CMS says that any Medicare Advantage plan offering acupuncture coverage as a supplemental benefit must be provided by certified practitioners in a way that is within the scope of practice defined by their certifying state. . Various states may have their own licensing or certification for acupuncture practitioners.
Acupuncture is a way to unblock or influence chi and help it flow back into balance. Acupuncture is done by putting very thin needles into your skin at certain points on your body. This is done to influence the energy flow. Sometimes heat, pressure, or mild electrical current is used along with needles. Current as of: January 3, 2022.
Does Medicare Cover Acupuncture? Medicare may cover acupuncture to treat chronic low back pain. It does not currently cover the treatment for any other purpose, such as treating mental health conditions. Medicare may cover up to 12 acupuncture treatments within a 90-day period for eligible enrollees. You may be entitled to funding for an ...
The CMS is seeking more evidence about potential benefits and harms before deciding whether to cover acupuncture for all Medicare beneficiaries with chronic low back pain. "Chronic low back pain impacts many Medicare patients and is a leading reason for opioid prescribing," CMS official Kimberly Brandt, JD, said in a statement.
MHCP allows up to 20 units of acupuncture services per calendar year without authorization. Request authorization if additional units are needed. Before the start of acupuncture treatment, the acupuncture provider must document a brief history of the patient's presenting problem. The medical record must also include the acupuncture provider ...