Acupuncture for Osteoarthritis

CMS has a national non-coverage determination for acupuncture to treat osteoarthritis, finding it not reasonable and necessary due to lack of convincing evidence and study design flaws. This non-coverage is effective for claims on or after April 16, 2004 (Policy NCD284).

"Acupuncture for the treatment of osteoarthritis is nationally non-covered because it is not considered reasonable and necessary under §1862(a)(1) of the Social Security Act."

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