How to Increase Insurance Reimbursements for Your Acupuncture Practice
For acupuncturists who accept insurance, getting paid what you deserve can be a frustrating process. Low reimbursement rates, claim denials, and delayed payments can make it feel like you’re constantly chasing money instead of focusing on patient care. However, with the right approach, you can maximize your insurance reimbursements and create a more profitable, stress-free practice.
Here are some key strategies to help you increase your insurance payouts:
1. Verify Benefits & Eligibility Before Treatment
One of the most common reasons for denied or underpaid claims is lack of insurance verification. Before treating a patient, always confirm:
✔️ Whether acupuncture is covered under their plan
✔️ The number of visits allowed per year
✔️ Deductibles, copays, and coinsurance requirements
✔️ Any pre-authorization requirements
Taking a few minutes to verify benefits upfront can prevent headaches later and ensure you’re submitting claims with the correct expectations.
2. Use the Right CPT Codes & Modifiers
Proper coding is crucial to getting reimbursed at the highest possible rate. Many acupuncturists undercode their services, leaving money on the table. Ensure you are:
Using the correct CPT codes for acupuncture treatments
Applying modifiers when necessary to justify services
Billing for additional services like cupping, manual therapy, and evaluation visits when appropriate
A professional billing service can help you avoid coding mistakes that lead to denied or underpaid claims.
3. Submit Claims Promptly & Track Them Regularly
Insurance companies have strict deadlines for claims submission. Delays can result in rejections or loss of payment altogether.
Submit claims as soon as possible after treatment
Follow up on unpaid claims within 30 days
Keep track of partial payments or underpayments and appeal when necessary
Staying on top of your claims cycle ensures a steady flow of revenue into your practice.
4. Appeal Denied Claims (Don’t Just Accept the Loss!)
Many providers assume that a denied claim is a lost claim—but that’s not the case. If a claim is denied, find out why and submit an appeal with the correct information.
Check for coding errors or missing documentation
Resubmit claims with supporting notes or records
Call the insurance company to clarify issues
Appealing denied claims can recover thousands of dollars per year for your practice!
5. Educate Patients on Their Insurance Responsibilities
Patients don’t always understand their insurance coverage, leading to confusion about copays, deductibles, and coverage limits.
Clearly explain their benefits before starting treatment
Collect copays and deductibles at the time of service
Have a financial policy in place to handle unpaid balances
When patients understand their financial responsibilities upfront, they are more likely to pay on time and in full.
Maximize Your Earnings with Professional Billing Support
If dealing with insurance is taking too much time and energy, consider outsourcing your billing. At Radiant Acupuncture Billing Services, we help acupuncturists increase reimbursements, reduce claim denials, and streamline the billing process—so you can focus on healing, not paperwork.
👉 Ready to optimize your insurance billing? Contact us today to learn how we can support your practice!
