Does VA Medicaid cover massage therapy?
Asked by: Keira Feeney | Last update: October 5, 2025Score: 4.6/5 (65 votes)
Will Medicaid pay for massage therapy?
Medicare and Medicaid typically do not cover massage therapy as a stand-alone service. However, coverage may be possible if it is deemed medically necessary and prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Does VA health care cover massage therapy?
The VA offers complementary and integrative health services (CIHS), which may include massage therapy, particularly for managing pain, PTSD, and other chronic conditions.
What is covered by Virginia Medicaid?
Virginia Medicaid covers many inpatient and outpatient health services, such as preventive care, doctor visits, emergency services, mental health services, prescription drugs, maternal health services, addiction and recovery treatment, dental and more.
Does Medicaid in VA cover therapy?
Medicaid is a common health insurance in Virginia, and individuals who have Medicaid may wish to find therapists who are in-network with their health insurance. When you see a therapist who is in-network with Medicaid, each session you'll pay only a copay, which typically ranges from $0-$75/session.
Medicare Guidelines for Massage Therapy as A Covered Service 97124 #MCRHybrid
How many therapy sessions does Medicaid cover?
The number of therapy sessions Medicaid covers varies by state and individual plan. Some states may offer unlimited sessions, while others may have limits. For example: Some states cover up to 30 sessions per year.
How to get free therapy with Medicaid?
To get coverage, you need to choose a provider in your network. Your plan may set limits on the number of therapy sessions covered. You may need to get a referral from your primary care physician (PCP) before seeing a therapist. If the specific therapy isn't covered, you will be expected to pay the full cost.
What is not covered by Medicaid?
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.
How much money can you have in the bank with Medicaid in Virginia?
Have countable resources of not more than $2,000 for one person or $3,000 for a couple. Resources are things such as bank accounts (checking, savings, certificates of deposit, Christmas club, etc.), stocks, bonds, the cash value of some life insurance policies, property that does not adjoin your home, etc.
Does Medicaid cover chiropractic in Virginia?
We cover chiropractic services for Medicaid members under age 21 when medically necessary. Members over age 21 can get up to six visits a year with an in-network chiropractor.
How to get massage therapy covered by insurance?
A referral from your doctor can help you get insurance coverage for massage therapy. It can also be established as an important health benefit. Massage therapists are not allowed to diagnose medical conditions. Therefore, a prescription or referral from a physician is required for reimbursement.
Will the VA pay for a massage chair?
Accordingly, the Veteran is not entitled to reentrance into the independent living services program, to include the purchase of a massage chair, a desktop computer, a desk, and a recumbent exercise bicycle. 38 C.F.R. §§ 21.162, 21.284.
Why isn't massage therapy covered by insurance?
Massage therapy is a supplementary and alternative medical treatment (CAM). When it comes to certain medical illnesses and situations, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) can be utilized to supplement mainstream medical therapy by doctors. As a complementary treatment, not all insurances cover massage therapy.
How much is massage therapy?
On average, prices in the United States range from $50 to $150 per hour, with higher rates typical in urban areas and luxury spas. The cost is also affected by the therapist's experience, the type of massage, and any additional services provided.
Can massages be a medical expense?
Medical Necessity: The IRS says medical expenses must be for alleviating or preventing a physical or mental condition. In other words, your massage therapy needs to be medically necessary—a term your doctor will have to agree on.
Can you own a house and be on Medicaid in VA?
Ownership of real property must be considered when determining your Medicaid eligibility but does not necessarily keep you from receiving Medicaid. The Medicaid eligibility worker will need to see copies of the deeds and tax statements to evaluate the rules that apply in your situation.
Does Virginia Medicaid check your bank account?
Medicaid verifies an applicant's income by checking regular deposits and sources of funds. They also verify their addresses to comply with residency requirements. Moreover, bank statements help prevent Medicaid fraud.
What does Virginia Medicaid cover?
Medicaid covers a variety of inpatient and outpatient medical services. Benefits include behavioral health services, addiction and recovery treatment, dental services and prescription medicines. Consult your handbook to find out which benefits you are eligible to receive.
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.
What 5 treatments does Medicare not cover?
- Eye exams (for prescription eyeglasses)
- Long-term care.
- Cosmetic surgery.
- Massage therapy.
- Routine physical exams.
- Hearing aids and exams for fitting them.
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.
How many therapy sessions does Medicaid cover for adults?
The number of therapy sessions covered by Medicaid per year is one aspect that varies widely from state to state. In some states, Medicaid recipients have comprehensive benefits that will pay for an extensive number of sessions annually. Other states cap benefits after a certain number of visits.
What if I can't afford therapy?
Ask about a sliding scale payment option if you can't afford therapy. Many therapists offer a sliding scale payment fee structure for clients. This means that your fee for a therapy session is based on your income. Therapists may state that they offer a sliding scale on their public profiles or websites.
Is there any online therapy that takes Medicaid?
Finding affordable therapy options shouldn't be a struggle. At Modern Therapy Group, we understand the importance of accessible mental health support, which is why we offer online therapy that accepts Medicaid.