When people seek out medical treatment under the age of 60 their choices are cash or commercial insurance of some kind. There are also other choices in the marketplace like Medi-Share or plans in the Affordable Care Act. Once you are above 65 years old, for many Medicare kicks in.
Medicare part B covers a wide variety of services in its plans, and even some medications; but when it comes to Chiropractic, the coverage is limited.
Currently, Medicare part B will only cover chiropractic adjustments that are deemed medically necessary, but will not cover any other services recommended by the Chiropractor during treatment. This can include X-rays, Ultrasound and other therapies, traction, massage therapy, and nutritional supplements.
The good news is that the visits for spinal manipulation(adjustments) do not have a limit, but the caveat is they must be medically necessary and the doctor must be able to document the need for care. Active treatment for back or neck pain can not go on indefinitely, even though spinal adjustments can feel good, there needs to be a start and end to active treatment. Anything after that is maintenance care, which Medicare also does not cover.
If you plan to see a Chiropractor for treatment, make sure you ask what other services will be rendered during your visits, and the cost(s) associated with them. The Chiropractor should have you sign a form upfront on your first that shows what other services may be incurred and what the cost is; their office is required by Medicare to do such a thing to improve transparency of fees for Medicare subscribers.
Our team at Mason Family Chiropractic and Wellness provides a range of services, including spinal decompression therapy and massage therapy, to help you achieve optimal wellness. Be sure to ask us about any additional services and associated costs before beginning treatment. Call us today at 317-577-9558 to schedule an appointment and find a chiropractor near you.