JEFFERSON CITY (AP) - Missouri will cover more non-opioid treatment options for Medicaid recipients who suffer from chronic pain as part of an effort to prevent substance abuse.
The Missouri Department of Social Services said in a news release that new services that will be covered starting Monday include chiropractic care and acupuncture. The department's Todd Richardson says the goal of providing the alternative and complementary therapy options is to provide pain relief "without the risks associated with an opiate." He oversees Missouri's Medicaid program for the poor, which is called MO HealthNet.
The release says the department estimates adding the service will actually reduce costs by lowering prescription drug costs, eliminating emergency room visits, and avoiding the need for other medical services.