Manipulation/mobilization is a passive maneuver in which a joint(s) is suddenly moved beyond the normal physiological range of movement without exceeding the boundaries of anatomic integrity. This treatment may be accomplished by a variety of techniques. The most common techniques include short lever, high velocity manipulation/mobilization directed at a specific vertebra or joint for the purpose of taking the joint to the paraphysiological ranges of motion in the treatment of subluxation; and long lever, low velocity manipulation/mobilization intended to correct or impact numerous vertebrae or joints at one time for the purpose of relieving somatic dysfunction.

The typical manipulation/mobilization encounter for a patient includes a progress report from the patient and brief physical examination which determines the method, location, and intensity of the manipulation/mobilization, if it is medically indicated. Physical therapy (e.g., heat, muscle stimulation, massage, trigger point stimulation, traction, etc.), which is often performed as an adjunct to manipulation/mobilization, is also considered a component of a manipulation/mobilization encounter. "Active" rehabilitative procedures 97112-97116 are eligible in addition to a manipulation/mobilization encounter if medically indicated. A non-traumatic condition with no herniation does not require "active" rehabilitation in most patients. If the individual elements of a manipulation/mobilization encounter are reported independently, they will be combined and processed under the appropriate manipulation/mobilization encounter code.

Note: Only one manipulation/mobilization encounter will be eligible per day. When an initial visit for a new patient is performed, the level of cognitive skill and decision making should be reflected by the appropriate manipulation/mobilization encounter code. Also, additional manipulation/mobilization and/or evaluation and management services performed on unrelated body regions should be reflected in the level of cognitive skill reported for the primary manipulation/mobilization encounter.

When a benefit, manipulation/mobilization for all body regions should be paid in accordance with the following guidelines:

1. Manipulation/mobilization is a covered service when performed with the expectation of restoring the patient's level of function which has been lost or reduced by injury or illness. Manipulation/mobilization should be provided in accordance with an ongoing, written treatment plan. The treatment plan should include:
   
   • The specific modalities/procedures to be used in treatment
   • Diagnosis
   • Degree of severity (mild, moderate, severe)
   • Impairment Characteristics
   • Physical examination findings - X-ray or other pertinent findings
   • Specific statements of long and short-term goals
   • A reasonable estimate of when the goals will be reached (estimated duration of treatment, e.g., # of weeks)
   • The frequency of treatment (e.g., # of times per week)
     
   
   The treatment plan should be updated as the patient's condition changes.

2. Payment may be made for up to 15 medically necessary outpatient manipulation/mobilization encounters per calendar year (January-December). Claims requesting outpatient manipulation/mobilization encounters in excess of 15 sessions will be denied, unless there is an approved treatment plan. Medical necessity denials are non-billable by a preferred or participating provider. Approval by the Dedicated Unit of all manipulation/mobilization encounters in excess of 15 is required before payment can be made. (NOTE: The limitation addressed in this paragraph does not apply to inpatient manipulation/mobilization encounters.)

3. In addition to a treatment plan, additional documentation from the provider requesting additional sessions could include the provider"s pertinent evaluation (exam findings), progress notes, and opinions about the patient's need for continued services (treatment plan). In addition, the medical history, as it relates to the outpatient manipulation/mobilization encounter, must include the date of onset and/or exacerbation of the illness or injury. Any history from a previous provider is also necessary for patients who have transferred to a new provider for additional treatment.
   

   Note: Physical therapy performed in conjunction with a manipulation/mobilization is considered to be a component of the manipulation/mobilization encounter, and therefore, is not eligible for separate reimbursement. However, physical therapy for a separate condition administered to a body region unrelated to a manipulation/mobilization {e.g., manipulation/mobilization to the left shoulder (S8906-S8910) and physical therapy (97010-97530, W9715, W9720,) to a sprained right ankle would be considered a "separate" treatment} can be sent to the Dedicated Unit for review. The guidelines addressed on Medical Policy Bulletin Y-1, including the need for a separate physical therapy treatment plan, should be applied by the Dedicated Unit when determining eligibility.
   

4. Manipulation/mobilization performed repetitively to maintain a level of function is not eligible for reimbursement and is billable by a preferred or participating provider. A maintenance program consists of activities that preserve the patient's present level of function and prevent regression of that function. Maintenance begins when the therapeutic goals of a treatment plan have been achieved, or when no additional functional progress is apparent or expected to occur. Maintenance procedures should be reported under procedure code W9700.
   

Services by a chiropractor are not eligible under the Federal Employees Program.

Managed Care

The treatment plan requirements and the 15 session out-patient physical therapy cap do not apply to Managed Care Programs.

PRN References

12/1993, Spinal manipulation and medical care
06/1994, Manipulation
04/1996, Manipulation therapy
06/1996, Manipulation and physical therapy
10/1996, Manipulation and physical therapy changes
10/1996, Therapy treatment plan
12/1996, Manipulation and physical therapy treatment plan: tips for completing form 3861
02/1997, Manipulation and physical therapy update
02/1998, Manipulation therapy codes change
08/1999, Manipulation therapy reporting guidelines reminder