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Does OsteoStrong accept renew active? An in-depth look for seniors

4 min read

According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, approximately 10 million Americans have osteoporosis and another 44 million have low bone mass. As many explore options for improving bone health, a common question arises: Does OsteoStrong accept renew active?

Quick Summary

Some specific UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans offer coverage for OsteoStrong under the Renew Active program, but eligibility and covered services vary. Participants typically get access to weekly osteogenic loading sessions, while other modalities often require an additional fee, making it essential to verify your specific plan details.

Key Points

  • Check Your Plan First: Not all UnitedHealthcare plans include Renew Active coverage for OsteoStrong. You must verify your specific Medicare Advantage plan.

  • Core Service Covered: If eligible, your Renew Active benefit typically covers one weekly osteogenic loading session on the Spectrum equipment.

  • Extra Costs for Modalities: Additional wellness services like Red Light Therapy or Hydromassage are usually not covered and require a separate fee or membership upgrade.

  • Get Your Confirmation Code: To verify eligibility, you will need a special confirmation code from UnitedHealthcare to provide to the OsteoStrong center.

  • Local Verification is Crucial: Coverage and participation can vary by individual OsteoStrong franchise location, so you must contact the specific center you plan to visit.

  • Consult a Coach: Take advantage of a complimentary consultation to confirm details and discuss your bone health goals before starting a program.

  • HSA/FSA Possible: If Renew Active does not cover your services, or for additional costs, you may be able to use a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA).

In This Article

Understanding the Renew Active and OsteoStrong Partnership

Yes, some OsteoStrong centers do accept Renew Active, but it is not a blanket policy. The key to understanding coverage lies in the relationship between OsteoStrong, UnitedHealthcare, and the specific Medicare Advantage plan a member holds. Renew Active is a fitness program offered as an additional benefit with certain UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans, not all.

The partnership allows eligible Renew Active members to access core OsteoStrong services at no additional cost. However, it is crucial to remember that this coverage is not universal across all UHC plans. Potential members must confirm their eligibility directly with both their insurance provider and their local OsteoStrong center. The specifics, including what services are covered and how often, can vary.

What OsteoStrong Services are Included with Renew Active?

For those with qualifying Renew Active plans, the coverage typically includes the core osteogenic loading sessions. This is the central technology OsteoStrong uses to stimulate bone growth and density. A Renew Active membership usually allows for one session per week on the Spectrum equipment. This is what drives the primary benefit for skeletal strength.

Additional Services and Costs

It is important to differentiate between the core service and OsteoStrong's other offerings, known as modalities. These additional services are generally not covered by Renew Active and will require an extra cost. Common modalities include:

  • Whole-Body Vibration
  • Hydromassage
  • Red Light Therapy
  • PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) Therapy

If you are interested in these supplemental services, you will likely need to purchase an upgraded membership or pay a separate fee. Some OsteoStrong centers offer a special upgrade package for Renew Active members to include these extra modalities, allowing for a more comprehensive wellness experience.

How to Verify Your Eligibility for Renew Active at OsteoStrong

To confirm if your plan offers OsteoStrong coverage through Renew Active, follow these steps:

  1. Check Your UnitedHealthcare Plan: Log in to your UnitedHealthcare account or call the customer service number on your member ID card. Ask specifically if your Medicare Advantage plan includes the Renew Active program.
  2. Obtain Your Confirmation Code: If your plan includes Renew Active, you will need a confirmation code. This code typically starts with a letter and is followed by nine digits. You can get this from the UnitedHealthcare website or by calling their member services.
  3. Find a Local OsteoStrong Center: Use the OsteoStrong website's location finder to find a center near you. Not all franchise locations may be participating, so this step is critical.
  4. Contact the Center Directly: Provide your Renew Active confirmation code to the OsteoStrong center. Their staff can then verify your eligibility and let you know exactly what services your plan covers at their specific location.

Comparing Membership Options: Renew Active vs. Standard OsteoStrong

Understanding the differences between a Renew Active benefit and a standard paid membership can help you decide the best option for your health and budget. Here is a simplified comparison:

Feature Renew Active (Eligible Plan) Standard OsteoStrong Membership
Cost Often no additional cost for core sessions. Monthly fee (varies by location).
Core Service Weekly osteogenic loading session included. Weekly osteogenic loading session included.
Additional Modalities Requires an extra fee for services like Hydromassage and Red Light Therapy. Often includes a limited number or unlimited access to other modalities, depending on the plan level.
Flexibility Limited to weekly core session unless upgrading. Greater flexibility and access to all center offerings with higher-tier plans.
Commitment Tied to your annual Medicare plan. Month-to-month or long-term contracts available.

Important Considerations and Next Steps

Even with Renew Active coverage, members should be mindful of several factors. The once-per-week session schedule is a standard part of the Renew Active agreement and is often the recommended frequency for osteogenic loading. Missing a session may not be a major issue, but consistency is key to seeing results over time. If you are looking for more intensive treatment or frequent access to the additional modalities, a direct membership might be a better fit, even with the Renew Active benefit.

Before committing, it's always wise to take advantage of the complimentary consultation many centers offer. This allows you to try the equipment, discuss your health goals with a certified coach, and confirm all coverage details before beginning your journey towards stronger bones. For more information about the program itself, you can visit the official Renew Active website.

Conclusion: Verify First, Get Stronger Later

In conclusion, does OsteoStrong accept renew active? The answer is a conditional yes, depending heavily on your specific UnitedHealthcare plan and location. While many OsteoStrong centers participate, the benefit primarily covers the core osteogenic loading sessions. To avoid any surprises, your best course of action is to verify your eligibility and the extent of your coverage directly with both your insurance provider and the local OsteoStrong center. Taking this proactive step will ensure you maximize your benefits and can focus on what matters most: improving your bone health and overall wellness.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can find your Renew Active confirmation code by logging into your UnitedHealthcare member account online or by calling the member services number on the back of your insurance card. The code usually starts with 'A' or 'B' followed by nine digits.

If your UHC plan does not include Renew Active, you can still become an OsteoStrong member by purchasing a standard membership directly from the center. You may also be able to use a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) for payments.

Renew Active benefits are tied to an individual's specific UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plan. You can only use the benefit for yourself; it does not extend to family members.

Yes, for eligible members, Renew Active coverage for OsteoStrong is typically limited to one core osteogenic loading session per week. If you wish to attend more frequently, you would likely need to pay an additional fee.

If you are an existing OsteoStrong member who gains Renew Active eligibility, your center can advise you on transitioning. Some centers note that switching to the Optum/Renew Active plan may forfeit previous discounts, so it is best to discuss this with your specific location.

Both Renew Active and One Pass are fitness programs offered through UnitedHealthcare's Optum. While similar, they may have different network locations and covered services. The verification process is similar for both, and some OsteoStrong centers accept both programs.

If a center tells you they do not accept Renew Active, it may be a franchise decision. You can use the Renew Active online locator tool to check for other participating fitness locations near you. If you have concerns, you can also contact UnitedHealthcare for confirmation.

References

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding personal health decisions.