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When you think of health insurance - hospital stays, emergency visits, or dental check-ups likely come to mind. But imagine the transformative power of acupuncture easing chronic back pain, remedial massage melting away weekly stress, or physiotherapy restoring your freedom of movement. Once viewed as mere luxuries, these complementary therapies are increasingly recognised as vital for holistic health, offering a profound difference in how you nurture your well-being.
At HIF, we embrace this transformation and proudly cover many complementary therapies. We see their vital role in your health, championing them as a foundation for your vibrant, holistic well-being.
Why Complementary Therapies Are Gaining Traction
From Chinese herbal medicine to physiotherapy, these practices prioritise prevention, balance, and personalised care. They don’t replace your GP or hospital visits but act as a dynamic partner, amplifying your body’s natural healing and resilience.
These therapies are particularly valuable for chronic conditions, emotional stress, or lifestyle challenges like poor sleep or muscle tension. By focusing on balance and the body’s natural healing systems, they offer a proactive approach to health. For deeper insights into how therapies like acupuncture, chiropractic care, and traditional Chinese medicine can enhance your well-being, check out this HIF Health Hub blog.
What Are Complementary Therapies?
Complementary therapies refer to a broad group of practices that work with your conventional care plan. They are generally hands on, holistic, and often focus on prevention, relaxation, or physical recovery.
Some common examples include:
- Acupuncture – using fine needles to stimulate pressure points and manage pain or tension
- Chinese herbal medicine – plant based formulas designed to promote balance and healing
- Remedial massage – targeting specific muscles and soft tissue for relief and repair
- Myotherapy – treating musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction using manual therapy and movement
- Physiotherapy – restoring mobility and strength after injury or illness
- Chiropractic care – supporting spinal and nervous system health
- Reflexology – applying pressure to specific points on the feet or hands to encourage relaxation and function
The goal is to support the whole person, not just the symptoms. While they are not a replacement for conventional medical care, they can complement it in powerful ways. You can explore the full list of services and what's included under HIF's cover here.
Why More Australians Are Turning to Complementary Therapies
These therapies are gaining popularity for their ability to address a wide range of health concerns, from stress and injury recovery to better sleep and digestive wellness. They provide targeted symptom relief, help manage chronic conditions, and enhance overall well-being by tapping into the body’s natural healing processes.
People are drawn to complementary therapies for their versatility and proven benefits, including:
- Stress and Anxiety Relief: Practices like acupuncture and reflexology help calm the nervous system, reducing cortisol levels and promoting mental clarity. Research continues to explore how these therapies influence stress-related hormones like beta-endorphins and cortisol. In a study completed by The Institute of Nursing and Health Research, a pilot trial on reflexology during pregnancy observed promising changes in these stress markers, pointing to potential benefits for emotional wellbeing.
- Improved Sleep Quality: Therapies such as Chinese herbal medicine and massage are often used to address common sleep disruptions. Beyond simply helping people unwind, evidence suggests that massage may support deeper, more restful sleep by influencing physiological processes. One clinical trial on post-surgical patients showed notable improvements in sleep quality following massage therapy-offering insights into how these gentle approaches may work beyond relaxation.
- Muscle and Joint Pain Relief: Myotherapy and remedial massage target specific pain points, which can help to improve mobility and reduce inflammation. These therapies can be effective in treating both acute and chronic musculoskeletal pain by employing techniques like trigger point therapy and myofascial release, which can help restore normal muscle and joint function.
- Digestive and Immune Support: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) utilises herbal remedies and acupuncture to stimulate the body's systems, which can help in aiding digestion and boosting immunity. Herbs such as ginseng and astragalus are commonly used to enhance energy, support digestive health, and strengthen the immune response.
- Post-Surgery or Injury Recovery: Physiotherapy and chiropractic care are well-established treatments that can help accelerate healing, restore function, and prevent complications. Physiotherapy uses tailored exercises and manual techniques to help patients regain strength, flexibility, and mobility, while chiropractic care helps correct biomechanical issues, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain.
