Paying For Alternative Treatments


By: Lee Dobbins

Even though alternative health treatments are becoming increasingly popular, there are very few health plans that will pay for alternative treatment. Many people who have come to rely on these treatments will pay for them out of pocket, but if you are seeking alternative treatments, it might pay for you to check with your insurance company before footing the bill yourself.

The price for treatments varies depending on the type and amount of treatments as well as the severity of your problem. Generally, this type of treatment is not overly expensive compared to modern medical treatments but there are a few very important questions that need to be answered before you venture into the world of alternative medical treatments.

How can alternative treatments be paid for?

Most people pay for their treatments out of their own pocket. These treatments are not overly expensive. It can become more expensive the more frequently that you use these treatments. Ask the practitioner what type of payments he or she accepts, if you can get a line of credit or some sort of discount for frequent use if it is the type of treatment that is ongoing like chiropractic. Also, try to find out what types of insurance coverage might pay for these treatments from their experience with past customers.

How Can I Find Out If My Insurance Covers This?

Finding out if your insurance covers these alternative treatments is a good idea and eas easy as a phone call your insurance company. When you talk to them, ask specific questions related to the treatments you want to use and how they can be covered.

If your insurance does cover these types of treatments, there is a good chance that there is a limit on the sessions that will be covered. Ask about this as well as any other stipulations to coverage they might have.

You might find that you are only covered if it is medically necessary by their terms or there may be special requirements for you to be covered. Find out the specifics and see if you can work with your practitioner to get yourself covered.


Questions To Ask Your Practitioner

You will want to ask your practitioner if they even accept your health insurance, and if not what forms of payment they accept. Also find out if there will be any additional cost (or discount) depending on the method with which you pay. Find out if you can get a free or reduced "trial period" treatment. This way you do not have to spend any money trying to find out if these forms of treatment are right for you. You will find that there are many practitioners out there who will be more than happy to give you a small trial treatment. They want you to be happy with your treatment.

With the popularity of alternative treatments on the rise and more and more medical establishments accepting them, it is only a matter of time before your insurance covers most of what you need. For now, however, don't forgo treatments that could make your life more pleasant without having to resort to harmful drugs or surgery - you may find it is well worth the money spent!


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