WASHINGTON, D.C. – While Medicare has covered some chiropractic services since 1972, outdated provisions require beneficiaries to seek diagnostic tests elsewhere and then return to the chiropractor for covered care.  

U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) reintroduced the Chiropractic Medicare Coverage Modernization Act, which would expand Medicare coverage of chiropractic services to ensure patients enrolled in the program can access care as a non-drug alternative for pain management. Additionally, it would expand Medicare coverage to include x-rays and other diagnostic services needed to determine and prescribe appropriate chiropractic treatments.

The Chiropractic Medicare Coverage Modernization Act is supported by the North Dakota Chiropractic Association (NDCA).

“Medicare restrictions prevent chiropractors from offering patients a full scope of treatments or ordering diagnostic services for those who need them the most,” said Cramer. “This bipartisan legislation reduces barriers to care and supports access to non-drug treatment options for our seniors.”

“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 Outdated regulations make it difficult for individuals to receive affordable treatments and often block them from receiving helpful, pain-relieving services.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 Senator Blumenthal.

"Senator Cramer understands the challenges of delivering healthcare in rural areas like North Dakota—especially the challenges faced by seniors on Medicare who rely on help to stay active,” said NDCA President, Dr. Allen Hager. “The local chiropractor is sometimes the only healthcare professional in town and, more often, the only one where they can get a timely appointment. Health insurance coverage should not be a barrier to accessing the healthcare people need, especially for Medicare beneficiaries. The NDCA appreciates Senator Cramer’s support and thanks him for leading the fight for North Dakota seniors in Washington, DC."

Additional cosponsors include U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Chris Coons (D-DE), Steve Daines (R-MT), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hoeven (R-ND), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Mike Rounds (R-SD), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH).

Click here for bill text.