If you get regular remedial massage, you may be leaving money on the table. So, can you claim massage on private health? In most cases, yes — remedial massage is commonly covered under the extras (or “ancillary”) part of a private health insurance policy, and with HICAPS you can claim your rebate on the spot and only pay the gap. Here is a plain-English guide to what is covered, how health fund rebates for massage work, waiting periods, and how much you can expect to get back. This is general information, not financial advice — always check your level of cover with your health fund.
What types of massage can you claim on private health insurance?
Most funds cover remedial massage, not relaxation massage. To claim a rebate, the treatment usually needs to be therapeutic remedial massage delivered by a qualified remedial massage therapist with a provider number recognised by your fund. Deep tissue and sports massage are typically claimed as remedial massage, and pregnancy massage may be claimable when it is provided as remedial treatment. A purely relaxation massage generally is not covered. If you are unsure which service fits, our remedial massage page and full massage services list explain each option.
How do I know if my health fund covers remedial massage?
Three things determine whether you can claim: your extras cover must include remedial massage or natural therapies, your level of cover sets how much you get back, and the therapist must hold a provider number registered with your fund. Major health funds that commonly include remedial massage benefits are Bupa, Medibank, nib, HCF, Australian Unity and Teachers Health, among others. The quickest way to confirm is to call your fund or check its app before you book. You can also read our health fund rebates page for how it works at our clinic.
What is HICAPS and how does it work for massage claims?
HICAPS is the payment terminal that lets you claim your health fund rebate instantly. At the end of your appointment you swipe your membership card, the rebate is processed on the spot, and you only pay the gap — the difference between the fee and your rebate. You receive a receipt straight away, with no forms to fill in and no waiting for reimbursement. Body Remedy is a HICAPS-enabled clinic, so eligible clients claim their remedial massage rebate then and there.
How much can I get back on a massage claim?
The rebate amount varies by fund and by your level of cover. Most funds pay either a fixed dollar amount or a set portion of the fee per visit, up to an annual limit. Higher extras tiers generally rebate more per session and have larger yearly limits. Once you reach your annual limit for the year you pay the full price until it resets. Because the typical rebate and remaining limit differ for everyone, it is best to check your specific cover with your health fund.
Are there waiting periods for claiming remedial massage?
Usually, yes. Most funds apply a waiting period on extras — often around two months — before you can claim remedial massage on a new policy or after upgrading your cover. If you have just joined a fund or changed your level of cover, check whether your waiting period has passed before you book so you are not caught out at the terminal.
Can you claim massage on Medicare?
Generally, no. Remedial massage is not covered by Medicare. Some allied health services can be partly subsidised under a GP-managed chronic disease care plan, but remedial massage is typically not included. For most people, private health extras cover is the path to a rebate on massage rather than Medicare.
Can you claim myotherapy, dry needling or cupping?
It depends on your fund and whether the service and provider are recognised. Myotherapy is often claimable under its own benefit, while techniques such as dry needling or cupping performed within a remedial session are usually claimed as remedial massage. As always, your level of cover and your fund’s rules decide what you can claim, so confirm with your fund.
Are massages tax deductible?
For most people, no — massage for general wellbeing is not a deductible medical expense or tax deduction. If a massage is genuinely work-related, speak with your accountant about whether it may be claimable. For everyday remedial massage, your private health extras cover is the way to reduce the cost.
Claim your remedial massage rebate at Body Remedy, Quakers Hill
Body Remedy is a HICAPS-enabled remedial massage clinic in Nirimba Fields, minutes from Quakers Hill and across Western Sydney. Eligible clients claim their health fund rebate on the spot and only pay the gap, and we accept Bupa, Medibank, nib, HCF, Australian Unity, Teachers Health and more. Just bring your membership card to your appointment. Ready to book? Book online in under a minute, or learn more about our health fund rebates.
Can you claim relaxation massage on private health?
Usually not. Health funds generally rebate remedial massage delivered by a qualified therapist, not relaxation-only massage. If you need a therapeutic treatment, book a remedial session so you can claim, subject to your level of cover.
Do I need a referral to claim massage on health insurance?
No referral is needed. You just need eligible extras cover that includes remedial massage and a qualified remedial therapist with a provider number recognised by your fund. With HICAPS you claim on the spot.
Can I claim a massage gift voucher on private health?
No. You can only claim a rebate for a treatment you actually receive, not for buying a gift voucher. The person who receives the massage can claim it if they are eligible and use their own membership card.
