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Does Insurance Cover Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is partially covered by insurance. Medicare has covered acupuncture for chronic low back pain since January 2020, and many private PPO/HMO plans include acupuncture benefits for a range of conditions. Coverage typically requires a licensed acupuncturist or physician acupuncturist and may be limited to a set number of sessions per year.

Partially Covered

Medicare Coverage

Covered for chronic lower back pain (cLBP) only since January 21, 2020. Up to 12 visits in 90 days, with an additional 8 sessions if improvement is demonstrated. Maximum 20 treatments per year. Not covered for any other condition.

NCD References

NCD 30.3.3 — Acupuncture for Chronic Lower Back Pain

NCD 30.3.1 — Acupuncture for Fibromyalgia

NCD 30.3.2 — Acupuncture for Osteoarthritis

NCD 30.3 — Acupuncture

Coverage Conditions

  • Chronic lower back pain lasting 12+ weeks
  • Nonspecific (no systemic cause)
  • Not surgery-related or pregnancy-related
  • Must discontinue if not improving

Eligible Providers

Physicians (MD/DO)PAs, NPs, CNSs with ACAOM-accredited degree + state licenseLicensed acupuncturists (under physician supervision)
Use our Medicare Coverage Checker for instant results →

Private Insurance Coverage

Many private insurers cover 12-24 acupuncture sessions per year. Coverage is most common in PPO plans and varies by diagnosis. Some plans require referral from a primary care physician. Check your Summary of Benefits for acupuncture-specific limits.

What about Medicaid?

Medicaid coverage for acupuncture varies by state. Some states cover it under managed care plans while others do not. Contact your state Medicaid office or check your plan's benefits guide.

States That Mandate Coverage

The following states require commercial insurance plans to cover or offer coverage for acupuncture:

CaliforniaWashingtonMontanaNew MexicoAlaskaMaryland

Note: Self-insured employer plans (ERISA plans) may not be subject to state mandates. Check with your plan administrator.

CPT Codes for Billing

If your provider bills insurance for acupuncture, these are the relevant CPT codes:

97810Acupuncture, 1+ needles, initial 15 min
97811Acupuncture, 1+ needles, each additional 15 min
97813Acupuncture with electrical stimulation, initial 15 min
97814Acupuncture with electrical stimulation, additional 15 min

Tips for Getting Coverage

  1. 1

    Ask your insurer specifically about acupuncture benefits — it's often a separate rider

  2. 2

    Community acupuncture clinics offer sessions at $20-40 if insurance doesn't cover

  3. 3

    Get a referral from your PCP to strengthen coverage approval

  4. 4

    Use HSA/FSA funds for out-of-pocket acupuncture costs

  5. 5

    If denied, appeal with a letter of medical necessity from your doctor

How to Check Your Coverage

  1. 1

    Call the number on your insurance card

    Ask: "Is acupuncture a covered benefit under my plan?" Get the answer in writing or note the reference number.

  2. 2

    Ask about prior authorization

    Some plans require pre-approval before treatment. Ask if a referral from your primary care doctor is needed.

  3. 3

    Verify provider network status

    In-network providers will cost significantly less. Ask your insurer for a list of covered providers in your area.

  4. 4

    Understand your cost share

    Ask about your copay, coinsurance, and deductible for this service. Out-of-network benefits may still apply.

  5. 5

    Check HSA/FSA eligibility

    Even if insurance doesn't cover acupuncture, you may be able to use pre-tax HSA or FSA funds. Get a letter of medical necessity from your doctor.

Cost Without Insurance

Low

$50

Average

$100

High

$200

Per

per session

Monthly cost: $100–$800 (1-2x per week initially, then maintenance every 2-4 weeks).

Use our Cost Calculator for detailed pricing →

Find Acupuncture Providers

Browse our verified directory of acupuncture providers. Filter by insurance accepted, credentials, and location.

Take the Quiz — Get MatchedBrowse Directory

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Medicare cover acupuncture?
Covered for chronic lower back pain (cLBP) only since January 21, 2020. Up to 12 visits in 90 days, with an additional 8 sessions if improvement is demonstrated. Maximum 20 treatments per year. Not covered for any other condition.
Does private insurance cover acupuncture?
Many private insurers cover 12-24 acupuncture sessions per year. Coverage is most common in PPO plans and varies by diagnosis. Some plans require referral from a primary care physician. Check your Summary of Benefits for acupuncture-specific limits.
Which states mandate insurance coverage for acupuncture?
The following states have mandates or requirements for acupuncture coverage: California, Washington, Montana, New Mexico, Alaska, Maryland. Even in these states, coverage details and limits vary by plan.
How much does acupuncture cost without insurance?
Without insurance, acupuncture typically costs $50-$200 per session (national average: $100). Monthly costs range from $100-$800.
Can I use HSA or FSA funds for acupuncture?
In many cases, yes. Acupuncture may be eligible for HSA/FSA reimbursement with a letter of medical necessity from your doctor. Check with your plan administrator for specific eligibility rules.

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Last updated: May 2026. Insurance coverage changes frequently. Always verify with your insurer before starting treatment.