Some physical therapy supplies can be reimbursed through your PeopleKeep Healthcare Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA). To make sure that your expenses are covered, it’s important to know which supplies are eligible. In this article, we’ll provide you with a list of eligible items and explain how to meet the requirements for reimbursement. Be sure to check your plan settings to see if your company requires an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) to be submitted for reimbursement.
Common Eligible Supplies
Here are some physical therapy supplies that are eligible for reimbursement:
- Adaptive Equipment: Crutches, canes, walkers, or wheelchairs.
- Therapeutic Devices: TENS units, heat pads, or cold packs. Therapeutic yoga wheels and massage devices with heated elements.
- Assistive Devices: Braces, supports, and kinesiology tape.
Doctor’s note requirement for dual-purpose supplies
While some supplies can be reimbursed without a doctor's note, many are considered "dual-purpose" because they can be used for both physical therapy and general fitness. To ensure reimbursement for dual-purpose items, such as resistance bands and exercise balls, you will need a doctor's note to establish their medical necessity. The IRS requires a doctor's note to ensure that expenses are directly related to medical care rather than general health and wellness. The note should clearly indicate the medical necessity of the dual-purpose items and their relevance to your physical therapy treatment.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us. We're here to help you navigate the reimbursement process smoothly.