Does Medicare Cover Massage Therapy

Massage therapy is often recommended for pain relief, stress reduction, and recovery from injuries. Many Medicare beneficiaries wonder: Does Medicare cover massage therapy? The short answer is no—Medicare does not generally cover massage therapy, but there are a few exceptions you should know about.

Quick Answer 

Medicare does not cover massage therapy for pain relief or wellness. However, it may indirectly cover massage-like services if they are part of a medically necessary treatment plan, such as physical therapy prescribed by a doctor.

Why Medicare Does Not Cover Massage Therapy

Medicare classifies massage therapy as an alternative or complementary treatment, meaning it is not considered medically necessary under standard guidelines. As a result, sessions for stress relief, back pain, or relaxation are not reimbursed.

Exceptions and Alternatives

1. Physical Therapy with Massage Techniques

If a licensed physical therapist uses massage techniques as part of a prescribed rehabilitation plan, Medicare Part B may cover it—since the service is billed as physical therapy, not massage.

2. Medicare Advantage Plans

Some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans offer additional wellness benefits, which may include coverage or discounts for massage therapy.

3. Out-of-Pocket Payment

If not covered, patients must pay for massage therapy directly. Prices range from $60 to $120 per session depending on provider and location.

Key Points

• Original Medicare does not cover massage therapy.

• Coverage may exist if massage is integrated into physical therapy billed as medically necessary.

• Some Medicare Advantage plans offer limited massage or wellness benefits.

• Out-of-pocket costs are typically $60–$120 per session.

• Always confirm with your plan before scheduling treatment.

FAQ

1. Does Medicare Part B cover massage therapy?
No, Part B does not cover massage therapy unless it is part of an approved physical therapy treatment plan.

2. Will Medicare Advantage pay for massage?
Some Medicare Advantage plans offer wellness benefits that may include massage therapy coverage.

3. Can I use an HSA or FSA for massage therapy?
Yes, if the massage is prescribed by a doctor for a medical condition, it can often be paid with HSA or FSA funds.

4. How do I know if my plan covers it?
Check your plan documents or contact your Medicare Advantage provider directly to confirm.

5. Are chiropractic adjustments covered instead?
Medicare Part B covers spinal manipulation by a chiropractor if medically necessary, but not massage therapy.

CTA

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