Does Medicare Cover Chronic Pain Management?

Is chronic pain keeping you from being as active as you would like or impacting your daily life? For too many seniors, the answer is yes. According to the National Institute of Health, 65% of seniors report suffering from pain and 35% say they suffer from chronic pain. Seeking treatment is essential for both our physical and emotional health. But does Medicare cover chronic pain management? 

Medicare Coverage for Arthritis and Other Chronic Conditions

Pain that persists for three months or longer is considered “chronic.” Some of the most common sources of chronic pain among older Americans are:

• Arthritis (48%)
• Neck and/or back pain (45%)
• Chronic joint pain (41%)
• Nerve pain (10%)
• Headache or migraine (6%)

These are not just the aches and pains associated with aging; it is persistent and can interfere with daily life and physical activity. Chronic pain is associated with depression, sleep disturbances, difficulty walking, increased risk of falls, and other negative impacts. If you suffer from chronic pain, you know about these challenges first hand. 

The good news is that there are effective steps you can take towards chronic pain management. But also of concern is whether you can get Medicare coverage for arthritis and other chronic conditions. 

Generally, Medicare Part B (medical insurance) and Medicare Part D (prescription drug insurance) can help pay for covered services related to chronic pain. These may include:

• Medication
• Physical therapy (if medically necessary)
• Occupational therapy (if medically necessary)
• Behavioral health integration services
• Depression screenings
• Individual and group therapy
• Substance misuse screening and counseling

Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover treatments like acupuncture, cognitive behavioral therapy, or massage therapy. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C), you may have additional benefits, such as coverage for massage therapy or acupuncture. Your plan may also include a monthly amount for over the counter drugs and supplies related to your chronic pain condition. 

With Original Medicare, you typically pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for visits to your health care provider(s), and you will pay your Part B deductible. The Part B deductible for 2020 is $198. Your exact out of pocket costs will depend on whether you have other insurance, how much your provider charges for services, and your specific plan.

If you have questions about what your Medicare and/or other insurance will cover, please call Cano Health at 855.CANOMED (855.226.6633). We can help answer your specific questions and develop a chronic pain management program that works for you. 

How Can Cano Health Help with Chronic Pain Management?

Cano Health has a highly experienced arthritis and chronic pain management team, which specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as arthritis, rheumatic, connective tissue diseases, and osteoporosis.

Living with chronic pain is difficult on the body, but it also is difficult for our mental and emotional states. It can become even more challenging to manage pain. Our experts can help so you can live your life to the fullest. 

>> Contact Cano Health now at at 855.CANOMED (855.226.6633).