The New York State Budget has been Finalized

Resulting from efforts to place conservative chiropractic care, at the forefront of solutions to the opioid crisis, the following language was included in the state budget:

The commissioner of health is authorized to establish pilot programs in one or more counties or regions of the state for the purpose of promoting the use of alternatives to opioid treatment for individuals suffering from chronic lower back pain by offering access to  nonpharmacologic  treatments  such as acupuncture and chiropractic services. Such access may be provided in select areas that have the highest need for such services and for select populations. The provisions of this section shall not take effect unless all necessary approvals under federal law and regulation have been obtained to receive federal financial participation in the costs of services provided under this section.

The intent is to run Medicaid pilot programs, including coverage for acupuncture and chiropractic.  This is a step in the right direction, as it will demonstrate the benefits of chiropractic care and expanded access and options to patients. 

We will continue to work with our state legislators and the Department of Health to make this pilot program a success.

Thanks to all who worked tirelessly to show that chiropractic and conservative care is an essential part of the solution to the opioid epidemic.

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