What natural therapies are covered by extras health insurance
A big shake up of health insurance ended with some popular natural therapies being dropped but there are still treatments you can get money back on.
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People have long sought treatments that complement traditional healthcare practices.
Anyone who has had a good outcome from remedial massage or acupuncture or pilates, swears by their benefits.
However, Medicare does not cover most natural treatments and out of pocket costs can mount up so private health insurers began including them as attractive additions to their extras policies.
Following a review in 2019, the federal government decided 16 natural therapies were no longer permitted to be covered by any private health insurer.
But many popular treatments and services are still covered by extras policies.
Here’s what you need to know if you are seeking alternative treatments to certain ailments or health concerns and what may be covered by private health insurance.
What are natural therapies?
Natural therapies are generally considered to be methods of alternative treatments that are used to diagnose, treat and prevent illness, injury and impairment. They offer a holistic approach to wellness that is separate to traditional western medicine.
What are the 16 natural therapies no longer covered by private health insurance?
Alexander technique, aromatherapy, Bowen Therapy, Buteyko, Feldenkrais, Western herbalism, homoeopathy, iridology, kinesiology, naturopathy, pilates, reflexology, Rolfing, shiatsu, tai chi and yoga
While many Australians are still using these treatments and activities, you can’t claim back any of the cost from any Australian private health insurer.
What natural therapies are covered by private health insurance?
Depending on your insurer, you may still find coverage for natural therapies including:
Other treatments and therapies that are often included in extras cover include:
I thought Medicare covered chiropractic treatment?
Not necessarily. You may be eligible to have up to five chiropractic treatments covered by Medicare if you have a chronic condition and a Medicare card. You will need a referral by a GP and a specific chronic disease management (CDM) plan on a Team Care Arrangement (TCA).
You will need to check with your chiropractor as to whether they bulk bill to Medicare or whether you will incur a gap payment.
If you are not eligible, and beyond the five visits, you need to pay for chiropractic treatments out of your own pocket and this is where private insurance can help with the costs. The amount you can claim will depend on each insurer’s policy so be sure to check what is covered and whether any limits apply.
Try and find cheaper health cover
What is covered by remedial massage?
Not all massage treatments are covered by private health insurance. Massage sessions for the purposes of relaxation and pampering are not considered remedial. Remedial massage is a form of physiotherapy for muscular and joint issues. Policies that cover remedial massage usually allow you to claim a percentage of the cost provided by a recognised practitioner, so do your research before undergoing treatment with a specific provider.
Are there waiting periods for claiming on natural therapies?
Like most health insurance benefits, you may have to hold off claiming on natural therapy treatments for a certain length of time after you sign up. If you’re currently covered under one insurer and you’re looking to switch health insurance providers, your new provider may waive the waiting period.
How do I get covered for natural therapies by private health insurance?
When you are ready to start comparing policies, first ask yourself these questions:
What treatments do I want?
Why do I want them? Is it for a specific injury or ailment?
Are insurers allowed to include them in their extras policies?
If not, are there alternative treatments that aren’t exempt?
How often will I require treatment?
Does the health fund have preferred providers that I need to use?
Is there a waiting period?
What gaps will I need to cover? How much is this likely to be?
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