Understanding MedPay: How Auto Insurance Covers Chiropractic Care After an Accident
If you’ve recently been in a car accident - even a minor one - you may be feeling pain, stiffness, headache, or tension that wasn’t there before. Many people don’t realize that auto accidents often cause soft-tissue injuries that don’t fully show up until days or weeks later. Getting evaluated right away can make a major difference in preventing long-term issues like chronic pain or limited mobility.
At Well Spine Family Chiropractic, our goal is to make your recovery as smooth and stress-free as possible. That’s why we work directly with your auto insurance’s MedPay coverage, which can help you receive the care you need with no out-of-pocket costs.
What Is MedPay?
MedPay, short for Medical Payments Coverage, is an optional benefit included in most Colorado auto insurance policies. It helps cover the cost of medical care after an accident, regardless of who was at fault. Many families are unaware that they have this coverage, and as a result, they miss out on care that could be fully covered.
In Colorado, unless you specifically opt out, insurance companies are required to provide at least $5,000 in MedPay per person in the vehicle. Many policies offer higher limits as well.
What Does MedPay Cover?
MedPay can be used for a wide range of post-accident medical services, including:
Chiropractic care
Massage therapy
Acupuncture
Physical therapy
Emergency room visits
Ambulance rides
Hospital stays
Diagnostic imaging such as X-rays or MRIs
This means you can receive comprehensive care while your body heals - without worrying about unexpected bills.
Why Chiropractic Care Is Essential After a Car Accident:
Even low-speed collisions can force the spine out of alignment, strain muscles, and damage ligaments. Without proper treatment, these injuries can lead to persistent pain or long-term dysfunction.
Chiropractic care helps:
Reduce pain and inflammation
Restore mobility and flexibility
Support the body’s natural healing
Prevent long-term spinal and soft-tissue issues
The sooner we can assess your injuries, the better your outcome tends to be.
How to Use Your MedPay Benefits:
Using MedPay is simple:
Call your insurance provider to open a claim before your first visit.
Once your claim is open, we handle the billing directly with your insurance company.
We also provide all necessary documentation of your injuries so your care is properly supported.
Common Questions About Using MedPay:
Will using MedPay raise my insurance rates?
No. MedPay is a no-fault benefit, which means it does not affect your premiums.
What if my insurance adjuster tells me not to open a claim?
Some adjusters discourage claims to reduce costs for the insurance company - but MedPay is your benefit, and using it will not negatively impact you. You're entitled to use the coverage you’ve been paying for.
Are there time limits on MedPay?
Yes. Many policies only cover accident-related treatment for 1–3 years after the crash. If too much time passes, the insurance carrier may no longer pay for care. It’s important to begin treatment promptly.
Your Recovery Starts Here
If you, a family member, or a friend has been in a car accident, don’t wait for pain to become a long-term issue. We’d love to help you find a provider in your area or get you scheduled in our office if you live near Boulder, Colorado. You can reach us at info@wellspinefamilychiropractic.com or 720-403-8255.
For additional questions on MedPay, please reach out to Brian Bradford: brian@colegalteam.com