Acupuncture
Medicare Coverage Information
Overview
Medicare provides limited coverage for acupuncture specifically for chronic low back pain. Beneficiaries can receive up to 12 acupuncture sessions in 90 days under certain medical conditions and with specific provider requirements.
- Covers acupuncture only for chronic low back pain
- Limited to 12 sessions in 90 days
- Additional 8 sessions possible if patient shows improvement
- Must be performed by qualified healthcare professionals
- Requires documentation of medical necessity
- Medicare Part B beneficiaries
- Patients with chronic low back pain lasting 12+ weeks
- No significant improvement from other treatments
- 20% coinsurance after meeting Part B deductible
- Acupuncture must be provided by Medicare-approved practitioners
- Additional sessions beyond initial 12 require medical documentation
- Only covers chronic low back pain treatment
- Not covered for other conditions or pain types
- Requires physician or primary care provider referral
- Must demonstrate medical necessity
- Maximum of 20 total sessions per year
- Consult primary care physician about acupuncture for chronic low back pain
- Verify practitioner's Medicare approval status
- Confirm medical necessity documentation
- Check specific coverage details with local Medicare administrator
Last updated: 6/15/2025
Quick Information
- Provider
- Medicare
- Last Updated
- 6/15/2025
- Topics
- Medicare acupuncturechronic low back pain treatmentMedicare alternative therapyacupuncture coverageMedicare Part B
Related Coverage Topics
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