Larson, Blumenthal, Cramer, Steube Introduce Chiropractic Medicare Coverage Modernization Act
Washington, D.C. - Reps. John B. Larson (CT-01) and Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) joined Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Greg Steube (FL-17) to introduce legislation to provide Medicare coverage for all chiropractic care services.
“I am thrilled to introduce this legislation with my colleagues to reduce the barriers seniors face accessing chiropractic care,” said Larson. “While it is usually covered by private insurance and the VA, Medicare still does not cover some of the most common forms of chiropractic care, including joint mobilization and other treatments. This bill will ensure our nation’s seniors can finally access all forms of chiropractic care they may need through Medicare.”
“Expanding Medicare coverage to include chiropractic service allows patients to access the quality care they deserve. Outdated regulations make it difficult for individuals to receive affordable treatments and often block them from receiving helpful, pain-relieving services. With the Chiropractic Medicare Coverage Modernization Act, we put patients first and work to reduce barriers to care—allowing individuals to find the relief they need,” said Blumenthal.
"With musculoskeletal conditions and opioid concerns affecting so many of our Connecticut Medicare beneficiaries, we welcome our legislators' efforts to modernize the language of the Medicare law. Chiropractic is a proven, cost-effective treatment option that helps our seniors manage pain safely while maintaining their independence and quality of life," said Dr. Nick Karapasas, President of the Connecticut Chiropractic Association.
“Medicare restrictions prevent chiropractors from offering patients a full scope of treatments or ordering diagnostic services for those who need them the most,” said Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND). “This bipartisan legislation reduces barriers to care and supports access to non-drug treatment options for our seniors.”
“I'm honored to represent the largest Medicare-eligible district in America. I take seriously my responsibility to craft policies that benefit the 4.8 million Floridians enrolled in Medicare. My legislation will provide Medicare beneficiaries across the country with more flexibility in their treatment options and will help lower the risk of individuals turning to opioids for pain management. Medicare beneficiaries deserve access to all chiropractic services without burdensome red tape," said Rep. Greg Steube (FL-17).
Medicare first began providing beneficiaries access to chiropractic care in 1972. Since then, Medicare has only been able to reimburse services considered “medically necessary,” prohibiting coverage for chiropractic practices like joint mobilization, physiological therapies, soft tissue massage techniques, and other treatments.
This legislation will bring Medicare chiropractic coverage more in line with services provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs, Department of Defense, the Federal Employee Health Benefits Program, and private health insurance coverage.