Medicare, in plain words
Medicare and chiropractic care
Plain facts, so there are no surprises at the front desk.
What Medicare covers
Original Medicare Part B covers spinal manipulation, the adjustment itself. It does not cover the other services of a chiropractic visit.
What you pay
After you meet the Part B deductible, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the adjustment. A supplement plan may cover part of that.
What Medicare does not cover
Original Medicare does not pay for exams, x-rays, massage, exercise instruction or other services when a chiropractor provides them. We tell you the fee before we do them.
A notice in writing
When care is something Medicare may not cover, we give you an Advance Beneficiary Notice (ABN) before it starts. It says what we expect Medicare not to pay and what it would cost. You decide whether to go ahead.
Medicare Advantage and supplement plans differ. Call the number on your card, or ask our front desk to check for you.
Other ways coverage works
Medicare Advantage
These plans set their own rules for chiropractic visits. Ask your plan, or ask us to check for you before the first visit.
Supplement plans
A supplement plan may pay the part Original Medicare leaves to you. Bring your card and we will ask about it.
Paying yourself
You have the right to a Good Faith Estimate, in writing, before your first visit.
How fees work
- A sudden severe headache or neck pain, dizziness, trouble speaking or seeing, new weakness or numbness, numbness in the groin or saddle area (between the legs and buttocks), or new bladder or bowel trouble needs emergency care now. Call 911 or go to an emergency room.
Questions about Medicare?
Call the front desk. We will check your coverage and tell you what we find.