Chiropractic services

Chiropractic services

Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance)

 covers manual manipulation of the spine if 

Medically necessary

 to correct a 

Subluxation

 when provided by a chiropractor or other qualified provider.

Medicare doesn't cover other services or tests ordered by a chiropractor, including X-rays, massage therapy, and acupuncture. If you think your chiropractor is billing Medicare for chiropractic services that aren't covered, you can report suspected Medicare fraud

Your costs in Original Medicare

You pay 20% of the 

Medicare-approved amount

 and the Part B 

Deductible [glossary]

 applies.

Note

To find out how much your test, item, or service will cost, talk to your doctor or health care provider. The specific amount you’ll owe may depend on several things, like:

  • Other insurance you may have
  • How much your doctor charges
  • Whether your doctor accepts assignment
  • The type of facility
  • Where you get your test, item, or service

Note

Your doctor or other health care provider may recommend you get services more often than Medicare covers. Or, they may recommend services that Medicare doesn’t cover. If this happens, you may have to pay some or all of the costs. Ask questions so you understand why your doctor is recommending certain services and whether Medicare will pay for them.
Things to know

Medicare doesn't cover other services or tests ordered by a chiropractor, including X-rays, massage therapy, and acupuncture. If you think your chiropractor is billing Medicare for services that aren't covered, you can report suspected Medicare fraud by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY: 1‑877‑486‑2048.

Related resources

Return to search results