Living with pain can be challenging. No matter the cause, it’s important to manage it safely and effectively. Medicare covers pain management and treatment services that can help, including care plans and medication management.

Sometimes, a doctor may prescribe pain medications covered under Medicare prescription drug coverage (Part D) to help manage pain. Many different types can be effective at treating certain types of pain, and some carry certain risks and side-effects. Some people may also want to take advantage of other supportive services available under Medicare, such as counseling and behavioral health services. 

Finding a way to manage pain is often easier if it’s addressed early. The first step is talking with your doctor about all your options and working together to determine what is right for you.

Services that Medicare Part B (medical insurance) covers for pain and related issues include:acupuncture for lower-back pain, chiropractors, alcohol misuse and counseling, behavioral health and depression services, and occupational and physical therapy.

Medicare drug coverage (Part D) may cover:medication therapy management or complex health needs, and opiod prescriptions.

For most pain management services, Medicare enrollees pay 20 percent of the Medicare-approved amount for visits to doctor or other healthcare providers. The Part B deductible applies.to services in a hospital outpatient clinic or hospital outpatient department, you may have to pay an additional..

Source: Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.