From acupuncture to massage: Discover what FSA funds can cover for your health

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) are a great way to help cover the cost of medical expenses that aren’t covered by health insurance — like cold medicine, antacids, or even reading glasses.

At the start of a year, you decide how much you want to save in the FSA account. Throughout the calendar year, money is taken from your paycheck and placed in the account until the full amount is saved.

Did you know that you can use that money for integrative medicine treatments?

Integrative medicine is a highly individualized, patient-centered approach that blends conventional medical care with evidence-based complementary therapies to support the whole person.

Whether you’re recovering from illness, managing a chronic condition or simply looking to improve your wellbeing, the Endeavor Health integrative medicine team uses natural, safe and effective methods alongside traditional treatments to help you heal.

One of the trickiest parts of an FSA is remembering to use it. The money in an FSA does not roll over into the next year, so if you don’t use it, you lose your money.

There are some important steps to take before you make an appointment for the integrative treatment you want:

1. Verify what integrative treatments are covered by your FSA. Check your plan administrator’s eligibility list.
2. Obtain a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN). For many treatments, your doctor must write an LMN that specifies the specific medical condition being treated, how the treatment will help, and the frequency and duration of the treatment.
3. Get a prescription. For supplements or other prescribed items, you will need a prescription from an authorized medical professional.

With proper documentation, the following treatments are often FSA-eligible:

• Acupuncture: Can be used to relieve pain, anxiety and digestive issues.
• Functional medicine: Includes consultations, diagnostic lab testing, and treatments aimed at addressing the root cause of illness.
• Nutrition counseling: Covered if related to a specifically diagnosed medical condition, not for general health.
• Prescribed supplements: Certain physician-recommended supplements or herbal medicines may qualify if prescribed as part of a treatment plan.
• Therapeutic massage: May be eligible if prescribed to treat a specific injury or trauma, but not for general stress relief.
• Reiki and energy healing: Gentle, hands-on technique used to reduce stress and support the body’s natural healing process.

Don’t let the year end without using your FSA dollars! And if you’re interested in integrative medicine, ask your primary care doctor whether it could help you.