How to Find Out Whether Your Insurance Covers Homeopathy

How to Find Out Whether Your Insurance Covers Homeopathy



The cost of medical treatment is skyrocketing. It's no wonder, then, that many people are seeking less expensive options to traditional medicine. More and more people are turning to homeopathy to save money when treating allergies, depression and serious diseases. Homeopathy uses diluted natural products to trigger the body's immune response to disease. As the science behind this becomes more widely accepted, more insurance companies are beginning to offer individuals the option to choose a plan that covers homeopathy as well as traditional medical treatment.







Things You'll Need:





Patience




Functioning knowledge of the uses and benefits of homeopathy (in case you need to explain it to insurance agents)




Computer with Internet access







Find Out Whether Your Insurance Covers Homeopathy




1


Ask your insurance agent. Your agent is the best resource you have for questions regarding individual coverage. If you have employer-sponsored insurance, ask your company's HR Manager to give you the appropriate contact names and numbers.





2


Be persistent. It may take several attempts to find out whether your insurance covers homeopathy, especially if your agent is unfamiliar with alternative medicine. You might explain the cost-efficient nature of homeopathic treatments to an agent who is interested in learning more.





3


Speak with someone else. Insurance agents are human and do not have all the answers. If you don't like what you're hearing, ask to speak to a supervisor or manager.





4


Form an alternate plan. If your insurance doesn't cover homeopathy, consider switching to a plan or broker that does cover homeopathy. If you have employer-sponsored insurance, work with your Human Resources representative to find out how many company employees would be interested in homeopathy coverage. There is always room for negotiation in company-sponsored plans.








Tips & Warnings










Many insurance companies are only now beginning to study homeopathy as a viable medical alternative. Calling to find out whether your provider covers homeopathy may turn out to be your chance to act as a representative or crusader for patients' rights.








Do not lose your patience with your agent. This may be the first time your agent or insurance company representative has been asked about homeopathic coverage. It might take some time and digging to find the answers you're looking for. Navigating the bureaucracy of behemoth insurance companies can be challenging and it may take time and several attempts to find out whether your insurance company does, in fact, cover homeopathy.








Continue your homeopathic treatments, but know that any acute symptoms involving chest pain or difficulty breathing should always be handled by your doctor or an emergency room physician.








Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary healthcare provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.



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