Insurance & Vein Treatment
Many patients are reluctant to see a doctor for their varicose veins because they assume varicose veins are a “cosmetic” problem, so their health insurance plan won’t pay for treatment. While most health plans won’t pay for treatment of spider veins, they will authorize treatment of varicose veins and other chronic venous insufficiencies if “medical necessity” is demonstrated.
Varicose Veins
Most patients that seek varicose vein treatment will find that the procedure is covered by their insurance plan. Insurance companies recognize that vein disease is real, not just cosmetic, and can lead to major health complications if left untreated. Swollen and painful veins are considered symptoms that can meet "medical necessity" requirements.
Almost all patients with varicose vein problems have some degree of leg heaviness, discomfort or swelling, even if they have become used to these problems over time. Before authorizing treatment, most insurance companies require that the patient completes a trial of compression therapy. This involves the use of prescription-strength stockings. If compression stockings don’t alleviate your symptoms, the insurance company then typically agrees to pay for treatment. Most insurers will also ask to review the results of a venous ultrasound before covering treatments for varicose veins. Performed in a vein specialist’s office and covered by most insurance plans, this short procedure will demonstrate the quality of your veins to your insurance provider.
Like many other procedures covered by your insurance, the amount of coverage varies on the type of plan and your provider. A qualified vein specialist should be able to answer any questions regarding insurance coverage more fully in a consultation. They will also work with your provider to get you pre-approved for treatment.
Spider Veins
It is common for spider veins to be considered “cosmetic” and, therefore, not covered by insurance.
One exception is if the spider vein has had bleeding. Sometimes insurance companies will cover the cost of treating bleeding spider veins, but not the other spider veins in the legs. All insurance company’s policies vary, so it is important to check with them about your individual coverage.
It is also important to note that 1-in-4 patients with spider veins have underlying signs of vein disease. If this is the case, removing your spider veins may be included in the insurance coverage. This is because unless your underlying vein disease is treated at the source, the chances for recurrence of previously removed spider veins is high. It is critical for people with spider veins to have a full diagnostic exam using an ultrasound to identify any abnormal veins below the skin surface.
Your Treatment Options
The good news is that resolving venous disorders is a relatively easy and painless process. If you suffer from protruding, aching varicose veins, schedule a consultation to get an expert diagnosis and recommended course of treatment.
At Elmore Medical, we participate in most insurance plans, most of which consider the initial venous evaluation and ultrasound to be a covered and necessary medical expense. Our staff is trained to assess your insurance plans and determine if your insurance will cover your evaluations and treatments.
Elmore Medical Vein & Laser Treatment Center is the premier vein specialty medical practice in the Central Valley. Dr. Mario H. Gonzalez and his staff offer years of experience and medical expertise that you won’t find anywhere else. Contact us to set up a consultation appointment.