Under Medicare
Some alternative healthcare options offered by Medicare may include:
1. Chiropractic Care
Medicare Part B covers chiropractic care specifically for manual manipulation of the spine. While it doesn’t cover routine office visits, x-rays, and general chiropractic services, the coverage includes treatment when medically necessary.
Get more information on how Medicare Covers Chiropractic Care
2. Acupuncture
For those with lower back pain, acupuncture is a covered medical option when utilizing certain providers. Up to 12 acupuncture visits in 90 days are offered. But with shown improvements, coverage can extend to 20 visits annually. Given that the provider is a doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant with Medicare assignment, the service will be available and covered by Medicare.
3. Therapeutic Massage
While not directly covered by Medicare, therapeutic massage may be included with physical therapy and other covered treatments. Medicare Advantage plans may offer coverage in this category.
4. Biofeedback
Biofeedback may be covered for certain conditions (such as urinary incontinence), but it needs to be medically necessary and prescribed by a doctor.
5. Mindfulness for Stress-Reduction
Covered alongside mental health treatment like cognitive behavioral therapy, the extension of mindfulness-based stress reduction coverage is determined by a treatment plan and provider. It is very important to confirm your provider has Medicare assignment.
Related: Medicare Benefits You May Not Know About
6. Nutrition Therapy
For conditions like diabetes and kidney disease, nutrition therapy is covered by Medicare. Services often include a nutrition assessment, counseling, and management given that the provider is a registered dietitian or other professional nutritionist.
7. Movement Therapy
Some movement therapies like Tai Chi are covered under fall prevention programs, though Medicare doesn’t cover standalone treatments. Coverage could also come from participating in your plan’s fitness program which is often a benefit with both a Medicare supplement and a Medicare Advantage plan.
8. Herbal Supplements
Basic Medicare doesn’t really provide coverage for herbal supplements unless it’s prescribed for specific conditions and approved.
9. Naturopathic Medicine
With Medicare-assigned providers, there’s a chance that naturopathic medicine is covered, but most naturopaths aren’t recognized as providers who accept Medicare.
Finding Coverage Options for Alternative Health Care
If you regularly receive alternative healthcare services or plan to, it’s imperative to understand the coverage and limitations for such treatments to anticipate what is covered and what you’ll pay out of pocket. At times plans are offered with more coverage but right now there are some major limitations. Our experienced medicare brokers will help you compare all of your Medicare plan options and help you decide which plan is ideal to meet your budget and healthcare needs.
Choosing a Medicare plan can be difficult. Twin City Underwriters helps Medicare recipients in Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa and Florida find the Medicare plan that meets their unique needs. Attend an online Medicare webinar, in-person Medicare workshop, or schedule a one-on-one meeting with one of our Medicare insurance brokers to get your questions answered!
Do you need help with Medicare, insurance and health plans? Explore your options with Allina Health Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield of Minnesota, Medica, UCare, United HealthCare and more. We work with you to find the best plan for your needs and budget. Contact us today to get started.
