Venous Insufficiency and Medical Insurance
Many people who suffer from venous insufficiency, failure of the veins to adequately circulate the blood, especially in the lower extremities, are discouraged from seeking treatment because they have been told in the past that vein treatment is very costly and not something that medical insurance companies cover. There are actually a significant number of primary care physicians who don’t realize varicose veins are more than merely cosmetic. But the staff at Central Florida Vein & Vascular Center, a trusted vascular center in Orlando, wants you to know that for most people who have chronic venous insufficiency, their medical insurance does indeed cover treatment of the condition. What’s more, the initial diagnostic evaluation for venous disease is almost always covered by medical insurance.
(Learn More About Venous Insufficiency)
Today, most insurance companies are willing to cover the cost of many of the available vein treatments currently in use, provided the patient displays symptoms of venous insufficiency and/or other possible complications because of varicose veins. Typically, the treatment of varicose veins usually is covered, provided that the patient has venous insufficiency and reflux (the backward flow of blood). In cases in which these patients already have tried to find relief, and failed, through the wearing of compression stockings (the length of time insurance companies require stocking wear varies), that patient typically is covered for the treatment of the varicose veins usually with a laser, radio frequency, or other procedure.
In most cases, the following criteria are taken into account when weighing whether treatment is considered medically necessary, in the eyes of the insurance provider:
- The condition limits participation in daily activities
- Complications from varicose veins, such as leg swelling, ulcerations, and bleeding exist
- Pain is present
- Conservative therapy does not alleviate the symptoms
It’s Important to Be Checked
Like many other procedures covered by medical insurance, the amount of coverage varies by insurance provider and the type of coverage the patient has. Regardless, treating varicose veins should not be delayed, as the effects of the disease worsen over time. Studies have shown conclusively the importance of treating chronic venous hypertension, a condition where the blood leaks downward, and varicose veins, both of which may be caused by venous insufficiency. Much like dental cavities or vision problems, the earlier treatment begins, the more successful it tends to be.
Symptoms of venous insufficiency include cramping, itching, swelling, aching, and changes in skin color. Genetics and family history both affect a patient’s likelihood to develop venous insufficiency, but other factors can include age, gender, weight, and lifestyle choices such as smoking.
Contact Us Today
At Central Florida Vein & Vascular Center, we can help you determine whether you are eligible for insurance coverage from your provider, and we can furnish the documentation you need to get a procedure approved. For help in determining if your varicose veins are covered, make an appointment today for a consultation at our vascular center in Orlando by calling 407-545-3385 or 352-658-5547, or contact us online.
