What is Alternative Medicine and Am I Covered for It?

In today's healthcare landscape, alternative medicine has become a significant complement to conventional treatments. Patients increasingly seek holistic approaches that consider physical but also mental and emotional well-being.

For many, alternative medicine offers a pathway to address ailments in a more natural and individualised manner. What are some common alternative medicine practices, and which of these treatments are typically covered by international health insurance plans?

Understanding alternative medicine

Alternative medicine, which is also commonly called complementary medicine, refers to therapeutic practices that go beyond conventional Western medicine. While traditional medicine typically relies on pharmaceutical drugs and surgery, alternative medicine emphasises the body's natural healing abilities and often incorporates practices rooted in centuries-old traditions.

In many cultures, particularly in Asia, alternative medicine is an integral part of healthcare. In Hong Kong alone, there were more than 8,200 Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners in 2022.

What are some examples of alternative medicine?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

TCM is a comprehensive system that includes acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary therapy, and practices like tai chi and qi gong. It aims to balance the body's energy to promote health and treat various conditions.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese healing practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body.  It's believed to balance the flow of energy or life force called "qi." It is commonly used to treat pain, headaches, nausea, and various chronic conditions.

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care focuses on diagnosing and treating mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, especially the spine. Chiropractors use manual adjustments to improve alignment, alleviate pain, and enhance overall function. It's often sought for back pain, neck pain, and headaches.

Homeopathy

Homeopathy is based on the principle that "like cures like." It uses highly diluted substances to stimulate the body's self-healing abilities. Homeopathic remedies are prescribed for a wide range of conditions, from allergies to anxiety.

Ayurveda

Ayurveda is an ancient Indian holistic healing system. It emphasises balance in body, mind, and spirit for optimal health. Ayurvedic practices include herbal treatments, dietary changes, yoga, and meditation.

Naturopathy

Naturopathic medicine emphasises the body's ability to heal itself. Naturopaths may use a combination of therapies including nutrition, herbal medicine, hydrotherapy, and lifestyle counselling to promote wellness.

Why individuals opt for alternative medicine

• Natural and non-invasive treatments: Some people prefer natural and non-invasive treatments over pharmaceutical drugs or surgical interventions. They believe that natural therapies are safer, have fewer side effects, or are more aligned with their health philosophies.

• Cultural and traditional practices: In many cultures, traditional healing practices have been used for centuries and are an integral part of the healthcare system. For example, TCM and Ayurveda are deeply rooted in cultural traditions and continue to be widely used in their respective regions.

• Chronic conditions and pain management: Alternative therapies are often sought for chronic conditions or pain management, especially when conventional treatments have not provided adequate relief. Practices such as acupuncture and chiropractic care are commonly used to manage chronic pain, migraines, arthritis, and other long-term conditions.

• Complementary use with conventional medicine: Many people use alternative medicine alongside conventional treatments, believing that it complements and enhances the effectiveness of mainstream therapies.

What is covered under your APRIL plan?

APRIL offers health plans covering a range of complementary and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) treatments. These practitioners will be included in your outpatient benefits, and the annual limit will vary depending on the level of coverage you choose.

Our plans usually cover consultation fees for specific complementary medicine practitioners:·      

• Dietician

• Occupational therapist

• Chiropractor

• Osteopath

• Podiatrist

• Speech Therapist

• Acupuncturist

• Bone setter

• Chinese medicine practitioner

• Naturopath

• Homeopath

• Ayurveda practitioner

• Hypnotherapist

Check your benefits schedule under the "Complementary Medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine" section to determine if a referral is required for your chosen practitioner.

Conclusion

With a growing emphasis on holistic well-being, alternative medicine is becoming an integral part of many individual’s healthcare plans.

APRIL International empowers you to integrate alternative medicine into your healthcare journey, ensuring you have the support needed to achieve balanced and sustained well-being. With our international health insurance plans, you can rest assured that many of these therapies are covered.

Whether you are looking to improve your overall health, or exploring natural approaches to well-being, you can confidently explore these therapies and focus on what matters most—your health.