Question: My Medicare policy covers acupuncture. Can I come in for treatment?

Medicare does cover acupuncture for chronic low back pain. It has been an option for Medicare patients since 2020.

However, right now, only Medicare providers can provide these treatments.

Licensed acupuncturists who work in solo practices are not Medicare providers.

LAc’s who are working directly under MD’s can provide acupuncture services to Medicare patients. MD’s, DO’s or NP’s who are also licensed to practice acupuncture can also provide acupuncture services. This means that not very many providers nationwide can actually provide acupuncture services to Medicare patients.

Currently, licensed acupuncturists are working toward becoming Medicare providers. There is legislation in Congress currently that would open up the Social Security Act and, if the legislation passes, licensed acupuncturists will be able to be Medicare providers. If you would like to weigh in with your Congressperson about allowing licensed acupuncturists to be Medicare providers, follow this link.