Naturopathy is becoming more popular with seniors. You may be wondering if Medicare provides coverage for this alternative form of medicine. The answer is slightly complicated, and we’re going to talk about it further in this post.
What Is Naturopathy?
Naturopathy or naturopathic medicine is a system that uses natural, non-invasive treatments to help the body heal. It involves many practices, such as:
- Herbs
- Massage
- Acupuncture
- Exercise, and
- Nutritional Counseling
The theory is that people can use techniques, rather than drugs, to successfully treat or prevent diseases. Seniors, especially, can benefit from the dietary changes and other remedies that naturopathy promotes.
Will Medicare Cover Naturopathy?
Medicare recipients may choose “natural” remedies instead of expensive surgeries or prescription meds. This means you may have some doctor visits. Medicare covers most doctor visits, but not the ones for naturopathy — which is where it can get confusing.
Medicare covers some services that are labeled under naturopathy.
Medicare has recently provided coverage for acupuncture in an effort to reduce the dependence on opioid painkillers. Acupuncture must be used to treat lower back pain.
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What Else You Should Know
–Medicare Advantage plans must offer at least the same benefits as Medicare.
-Some Advantage programs provide additional coverage for acupuncture.
-Advantage plans may cover a wider variety of services in select states.
-You can review the plans in your area to see if one offers Naturopathy coverage.
-If you have a Medicare Supplement plan, it won’t pay for alternative medicines. You’ll be responsible for these on your own.
Do Any Insurance Companies Cover Naturopathic Doctors?
Many insurers won’t cover naturopathic doctors, but some companies will. The coverage mostly depends on the kind of insurance you buy.
What About Osteopathy?
Osteopathy is similar but not identical to naturopathy. Medicare offers coverage for services administered by doctors of Osteopathic Medicare (DO) and Doctors of Medicare (MD).
Like naturopathy, osteopathy focuses on the body and avoids using drugs. But what it involves — manipulating the bones and muscle tissue for healing — is considered an “extra” training method for DOs.
Medicare covers your visit to a DO as long as they accept Medicare assignment. Your treatment should also be medically necessary for coverage to take effect.
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Find Out If Medicare Covers an Item or Service
The Fussell Group Insurance Advisors are friendly Medicare experts ready to serve you. To learn more about what Medicare covers, keep browsing our site or call 1-877-874-0711 to reach our office.