Yes, anesthesia is eligible for reimbursement with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA).
Why Is Anesthesia FSA/HSA Eligible?
Anesthesia is a medically necessary service provided during surgical or diagnostic procedures to prevent pain and discomfort. Because it is an essential part of many treatments, anesthesia qualifies as a medical expense under IRS Code Section 213(d).
According to IRS Publication 502, you can include amounts paid for anesthetist services and associated anesthesia fees when they are part of a medical or dental procedure. This applies to both inpatient and outpatient procedures, whether the anesthesia is local, regional, or general.
Eligible anesthesia expenses may include:
Fees for the anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist (CRNA)
Anesthesia used during surgery, endoscopy, colonoscopy, or childbirth
Sedation during dental procedures when medically necessary
Hospital or surgical center charges related to the administration of anesthesia
These services are eligible when performed or supervised by a licensed medical professional.
What’s Not Covered?
The following are not eligible:
Anesthesia services provided for cosmetic procedures not medically necessary
Sedation or anesthesia used solely for patient comfort or anxiety relief during non-essential procedures
Any fees not associated with a qualifying medical service
To be eligible, the anesthesia must be part of a treatment or procedure that qualifies as a medical expense under IRS rules.
How to Use Your FSA or HSA for Anesthesia
If the procedure involves anesthesia and is considered medically necessary:
Use your FSA or HSA card to pay the bill directly at a provider’s office or hospital
Keep your itemized invoice and documentation showing the service was part of a qualified medical procedure
If insurance pays part of the cost, submit the remaining portion along with an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) if required by your plan
For more details on eligible medical expenses, refer to IRS Publication 502.
