The art of massage is more than just relaxing the body.Millions of people suffering from a range of illnesses can be helped by massage.There is a chance that massage is not considered an effective medical treatment in many national health systems.Massage is often considered an optional treatment by insurance companies.Medical insurance won't cover massage therapist visits.When the patient succeeds in getting a referral from his doctor, he can go to a massage therapist.If you want to get a physician medical massage referral with the goal of getting massage visits covered by insurance, there are some critical steps that need to be taken.
Step 1: There is a condition or injury that can benefit from a medical massage.
To prove medical necessity for a massage, you must have a recognizable health condition that responds to massage in a positive way.
Step 2: Check the insurance rules.
Before requesting a physician referral for a massage, you should check to see what the rules are for your insurance policy.Do you think a referral will result in coverage?Other coverage limitations may apply even if you have a referral.Make sure you read the policy document thoroughly.Understand any limitations mentioned in the policy.When medical massage is included in exclusions, it can be difficult to get it covered.
Step 3: Discuss your care with your doctor.
This doctor is the one who must authorize the referral in many HMOs and other health plans.Discuss medical necessity with the doctorFigure out how a medical professional will diagnose a condition.Ask the doctor if there are other treatments that go along with medical massage.Combining medical massage with other types of treatments is one way to get more coverage.Ask about how aholistic treatment plan can help provide better rehabilitation or recovery while legitimizing the use of medical massage within a larger context.
Step 4: Get a referral.
Make sure the primary care physician's office releases the referral, either to you or directly to the specialist.
Step 5: Records should be kept carefully.
If the insurance company comes back in the future to ask for a referral, keep that document on file to be able to provide that information and streamline any coverage or eventual payment.