Massage & Bodywork

JULY | AUGUST 2019

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82 m a s s a g e & b o d y w o r k j u l y / a u g u s t 2 0 1 9 Where's the Money? Insurance Types and Coverages Here is an overview of the types of insurance you might encounter when billing for client services: Motor Vehicle Insurance: Companies, such as Geico, AAA, and Allstate, are the best place to start when billing insurance. Workers' Compensation: Workers' compensation is separated into coverage for state and federal workers. There are both federal and state laws to follow, so you must be clear on what is and is not legal—as well as knowing the process of attaining prior authorization and the billing process. Major Medical: This insurance might include companies like Blue Shield, Aetna, and Kaiser. Until, and unless, you have success with motor vehicle insurance and workers' compensation reimbursements, you should not attempt to bill major medical insurance companies. Medicare and Medicaid: These insurance providers are separated into two programs. Medicare is federal health coverage for people over 65 or people living with a disability. Medicaid coverage is provided by the state and federal government for those with very low income. It is not recommended that therapists bill Medicare or Medicaid due to the number of legalities, required time, and the fact that in no cases (in my experience) has a therapist received reimbursement for services from these two entities. FSA and HSA: Flexible Savings Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) can be used when an employer provides these medical savings programs to their employees. FSA and HSA funds are taken directly from an employee's paycheck, pre-taxed. The funds can then be used to pay for health services not typically covered by the client's primary medical coverage. These accounts are the easiest for providers and their clients to use for direct payment or service reimbursements.

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