At Garuda Health, we believe quality healthcare should be accessible to everyone. We’re committed to helping patients understand and maximize their insurance benefits, especially when it comes to acupuncture and integrative care.
That’s why we’re proud to be in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) for acupuncture services. If you’re a BCBS member, you may have acupuncture benefits available, especially if you’ve met your deductible for the year.
Blue Cross Blue Shield Acupuncture Benefits
Over the past year, more BCBS corporate plans have started including acupuncture coverage, an exciting shift that brings holistic care within reach for more people than ever. If you have Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance, this could mean your acupuncture treatments are partially or fully covered, depending on your specific plan and deductible.
Our goal is to help you understand exactly what’s included so you can make the most of your benefits before they reset at the start of the new year.
What You Should Know
- If you’ve met your deductible, now is the perfect time to use your acupuncture benefits, schedule your sessions before January 1st, when your deductible resets.
- If you’re unsure whether acupuncture is covered under your plan, simply call the number on the back of your BCBS card or let our front desk team check for you. We’ll make a quick copy of your card and confirm your eligibility through the BCBS provider portal.
- For patients with other insurance plans, while we’re not in-network, we’re happy to provide a superbill to submit for possible reimbursement. Reimbursement rates vary widely, anywhere from 40% to 95% depending on your plan and insurer.
Insurance and Acupuncture Coverage FAQs
What Does It Mean to “Meet Your Deductible”?
Your deductible is the amount you must pay out of pocket before your insurance begins covering acupuncture treatments. Many Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) plans require patients to meet this deductible first. If you have a high deductible that isn’t yet met, paying the cash discount rate may be more economical. If you’re close to meeting it, your next few appointments will typically count toward fulfilling the deductible, after which BCBS will start covering your sessions.
Do I Have to Pay a Copay for Acupuncture Visits?
Some BCBS plans require a copay while others do not. Copays usually range between $20 and $40 per visit, depending on your specific plan. When checking your acupuncture benefits, you can confirm the copay amount directly with BCBS, or our staff can verify it for you before your appointment.
How Does the Medicare Superbill Option Work?
Because acupuncturists are not recognized as Medicare providers, Garuda Health cannot bill Medicare directly. However, if you have a supplemental Medicare plan, you can pay at the time of service, and we will provide a superbill. Superbill is a detailed invoice you can submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement. Reimbursement rates vary widely by plan, generally between 40% and 95% of your visit cost.
Does You Accept Other Insurance Providers?
As of now, Garuda Health is only in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield for acupuncture. We do not currently accept Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, or other major insurance carriers due to low reimbursement rates and frequent claim denials. For patients with other insurances, we can provide a superbill for potential out-of-network reimbursement.
I’m Still Unsure About My Plan Coverage for Acupuncture
We understand that insurance terms and policies can be confusing. If you’re uncertain about your coverage, our friendly front desk team can help verify your benefits. You can call us or email our office anytime for personalized assistance in understanding what your plan covers, and how to make the most of your insurance benefits.
Need Help Understanding Your Benefits?
We understand that insurance terminology and coverage can be confusing. If you’re unsure about your benefits or need help verifying eligibility, our team is happy to assist. Call or email us to get clear answers so you can make the most of your health benefits.