Does Medicaid Cover Silver Sneakers [Get The Facts]

SilverSneakers is a fantastic chance for the elderly who wish to keep fit, however, but the question is if the membership can be covered by Medicaid.

If you’re wondering the same thing, you’ve come to the correct spot since we have all the information you need regarding SilverSneakers and Medicaid. You will discover all of the tactics and strategies for making the most of your benefits.

So, keep reading if you want to stay in good shape even as you become older.

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What is Medicaid?

Medicaid is one of numerous government assistance programs in the United States, although its benefits are limited to medical help and emergencies. One of the most perplexing aspects for individuals is the fact that there are different rules and regulations depending on where they live.

This is why we will investigate all of the information that will assist you in determining which treatments are covered by Medicaid and which you will have to pay for out of pocket.

In addition to our helpful website, you may get more information from your Medicaid representatives and your health insurance carrier.

To be eligible for Medicaid, you must meet certain standards, which may include:

  • Income
  • Disability
  • Size of a family
  • Citizenship

Children, pregnant women, and the elderly are among those who receive special Medicaid treatment. But, because the program is for the elderly, does this mean that SilverSneakers are covered?

Continue reading for more information.

Before we go into what Medicaid will reimburse, keep in mind that there are two types of benefits covered:

  • Mandatory – These are the basic medical benefits that every state must provide to all Medicaid users. This includes medical visits, transportation, laboratory tests, Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment Services (EPSDT), and other services.
  • Optional – These benefits have been approved for coverage but are not mandatory. The state is solely responsible for regulating these benefits.

What is SilverSneakers?

SilverSneakers is a program for persons aged 65 and over that promotes health and wellness. There are several advantages, such as access to gyms and fitness facilities, online live and on-demand sessions, fitness courses led by instructors, and much more.

This is a fantastic chance for people of a particular age to keep in shape and live a healthy lifestyle.

How does SilverSneakers work?

All you have to do to gain access to over 17,000 gyms in the United States through the SilverSneakers program is:

  • Create an online profile;
  • Automatically get your digital membership card;
  • Start using your benefits in selected gyms and health clubs.

It’s simple to sign up, but does Medicaid pay the costs?

Does Medicaid Cover SilverSneakers?

No, Medicaid does not currently support or pay for SilverSneakers membership. This may come as a surprise to some Medicaid recipients, given that gym membership may be extremely useful for illness prevention and maintaining a healthier physique.

Gym memberships are one of the optional perks that each state has the authority to regulate as it sees right. SilverSneakers is not now on the list of authorized Medicaid programs, although this may change in the future.

Medicaid financial assistance is always evolving and altering to better meet the requirements of those who use it. As a result, SilverSneakers may be covered soon.

Does Medicaid Cover  Any Gym Membership?

One of the extra advantages that Medicaid might provide is a gym membership. This varies by state, so the best thing you can do is ask your Medicaid reps or your health insurance provider for further information.

Some states have enough money in their budgets to cover the costs of gym memberships, which is generally excellent news given how beneficial working out can be for the avoidance of health problems.

What insurance plans offer SilverSneakers?

For the time being, Medicaid does not cover SilverSneakers, but many insurance companies do. This list of firms ready to include SilverSneakers on the list of allowed costs is growing and changing year after year.

For the time being, here are a few insurance companies who include SilverSneakers as part of their plan benefits:

  • Care Plus
  • Bankers Life
  • Clover
  • Humana
  • Medica
  • Vitality
  • Well Care 
  • Medicare (some plans)

SilverSneakers is not regarded as pricey, but any price reduction is much appreciated by the elderly.

Final Thoughts

For the time being, Medicaid does not sponsor SilverSneakers, although this may change in the future. Given how helpful exercise is for everyone, especially the elderly, it’s just a matter of time until it’s acknowledged as one of the strategies to avoid future health problems.

Medicaid has special programs for children where the focus is on prevention and minimizing future medical expenditures, so there is a genuine potential that gym memberships will one day be covered by insurance.

For more updates make sure to visit our page, or contact your local Medicaid representative for more details.

David Duford
Author: David Duford