EDUCATION: Can a Physical Therapist or Chiropractor “Opt-Out” of Medicare?

As of November 1, 2019,  a physical therapist or chiropractor,  are unable to “opt-out” out Medicare. If you look at this chart you will see that physical therapists and chiropractors are not listed as providers who are able to opt out. The Medicare Benefit Policy Manual: Chapter 15 Section 40.4 states Physical therapists in independent practice and occupational therapists in independent practice cannot opt out because they are not within the opt out law’s definition of either a “physician” or “practitioner”. A non-opt-out provider, is required to submit a claim for any item or service that is, or may be, covered by Medicare. The only situation in which they are not required to submit claims to Medicare for covered services is where a beneficiary or the beneficiary’s legal representative refuses, of his/her own free will, to authorize the submission of a bill to Medicare. Web: www.JonesHealthLaw.com Phone: (305)877-5054 Instagram: @JonesHealthLaw Facebook: @JonesHealthLaw Youtube: @JonesHealthLaw