Physician Exercise Referral

Individuals with medical conditions that can be improved by physical activity (such as diabetes, hypertension, depression, and more) are able to receive reimbursement from their healthcare flexible spending account to pay for some exercise programs or equipment. Expenses for exercise to improve general health are not eligible. A Letter of Medical Necessity is required for all exercise referrals.

Letter of Medical Necessity Form

A Letter of Medical Necessity form must be completed by your doctor, affirming that physical activity is medically necessary, i.e. treatment which can improve a medical condition.

Who is Eligible?

Individuals with a medical condition for which physical activity is prescribed as a treatment for that condition by their physician.

Reimbursement

Employees and/or their dependents are reimbursed from the employee’s healthcare flexible spending account. For more information, visit the UT FLEX page.

Steps to Receive Reimbursement For Exercise as a Medical Necessity

Prior to your Doctor's Visit
  • Enroll in UT FLEX flexible spending account (FSA) during Annual Enrollment in July.
  • Print a Letter of Medical Necessity form from the UT FLEX website. 
  • Schedule an appointment with your Doctor. You may want to request additional time.
During your Doctor's Visit
  • Bring a Letter of Medical Necessity form.
  • Discuss a health improvement plan for treating the medical condition with exercise.
  • Have your doctor complete the Letter of Medical Necessity form.
After your Doctor's Visit
  • Submit the Letter of Medical Necessity form to Maestro Health (information on top of form).
  • Wait for processing (a few days).
  • Obtain approval date from Maestro Health.
  • Once approved, begin services.
  • Submit receipts to Maestro Health for reimbursement. Include Letter of Medical Necessity.
Examples of Expenses
  • Weight loss programs,
  • Gym Equipment,
  • Gym memberships,
  • Personal Training,
  • Yoga Classes,
  • Pilates classes,
  • Aqua aerobics, and
  • Other similar items and activities.

Examples of Medical Conditions Improved by Exercise

  • Hypertension,
  • Diabetes,
  • Cardiovascular Disease,
  • Depression,
  • Arthritis, and
  • Others.