Whether Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) covers visits to naturopathic doctors (NDs) depends on the specific state, the insurance plan, and whether the naturopathic doctor is licensed and in-network. Here’s how coverage typically works:
1. State Licensing Matters:
- In states where naturopathic medicine is regulated and NDs are licensed, BCBS is more likely to offer some level of coverage.
- Examples of such states include Oregon, Washington, Arizona, and California.
2. Plan-Specific Coverage:
- Some BCBS plans include naturopathic care as part of complementary or alternative medicine benefits. This might be listed under “holistic care,” “alternative therapies,” or “integrative medicine.”
- High-deductible plans or basic plans may exclude naturopathic care entirely.
3. Requirements for Coverage:
- The ND must be licensed and practicing in a regulated state.
- They may need to be part of the BCBS network or submit claims under specific guidelines.
- Pre-authorization may be required for certain treatments.
4. Out-of-Network Benefits:
- If the ND is not in-network, you may still receive partial reimbursement if your plan offers out-of-network benefits, but this typically comes with higher out-of-pocket costs.
What You Should Do:
- Check Your Plan Details: Review your insurance policy or contact BCBS customer service to confirm whether naturopathic services are covered.
- Ask the ND’s Office: They often know if their services are covered by major insurers in your state.
- Verify Licensure and Network Status: Ensure the ND is licensed and verify whether they are in-network with BCBS.
Coverage for naturopathic doctors is not universal and varies widely, so verifying your specific plan’s benefits is crucial.
