Chiropractic Care and Medicare Part B
If you have Medicare Part B, understanding your chiropractic benefits can feel confusing. What’s covered? What isn’t? And what does that mean for your care?
At Broadstone Chiropractic, we believe in clear, straightforward communication. Our goal is to help you understand your options so you can make confident decisions about your health.
What Does Medicare Part B Cover?
Medicare Part B provides limited coverage for chiropractic care. Specifically, it covers spinal adjustments when they are medically necessary to correct a documented spinal subluxation.
To qualify for coverage, care must be:
• Medically necessary
• Related to an active condition
• Properly documented
Covered service:
• Chiropractic spinal adjustment (manipulation of the spine)
What Medicare Does Not Cover
Many services that are commonly part of a chiropractic visit are not covered by Medicare.
These include:
• Initial exams and re-examinations
• X-rays ordered by chiropractors
• Therapies and supportive treatments
• Care for extremities (shoulders, knees, etc.)
• Wellness or maintenance care
These services are often essential parts of comprehensive care, but are not reimbursed by Medicare.
Medicare Part B vs. Medicare Advantage Plans
Medicare Part B vs. Medicare Advantage Plans
Not all Medicare plans work the same way—and this is one of the most common areas of confusion.
Original Medicare (Part B) is a federal program that provides limited coverage for chiropractic care, specifically spinal adjustments when medically necessary.
Medicare Advantage plans, on the other hand, are offered by private insurance companies. While they replace Original Medicare, they each have their own rules, networks, and coverage requirements.
This means:
• Your plan may require you to see in-network providers
• Chiropractic benefits may be different—or more limited
• Some plans do not allow us to bill Medicare directly for your care
Because of these differences, patients with Medicare Advantage plans are often seen on a private-pay basis in our office.
Medicare Advantage plans are not the same as Medicare Part B—even though many patients assume they are.
If you’re unsure which type of plan you have, we’re happy to help you review your benefits so you know exactly what to expect.
Active Care vs. Wellness Care
Medicare only covers care that is considered “active treatment,” meaning care intended to improve a specific condition.
Once your condition has improved or stabilized, care is often classified as maintenance or wellness care. While this type of care is not covered by Medicare, it can still play an important role in your long-term health.
Ongoing Care and Wellness
While Medicare does not cover maintenance or wellness visits, many patients choose to continue care because of how it helps them feel and function.
Ongoing care may help:
• Prevent flare-ups
• Maintain mobility and strength
• Support healthy aging
• Stay active and engaged in daily life
We believe care shouldn’t stop just because pain improves. Our goal is to help you maintain your progress and continue living well.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help
Chiropractic care offers meaningful benefits for many Medicare patients, especially those looking to stay active and independent.
Patients often experience:
• Reduced back and neck pain
• Improved mobility and flexibility
• Better posture and balance
• Greater ease with daily activities
• Less reliance on medication
Our focus is not just on relieving symptoms, but on helping you move and feel your best.
Frequently Asked Questions
This is your sub-headline
Yes, we accept Traditional Medicare Part B for covered chiropractic services.
No. Medicare only covers spinal adjustments when medically necessary. Exams, therapies, and wellness care are not covered.
Yes. Many patients choose to continue care as part of a wellness plan.
No referral is required for chiropractic care under Medicare.
