VA to Eliminate Spinal Decompression from Standardized Episodes of Care

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a web page

Provider Advisor banner, no sign up

VA to Eliminate Spinal Decompression from Standardized Episodes of Care

VA has reviewed its policy relating to chiropractic care and will no longer reimburse spinal decompression Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) code S9090 on VA standardized episodes of care (SEOC) with dates of service effective Jan. 1, 2021, and later. 

We understand that community providers have been paid for this code in the past.  As part of our efforts to continually review the services provided to our Veterans, it was determined that there was insufficient evidence regarding unique benefits of this service to justify continued reimbursement for this code.  Other types of lumbar traction can be used for care provided to Veterans and will be reimbursed by VA.  As with any non-emergent Veteran community care, the services must be authorized in advance.  

Thank you for your continued care for our nation’s Veterans.


Please send questions about this bulletin to VHAOCCDigitalEngagement@va.gov 


You have received this message because you are subscribed to the VHA Office of Community Care - Monthly Provider Updates publication, a monthly publication that provides the latest updates that affect VA community providers. Access your Subscriber Preferences to make changes to your subscription or Unsubscribe. Get this as a forward? Sign Up to receive updates from Veterans Health. Having questions or problems? Please visit Subscriber Help for assistance.