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Does Insurance Cover Chiropractic Care?

Chiropractic care is one of the most widely covered alternative therapies. Medicare Part B covers manual spinal manipulation to correct subluxation, and the vast majority of private PPO and HMO plans include chiropractic benefits. Most plans limit annual visits to 20-30 sessions.

Widely Covered

Medicare Coverage

Medicare Part B covers manual manipulation of the spine by a licensed chiropractor (DC) to correct a subluxation. Only the manipulation itself is covered — X-rays, physical exams, and other services ordered by a chiropractor are NOT covered by Medicare.

Coverage Conditions

  • Must be manual manipulation of the spine
  • Must be to correct a subluxation
  • Subluxation demonstrated by X-ray or physical exam

Eligible Providers

Licensed chiropractors (DC)
Use our Medicare Coverage Checker for instant results →

Private Insurance Coverage

Most employer-sponsored and marketplace plans cover chiropractic care. Typical limits are 20-30 visits per year. Copays usually range from $20-50 per visit. Many plans require in-network providers. Some plans require a referral from a primary care physician.

What about Medicaid?

Medicaid coverage for chiropractic care 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 chiropractic care:

All 50 states require commercial plans to cover chiropractic or include chiropractors as eligible providers

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 chiropractic care, these are the relevant CPT codes:

98940Chiropractic manipulative treatment, 1-2 spinal regions
98941Chiropractic manipulative treatment, 3-4 spinal regions
98942Chiropractic manipulative treatment, 5 spinal regions
98943Chiropractic manipulative treatment, extraspinal regions

Tips for Getting Coverage

  1. 1

    Verify your plan's annual visit limit — most cap at 20-30 visits

  2. 2

    Stay in-network to minimize copays ($20-50 vs $75-150 out-of-network)

  3. 3

    Ask if your plan covers maintenance/wellness visits or only acute care

  4. 4

    Get a referral if your plan requires one — skipping this can result in denial

  5. 5

    Some plans cover chiropractic without a deductible as preventive care

How to Check Your Coverage

  1. 1

    Call the number on your insurance card

    Ask: "Is chiropractic care 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 chiropractic care, 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

$30

Average

$75

High

$200

Per

per visit

Monthly cost: $75–$600 (1-3x per week initially, then monthly maintenance).

Use our Cost Calculator for detailed pricing →

Find Chiropractic Care Providers

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does Medicare cover chiropractic care?
Medicare Part B covers manual manipulation of the spine by a licensed chiropractor (DC) to correct a subluxation. Only the manipulation itself is covered — X-rays, physical exams, and other services ordered by a chiropractor are NOT covered by Medicare.
Does private insurance cover chiropractic care?
Most employer-sponsored and marketplace plans cover chiropractic care. Typical limits are 20-30 visits per year. Copays usually range from $20-50 per visit. Many plans require in-network providers. Some plans require a referral from a primary care physician.
Which states mandate insurance coverage for chiropractic care?
The following states have mandates or requirements for chiropractic care coverage: All 50 states require commercial plans to cover chiropractic or include chiropractors as eligible providers. Even in these states, coverage details and limits vary by plan.
How much does chiropractic care cost without insurance?
Without insurance, chiropractic care typically costs $30-$200 per visit (national average: $75). Monthly costs range from $75-$600.
Can I use HSA or FSA funds for chiropractic care?
In many cases, yes. Chiropractic Care 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.

Other Insurance Guides

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Functional Medicine

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IV Therapy

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Ketamine Therapy

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PEMF Therapy

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PRP Therapy (Platelet-Rich Plasma)

Not Covered

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