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Is Integrative and Alternative Medicine Covered by Health Insurance?
The coverage of Integrative and alternative medicine varies significantly among insurers and available plans. Most cIntegrative and alternative medicine therapies are not covered, although common exceptions usually include chiropractic therapy. […]
The coverage of Integrative and alternative medicine varies significantly among insurers and available plans. Most cIntegrative and alternative medicine therapies are not covered, although common exceptions usually include chiropractic therapy. When these approaches are covered by insurance, partial coverage is typically provided. It often depends on factors such as referrals, pre-authorizations, and if the provider is in-network with the insurance plan. It is common for individuals to pay out-of-pocket costs to ensure they can receive the Integrative and alternative care they consider most beneficial to their health outcomes.
Generally, the best practice when seeking coverage for Integrative and alternative medicine treatments is communicating clearly with the health insurance provider and the practitioner. Health insurance is fairly specific about requirements or criteria that must be met to have coverage. This often includes the number of visits allowed for coverage or the total amount the insurance provider is willing to cover for certain types of care. Since most insurance providers require that treatments, tests, and screenings are medically necessary, requesting a recommendation for Integrative or alternative therapy may be helpful documentation supporting the need for coverage.
Most health insurance plans have selective or limited coverage for Integrative and alternative medicine therapies. Coverage outcomes can vary on a case-by-case basis, so individuals interested in pursuing these therapies are encouraged to contact their insurance provider for further guidance.
Sources
“Complementary and Alternative Medicine”. National Cancer Institute. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/cam
“Paying for Complementary and Integrative Health Approaches”. National Institute of Complementary and Integrative Health.
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/paying-for-complementary-and-integrative-health-approaches
“Will My Insurance Cover Complementary and Integrative Therapies”. American Cancer Society.
