Medicare and Massage Therapy
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover massage therapy. However, some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans include limited massage as a supplemental benefit. If you have Original Medicare, massage therapy is entirely out of pocket.
Quick Facts
| Medicare Type | Massage Coverage |
|---|---|
| Part A | Not covered |
| Part B | Not covered |
| Part C (MA) | Some plans include it |
| Part D | N/A |
| Medigap | Does not add massage |
Why Original Medicare Does Not Cover Massage
Medicare covers services that are “medically necessary” based on established clinical evidence. Massage therapy does not meet Medicare’s coverage criteria for joint conditions because:
- Not classified as a physician service under Medicare Part B
- Not included in the Medicare fee schedule for licensed massage therapists
- CMS has not determined massage to be medically necessary for orthopedic conditions
- Massage therapists are not recognized Medicare providers
Original Medicare
Original Medicare does not cover massage therapy under any circumstance. Medigap supplement plans also do not add massage coverage because they only supplement Original Medicare benefits.
Medicare Advantage Plans with Massage
Some Medicare Advantage plans offer supplemental benefits beyond what Original Medicare covers. These may include:
- Limited massage therapy (typically 12-24 sessions per year)
- Must use plan-approved providers
- May require physician recommendation
- Varies by plan and region
Popular MA plans with supplemental wellness benefits include those from Humana, UnitedHealthcare, and Aetna. Plans change annually during the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 to December 7).
Not All MA Plans Include Massage
Only select Medicare Advantage plans include massage benefits. Check the Evidence of Coverage (EOC) document for any plan you are considering.
What You Will Pay
| Scenario | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| MA plan with massage benefit | $0-$20 copay |
| Original Medicare (not covered) | $60-$150 per session |
| Through physical therapy (Part B) | 20% after deductible |
Medicare-Covered Alternative: Physical Therapy
Medicare Part B covers physical therapy, which includes hands-on manual techniques:
| PT Technique | Similar To | Medicare Covered |
|---|---|---|
| Manual therapy | Therapeutic massage | Yes |
| Soft tissue mobilization | Deep tissue massage | Yes |
| Myofascial release | Myofascial massage | Yes |
| Joint mobilization | Joint manipulation | Yes |
Best Option for Medicare
Physical therapy with manual techniques is covered by Medicare Part B. You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after your annual deductible. Ask your doctor for a PT referral.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Original Medicare ever cover massage?
There is no current indication that CMS plans to add massage therapy to Medicare’s covered benefits. Any change would require a formal rule-making process.
Can I switch to a Medicare Advantage plan for massage coverage?
Yes. During Annual Enrollment (October 15 to December 7), you can switch to an MA plan that includes massage benefits. Compare plans at medicare.gov.
Does Medicare cover chiropractic?
Medicare Part B covers limited chiropractic services (manual manipulation of the spine). Other chiropractic services, including massage, are not covered.
Can I use my HSA for massage?
If you had an HSA before enrolling in Medicare and have a letter of medical necessity from your doctor, you may use remaining HSA funds for massage therapy.