Posted under General & Marketing Massage for Special Populations & Massage for Elders
I’ve been exploring this question: Does Medicare reimburse for massage therapy– and what are the implications? It’s no secret that our health care system is in a state of flux and every kind of service provider is holding their breath about this. Besides being a massage therapist, I’m also an occupational therapist and recently recieved a call to action request from the national OT board (NBCOT) They are concerned about current Medicare caps for OT reimbursement. I’m often asked the question from my students,” Does Medicare pay for massage in long term care or hospice?” Well there is not a simple yes or no answer to this question. I’m writing to really see what’s on other people’s minds about the issue of Medicare reimbursement and to prompt a discussion about it. If you are working within eldercare or hospice has this subject come up for you? Has anyone found a successful way to navigate the Medicare waters? What do you think the ramifications are for massage therapists if Medicare reimbursement becomes more available for our services? I’m a bit jaded about it myself because in the 25 years I worked as an occupational therapist I experinced a lot of change in how I was able to go about my work and clinical decisions became so tied to reimbursement. Don’t get me wrong– I’m willing to view this issue with an open mind. What’s on your mind?
Take care,
Ann
