U.S. Representatives Greg Steube and John B. Larson have introduced a bill in the House of Representatives aimed at expanding Medicare coverage to include all services provided by chiropractic doctors. This legislative effort is mirrored in the Senate by Senators Kevin Cramer and Richard Blumenthal, who presented companion legislation.
The proposed Chiropractic Medicare Coverage Modernization Act seeks to offer Medicare patients access to chiropractic care as an alternative for pain management without the use of drugs. Rep. Greg Steube emphasized his commitment to providing more treatment options for the 4.8 million Floridians enrolled in Medicare, stating, “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.”
Rep. Larson expressed enthusiasm about reducing barriers seniors face when accessing chiropractic care, noting that while private insurance and the VA cover these services, Medicare does not currently include some common forms such as joint mobilization.
Senator Cramer highlighted that current restrictions prevent chiropractors from offering a full range of treatments or ordering necessary diagnostic services for those most in need. He stated, “This bipartisan legislation reduces barriers to care and supports access to non-drug treatment options for our seniors.”
Senator Blumenthal pointed out that outdated regulations hinder affordable treatments and block access to helpful services. He said, “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.”
The American Chiropractic Association supports this legislation which aims at reducing reliance on prescription drugs like opioids among older adults with spinal pain by facilitating access to chiropractic care.
Since its inception in 1972, Medicare has only reimbursed medically necessary chiropractic services under strict requirements. The new act proposes removing these obstacles, aligning Medicare’s coverage with other federal health programs such as those offered by the Department of Veterans Affairs and private insurers.
