Does Medicare Cover Chiropractic Care?
August 26, 2024 | Marcia Pruitt
Are you curious about chiropractic care and if it’s covered by Medicare? You are not alone. Whether you’re seeking relief from back pain or considering alternative therapies for another condition, it’s important to understand how chiropractic services are and are not covered by Medicare. In this blog, we’ll highlight what chiropractic care is covered by Medicare, the limitations of coverage and coverage of other types of Medicare plans, such as Medicare Advantage plans, so you are equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your healthcare.
What is Chiropractic Care?
Chiropractic care involves therapeutic treatment performed by a licensed chiropractor. During the procedure, commonly referred to as an adjustment, your chiropractor will apply pressure to manipulate your joints, aiming to realign your spine and alleviate pain and discomfort.
Chiropractic Care Coverage with Original Medicare
Medicare Part B, which is one-half of original Medicare, does provide limited chiropractic care coverage. As described by Medicare.gov, Medicare ‘covers the manual manipulation of the spine by a chiropractor’. It’s important to know that coverage may be considered limited as it specifically applies to the correction of a vertebral subluxation. A vertebral subluxation occurs when the spinal joints are unable to move properly, but the contact between the joints remains intact. This type of chiropractic treatment is aimed at restoring mobility and function to the affected spinal joints.
Understanding the Limitations of Medicare Coverage for Chiropractic Care
Medicare does not provide coverage for additional services or tests ordered by a chiropractor. Tests, including X-rays and services such as massage therapy would not be covered, and the patient would be fully responsible for paying the associated costs. Patients would need to pay out of pocket for any preventive chiropractic care or adjustments other than manual manipulation of the spine to correct vertebral subluxation.
Chiropractic Coverage with Medicare Advantage Plans
Although chiropractic care coverage may be limited with original Medicare, Medicare Advantage plans (MAPDs) may provide additional benefits beyond original Medicare. Chiropractic care benefits will vary for each MAPD; some will have no additional coverage, others will provide additional visits following Medicare guidelines, and some may cover routine preventive chiropractic care.
Are You Satisfied With Your Medicare Advantage Plan?
Get a Medicare Plan with the Coverage You Need
If chiropractic care is an important aspect of your healthcare coverage, working with an experienced medicare broker can help you ensure that the plan you select provides adequate coverage.
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