Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Does South Carolina accept Part IV of the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) examination?
Yes.
Q. Is South Carolina an insurance equality state?
No. However, Section 38-71-210 of the S. C. Code of Laws states that if an insurer offers a policy containing a provision for medical expense benefits that does not provide payment for chiropractic services, it shall offer an optional rider or endorsement if it is specifically requested by the insured or subscriber under an individual policy, or an insured under a master policy. Such rider shall define the procedures for which benefits will be paid. Additional costs to the insured must be reasonably related to the benefits provided.
Q. May a chiropractor practice acupuncture?
Acupuncture is regulated by the Board of Medical Examiners. Information concerning the practice of acupuncture and requirements to obtain certification to practice acupuncture may be obtained through the Board of Medical Examiners.
Q. What regulations does the Board have on Advertising?
Advertising must be consistent, i.e. if a service is offered free or
advertised as free it must be free to the consumer, a patient and free from
insurance billing.
Recommendations:
- If coupons are issued or advertised, they should be time sensitive and the expiration date clearly indicated.
- A disclaimer should be set out that the service is not available to Medicare, Medicaid or government employees (state or federal).
- If service is offered for free, i.e. free spinal adjustment, the licensee cannot later bill the insurance company or receive cash payment.
- You cannot advertise yourself as a specialist, i.e. Sports Chiropractic, if you are not.
- You cannot advertise yourself as a specialist in spinal adjustment or the best chiropractor, i.e. spinal adjuster.
- If money coupons are offered or a monetary discount is offered for chiropractic service, the amount must be claimed as income by the chiropractor.