Strategies for Obtaining a Medical Massage Referral from Your Doctor

As the demand for complementary therapies such as massage therapy continues to grow, it is important to understand the steps involved in obtaining a medical massage referral from your doctor. This article will guide you through the process of scheduling an appointment, preparing to discuss your condition with your doctor, and ensuring your referral guidelines are met. We will also explore how to find a reputable massage therapist, check their credentials, and confirm that their services will be covered by your insurance. Finally, we will discuss the important steps for making your appointment and submitting the necessary forms.

Part 1: Preparing for Your Appointments and Securing a Referral

Scheduling an Appointment with Your Doctor

The first step in securing a medical massage referral is to schedule an appointment with your doctor. During this meeting, it is crucial to discuss your condition or injury, as well as any pain or discomfort you are experiencing. Your doctor can then recommend the appropriate course of treatment, including a referral to a massage therapist. Many insurance companies require a referral from a doctor before they will cover the cost of massage therapy.

Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your condition. The doctor may refer you to a specialist if your injury or condition is complex, so it is important to ensure you are getting the right medical professional for your needs.

Requesting a Referral from Your Doctor

Once you meet with your doctor, it is essential to ask for a referral for a massage therapist. A referral is necessary to cover the cost of therapy under your insurance plan. Your referral should include the start date, number of visits, frequency of sessions, and diagnosis codes that reference your injury or condition. The diagnosis codes are particularly important as they allow you to claim the therapy sessions with your insurance company.

Part 2: Locating a Qualified and Licensed Massage Therapist

Confirming Insurance Coverage

If your doctor refers you to a massage therapist, ensure that their services are covered by your medical insurance. Contact your insurance company to verify that massage therapy is included in your plan and that it will cover services from the specific therapist. Doing this can save you the cost of self-payment for your sessions.

It is also important to check that the massage therapist is licensed in your state or region. You can find a list of licensed therapists by contacting the local licensing board or by asking the therapist for her credentials. A certified therapist should be licensed by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB).

Discussing Treatment Options

During your initial consultation with the massage therapist, discuss the types of massage techniques he offers. Different techniques such as Swedish medical massage, shiatsu, connective tissue massage, and reflexology may be suitable for your injury or condition. Additionally, ensure that you feel comfortable with the therapist and that they have experience working with individuals who have your specific injury or condition.

Part 3: Making the Appointment and Submitting Necessary Forms

Checking If the Therapist Bills Directly

To avoid the administrative hassle, check if the massage therapist can bill your insurance directly when you make your appointment. Provide your medical insurance number and other necessary information to facilitate this process.

Understanding and Requesting a Superbill

A superbill is a form that your massage therapist can provide to help you claim your services through your insurance company or employer. Include details such as your name, date of birth, provider's name and license number, diagnosis code, treatment provided, and cost of the treatment. Signatures and other necessary information are also included on the superbill.

Ensure you bring a copy of your medical massage referral to each therapy session. This will help ensure your sessions are considered medical massage, and the referral can be used by the therapist when billing your insurance.