Does Illinois Medicaid cover gym memberships?

Asked by: Breana Breitenberg  |  Last update: April 10, 2025
Score: 4.7/5 (59 votes)

IlliniCare Health has introduced three new lifestyle benefits for Medicaid members enrolled through the HealthChoice Illinois program. Members can now receive free gym memberships, after-school care assistance, and free school uniforms.

What is covered under Illinois Medicaid?

Most people who enroll are covered for comprehensive services, including, but not limited to; doctor visits and dental care, well-child care, immunizations for children, mental health and substance abuse services, hospital care, emergency services, prescription drugs and medical equipment and supplies.

How do I get the free gym membership at Aetna Better health Illinois?

To qualify for gym membership and weight management app, members need to:
  1. Complete a health risk screening.
  2. Complete an annual wellness visit.
  3. Fill out a member marketing consent.

What services are not covered by Medicaid?

Here are some common items and services that Medicaid may not cover in your area:
  • Dental Services. ...
  • Cosmetic Surgery. ...
  • Non-Prescription Drugs and Health Supplements. ...
  • Experimental Treatments. ...
  • Elective Abortions. ...
  • Personal Comfort Items. ...
  • Home Modifications for Disability. ...
  • Non-Emergency Medical Transportation.

What is excluded from Medicaid?

Mandatory exclusions: OIG is required by law to exclude from participation in all Federal health care programs individuals and entities convicted of the following types of criminal offenses: Medicare or Medicaid fraud, as well as any other offenses related to the delivery of items or services under Medicare, Medicaid, ...

Does Illinois Have Medicaid? - CountyOffice.org

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What are the downsides of Medicaid?

Disadvantages of Medicaid

One of the primary reasons for this is that Medicaid reimbursements are lower than those of commercial insurers for most procedures and treatments.

Does Medicare pay for gym membership?

Physical fitness and movement are important for a person to stay healthy, and many gyms have programs specifically for helping older adults be more active. Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) does not pay for gym memberships. However, Medicare Advantage coverage may include gyms and other physical health programs.

Does Medicaid cover YMCA membership?

Eligibility for a free YMCA membership through Medicaid typically depends on your specific Medicaid plan, your location, and other factors such as age, health status, and participation in certain wellness programs. Your Medicaid provider can provide detailed eligibility criteria.

How to get free gym access?

But if your doctor orders exercise as part of your medical action plan, you may qualify for an exception. And if your employer contributes to these accounts, your gym membership might end up being free or practically free. But, you need a letter of medical necessity (LMN) from your doctor to go this route.

What happens if you make too much money while on Medicaid?

If you're over the Medicaid income limit, some states let you spend down extra income or place it in a trust to help you qualify for Medicaid. If you receive long-term care but your spouse doesn't, Medicaid will allow your spouse to keep enough income to avoid living in poverty.

Does Illinois Medicaid cover eyeglasses for adults?

Members 21 years of age and older are limited to replacement eyeglasses when medically necessary. Members 20 years of age or younger have no restrictions on replacement eyeglasses.

Does Planet Fitness take Medicare?

Does Planet Fitness accept Medicare fitness benefits? Since the fitness benefits are not through the Original Medicare program, technically, Planet Fitness doesn't accept Medicare. However, many Planet Fitness locations accept SilverSneakers and Silver&Fit to cover the cost of your gym membership.

Is gym membership a medical expense?

Gym membership costs are qualified medical expenses only if the gym is for the sole purpose of: 1) affecting a structure or function of the body, such as part of a prescribed plan for physical therapy to treat an injury or 2) treating a specific disease diagnosed by a physician such as obesity, hypertension or heart ...

Does Medicaid give you free gym membership?

Even if you're not in an expansion state, specific Medicaid plans may still offer wellness benefits, including free or discounted gym memberships. These benefits are often included in plans for individuals with chronic conditions, seniors, or those participating in Medicaid managed care plans.

How to get a free YMCA gym membership?

How do you get a YMCA membership for free? Visit your local YMCA's website and see what kinds of financial support your facility offers. Some YMCAs allow you to apply for a scholarship or pay at a reduced rate. Others may offer insurance- or Medicaid-based support.

Will insurance pay for gym membership?

Most commercial health insurance plans offer fitness incentive programs, and those perks sometimes include free gym membership. If your plan won't fully reimburse your membership, you may still be able to get a low-cost or discounted gym membership or other fitness benefits.

Can you get a prescription for a gym membership?

Health club and gym membership fees for treating a medical condition are eligible with a doctor's note. Even though exercising has many health benefits, gym memberships to maintain your general health and wellness are not eligible medical expenses, according to the IRS.

What happens if I can't afford my gym membership?

Your gym should let you cancel your contract if you've had a change in circumstances that means you can't afford the monthly payments. It would have to be something significant, eg you've lost your job or suddenly found yourself in a lot of debt. You'll need evidence to prove this to your gym.

Will Social Security pay for my gym membership?

Social Security generally does not directly cover the cost of gym memberships. However, you can spend your Social Security income on a gym membership. It's important to review your plan's coverage to determine if gym memberships or fitness benefits are included.

Why do doctors not like Medicaid?

One reason is that reimbursement rates for Medicaid are lower than for Medicare or commercial insurance. Another (often overlooked) factor, however, is physician's risk of payment denials and the administrative hassle they face trying to get reimbursed by Medicaid.

What will Medicaid not pay for?

Medicaid coverage can vary from state to state, but here are some common services and items that are typically not covered: Elective cosmetic procedures: Cosmetic surgeries and procedures, such as cosmetic dentistry and non-medical weight loss procedures, that are not medically necessary are typically not covered.

Why do people not like Medicaid?

Republicans also generally don't like Medicaid. They see it as program that primarily serves Democratic voters (there are about 20 million Republicans on Medicaid), and as a form of welfare with little difference from cash assistance, and not as health coverage.