A New Wellness Benefit for New York State Employees
If you’re a New York State employee covered under NYSHIP’s Empire Plan, there’s great news: as of July 1, 2023, your benefits now include coverage for medical massage therapy—up to 20 sessions per calendar year.
This important update gives NYSHIP members access to one of the most effective forms of hands-on care for managing stress, chronic pain, muscle tension, and more. And the best part? You may already qualify with just a few simple steps.
What Is Medical Massage Therapy?
Medical massage therapy goes beyond relaxation. It’s a focused, therapeutic treatment used to help resolve specific physical issues. Unlike a spa massage, medical massage is prescribed by a healthcare provider and targets medical conditions such as:
- Chronic neck or back pain
- Tension headaches or migraines
- Postural imbalances
- Sciatica or nerve pain
- Muscle strains and injuries
Benefits of Medical Massage Include:
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Improved circulation and mobility
- Relief from muscle tightness or joint stiffness
- Faster recovery from repetitive strain or injury
It’s not about pampering—it’s about helping your body heal and function better, especially during long workweeks or recovery from chronic discomfort.
Book your first session today and let us help you turn your coverage into real relief.
NYSHIP Coverage: What’s Included
As of July 1, 2023, NYSHIP’s Empire Plan offers:
- Up to 20 covered medical massage sessions per year
- Coverage for both in-network and out-of-network providers, depending on documentation
- Reimbursement for qualifying sessions when accompanied by appropriate clinical documentation
This benefit resets annually, so if you haven’t used it yet this year, now is the perfect time to start.
Curious if you're eligible for NYSHIP-covered massage therapy?
How to Qualify for Coverage
To receive massage therapy through NYSHIP, you’ll need:
- A prescription from a licensed physician or nurse practitioner
- A diagnosis and treatment plan stating medical necessity (e.g., back pain, migraines, etc.)
- A massage provider who can deliver documented therapeutic treatment, not general relaxation services
Out-of-network providers may still be covered if you submit proper documentation, including a receipt and progress notes. That’s why choosing the right provider—one who understands the NYSHIP process—is essential.
How Circle Wellness MD Can Help
At Circle Wellness MD, we work with NYSHIP members every day and understand the documentation, billing, and treatment standards required for medical massage therapy coverage.
Here’s how we support you:
- We’ll help you coordinate with your doctor to get the correct prescription
- Our team provides SOAP notes and itemized receipts to meet NYSHIP requirements
- Sessions are tailored to treat your diagnosis, not just relax you
- We’ll guide you every step of the way—so you can focus on feeling better
Whether you’re managing chronic pain or just need a break from the physical toll of your job, we’re here to help you make the most of this benefit.
FAQs
1. How many massage therapy sessions does NYSHIP cover each year?
NYSHIP’s Empire Plan covers up to 20 medical massage therapy sessions per calendar year, beginning July 1, 2023. These sessions must be medically necessary and prescribed by a qualified healthcare provider.
2. What qualifies as medical massage therapy?
Medical massage therapy is prescribed by a physician or nurse practitioner to treat a diagnosed condition. It targets specific areas of the body for pain relief, muscle recovery, posture correction, or injury rehabilitation—unlike general spa massages focused on relaxation.
3. Do I need a referral or prescription?
Yes. To be eligible for NYSHIP reimbursement, you’ll need a written prescription or referral that includes your diagnosis and treatment plan, signed by a licensed medical provider such as your doctor or nurse practitioner.
4. Can I go to an out-of-network massage therapist?
Yes. NYSHIP may reimburse for out-of-network providers if you submit all required documentation, including the prescription, diagnosis, and detailed session notes. Circle Wellness MD helps ensure your paperwork is complete and compliant.
5. What conditions are commonly treated with medical massage?
Massage therapy is often prescribed for:
- Chronic back, shoulder, or neck pain
- Migraines or tension headaches
- Sciatica or nerve pain
- Muscle strain, postural imbalances, or overuse injuries
6. What documentation do I need to submit for NYSHIP reimbursement?
You’ll typically need:
- A valid prescription with diagnosis and treatment plan
- An itemized receipt from the provider
SOAP notes (session documentation) describing the therapeutic approach and results
7. Is there a copay or out-of-pocket cost?
It depends on whether your provider is in-network or out-of-network. If out-of-network, you may pay upfront and submit for partial reimbursement. Circle Wellness MD provides the documentation needed to make this process smooth.
8. Can Circle Wellness MD help me get started?
Absolutely. We’ll help you:
- Coordinate with your doctor for the correct prescription
- Understand your NYSHIP benefits
- Submit any required paperwork
- Deliver massage sessions tailored to your specific medical needs
Take Advantage of What You’ve Earned
As a New York State employee, you give your time, focus, and energy to your work—day after day. Whether you’re on your feet, behind a desk, or managing the countless responsibilities that come with your role, your body carries the weight of that commitment. Over time, tension, fatigue, and discomfort can build up, making it harder to feel your best both on and off the clock. That’s why caring for your physical well-being isn’t just helpful—it’s essential to staying resilient and present in every part of your life.
Now, with NYSHIP’s expanded benefits, you have a new opportunity to prioritize yourself. With up to 20 covered medical massage sessions per year, this isn’t just a wellness perk—it’s a meaningful part of your healthcare plan. These sessions are designed to relieve pain, restore function, and help your body recover from the daily stress of work. It’s your benefit to use—and a chance to support the very foundation that helps you do what you do best: you.
