Peace Garden News

U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer and Richard Blumenthal have reintroduced the Chiropractic Medicare Coverage Modernization Act, aiming to expand Medicare coverage for chiropractic services. This legislation seeks to provide patients with access to non-drug alternatives for pain management by including x-rays and other diagnostic services necessary for chiropractic treatments.

Since 1972, Medicare has covered some chiropractic services, but current provisions require beneficiaries to seek diagnostic tests outside of chiropractic care before returning for covered treatment. The proposed act intends to address these limitations.

Senator Cramer emphasized the importance of reducing barriers to care, stating, “Medicare restrictions prevent chiropractors from offering patients a full scope of treatments or ordering diagnostic services for those who need them the most.” He described the legislation as a means to support access to non-drug treatment options for seniors.

Senator Blumenthal echoed these sentiments, highlighting that expanding Medicare coverage would enable patients to receive quality care. “Outdated regulations make it difficult for individuals to receive affordable treatments and often block them from receiving helpful, pain-relieving services,” he said.

Dr. Allen Hager, President of the North Dakota Chiropractic Association (NDCA), expressed gratitude towards Senator Cramer’s efforts. He noted the challenges faced by seniors in rural areas like North Dakota and stressed that health insurance should not be a barrier to accessing necessary healthcare.

The bill has garnered additional support from U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin, Chris Coons, Steve Daines, Martin Heinrich, John Hoeven, Amy Klobuchar, Jerry Moran, Mike Rounds, and Jeanne Shaheen.