Do Chiropractics Take Insurance?: What Insurance Cover for Chiropractic Treatments
Most health insurance plans, including those offered by major providers like Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, and United Healthcare, offer some level of coverage for chiropractic care. However, the extent of coverage varies greatly depending on the insurance plan. Typically, insurance covers treatments deemed “medically necessary,” which usually include services such as spinal adjustments, initial exams, and diagnostic tests like X-rays. For these services to be covered, there must be a documented diagnosis and a clear treatment plan outlining short- and long-term goals. For example, HMOs (Health Maintenance Organizations) often require a referral from a primary care physician before patients can access chiropractic care. PPOs (Preferred Provider Organizations) on the other hand allow patients to visit chiropractors both in-network and out-of-network, often without needing a referral.Limitations and Requirements
While insurance generally covers chiropractic care, most plans come with limitations. These can include a cap on the number of visits allowed per year or a maximum dollar amount covered annually. In addition, certain insurance plans only cover treatments that show documented improvement within the first few weeks of care. It’s essential for patients to confirm with their insurance provider whether chiropractic care is covered under their specific plan. Key questions to ask include:- Is referral required?
- Is the chiropractor in-network?
- What copays, coinsurance, or deductibles apply to the treatment?
The Role of Maintenance Care
It’s important to note that while insurance companies often cover “active care” (care that addresses an immediate issue or injury), they may not cover “maintenance care.” Maintenance care refers to ongoing chiropractic visits that aim to prevent future issues or maintain general spinal health. Insurance plans often exclude these types of services unless there’s a clear medical necessity.
How NPG Associates Can Help
For both patients and chiropractors, navigating the complex world of insurance claims and managing overdue payments can be overwhelming. This is where NPG Associates steps in. We offer accounts receivable services that help chiropractic practices streamline their financial processes by managing insurance claims and collecting on overdue payments.
Our 60 years of expertise in handling debt recovery ensures that practices can focus on patient care while maximizing their revenue cycle. By choosing NPG Associates, both chiropractors and their patients can expect a seamless experience in resolving outstanding payments, ensuring smoother financial outcomes for all parties involved.
Get started with tailored, results-driven approach to streamline the process and safeguard your financial health.
