Osteopathy is a holistic treatment used to detect, treat and prevent health problems by moving, stretching and massaging a person’s muscles and joints.
It is based on the principle that the well-being of an individual depends on their bones, muscles, ligaments and connective tissue functioning smoothly together.
Osteopaths use physical manipulation, such as stretching and massage, to increase the patient’s joint mobility, relieve muscle tension, reduce pain, enhance the blood supply to tissue and help the body to heal.
Whilst osteopaths are qualified medical professionals and use a range of techniques, they do not prescribe medicines or provide surgery.
Osteopathy is not conventional healthcare in that it does not use an allopathic approach. Whilst there are more patient-facing roles becoming available to Osteopaths, it is still uncommon to see an Osteopath on the NHS.
Therefore most patients will still self-pay for Osteopathy treatment.
Private Osteopathic Treatment costs can be a barrier to some individuals seeking its benefits. There is a potential solution; health insurance policies.
Many insurance companies offer policies that cover Osteopathic care. As a result, osteopathic treatments have become more accessible and more affordable for patients’ budgets.
Some people can even receive free or subsidised private health care through their employers. This might mean a salary sacrifice via a contribution or pay an additional National Insurance Tax. Therefore, it is important that this is discussed with their HR department or financial advisor.
How does Private insurance help with Osteopathy Treatments?
For anyone who has difficulty paying for osteopathic treatments when required, having health insurance that covers their sessions may greatly benefit them. Let’s look at some more of the benefits.
Provides financial security
Insurance coverage helps patients feel more secure when seeking osteopathic treatment. This is because they know they will not face expensive bills alone. With the financial burden lifted, patients can focus on their medicines and health.
Increases accessibility
With insurance coverage that aids osteopathy, patients are more likely to seek treatment. Then the patients may detect the symptom earlier and have a speedy recovery. They can afford and access treatments without worrying about their finances through insurance.
Helps with multidisciplinary collaborations
Insurance companies often have a network of healthcare professionals covered under their plans. This network allows osteopaths to collaborate and build relationships with other healthcare professionals. This collaboration provides comprehensive patient care for you.
Provides policy service options
Insurance companies offer different policies. The plans have custom options such as copays, deductibles, etc. These policy options can help patients afford the care they need.
Comprehensive Treatment
Insurance coverage allows patients to receive comprehensive osteopathic treatment, addressing various health concerns, including musculoskeletal issues, pain management, and overall wellness. This can lead to improved outcomes and a better quality of life.
As Osteopathy gains popularity, more insurance companies include it in their coverage plans. Thus, making the treatment accessible to a wider range of people. Let us explore which UK insurance companies can help with Osteotherapy fees.
10 Insurance Providers in the UK that cover Osteopathic Care
Below we’ve gathered more details on 10 Providers who cover Osteopathy in the UK. At present, Arc Osteopathy does not accept the final three. If you are covered by one of them or other unlisted providers, it’s worthwhile enquiring because things can change, and sometimes these companies can merge or acquire smaller providers.
1. AXA PPP Healthcare
AXA PPP Healthcare offers health insurance plans that cover osteopathic care. Their plans provide a range of benefits, including cover for in-patient and day-patient treatment, access to a network of private hospitals, and a 24-hour GP helpline. They offer plans like:
- Private health insurance
- Small business health insurance
- Corporate health insurance
2. BUPA
BUPA offers health insurance plans that cover osteopathic care. Osteopathic clinics that accept BUPA are members of their Osteopathy and Chiropractic Network.
Bupa’s private health insurance plans also cover more mental health conditions than any other leading insurers, as well as access to digital GP appointments and specialist advice and treatment for select conditions.
Their plans provide a range of benefits, such as:
- Access to a network of hospitals
- Fast-track appointments and consultations
- Specialist treatments
3. CIGNA
Cigna UK HealthCare Benefits manages employee health benefits and risks by offering managed healthcare plans and dental benefit solutions. With over 35 years of experience, they are trusted advisors for 45% of Fortune 100 companies in the UK. Cigna members can self-refer to Osteopath or therapist from their website.
4. SimplyHealth
SimplyHealth was established in 1872 and has since grown to become one of the largest health insurance providers in the UK. SimplyHealth’s health insurance plans cover a wide range of medical services, including:
- Consultations with doctors
- Diagnostic tests
- Hospital stays
- Surgeries
Alternative therapies such as acupuncture, chiropractic, and osteopathy are included in their plans.
5. Aviva (formerly Norwich Union)
Aviva is a well-established company with a large customer base and a solid reputation.
