Insurance

Discount programs through your insurance, Other discounts. Many medical plans advertise that they offer benefits for complimentary care, such as acupuncture, through a discount program. I do not participate in any of these discount programs. These types of programs typically ask the acupuncturist to provide a discount of up to 25% to their cardmembers in exchange for being listed in their complimentary provider directory. The insurance company does not provide any type of reimbursement to the practitioner. The practitioner must absorb the cost of the discount. Because almost all of my patients are paying "out-of-pocket" for their acupuncture treatments, I try to keep my prices as low as possible; everyone pays the same as anyone else.

Workers' Compensation. Acupuncture is covered under Pennsylvania's workers' compensation as long as it is deemed "medically necessary". I cannot determine medical necessity. If there is any question about this, your case may be sent up for review by an independent third-party reviewing organization. I am required to bill your worker's comp insurance company for you, however, you are ultimately responsible for the charges. If your workers' comp claim is denied for any reason, including lack of medical necessity, you will need to pay me for the services rendered. It often takes several weeks for your first bill to be processed, so you may accumulate many weeks worth of charges just to find out that your claim has been denied, sent up for review (a lengthy process) or otherwise delayed. So that this does not create a hardship for you, I encourage my workers' comp patients to set aside their payment amount in their own savings account. If your treatment coverage is denied, payment will be due immediately. By having the funds set aside, it will keep you from wasting any energy worrying about the outcome of your claim submission.

Flexible spending accounts. I can accept debit cards from flexible spending accounts as long as they carry the mastercard or visa logo. I cannot guarantee coverage under the rules of your flexible spending account. I can typically process the payment without problem, but if a service such as acupuncture is not included in the the program rules, they may ask you to replace the funds or provide a letter of medical necessity. I recommend calling the administrator of your account to find out what to expect.

Medical Credit Plans/Payment plans. I do not offer payment plans or particiate in medical credit plans. I do however, accept both Mastercard and Visa credit cards. You may find that most medical credit plans offer interest rates comparable to many credit cards. Your own credit card may even offer a better rate.