Updated: November 14, 2025
Reviewed by: Dr. Donald L. Aivalotis, II
Is Massage Therapy Covered?
No.
CareSource does not cover massage therapy as a stand‑alone benefit. It considers massage therapy to be part of alternative or complementary medicine, similar to acupuncture, aromatherapy, naturopathy, reiki, and massage, and excludes it from coverage under typical Medicaid or marketplace plans.
What Conditions Must Be Met for Massage Therapy Coverage
Massage therapy coverage is not recognized independently, even if prescribed. It is excluded as an alternative medicine service and is not considered a medically necessary or evidence‑based therapy for coverage purposes. CareSource.
Does Massage Therapy Need Pre-Authorization?
Not applicable.
Since CareSource does not cover massage therapy, pre‑authorization is not available or applicable for it.
Are There Limits to Massage Therapy Coverage?
Yes.
CareSource outright excludes massage therapy from its list of covered services, so it’s not subject to session limits, annual caps, or timing constraints; it simply isn’t covered at all.
How Do I Get Pre-Authorization for Massage Therapy?
This is moot.
Because massage therapy isn’t a covered service under CareSource, there is no pathway to obtain pre‑authorization.
Is a Referral Needed from My Primary Care Physician (PCP)?
Not applicable.
Again, since massage therapy isn’t covered, there’s no referral requirement—as it won’t be approved or paid for regardless.
Are There Specific Providers I Need to See for Coverage?
No.
Coverage for massage therapy does not apply, meaning there’s no provider network or credentialing pathway that would make it reimbursable under CareSource.
What Documentation Is Needed for Coverage?
None.
Since massage therapy is excluded outright, there’s no documentation process that would make it eligible for coverage.
Can I Get Reimbursed for Out-of-Network Massage Therapy?
No.
CareSource does not cover massage therapy—in‑network or out‑of‑network—so there is no reimbursement opportunity, even if you pay out of pocket.
Where Can I Find More Information?
To explore covered services and what is covered under your plan, here’s what you can do:
- Check your CareSource member handbook or Evidence of Coverage for specifics on covered therapies and exclusions.
- Visit the Benefits & Services section on CareSource’s website, which clarifies that alternative medicine services, including massage therapy, are excluded
- For detailed questions, call CareSource Member Services; the number is on your member ID card.