Does Medicare Cover Exercise Physiology?

Physiotherapist showing workout record on exercise bike

By Daniel Petkevich

Jan 11, 2023

Original Medicare doesn't cover exercise, but some Advantage plans might have this benefit

Overview of Exercise Physiology and its Benefits

Stay Up to Date on Medicare!

Header brushstroke decoration.

Join the Fair Square Medicare Newsletter to stay informed on cost savings, changes to Medicare, and other valuable healthcare information.

Exercise physiology is the science of understanding how exercise affects the body. It focuses on how different types of exercise can improve physical performance and health. The study of exercise physiology covers a wide range of topics, including muscle growth, cardiovascular endurance, metabolism and nutrition, injury prevention, and overall fitness. Exercise physiologists also help people with chronic conditions manage and improve their health, such as those with diabetes or heart disease.

Exercise physiologists use various methods to develop individualized exercise plans tailored to each patient’s needs. The goal is to help people reach a higher level of physical fitness, improve their overall health, prevent injury, and achieve long-term success and wellness.

What is Covered Under Original Medicare?

Original Medicare does not cover exercise physiology services. However, some Medicare Advantage plans may provide coverage for exercise physiology as an additional benefit. It is important to check with your plan or contact the insurance company directly to determine whether these benefits are included and, if so, what is covered.

What Types of Exercise or Fitness Benefits are Offered with Medicare Advantage Plans?

Some Medicare Advantage plans include benefits related to exercise or physical activity, such as coverage for gym memberships or fitness classes. These benefits can vary depending on the specific plan and the location in which you live. It is important to check with your plan or contact the insurance company directly to determine whether exercise or fitness benefits are included and, if so, what is covered.

Some examples of covered benefits of Medicare Advantage plans,

  • SilverSneakers program, a gym membership program for older adults, is available through certain Medicare Advantage plans.

  • A gym membership benefit may cover a certain number of visits to a gym per month or a specific dollar amount for gym membership fees.

  • Coverage for fitness classes, such as Yoga or Tai Chi, which can benefit older adults with chronic conditions.

  • Health coaching or personal training.

These unique benefits are plan dependent.

How to Determine if Your Plan Covers Exercise Physiology Services

If you are interested in learning more about exercise physiology services, it is important to check with your Medicare Advantage plan or contact the insurance company directly to determine whether these services are covered. Depending on the specific plan and the location in which you live, coverage may vary. Reviewing your plan’s summary of benefits or speaking with a representative can help you understand the specifics of your coverage.

Tips for Finding the Right Medicare Advantage Plan for You

If you are looking for a Medicare Advantage plan that includes exercise physiology services, there are some things to consider. First, find out if the plans available in your area cover these services. Second, review the cost-sharing details and any additional benefits offered by the plan. Finally, take into account your budget and healthcare needs when making your decision. Medicare Advantage plans are not inherently bad; they are just misunderstood. Call one of our Medicare experts at Fair Square Medicare to see if a Medicare Advantage plan is right for you.

The Importance of Staying Active as We Age

Exercise physiology is a valuable tool for helping individuals stay active and maintain their health as they age. It can help people increase their physical activity levels, improve overall fitness, reduce the risk of injury, and maximize physical potential. Regular exercise has numerous benefits for older adults, including improved strength, balance, and cardiovascular health. For these reasons, it is important to discuss exercise options with your doctor or healthcare provider to find the best plan for your individual needs.

Resources to Help Find the Right Medicare Advantage Plan For You

Whether you are looking for an Original Medicare plan or a Medicare Advantage plan that covers exercise physiology services, there are resources available to help. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) offers helpful information on how to choose the right plan for you. Additionally, local State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs) provide free personalized counseling about Medicare-related issues and can help you evaluate the different plans available in your area.

Takeaway

Exercise physiology can help people of all ages and fitness levels improve their overall health and physical performance. While Original Medicare does not cover these services, some Medicare Advantage plans may include exercise or physical activity benefits, and it’s essential to understand the benefits that are offered with Medicare Advantage plans before making a decision. Fair Square Medicare is here to answer all of your Medicare-related questions.

Stay Up to Date on Medicare!

Header brushstroke decoration.

Join the Fair Square Medicare Newsletter to stay informed on cost savings, changes to Medicare, and other valuable healthcare information.

Learn More About Medicare


Birthday stock image

What Is the Medicare Birthday Rule in Nevada?

Mar 28, 2023

Ozempic stock image

Does Medicare Cover Ozempic?

Mar 28, 2023

Pre-Existing condition stock image

Can Medicare Advantage Plans Deny Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions?

Mar 28, 2023

Cover image

What People Don't Realize About Medicare

Mar 27, 2023

woman in a hospital wearing a bandana being shown information by her doctor stock photo

Medicare Advantage Plans for Disabled People Under 65

Mar 24, 2023

senior couple working in a greenhouse stock image

Medicare Supplement Plans for Low-Income Seniors

Mar 23, 2023

Kansas farm stock photo

Medicare Savings Programs in Kansas

Mar 22, 2023

Cover image

How Much Does a Medicare Coach Cost?

Mar 20, 2023

20 Q's with Fair Square

20 Questions to Ask Your Medicare Agent

Mar 17, 2023

Washington DC stock image

14 Best Ways for Seniors to Stay Active in Washington, D.C.

Mar 11, 2023

Nashville city skyline stock image

14 Best Ways for Seniors to Stay Active in Nashville

Mar 10, 2023

Seattle Public Market stock image

14 Best Ways for Seniors to Stay Active in Seattle

Mar 10, 2023

Union Station in Denver stock image

15 Best Ways for Seniors to Stay Active in Denver

Mar 9, 2023

Indianapolis skyline at night stock image

13 Best Ways for Seniors to Stay Active in Indianapolis

Mar 9, 2023

Charlotte skyline stock image

14 Best Ways to Stay Active in Charlotte

Mar 9, 2023

senior couple doing yoga stock image

13 Best Ways for Seniors to Stay Active in Columbus

Mar 8, 2023

Philadelphia skyline at sunset stock image

13 Best Ways for Seniors to Stay Active in Philadelphia

Mar 7, 2023

Arizona desert stock photo

13 Best Ways for Seniors to Stay Active in Phoenix

Mar 6, 2023

Your Medicare One-Stop-Shop

Your guide to Medicare Parts A & B, Medicare Advantage, and Medigap.

100% free.

Fair Square Medicare

LEGAL

Privacy Policy

MORE


Virgil Insurance Agency, LLC (DBA Fair Square Medicare) and www.fairsquaremedicare.com are privately owned and operated by Help Button Inc. Medicare supplement insurance plans are not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. This is a solicitation of insurance. A licensed agent/producer may contact you. Medicare Supplement insurance is available to those age 65 and older enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B and, in some states, to those under age 65 eligible for Medicare due to disability or End-Stage Renal disease. Virgil Insurance Agency is a licensed and certified representative of Medicare Advantage HMO, HMO SNP, PPO, PPO SNP and PFFS organizations and stand-alone PDP prescription drug plans. Each of the organizations we represent has a Medicare contract. Enrollment in any plan depends on contract renewal. The plans we represent do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. Plan availability varies by region and state. For a complete list of available plans please contact 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048), 24 hours a day/7 days a week or consult www.medicare.gov. © 2022 Help Button Inc

We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.

MULTIPLAN_FairSquareMedicare_01062022_M