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Is Chiropractic Covered?
Total back care costs have been found to be lower for patients who received treatment from a chiropractor at some point. Most insurance plans cover chiropractic care costs for acute conditions, but patients often have a co-pay at the time of the visit.
DETAILS OF TREATMENT AND COVERAGE
In a traditional chiropractic setting, care is given in three stages:
- Initially, appointments are more frequent with the goal of relieving immediate pain.
- Next, the patient moves into a rehabilitative stage to continue the healing process and help to prevent a relapse.
- Finally, the patient may elect periodic maintenance, or wellness treatments, along with lifestyle changes, if needed, to stay in good health.
Most insurance companies cover the initial and some rehabilitative care for acute conditions, but most do not cover maintenance or wellness treatments. Generally, longer-term treatment is needed for conditions that are chronic, severe or occur in conjunction with another health problem.
While chiropractic care has become well-accepted treatment for acute pain and problems of the spine, including lower back pain, there are ongoing studies regarding the usefulness of chiropractic for such problems as ear infections, dysmenorrhea, infant colic, migraine headaches and other conditions. As research continues, insurance companies will begin to cover more treatment plans.
If you are unsure of what is covered by your insurance company, make sure you talk with your doctor of chiropractic and insurance company before starting any treatment plan.
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