desert-sunsetFAQs

Insurance & Billing FAQs

There are many variables to consider when checking your insurance benefit and we are happy to make the call to determine what each individual situation may be.

We would like to answer some of the most common questions that arise when it comes to what your medical insurance will cover.  If you do not have medical insurance or your insurance does not have an alternative care benefit, we do offer a time of service rate and package rates.

What is a deductible? A deductible is set at the beginning of a calendar or plan year and the amount is determined by you and your insurance company.  This amount is what the patient is responsible for until the deductible is met.  We will take payment based upon charges incurred for the day up to your deductible amount.

What is co-pay or co-ins? Co-pay is a set amount you are responsible for per visit and can range between $10 and $35. A co-ins is usually a percentage of the total charged allowable amount; it usually ranges from 10-50% depending on whether or not the therapist is contracted with that insurance company.

Does my insurance cover massage therapy? It is based on each individual plan, but most insurance companies do cover massage therapy. We check each individual plan to the best of our abilities in order to make sure we are clear what the coverage is.

Who covers medical expenses when involved in an auto accident? If you are involved in an auto accident and you are at fault, your auto insurance company will handle your medical bills under the Personal Insurance Protection based on your policy limits.  If you are involved in an accident and you are NOT at fault, your insurance company handles your medical bills.  You should follow the same protocol for both situations – you must contact your insurance company and set up a claim.  There are a couple of important pieces of information you will need: claim number, the name of your claims adjustor, and their direct phone number.  You will need to provide this information to your provider.

Massage Therapy FAQs

What should I expect during my first massage therapy visit?

Your massage therapist will require you to fill out a health history form. Afterwards, the therapist will begin by asking you general questions to establish what areas you would like worked on, if there are any conditions needing to be addressed, and to determine if massage is appropriate for you. Your massage therapist may perform certain assessments and testing to evaluate your condition, and to see if you have any presenting complaints.

Where will my massage session take place?

Your massage or bodywork session will take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soft music may be played to help you relax. You will lie on a table especially designed for your comfort.

What do I wear during the massage?

Depending on the primary technique your therapist uses, you may or may not need to undress. For a full body massage, most people undress completely. However, you may choose to wear underwear. Your massage therapist will give you privacy to undress, and you will be covered with a sheet and blanket at all times except the area being worked on.

What do I do during a massage therapy treatment?

Make yourself comfortable. If your therapist wants you to adjust your position, she or he will either move you or will ask you to move what is needed. Otherwise, change your position anytime to make yourself more comfortable. Many people close their eyes and relax completely during a session; others prefer to talk. It’s up to you. It is your massage, and whatever feels natural to you is the best way to relax. Do not hesitate to ask questions at any time.

How will a massage feel?

It usually depends on the techniques used. Many massage therapists use a form of Swedish massage, which is often a baseline for practitioners. In a general Swedish massage, your session may start with broad, flowing strokes (effleurage) that will help calm your nervous system and relax exterior muscle tension. As your body becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be increased to relax specific areas and relieve areas of muscular tension. Often, a light oil or lotion is used to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. Do not hesitate to ask questions or mention if you feel any discomfort so that the massage therapist can use another approach or technique.

Will the massage oils used make me break out?

Most massage therapists use hypoallergenic massage oils or lotions. However, if you have sensitivity to certain types of oils or lotion please bring it to the massage therapist’s attention as most practitioners have an assortment of oils and lotions on hand.

How long will a massage treatment last?

The average full-body massage treatment lasts approximately one hour. A half-hour appointment only allows time for a partial massage session, such as neck and shoulders, back, or legs and feet. Many people prefer a 60- to 90-minute session for optimal relaxation. Always allow relaxation time prior to and after the session.

How will I feel after the massage therapy treatment?

Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity. After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity, which can last for days. Since toxins are released from your soft tissues during a massage, it is recommended you drink plenty of water following your massage. Massage therapists sometimes recommend a hot Epsom salt bath that encourages the release of toxins that may have been stirred up from the massage treatment.