In recent announcements and materials, CMS incorrectly included chiropractors in the list of physician and practitioner types that may order and refer items or services to Medicare beneficiaries. In accordance with section 1877(a)(1) and (5)(A), and section 1861(r)(5) of the Social Security Act, and 42 CFR 410.21(b)(1) and (2), doctors of chiropractic medicine are not eligible to order and refer. Medicare coverage extends only to treatment by means of manual manipulation of the spine to correct a subluxation; all other services furnished or ordered by chiropractors are not covered.
CMS is in the process of revising documents (including change requests) to reflect this correction.
