Insurance Coverage
Over the past few years, companies offering health insurance for employees have decreased the amount of insurance coverage, while employees are paying a higher percentage of the cost. According to recent studies, these changes in insurance coverage have impacted approximately 60% of adults employed in the United States. Obviously, soaring increases in the cost of insurance premiums, and the slowing economy have had the biggest impact on employers' ability to insure their employees. Some companies estimate that insurance coverage, along with other benefits, increase the cost of employment by 50%. In other words, if an employee's salary is $40,000 per annum, it actually costs the company $60,000. Not since pre-World War II has there actually been a decrease in providing health insurance by businesses.
However, there has been an increase in the number of insurance companies that are now offering insurance coverage for alternative healthcare, including acupuncture. Acupuncture is widely accepted as an effective, safe, and low-cost healing therapy.
Not every insurance company offers the same coverage. Some health insurance plans only cover specific conditions, such as pain and musculoskeletal problems, while other plans cover most conditions that can be treated by an Acupuncturist. In addition to standard insurance coverage, "affinity" coverage is also available. An employee can receive discounted services from a list of approved providers. Prepaid medical expense accounts may also be offered by companies whose employees are seeking holistic health services.
As the popularity of acupuncture increases, there is a greater need for legislation to pass laws which will force insurance companies to expand their coverage to include acupuncture. The future of medicine will include holistic treatment offering prevention of disease and healthy lifestyle. This will greatly lower the cost of medical care, positively impact healthcare and lower insurance costs. In the State of Hawaii, many health insurance companies carry plans covering acupuncture. It is best to contact your insurance company to confirm if your health insurance plan covers acupuncture.
The State of Hawaii requires workman's compensation and no-fault insurance carriers to cover acupuncture treatment. Ask your acupuncturist for more information.