Navigating coverage: Which complementary & alternative medicine practices are covered by Medicare and private health funds?

userimg

Written by Pauline Romao

Bodhi Holistic Hub


Holistic practices are an essential component of promoting overall well-being. These practices take into account the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit, offering natural and complementary therapies. Fortunately, several health funds recognise the value of holistic approaches and provide coverage for these practices. This guide aims to help you navigate the world of health insurance and explore the coverage options available for holistic practices.

What are holistic practices?
Holistic practices encompass a wide range of therapies, each with its own unique benefits for promoting health and well-being. Here is a more detailed overview of popular holistic practices that may be covered by health funds:
  • Acupuncture: Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese therapy that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. It aims to restore the flow of vital energy and has been shown to be effective for various conditions such as pain management, stress reduction, fertility support, and mental health.
  • Chiropractic: Chiropractic care focuses on the relationship between the spine and the nervous system. Through manual adjustments and other techniques, chiropractors aim to restore proper alignment, alleviate pain, and improve overall function. This therapy is often sought for conditions such as back pain, neck pain, headaches, and musculoskeletal issues.
  • Naturopathy: Naturopaths take a holistic and integrative approach to healthcare, emphasising the body's innate healing abilities. They use natural remedies, including herbal medicine, nutritional guidance, lifestyle adjustments, and detoxification, to promote optimal health and address underlying causes of illness.
  • Herbal Medicine: Herbal medicine utilises the healing properties of plants to support and restore health. Herbal remedies can be tailored to individual needs and may assist with various health concerns such as digestive disorders, immune support, hormonal balance, sleep issues, and stress management.
  • Remedial Massage: Remedial massage is a therapeutic technique that targets specific muscles, tendons, and soft tissues. It aims to alleviate pain, improve mobility, reduce muscle tension, and promote relaxation. This type of massage is often used for conditions like sports injuries, chronic pain, postural imbalances, and stress-related tension.
  • Aromatherapy: Aromatherapy involves the use of essential oils derived from plants to enhance physical and psychological well-being. Inhalation, topical application, and massage are common methods of using essential oils. Aromatherapy can help with stress reduction, mood enhancement, relaxation, sleep support, and immune system stimulation.

Overview of Health Funds:
Understanding the coverage options provided by different health funds is crucial in maximizing your access to holistic practices. Here's a closer look at a few of the health funds mentioned in this guide:
  • Medibank:
    • Medibank offers coverage for a wide range of holistic practices, including acupuncture, chiropractic, naturopathy, herbal medicine, and remedial massage. The level of coverage and benefits provided may vary depending on the specific policy and level of cover you have.
  • HCF:
    • HCF provides coverage for acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, remedial massage, and myotherapy. The extent of coverage may depend on the policy you hold with HCF. It's important to review your policy documents or contact HCF directly to understand the specific coverage details.
  • GU Health:
    • GU Health offers coverage for an extensive range of holistic practices, including acupuncture, Ayurveda medicine, Chinese herbal medicine, Chinese massage, myotherapy, nutrition, and remedial massage. The level of coverage is determined by the policy you hold with GU Health.

Coverage Details:
Below is an outline of the coverage details for each health fund, including the specific holistic practices covered:

Tips for Utilising Coverage:
To ensure you make the most of your health fund's coverage for holistic practices, consider the following tips:
  • Verify Coverage: Before seeking treatment, contact your health fund to confirm the coverage details for specific holistic practices. Check if there are any limitations, waiting periods, or requirements that need to be met.
  • Understand Claim Procedures: Familiarize yourself with the claim procedures for holistic practices. Some health funds may require invoices or receipts from registered practitioners, while others may have specific claim forms or online portals.
  • Keep Documentation: Keep a record of all invoices, receipts, and documentation related to your holistic treatments. This documentation will be essential for reimbursement or claiming purposes.

Additional Resources:
For more detailed information on each health fund's coverage policies and benefits, you can visit their official websites or contact their customer service directly. 
Incorporating holistic practices into your healthcare routine can offer numerous benefits for your overall well-being. By exploring the coverage options provided by your health fund, you can access a variety of holistic therapies that align with your health goals. Remember to review your policy documents, verify coverage, and follow the necessary claim procedures to make the most of your health fund's coverage for holistic practices. Embrace the potential benefits that these practices can bring to enhance your physical, mental, and emotional health.

About the Author

Pauline Romao

Pauline Romao is the co-founder of Bodhi Holistic Hub, a platform that connects individuals with trusted holistic health practitioners and is dedicated to making holistic health accessible to everyone.

See Profile
© 2025 Bodhi Holistic HubTMTerms|Privacy