- Headache, Migraine, and Fatigue Management: Techniques like acupuncture have been shown to reduce migraine frequency, while reflexology and massage can help combat fatigue by enhancing circulation and energy flow. Acupuncture, in particular, has been found to be effective in reducing the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks, offering a non-pharmacological option for sufferers.
Delivered in tranquil, one-on-one settings, these therapies provide a personalised, gentle experience that contrasts with the often impersonal, fast-paced nature of traditional medical environments.
Does Health Insurance Cover Complimentary Therapies?
At HIF, we believe your health insurance should reflect your real-world needs - especially when it comes to looking after your wellbeing in ways that work for you. That’s why selected HIF Extras Cover options include a range of complementary therapies.
Depending on your policy, you could claim for:
- Acupuncture
- Chinese herbal medicine
- Remedial massage
- Myotherapy
To find out what’s included in your policy, head to our Extras comparison table. Benefits and limits vary, so it’s worth checking the details before you book your next session.
How to claim for complementary therapies
Claiming is simple with HIF. You can:
- Swipe your membership card at registered providers
- Submit a claim through the HIF mobile app
- Lodge your claim through the HIF Online Member Centre
- Complete an HIF claim form and submit via email or posted mail
Visit our how to claim page for step by step instructions, just make sure your provider is recognised by HIF and your treatment is listed under your eligible Extras benefits.
Final thoughts on complementary therapies
Complementary therapies are more than a trend. They’re a movement toward smarter, more human healthcare. They empower you to take the driver’s seat, blending science, tradition, and personalisation for results that resonate. At HIF, we’re thrilled to champion this shift with Extras Cover that aligns with your lifestyle.Thinking about giving one a try? Visit our Complementary Therapies page or compare cover options to find the right level of support for you.
FAQs – Complementary therapies and your cover
What’s the difference between complementary and alternative therapies?
Complementary therapies work alongside your GP or specialist care. Alternative therapies are used instead of medical treatment. HIF supports complementary care options that sit within a broader treatment plan.
Can I get Extras Cover without Hospital Cover?
Yes. HIF offers standalone Extras Cover, but it’s important to note that not every level of cover includes complementary therapies. Check the Extras comparison table to make sure the services you value most are covered.
What services are included under HIF’s complementary therapies?
You may be able to claim for:
- Acupuncture
- Chinese herbal medicine
- Remedial massage
- Myotherapy
How often can I claim?
Annual limits apply. These will vary by service and level of cover, so it’s best to review your plan or check through your member account to stay across your remaining limits.
What if I only use these therapies occasionally? Is it still worth having cover?
It depends on your individual needs. Some members find complementary therapies beneficial during certain times—like recovering from an injury, managing stress, or supporting a wellness plan. Including these services in your Extras Cover can offer peace of mind, knowing support is there when you need it, without the full out-of-pocket cost.
Can I use complementary therapies to manage an old injury?
It depends on the nature of the injury. For some people, therapies like myotherapy, remedial massage, or physiotherapy may help with managing ongoing discomfort, improving mobility, or reducing tension. If you’re considering complementary therapies for an old injury, it’s best to speak with a healthcare professional to determine what’s right for you.
Are complementary medicines backed by science?
Some are, and others are still being researched. For example, acupuncture and physiotherapy are widely supported by clinical studies, while herbal medicine and reflexology may rely more on traditional or anecdotal evidence. As interest grows, more therapies are being studied and integrated into mainstream healthcare, particularly for pain management and stress reduction.
Is complementary medicine regulated in Australia?
Yes, many complementary medicine practitioners must meet certain education and registration requirements, especially in areas like acupuncture, physiotherapy, and chiropractic care. When booking a treatment, always check that your practitioner is qualified and recognised by your health fund.
How do I choose the right practitioner for me?
Choosing a practitioner can feel overwhelming, especially with so many different types of complementary therapies available. Start by considering your specific health goals, and look for someone with experience in that area. Don't hesitate to meet with a few practitioners to see who feels like the best fit.
Are all complementary therapy practitioners qualified?
Not all therapies have formal accreditation or registration requirements, so it’s important to do your research. However, some professions are regulated in Australia: Chinese medicine practitioners must be registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), and Chinese herbal medicines are regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Chiropractors are also registered with AHPRA and must complete five years of university study.