Does Insurance Cover Massage Therapy?
Massage therapy coverage is inconsistent. Medicare does not cover standalone massage therapy. Some private plans cover it when prescribed for a medical condition and performed by a licensed massage therapist, but many plans exclude it entirely or limit it to a few sessions per year.
Medicare Coverage
Medicare does NOT cover massage therapy as a standalone service. However, massage techniques used as part of a physical therapy treatment plan ordered by a physician may be covered under the PT benefit — but the massage itself cannot be billed separately.
Private Insurance Coverage
Coverage varies widely. Some PPO plans include 12-24 massage sessions per year with a prescription. Many plans require medical necessity documentation (e.g., chronic pain, post-surgical recovery). HMO plans less commonly cover massage. Check if your plan has a 'complementary/alternative medicine' rider.
What about Medicaid?
Medicaid coverage for massage 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.
States That Mandate Coverage
The following states require commercial insurance plans to cover or offer coverage for massage therapy:
Note: Self-insured employer plans (ERISA plans) may not be subject to state mandates. Check with your plan administrator.
CPT Codes for Billing
If your provider bills insurance for massage therapy, these are the relevant CPT codes:
97140Manual therapy techniques (includes massage)97124Massage therapy (unlisted CPT, some payers accept)Tips for Getting Coverage
- 1
Get a prescription from your doctor citing a specific medical condition
- 2
Ask if your plan has a CAM (complementary and alternative medicine) benefit
- 3
Use HSA/FSA funds — massage therapy is eligible with a letter of medical necessity
- 4
Some employer wellness programs reimburse massage even if insurance doesn't cover it
- 5
If prescribed for a medical condition, have the LMT use medical CPT codes rather than wellness codes
How to Check Your Coverage
- 1
Call the number on your insurance card
Ask: "Is massage 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 massage 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
$60
Average
$100
High
$200
Per
per session
Monthly cost: $100–$800 (Weekly to monthly).
Use our Cost Calculator for detailed pricing →Find Massage Therapy Providers
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does Medicare cover massage therapy?
Does private insurance cover massage therapy?
Which states mandate insurance coverage for massage therapy?
How much does massage therapy cost without insurance?
Can I use HSA or FSA funds for massage therapy?
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Last updated: May 2026. Insurance coverage changes frequently. Always verify with your insurer before starting treatment.