Is your health insurance ready for complementary therapy coverage
What's the story
In a world where wellness trends are as varied as the Instagram filters we use, holistic therapies like acupuncture, yoga, and naturopathy are making their way into our daily routines.
But while we're increasingly opting for these non-conventional healing methods, one burning question remains: Does your health insurance have your back? In India, the answer isn't always clear.
So, if you're looking to combine the best, here's everything you need to know about how health insurance covers complementary therapies.
Coverage scope
Identifying covered therapies
All health insurance policies come with a specific list that outlines which complementary therapies are covered and which ones are not.
Typically, well-established practices such as Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy (AYUSH) are covered under most plans.
Policyholders should always refer to their policy documents or get in touch with their insurance providers to know what alternative treatments are covered and what is not.
Limits and caps
Understanding policy limits
Although many insurance policies provide coverage for complementary therapies, there are often limits or caps on the amount that can be claimed.
For example, a policy might offer coverage up to ₹50,000 for AYUSH treatments per year.
These financial limitations are crucial to consider when planning to undergo any alternative treatment under your health insurance plan.
Approval process
Pre-approval requirements
Before receiving any complementary therapy treatment that you anticipate will be covered by your insurance, make sure to determine if pre-approval from the insurer is needed.
Many insurers require a pre-treatment authorization process for alternative therapies, just as they do for traditional medical procedures.
Neglecting to secure this approval may lead to out-of-pocket costs.
Policy terms
Exclusions and conditions
Insurance policies typically feature exclusions and conditions that explicitly stipulate circumstances under which a therapy would be ineligible for coverage.
Usual exclusions include treatments administered without the oversight of a licensed professional or therapies not acknowledged by the government's AYUSH Ministry.
Carefully examining these conditions can help avoid unforeseen rejections of coverage, providing policyholders with a thorough understanding of the limitations and requirements associated with their insurance benefits.
Claim process
Navigating claims for alternative treatments
Claims for complementary therapy treatments require a bit more legwork. You'll need to submit detailed bills and prescriptions from registered practitioners along with your claim form.
Some insurers also ask for a detailed treatment plan that clearly establishes the need for the therapy you're claiming.
The key is to be proactive and provide all the necessary documentation. This will make the whole process smoother.