Does Insurance Cover Naturopathic Medicine?
Naturopathic medicine is rarely covered by insurance. Medicare does not recognize naturopathic doctors (NDs) as eligible providers. However, a handful of states — Washington, Oregon, Connecticut, and Vermont — mandate that commercial insurance plans cover naturopathic services.
Medicare Coverage
Medicare does NOT cover naturopathic medicine. Naturopathic doctors (NDs) are not recognized as eligible providers under Medicare Part B. No services provided by NDs are covered, regardless of the patient's condition.
Private Insurance Coverage
Coverage depends almost entirely on state mandates. In WA, OR, CT, VT, and a few others, commercial plans must include ND visits. In most other states, naturopathic services are not covered. Some self-insured employer plans may voluntarily include ND coverage.
What about Medicaid?
Medicaid coverage for naturopathic medicine 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 naturopathic medicine:
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 naturopathic medicine, these are the relevant CPT codes:
99201-99215E&M office visit codes (when NDs are recognized providers)99381-99397Preventive visit codesTips for Getting Coverage
- 1
Check if your state mandates naturopathic coverage before assuming it's excluded
- 2
In mandate states, NDs can bill using standard E&M codes
- 3
If your ND is also an MD/DO, they can bill under their medical license for better coverage
- 4
Use HSA/FSA funds for ND visits — they're eligible expenses
- 5
Ask your employer's HR department if they can add ND coverage to your plan
How to Check Your Coverage
- 1
Call the number on your insurance card
Ask: "Is naturopathic medicine 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 naturopathic medicine, 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
$150
Average
$275
High
$500
Per
per visit
Monthly cost: $150–$1000 (Monthly during active care, then quarterly).
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does Medicare cover naturopathic medicine?
Does private insurance cover naturopathic medicine?
Which states mandate insurance coverage for naturopathic medicine?
How much does naturopathic medicine cost without insurance?
Can I use HSA or FSA funds for naturopathic medicine?
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Last updated: May 2026. Insurance coverage changes frequently. Always verify with your insurer before starting treatment.