Does Insurance Cover Chiropractic Care?
You’re dealing with persistent back pain, and a chiropractor seems like the perfect solution. But before you book an appointment, one pressing question remains—does insurance cover it? The answer isn’t always simple, and what you assume might not match reality. Policy details, limitations, and varying coverage options could determine whether you get relief or face unexpected costs. So, what does your insurance actually cover? Let’s find out.
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What Types of Insurance Cover Chiropractic Care?
Chiropractic coverage depends on the type of health insurance and specific policy details. Some plans include chiropractic treatments as part of their benefits, while others may require prior authorization or limit the number of covered sessions. Reviewing your policy is essential to understanding which services are included and any restrictions that may apply.
Medicare Part B covers manual spinal adjustments when medically necessary to treat a spinal subluxation. Additional services are not included. Medicare Advantage plans may offer expanded benefits depending on the provider.
Medicaid coverage is determined at the state level, meaning some states include chiropractic care while others restrict or exclude it.
Health Insurance Plans
Some insurance plans provide extra benefits for chiropractic treatments, but coverage varies by provider and plan type. To confirm whether chiropractic care is covered, consider the following steps:
- Use Medicare’s plan search tool to compare coverage options.
- Review the plan’s Summary of Benefits on the provider’s website.
- Contact your insurer directly to learn about copays, deductibles, and included services.
Before seeking chiropractic treatment, check your insurance terms to avoid unexpected costs and ensure the service is covered.
Medicare Coverage for Chiropractic Care
Medicare provides limited chiropractic coverage. Understanding which treatments are covered and their associated costs is key to making informed healthcare decisions.
Services Covered by Medicare
Medicare Part B covers manual spinal adjustments performed by a chiropractor when necessary to correct a spinal subluxation. However, Medicare does not cover:
- X-rays
- Massage therapy
- Acupuncture
- Other diagnostic tests or treatments
Verify with your healthcare provider whether your treatment is covered before receiving care.
Medicare Costs
After meeting the Part B deductible, patients must pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for chiropractic care.
Additional Considerations
Healthcare providers may recommend treatments beyond what Medicare covers. In such cases, patients may be responsible for some or all costs. It’s advisable to consult your provider about coverage before proceeding with treatment.
Medicaid and Chiropractic Care
Medicaid offers healthcare coverage for low-income individuals and families, but chiropractic benefits vary by state. When deemed medically necessary, some states provide coverage for:
- Spinal adjustments to reduce pain and improve mobility.
- Diagnostic evaluations to determine treatment needs.
- Rehabilitative therapies to support long-term recovery.
Eligibility and Requirements: To qualify for Medicaid chiropractic coverage, patients may need to meet certain criteria:
- Accredited Chiropractor: The provider must be registered with Medicaid in the patient’s state.
- Medical Necessity: Coverage applies only to conditions requiring chiropractic care, such as chronic lower back pain, mobility limitations, or headaches linked to spinal misalignment.
- Documentation: Patients may need to provide medical records, referrals, or prior treatment history to receive coverage.
Check with your state’s Medicaid office to understand specific coverage details.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance for Chiropractic Treatment
Workers’ compensation may cover chiropractic care following a workplace injury. Securing approval often requires strong medical evidence demonstrating the necessity of treatment.
How Workers’ Compensation Covers Chiropractic Care?
When an employee sustains a work-related injury, they may qualify for medical treatment under workers’ compensation. Chiropractic care can be included if it contributes to the recovery process.
Workers may need chiropractic care before and after settling a claim, as:
- Early treatment can prevent complications and aid recovery.
- Insurers may adjust settlement amounts based on the need for continued care.
- Receiving care before a settlement documents the severity of the injury, which may influence legal or compensation decisions.
Thorough documentation and adherence to treatment plans increase the chances of insurance approval.
Auto Insurance and Chiropractic Care After an Accident
Auto insurance may cover chiropractic treatment after an accident if deemed necessary for recovery.
To improve the likelihood of insurance coverage:
- Provide medical evidence supporting the need for treatment.
- Submit detailed records of symptoms and medical visits.
- Maintain updated documentation of all treatments and expenses.
Auto insurance may cover chiropractic treatment after an accident, but to secure coverage it is essential:
- Obtain immediate medical attention to document injuries.
- Submit proper documentation to the chiropractor and insurance company.
- Follow the recommended treatment plan to maximize recovery.
- Work with experienced insurance claims professionals to avoid problems in the payment process.
Regardless of who was at fault in the accident, if symptoms of pain or stiffness are present after impact, it is critical to seek chiropractic care and verify if insurance covers treatment.
Contact Us to Learn About Your Chiropractic Care Coverage
If you’re seeking chiropractic care and want to understand your insurance coverage, our team is here to assist. We specialize in treating musculoskeletal conditions through personalized, non-invasive approaches. Our goal is to relieve pain, enhance mobility, and help you regain well-being naturally.
At Magne Salud, accept a variety of insurance providers to make chiropractic care accessible. Our experienced specialists can answer questions about coverage and guide you through the process of securing treatment. We also take a multidisciplinary approach to provide comprehensive care tailored to your needs.
For more information on our services, locations, and insurance options, contact us today. Our team is dedicated to delivering high-quality care in a welcoming environment. Scheduling a consultation is the first step toward pain relief and better health. Call us or fill out our form to learn more about your chiropractic insurance coverage.
Sources:
- Jensen, G. A., Mootz, R. D., Shekelle, P. G., Cherkin, D. C., Roychoudhury, C., & Cherkin, D. C. (1997). Insurance coverage of chiropractic services. Chiropractic in the United States: Training, Practice, and Research. Rockville, MD: Agency for Health Care Policy and Research, 39-47.
- Sharma, R., Haas, M., & Stano, M. (2003). Patient attitudes, insurance, and other determinants of self-referral to medical and chiropractic physicians. American Journal of Public Health, 93(12), 2111-2117.