Weighted products are becoming extremely popular in Western culture. As researchers have reached more findings on the effectiveness of weighted products, it has been uncovered that weighted products are linked to alleviating symptoms of autism, general anxiety, sensory processing disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and depression. While all of these fall under the category of mental illness, we then begin to question if these weighted products should be covered by insurance companies. Currently, essential health benefits that insurance companies are required to cover include: rehabilitative and habilitative services and devices, mental health services, prescription drugs, and preventative and wellness services. Weighted products, like robes and blankets, are seen as habilitative devices for individuals that suffer from severe anxiety. Weighted products also serve to help deal with many mental illnesses. Additionally, since weighted products owe their application in the relief of stress, they can also be seen as a wellness device. While there is still much uncertainty regarding the coverage of weighted products, there are a few steps you can take as a consumer.
- Speak with your insurance company to inquire if they have coverage for weighted products
- Consult with your insurance provider and inquire about brands they are willing to reimburse purchases of
- Receive a prescription for a weighted robe or blanket from your medical doctor. This will go a long way in making sure you get reimbursed for the cost of your purchase.
While we do not have all the answers yet, weighted products are important medical devices that more physicians, psychologists, and physical therapists are beginning to see the need for. As more studies and peer-reviewed research on the effects of weighted products continue to emerge, they should begin making their way onto more insurance coverage lists.
