Does Medicare Cover Acupuncture?

If you’re 65 years or older and suffering from low back pain, you’re not alone . Low back pain is actually the most common health issue in this age group that could cause chronic pain or even disability. In fact, it’s so prevalent, Medicare  covers acupuncture as a treatment — but only for those with diagnosed chronic low back pain. Low back pain that lasts three months or longer is considered chronic and can be treated a few different ways, the most invasive of which is surgery. However, there are other options , and acupuncture — where practitioners stimulate “trigger points” with thin needles on the skin — can be helpful to relieve the pain and discomfort caused by the chronic pain. Medicare  Part B covers up to 12 acupuncture visits in 90 days for chronic low back pain. If acupuncture treatment helps your pain, Medicare can cover eight additional sessions. In all, you’re able to get up to 20 acupuncture treatments per year. In order to receive acupuncture coverage through Medicare, your provider must have the appropriate degree and possess a current license to practice in your state.