When most people think of health insurance, they picture coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription medications, and emergency services. While these are the core benefits of any solid health insurance policy, many plans—especially modern ones—offer surprising extras that can enhance your well-being and even save you money.
You might be pleasantly surprised to learn that some health insurance policies include benefits like gym memberships, acupuncture, nutrition counseling, and even alternative medicine. In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore the lesser-known services your health plan might cover and how to take full advantage of them.
1. Gym Memberships and Fitness Classes
One of the most exciting perks modern insurance providers are starting to offer is discounted or even free gym memberships.
How It Works:
- Some plans include gym memberships as part of their wellness or preventive care initiatives.
- Medicare Advantage plans often offer SilverSneakers or Renew Active, giving seniors access to participating gyms nationwide.
- Other private insurers partner with gym chains or wellness programs to provide free or reduced-cost access.
Why They Cover It:
Insurers know that healthy members cost less over time. By encouraging physical activity, they reduce the likelihood of chronic diseases like obesity, diabetes, and heart conditions.
What to Look For:
- Check your plan’s wellness benefits section.
- Look for programs like Active&Fit Direct, SilverSneakers, or employer-specific wellness incentives.
2. Acupuncture and Chiropractic Care
Complementary treatments like acupuncture and chiropractic care are gaining mainstream recognition and are now covered by many plans.
Covered Under:
- Many PPO and EPO plans cover chiropractic services when deemed medically necessary.
- Acupuncture may be covered for specific conditions like chronic back pain, migraines, or osteoarthritis.
Important Notes:
- You may need a referral or pre-authorization.
- Coverage often includes a limited number of sessions per year.
- Only licensed practitioners within the network are typically covered.
3. Nutrition Counseling and Weight Management Programs
Proper nutrition plays a huge role in overall health, and insurance companies are starting to acknowledge this.
What Might Be Covered:
- Visits with a Registered Dietitian (RD) for conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity.
- Medicare covers nutrition therapy for diabetes and kidney disease.
- Private insurers may also offer weight management programs or reimbursements for programs like WW (formerly Weight Watchers).
Look For:
- Preventive services
- Chronic disease management
- Telehealth dietitian consultations
4. Mental Health Apps and Therapy
Mental health coverage has expanded significantly in recent years.
Covered Services May Include:
- In-person or virtual sessions with psychologists, counselors, and psychiatrists
- Mental health apps like Headspace, Calm, or Talkspace
- Coverage for teletherapy sessions, especially since COVID-19
Key Tips:
- Use your plan’s mental health provider directory.
- Ask about copays vs coinsurance for therapy sessions.
- Check if your plan includes digital mental health tools or reimbursements.
5. Alternative Medicine and Holistic Treatments
Some health insurance plans are expanding to include non-traditional treatments when evidence supports their benefits.
Examples:
- Massage therapy (if prescribed for medical issues like injury recovery or chronic pain)
- Homeopathy and naturopathy, though less common, may be partially covered
- Hypnotherapy for smoking cessation or anxiety (on a case-by-case basis)
Note:
- These are typically add-ons or flexible spending account (FSA)/HSA eligible expenses.
- Verify whether the provider is licensed and approved by your insurer.
6. Vision and Dental Benefits
Even if your standard medical plan doesn’t cover vision and dental, you may have access through bundled benefits or optional riders.
Often Included:
- Annual eye exams
- Prescription glasses or contact lenses
- Routine cleanings, exams, and X-rays for dental care
- Orthodontics and oral surgery, depending on the plan
Tips:
- Look for employer packages or Medicare Advantage add-ons
- Some plans include LASIK discounts or reimbursements
7. Fertility Treatments and Family Planning
Fertility coverage has become more common as awareness and demand rise.
What May Be Covered:
- Initial infertility diagnosis and testing
- In vitro fertilization (IVF), IUI, or egg freezing (depending on the insurer and state laws)
- Birth control and contraceptive counseling
- Prenatal vitamins and maternity support tools
Consider:
- Some states mandate fertility coverage
- Coverage limits often apply (e.g., number of cycles or age caps)