Why Chiropractors Cannot "Opt Out" of Medicare | with Lisa Maciejewski-West

Many chiropractors believe they can simply operate a cash-only practice or have patients sign an ABN form to avoid dealing with Medicare. According to the law, they are completely wrong.In this episode, Wade sits down with Lisa Maciejewski-West from Gold Star Medical, a billing and compliance expert with 44 years of experience in the chiropractic field. Lisa breaks down the harsh reality of Medicare compliance: chiropractors are statutorily prohibited from opting out of Medicare.They discuss the massive compliance risks chiropractors take by operating under the radar, the difference between Participating (PAR) and Non-Participating (Non-PAR) elections, and why offering "free" or discounted non-covered services to Medicare beneficiaries is actually a violation of the federal Anti-Kickback Statute.Episode Chapters:(00:00:51) The "Opt-Out" Myth for Chiropractors(00:03:42) How to Handle Medicare Patients at the Front Desk(00:05:17) Enrolling in Medicare: PAR vs. Non-PAR(00:09:03) Understanding Covered vs. Non-Covered Services(00:11:30) The Anti-Kickback Risk of "Free" Exams(00:12:56) When to Actually Use an ABN Form(00:15:38) How Well-Meaning Patients Trigger Audits(00:21:48) Medicare Advantage vs. Original Medicare(00:26:38) Criminal and Civil Penalties for Non-Compliance