Does insurance cover float therapy?

Float therapy is making a comeback.  Disrupted by the 80’s AIDS pandemic and the misunderstood transmission of HIV, float tanks were an underground phenomenon until the past decade.  Recent years have brought a renewed interest and activity in the industry, fueled by a few key float tank manufacturers who have broken barriers in technology, as well as through public endorsement of floating by famous personalities like Joe Rogan or Tom Brady.  Floatation therapy, otherwise known as sensory deprivation, is becoming known as a potent way to pause and disconnect, allowing the brain to rewire and to find calm in a culture of fear.  Mental health has become a buzzword and floating is becoming the poster child of relaxation and recovery. Floating has become a fierce way to combat fear and anxiety and since the effects of floating are helpful to many mental and physical health conditions, some are curious if floating is covered by insurance.  

The short answer is no.  However, there are several clinical research studies in progress, with collateral intentions of pursuing inroads to insurance coverage. There are some existing research studies that have been published in peer reviewed journals, with a clinical bent on how floating helps anxiety and mental health. But is this the best option for an alternative therapy like floating?  It certainly leads to some natural questions and concerns about the purpose of having insurance and who determines what therapy, how much of that therapy is warranted, and at what rate for “reimbursement”.  

One specific insurance question that comes to mind especially towards the end of the calendar year, is that people with health savings plans and flex spending plans want to maximize their options want to know if floating can be used for these purposes.  Despite the fact that the IRS has determined which modalities apply for HSA/FSA accounts and float therapy is not one of them, when a doctor or therapist provides a referral for float therapy, it provides a strong case if there was ever a question or an audit.  All plans are different and some are much more flexible than others and have no issue with floating. Ultimately, like with any insurance plan, the individual is responsible for charges that may not be covered by insurance. Luckily, float therapy is very affordable.  Most float centers offer discounts for those that need to float for therapeutic purposes.  Some even have designated medical memberships that offer significant discounts, which are probably even better than what would be offered by any insurance inclusion.  

With its increasing popularity, both mainstream and alternative medical practitioners are finding that floating pairs well with their therapies.  Irrespective of insurance coverage, people are telling their friends, patients are telling their doctors and therapists about their safe and positive experiences.  Insurance coverage, while seemingly a benefit, can be a slippery slope with many hidden details and limitations that are often not in the best interest of the individual.  While flex spending and health savings may be a viable option for some, the foreseeable future is uncertain for insurance in the float industry.  In the meantime, ask your float center what options they have for those that need to float regularly for mental and physical health reasons.

Author Dr. David Berv can be reached at david@myfloatzone.com