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Insurance coverage for baby helmet therapy can be a complex and often confusing topic. Many parents are unsure if their insurance plan will cover the costs of a helmet for their child.
Typically, insurance companies consider helmets to be a medically necessary treatment for conditions like plagiocephaly or brachycephaly. This means that if your child's doctor recommends a helmet, your insurance may cover it.
The cost of a helmet can vary, but on average, it can range from $1,000 to $3,000. Some insurance plans may cover the full cost, while others may require you to pay a portion of the expenses.
Insurance Coverage
Insurance coverage for baby helmets can be a bit confusing, but don't worry, I've got you covered. Some medical insurance plans may cover part or all of the cost of a baby helmet, depending on the specific policy and the reason for the helmet.
In some cases, insurance may cover a helmet if it's prescribed by a doctor for a diagnosed condition, such as a head deformity or a skull fracture. For example, a helmet might be necessary to correct a condition called plagiocephaly, which is a flat spot on the back of the head.
Insurance may also cover a helmet if it's prescribed for a baby with a high-risk birth, such as a breech birth or a premature birth. This is because these babies are more likely to have head injuries or other complications that require a helmet.
However, insurance coverage for baby helmets can be inconsistent, and some plans may not cover the cost at all. It's essential to check with your insurance provider to see what's covered and what's not.
Cost and Payment
Insurance coverage for baby helmets can be a complex and costly process. The cost of a baby helmet can range from $300 to $1,000, depending on the type and brand.
Many insurance plans cover all or part of the cost of a baby helmet, but this depends on the type of helmet and the reason for its use. Some insurance plans may cover helmets for craniosynostosis, but not for other conditions such as plagiocephaly.
In some cases, insurance may not cover the cost of a baby helmet, leaving parents to pay out-of-pocket. This can be a significant financial burden, especially for families with limited financial resources.
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Baby Helmet Cost
A baby helmet can cost anywhere from $50 to $300, depending on the brand and features.
Some helmets are designed for specific purposes, such as skateboarding or soccer, and can be more expensive than others.
A basic helmet for everyday wear can cost around $100.
You can also find helmets with additional features like padding and adjustable straps, which may increase the price to $200 or more.
In some cases, insurance may cover the cost of a helmet, especially if it's prescribed by a doctor.
It's worth noting that a helmet is a worthwhile investment for a child's safety.
Who Will Pay for Therapy Helmets?
The cost of therapy helmets can be a significant burden for families.
Many insurance plans cover the cost of therapy helmets, with some covering up to 80% of the total cost.
However, out-of-pocket expenses can still add up to several thousand dollars.
Some families may be eligible for financial assistance programs, which can help offset the cost.
In some cases, therapy helmets may be considered a medical necessity and covered by insurance.
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Pre-Treatment Review
Pre-treatment review can take some time, often 2-4 weeks, so it's essential to plan ahead. Our insurance team will contact your insurance provider to determine what benefits are available.
They will then contact you to go over that information, and coverage depends on each individual policy and child. About 70% of all insurance providers have some type of coverage for the DOC Band.
We will obtain any authorizations that might be required, but please note that scheduling prior to completing this step may not be possible. Our insurance team will reach out to you with the necessary information and estimated cost to help you schedule your baby's treatment.
Prior authorization is a pre-service review that is required by your insurance policy, and it can take some time, sometimes 2-4 weeks, to get the results. Insurance typically reviews for either medical necessity, benefit coverage, or both.
A pre-determination is a voluntary pre-service review, and it's not required by your insurance policy, but it's offered to you due to the specific nature of the DOC Band treatment. Neither prior authorization nor a pre-determination is a guarantee of payment from an insurance provider, even when approved.
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Causes and Prevention
Most babies don't have perfectly shaped heads, and small flat spots and lumps are normal.
In fact, many adults don't have perfectly shaped heads either. Your baby's skull is malleable, which means the skull bones move more easily than they do in adulthood.
Birth can cause a large flat spot on your baby's skull, as their skull may become unevenly shaped while passing through the birth canal.
Constant pressure to the back or side of the baby's head can cause permanent malformation if it's not corrected. Regularly laying flat on their back can also contribute to a large flat spot on their skull.
Sources
- https://www.romper.com/p/does-insurance-cover-corrective-helmets-for-babies-heres-what-you-need-to-know-18666429
- https://cranialtherapycenters.com/who-will-pay-for-your-babys-cranial-therapy-helmet/
- https://www.cranialtech.com/for-parents/navigating-insurance
- https://rinellapo.com/how-much-does-a-baby-helmet-for-plagiocephaly-cost/
- https://intermountainhealthcare.org/blogs/what-is-positional-plagiocephaly
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