5 Surprising Things Your Health Insurance May Cover

Health insurance is an important aspect of maintaining good health and financial stability, but it can also be a source of confusion and uncertainty. Many people are unaware of the types of coverage their insurance provides, leading to unexpected out-of-pocket expenses and confusion when seeking medical care.

Here are surprising things your health insurance may cover that you may not be aware of.

Alternative therapies: Many insurance plans cover alternative therapies such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, and physical therapy. These therapies can be effective in treating a variety of conditions and may be a good option to consider if you’re looking for a more natural approach to healthcare.

Mental health services: Mental health is an essential component of overall health, yet it is often overlooked or stigmatized. Fortunately, many insurance plans now cover a range of mental health services, including therapy, counseling, and medication management. If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health issues, be sure to check your coverage and consider seeking treatment.

Travel-related health services: If you’re planning a trip abroad, your insurance may provide coverage for travel-related health services. This can include things like vaccinations, medical evacuations, and emergency medical care. Be sure to check your policy and consider purchasing additional travel insurance if necessary.

Fertility treatments: Fertility treatments can be expensive, but some insurance plans offer coverage for these services. This can include things like in vitro fertilization (IVF) and medication to stimulate egg production. If you’re considering starting a family and are concerned about the cost, it’s worth checking your coverage and speaking with your insurer about your options.

Weight loss surgery: Obesity is a major health concern and can lead to a range of serious health issues, such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Weight loss surgery can be an effective option for those who have struggled with weight loss through diet and exercise alone. Some insurance plans cover weight loss surgery, so it’s worth checking your coverage if you’re considering this option.

Telemedicine: Telemedicine, or the use of technology to provide medical care remotely, has become increasingly popular in recent years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many insurance plans now cover telemedicine services, which can include virtual doctor’s appointments, prescription refills, and even mental health therapy. If you’re unable to physically visit a healthcare provider due to distance or other factors, telemedicine can be a convenient and effective option to consider.

Preventive care: Many insurance plans cover a range of preventive care services, such as vaccines, screenings, and annual physicals, at no cost to you. Taking advantage of these services can help you catch potential health issues early and avoid more costly treatments down the road. It’s worth checking your coverage and taking advantage of these services to maintain good health and well-being.

Experimental treatments: In some cases,  insurance plans may cover experimental treatments that are not yet widely available or have not been fully approved by regulatory agencies. These treatments may be an option for individuals with serious or life-threatening conditions who have exhausted other treatment options. If you’re considering an experimental treatment, it’s worth checking your coverage and speaking with your insurer about your options.

Dental and vision care: While many insurance plans do not cover dental and vision care, some plans do offer limited coverage for these services. It’s worth checking your coverage to see what types of dental and vision services are covered and considering purchasing a separate dental or vision insurance plan if necessary.

Durable medical equipment: If you have a chronic condition that requires the use of durable medical equipment, such as a wheelchair or oxygen tank, your health insurance may cover the cost of these items. Be sure to check your coverage and speak with your healthcare provider about your options.

In conclusion, your health insurance may cover a wide range of services and treatments that you may not be aware of. It’s worth taking the time to understand your coverage and consider telemedicine, preventive care, experimental treatments, dental and vision care, and durable medical equipment if they align with your health needs and goals. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek out the care you need to maintain good health and well-being.