Chiropractors Benefit from the Obama Healthcare Reform Bill

Throughout history, many chiropractors have felt the sting of borderline discrimination, both from other healthcare providers as well as the insurance companies who have the power to deny chiropractic claims. The chiropractic healthcare provider is, at long last, being considered a vital part of the healing team, and you will find them on staff in many hospitals. At this point in time, nearly half of all physicians routinely encourage their patients to seek the services of a chiropractor, especially after an accident. With the passing of Obama's Healthcare Reform Bill, the tides may be finally beginning to turn in favor of chiropractic health providers.

Non-Discrimination in Healthcare

Although the provisions specific to chiropractors listed in the Healthcare Reform Bill will not take effect until January 1, 2014, there are items which can give those in the chiropractic field hope for the future. Section 2706 of the Bill relates to non-discrimination in health care, and prevents insurance companies from discriminating against practicing chiropractors, based on their training and licensure. Once the bill kicks in, insurance companies will be forced to treat patient charges from chiropractic services in the same way they treat any physician-generated billing--provided they are licensed and certified at the state level.

Chiropractors as Part of Community Health Teams

Section 3502 of the Healthcare Reform Bill states that chiropractors will now be considered potential members of Community Health Teams; leading to the development of a "medical home," for all patients. Chiropractors will be considered an integral part of these community medical homes, working hand in hand with other physicians in order to ensure patient wellness. In Addition, the National Healthcare Workforce Commission will specifically include chiropractic care in their definition of "Healthcare Professionals" in Section 5101. Thanks to this section, chiropractic schools will now be included in the health professional training schools definition, and chiropractors will be a vital part of the federal healthcare workforce program.

Insurance Payment for Chiropractors

The Healthcare Reform Bill will ensure that the restrictions which are sometimes placed on payment for chiropractic services will be lifted, and they will be paid just as any other claim. In addition, due to skyrocketing healthcare claims, more and more insurance companies are looking for ways to promote wellness and good health, leading them to not only pay for, but actually suggest the services of chiropractic care for their clients. All in all, the news from the Healthcare Reform Bill is good for practicing chiropractors.

Connect to new patients - Get listed on Accidents.com for FREE by filling out our simple signup form today!

All content on Accidents.com is for informational purposes only and is NOT intended as legal or medical advice. Please seek advice from a professional on any related topics.

Tags:  Chiropractic · Chiropractors · Insurance