Does Medicare Cover Naturopathic Doctors?

Distinguishing the world of Medicare coverage can be confusing, especially if you’re interested in natural or holistic health options. Many people wonder: Does Medicare cover naturopathic doctors? While Medicare offers broad coverage for medically necessary services, the rules regarding naturopathy are not always straightforward. In this article, we’ll break down what Medicare does and doesn’t cover regarding naturopathic medicine, along with related services that might fall under alternative or integrative health.

Does Medicare cover naturopathy?

Traditional Medicare does not cover naturopathy or visits to naturopathic doctors. This is because naturopathic medicine is not considered a core medical service under federal Medicare guidelines. Medicare generally limits coverage to services provided by physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and other licensed providers recognized under the program.

Since naturopathic doctors (NDs) are not recognized as Medicare-approved providers at the federal level, claims for their services are typically denied by Medicare.

Does Medicare cover osteopathy?

Medicare does, however, cover osteopathic medicine. Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs) are fully licensed physicians in the United States. They practice modern medicine, prescribe medications, perform surgeries, and provide primary care, but with additional training in a holistic approach and manual therapies.

This distinction is important. While naturopathy focuses on natural remedies, osteopathy is a fully recognized branch of medicine that is covered by Medicare. If you see a DO for medical care, your visits and treatments are generally covered under Medicare Part B, just as they would be for a medical doctor (MD).

Does Medicare Advantage cover naturopathy?

Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans are offered by private insurance companies that have been approved by Medicare. These plans are required to cover everything Original Medicare covers, but they may also deliver additional benefits.

Some Medicare Advantage plans might give limited coverage for alternative therapies such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, or wellness programs. However, naturopathic services are rarely included. Even if a plan emphasizes holistic health, naturopathy is usually not listed as a covered provider type.

That said, Advantage plans may offer discounts on certain wellness services or allow access to alternative health practitioners at reduced out-of-pocket rates. If you’re considering a Medicare Advantage plan, it’s important to carefully review the summary of benefits to see whether any naturopathic-related perks are included.

Services that may be covered under naturopathy

While Medicare does not recognize naturopathic doctors, some of the services or therapies that naturopaths often recommend may be covered if a Medicare-approved provider orders them.

Examples include:

• Lab tests and blood work, if medically necessary and ordered by an MD or DO.
• Physical therapy is prescribed and provided by a Medicare-approved therapist.
• Durable medical equipment, such as walkers or blood pressure monitors, is provided if deemed necessary by a physician.
• Acupuncture for chronic low back pain, under certain restrictions.

This means that while visits to a naturopathic doctor are not covered, parts of a treatment plan might still be accessible through traditional Medicare providers.

Does Medigap cover naturopathic medicine?

Medigap (Medicare Supplement Insurance) policies are designed to protect out-of-pocket expenses such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles for services already covered by Medicare. These plans do not expand the types of providers or treatments covered.

Since Medicare itself does not cover naturopathic medicine, a Medigap plan will also not pay for naturopathic visits. Medigap only helps reduce your share of costs for Medicare-approved services.

When does Medicare not cover naturopathic services?

To put it simply, Medicare generally does not cover naturopathic services. This includes:

• Office visits to a naturopathic doctor.
• Homeopathic remedies or natural supplements.
• Herbal medicine consultations.
• Preventive visits or wellness exams conducted by an ND.
• Holistic treatments that a Medicare-approved provider does not order.

Even if a naturopath is licensed in your state, Medicare’s federal rules still apply. This can be frustrating for individuals who prefer natural medicine, but it’s important to know these limitations before scheduling care.

Alternative therapies that Medicare may cover: Naturopathy

Although naturopathy is excluded, Medicare does recognize certain alternative therapies in specific cases. These include:

• Acupuncture: Medicare covers up to 12 acupuncture stays within 90 days for chronic low back pain, with potential for additional sessions if there is improvement.
• Chiropractic care: Coverage applies only for manual manipulation of the spine to correct a subluxation. Other chiropractic services are not covered.
• Physical and occupational therapy: Covered if medically necessary and prescribed by an approved provider.
• Mental health counseling: Including services that may integrate holistic approaches when provided by licensed professionals recognized by Medicare.

These exceptions show that Medicare is slowly expanding to include some complementary health services, though naturopathy itself remains outside the program’s scope.

How much do naturopathic services cost without Medicare?

If you choose to see a naturopathic doctor, you’ll usually need to pay out of pocket. Expenses can differ widely depending on your area, the provider, and the length or complexity of your visit. Initial consultations are often longer than follow-up visits and can cost more.

Additionally, naturopathic doctors may recommend supplements, specialized lab testing, or alternative therapies that come with added expenses. Since Medicare does not reimburse these services, you should plan financially if naturopathy is an important part of your healthcare.

Does Medicare recognize licensed naturopathic doctors?

Currently, licensed naturopathic doctors are not recognized as Medicare providers. While naturopathy is licensed in many states, Medicare’s coverage rules are set at the federal level and apply nationwide.

This lack of recognition is the main reason why the question does Medicare cover naturopathic doctors is often answered with a “no.” Until federal policy changes, naturopaths are unable to bill Medicare, and beneficiaries cannot use their benefits for naturopathic visits.

Conclusion

If you appreciate natural and holistic care, it can be disappointing to know that Medicare does not cover naturopathic doctors. However, understanding what is and isn’t covered can assist you plan your healthcare wisely. While you’ll need to pay out of pocket for naturopathic visits, some individual therapies commonly associated with naturopathy may still be covered if ordered by a Medicare-approved provider.

For now, beneficiaries who want access to naturopathic medicine must either pay privately, look for discount programs, or explore Medicare Advantage plans to see if limited alternative health benefits are available. Staying informed about your options is the best way to balance your healthcare preferences with the coverage that Medicare provides.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Medicare coverage and costs can vary by region, plan type, and individual circumstances. Always speak directly with your provider or Medicare representative for the most accurate information.

Source: healthcare.gov