Does My Insurance Cover Massage Therapy?
“Does my insurance cover massage therapy?” is a question we hear all the time. With so many types of insurance plans and policies out there, the answer isn’t always simple. But in this article, I’ll do my best to explain the landscape in clear, easy-to-understand terms.
Note: Body Well Therapy provides massage therapy nationwide through insurance claims involving workers’ compensation and automobile injury insurance and some private liability policies.
Understanding the Basics
- Insurance rules vary by state. For example, BCBS Florida might not cover what BCBS Michigan does. Florida doesn’t cover massage for auto injuries, and New York regulates benefits tightly.
- Massage must be medically necessary and prescribed by a doctor. Wellness or relaxation massage is not typically covered.
- The type of insurance matters. Let’s break it down into three main categories:
- Major Medical (private health insurance)
- Injury-related (auto and workers’ comp)
- Government programs (Medicare, VA, OWCP)
1. Major Medical Insurance
These are plans like Blue Cross Blue Shield, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, etc.
- Massage therapy is rarely covered.
- LMTs are often not recognized as billable providers.
- If covered, massage must be performed by a physical therapist (LPT) in a doctor’s office.
- Even then, LPTs may only provide limited hands-on therapy—not true therapeutic massage.
Bottom line: Coverage under major medical plans is limited and usually requires complex workarounds.
2. Injury-Related Coverage (Auto & Workers’ Comp)
Auto Insurance
Most auto insurers do cover massage therapy when prescribed by a doctor under PIP or MedPay coverage.
- LMTs are recognized providers.
- Direct billing is usually allowed.
- Treatment can occur at home—a major convenience.
- State laws vary: e.g., Florida requires PIP for all drivers (at least $10,000 in benefits).
Workers’ Compensation
Massage therapy is often covered and pre-authorized if it’s deemed medically necessary.
- Coverage applies to both private and government employees.
- Requires documentation and physician authorization.
- Home visits are often allowed.
Tip: Body Well Therapy specializes in both auto and workers’ comp massage across the U.S.
Other Injury Policies
Injuries on someone else’s property or from negligence may be covered under liability or umbrella policies—similar to auto insurance processes.
3. Government Insurance Programs
Medicare
- Does not cover massage by LMTs.
- May cover passive treatments like hot/cold packs—but not real hands-on massage.
OWCP (U.S. Dept. of Labor)
- Does cover massage therapy for federal workers with injuries.
- LMTs must be registered as providers.
- Requires prescription and prior approval.
VA & TriCare (Veterans Programs)
Coverage is becoming more common, depending on the facility and the case. It’s worth exploring for eligible veterans.
Final Thoughts
While major health insurance often falls short, coverage through auto accidents, workers’ comp, and certain government programs offers a promising path to getting therapeutic massage covered by insurance.
If you have a medical condition that could benefit from massage therapy, consult a knowledgeable provider like Body Well who can:
- Verify your insurance eligibility
- Assist with documentation
- Handle billing and pre-authorization
