Does Insurance Cover Infrared / Red Light Therapy?
Medicare does not cover infrared therapy devices for any condition, including diabetic neuropathy, wounds, or pain.
Medicare Coverage Details
Medicare does not cover infrared / red light therapy
Effective October 24, 2006, CMS determined that infrared therapy devices (including monochromatic infrared energy and near-infrared light) are "not reasonable and necessary" for treatment of diabetic or non-diabetic peripheral neuropathy, wounds, ulcers, or symptoms including pain. This is a blanket non-coverage — no infrared/red light therapy device is covered under Medicare Part B for any indication.
NCD References
NCD 270.6 — Infrared Therapy Devices
Last updated: December 2024
Private Insurance Coverage
Not covered by Medicare (NCD 270.6 explicitly non-covered). No private insurers cover red light therapy.
What about Medicaid?
Medicaid coverage for infrared / red light therapy varies by state. Some states cover it under managed care plans while others do not. Contact your state Medicaid office or check your plan's benefits guide.
How to Check Your Coverage
- 1
Call the number on your insurance card
Ask: "Is infrared / red light therapy a covered benefit under my plan?" Get the answer in writing or note the reference number.
- 2
Ask about prior authorization
Some plans require pre-approval before treatment. Ask if a referral from your primary care doctor is needed.
- 3
Verify provider network status
In-network providers will cost significantly less. Ask your insurer for a list of covered providers in your area.
- 4
Understand your cost share
Ask about your copay, coinsurance, and deductible for this service. Out-of-network benefits may still apply.
- 5
Check HSA/FSA eligibility
Even if insurance doesn't cover infrared / red light therapy, you may be able to use pre-tax HSA or FSA funds. Get a letter of medical necessity from your doctor.
Cost Without Insurance
Low
$25
Average
$40
High
$75
Per
per session
Monthly cost: $75–$300 (3-5x per week initially, then 2-3x per week maintenance).
Use our Cost Calculator for detailed pricing →Find Infrared / Red Light Therapy Providers
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does Medicare cover infrared / red light therapy?
Does private insurance cover infrared / red light therapy?
How much does infrared / red light therapy cost without insurance?
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