Chiropractors in Arizona
Checking a chiropractor's license in Arizona
Chiropractors in Arizona are licensed by the Arizona State Board of Chiropractic Examiners.
- Look up a Arizona chiropractic license on the state's official site.
What chiropractors can and can't do in Arizona
Arizona law calls a doctor of chiropractic a portal-of-entry health care provider. Chiropractors diagnose and correct subluxations and neuromuscular skeletal disorders; perform physical and clinical exams and diagnostic X-rays; may order limited lab procedures (such as swabs, urine collection, finger pricks or venipuncture); and treat with physical medicine modalities, adjustment of the spine or joints, orthopedic supports and acupuncture. They may not prescribe or administer medicine or drugs, perform surgery, or practice obstetrics.
Yes. Arizona law defines a doctor of chiropractic as a "portal of entry" health care provider, so you can see one without a physician referral. Your health plan may still have its own referral rules.
Sources: A.R.S. § 32-925: Practice of chiropractic; limitations; A.R.S. § 32-925: Practice of chiropractic; limitations
Insurance and coverage in Arizona
Medicaid
AHCCCS, Arizona's Medicaid program, covers chiropractic services for members under 21 and covers them with limits for adults: a primary care provider can initially order up to 20 visits a year and can request authorization for more if they're medically necessary.
Medicare
Medicare Part B covers only one chiropractic service: manual manipulation of the spine to correct a subluxation, when you have a significant neuromusculoskeletal problem and the subluxation is shown by X-ray or physical exam. Once treatment stops improving your condition and becomes maintenance therapy, Medicare stops paying. Other chiropractic services aren't covered.
Source: Chiropractic Services (Medicare Provider Compliance Tips; Benefit Policy Manual ch. 15, sec. 240.1)
After a car accident
Arizona requires an owner's motor vehicle liability policy, which pays for injuries you cause to others. Your own chiropractic care after a crash is typically paid by the at-fault driver's liability insurer, any medical payments coverage on your policy, or your health insurance.
Source: A.R.S. § 28-4009: Motor vehicle liability policy requirements
What chiropractic care costs in Arizona
Self-pay prices vary by practice, so ask for the cash price before your first visit. As a reference point, here's what Medicare approves in 2026 for a spinal adjustment in Arizona:
| 1–2 areas of the spine | $26.32 |
|---|---|
| 3–4 areas | $37.90 |
| 5 areas | $49.16 |
That's the total Medicare approves; with Medicare you typically owe 20% of it after your Part B deductible.
Source: PFS Relative Value Files: RVU26D (2026, October release)
Arizona chiropractic FAQ
Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor in Arizona?
Not under state law: Arizona defines a doctor of chiropractic as a portal-of-entry health care provider. Check whether your health plan requires a referral for coverage.
Does AHCCCS cover chiropractic care?
Yes. It's covered for members under 21. For adults, a primary care provider can order up to 20 visits a year initially and request authorization for more when medically necessary.
Can Arizona chiropractors prescribe medication?
No. Arizona law says a licensed chiropractor may not prescribe or administer medicine or drugs, perform surgery or practice obstetrics. They may prescribe orthopedic supports and perform acupuncture.
Arizona cities on Chirofinder
Sources
- Arizona State Board of Chiropractic Examiners (Arizona State Board of Chiropractic Examiners)
- A.R.S. § 32-925: Practice of chiropractic; limitations (Arizona Legislature)
- AMPM Exhibit 300-1: AHCCCS Covered Services (Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System)
- A.R.S. § 28-4009: Motor vehicle liability policy requirements (Arizona Legislature)
- Chiropractic Services (Medicare Provider Compliance Tips; Benefit Policy Manual ch. 15, sec. 240.1) (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services)
- PFS Relative Value Files: RVU26D (2026, October release) (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services)
Last reviewed October 15, 2026. This page summarizes state law and public programs for general information and isn't legal or medical advice; rules change, so confirm with the linked sources. See our medical disclaimer.