Acupuncture involves shallow piercing of the skin with small needles at specific points. Traditional Chinese practitioners theorize that the points connect with energy conducting meridians, affecting spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical balance of the opposing forces of yin and yang. Western scientists suggest that stimulation with the needles may enhance or inhibit nerve conduction.
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis it occurs in most adults over 60 years of age. Osteoarthritis is also referred to as "degenerative joint disease". It is characterized by the breakdown of the joint's cartilage. Cartilage is the part of the joint that cushions the ends of bones. Cartilage breakdown causes bones to rub against each other, causing pain and loss of movement.
A Requestor has asked that CMS change the current national coverage determination from one of non-coverage of acupuncture to allow national coverage of this therapy. CMS will review the scientific evidence and determine if this procedure would be a reasonable and necessary service for Medicare beneficiaries.
December 2, 2002
CMS staff worked with requestor to complete formal request, including gathering appropriate evidence, and formally accepted request today for review.
CMS has requested a Technology Assessment (TA) from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) for a review of the literature available on acupuncture. The CMS Decision Memorandum will be posted within 60 days of receipt of the TA.
[Date entered in Expected Completion Date field is an approximation.]
