Benefits and Risks

Resources

Reimbursement by insurance companies for chiropractic services is more likely - and more generous -- than for most other types of complementary or alternative care now available such as naturopathic medicine, homeopathy, biofeedback and reiki, for example. One study found in 2002, more than half of all health maintenance organizations and more than three-quarters of all private health care plans provide coverage for chiropractic services. The federal Medicare program permits chiropractors to bill the government for reimbursement, and at least two dozen state Medicaid programs include such coverage, according to the same report.

However, you might find limits on choice. Many health care plans will allow members to choose a chiropractor only from the list of providers already on the plans' approved lists. If you have insurance, check with your heath plan to see if they offer coverage and ask if there's a restricted list of providers you are permitted to visit within the terms of your plan.