This enables the company to negotiate with healthcare providers for better pricing, passed on to customers through competitive rates.
6. WPA
WPA is a not-for-profit health insurance provider based in the UK. They specialise in offering renowned health insurance solutions to different societal groups. Western Provident Association’s (WPA) advantage over its competitors is its ‘not-for-profit status’.
This status allows them to concentrate on delivering the best possible service to their customers. WPA has received many accolades for its health insurance products. These include coverage for private medical treatment, mental health services, and access to 24/7 GP consultations.
7. Vitality Health
This insurance company is a distinct health insurance provider in the UK market. This is because they have the goal of focusing on rewarding healthy behaviours. They provide flexible wellness services and cover chronic conditions.
One of the crucial aspects of their health insurance plans is the Vitality Program. This program offers rewards and discounts to customers who engage in healthy behaviours.
Healthy activities like exercising, eating well, and quitting smoking.
Customers can earn rewards such as:
- Discounted gym memberships
- Free cinema tickets and
- Cashback on healthy food purchases
8. Allianz
Allianz provides personal and business insurance policies. They also include health insurance that covers osteopathic care as a Complementary Treatment.
9. Saga
Saga is a company that offers health insurance designed for individuals over 50. They offer plans tailored to address the health conditions associated with older people. They cater to Osteopathy as part of their Saga HealthPlan Super.
10. Exeter Family Friendly
Exeter provides insurance policies designed to support families in times of need. They provide insurance products such as:
- Private medical insurance
- Income protection insurance
- Life insurance
- Cash plans
Included in their private medical insurance are Osteopathy and Physiotherapy Benefits. This insurance provides policyholders with access to a network of osteopaths and physiotherapists.
Further FAQs
What types of insurance policies cover osteopathic care?
Osteopathic care may be under various types of insurance policies. You may decide on these plans:
- Private health insurance
- International health insurance
- Employee health insurance
How do I know if my insurance policy covers osteopathic care?
It may vary depending on your insurance provider’s specific policy and plan.
We advise checking your policy documents or contacting your insurance provider if necessary. It’s best to confirm the coverage details for your chosen plan before arranging any bookings.
Is My Osteopath registered with my Insurance company?
It is worth knowing that, unlike our Principal Osteopath at ARC Osteopathy, Alan Rowe, not all Osteopaths are registered with Insurance companies.
It might be that the Osteopath has not been qualified long enough, wishes payment in advance or is unwilling to accept that the insurance company does not pay the osteopath’s full rate.
Sometimes Insurance companies will provide a shortlist of Osteopaths and, in some cases, non-Osteopaths who you can visit for your claim.
If you cannot see your Osteopath (or the Osteopath you would like to treat you) on the list and you believe it is something they can treat, then do advise the Insurance company that you want to see your choice of Osteopath only.
There is a good chance they are registered, and you are entitled to see the Osteopath of your choice under your policy.
Osteopaths claim back the cost of treatments directly from your insurance company.
It is worth checking that the Osteopath you wish to visit does this or if you will pay upfront and have to claim back the cost of treatments yourself.
This can depend on the agreement that the Osteopath has with your Insurance company.
Please be aware that if your Policy has an excess, this is something that you will be expected to cover directly with the Osteopath.
Is there a limit to the number of osteopathic care sessions I can receive under my insurance policy?
The number of osteopathic treatments covered under your insurance policy may vary. The features depend on the insurance provider’s policy and your chosen plan.
Some policies may have a limit on the number of sessions or a cap on the amount you can spend in a set timeframe.
There may also be an excess on your policy. If this is the case, you will need to pay the Osteopath directly, normally to cover the first part of your treatment. Again it is advisable to check your policy documents or contact your insurance provider to confirm the coverage details for osteopathic care and treatment.
Conclusion
Osteopathic treatment without insurance coverage can be an unexpected hit to our pockets. Getting insurance policies that cover osteopathic treatments is a wise step to remedy this.
Investing in insurance for your osteopathy treatments ensures good cover and limits costly financial surprises. You can receive the necessary care through insurance without feeling the financial burden.
If your Insurance or healthcare company does not yet include Osteopathy, then as a member, do feel free to contact them and request that Osteopathic Care is included.
If you’re experiencing physical symptoms, aches and pains, why not try Osteopathy? Contact a Croydon Osteopath for personalised osteopathic care.
We understand that taking care of our bodies can be costly. So, we work with UK insurance companies to provide you with policy service options for that stress-free recovery. Let us help you transform your health and well-being!