New Medical Policy Makes the Bioness StimRouter® Neuromodulation System a Covered Benefit for Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Policy Holders
Implanted peripheral nerve stimulators are now a reimbursed benefit when considered medically necessary and used to treat chronic intractable neurogenic pain
VALENCIA, Calif., March 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Bioness, Inc., the leading provider of cutting edge, clinically supported rehabilitation therapies, is pleased to announce that its FDA-cleared StimRouter Neuromodulation System has received coverage from insurer Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), effective February 26, 2018. With this updated policy decision, Highmark BCBS members with chronic intractable neurogenic pain now have an expanded list of treatment choices, with Electrical Nerve Stimulators, like the StimRouter, available as an effective and evidence-based solution at the frontline of care.
Patients with intractable neurogenic pain often complain of severe and constant pain that is ineffectually treated by traditional medical measures and opioid-based routines. Designed to reduce pain by targeting the affected peripheral nerve, StimRouter is a cost-effective and long-term pain management alternative to immobilization, injections, and prescription opioids. With more than five million members, Highmark is the fourth largest BCBS plan in the United States.
With this policy update, StimRouter is no longer considered experimental and investigational, allowing individual claims that meet the medical necessity criteria to be processed without delay.
"In light of the current opioid crisis, patients suffering from intractable neurogenic pain continue to face challenges searching for appropriate solutions and often having to pay out of pocket for alternative treatment options that are still considered experimental," said Todd Cushman, President and CEO of Bioness. "Following Aetna's updated coverage policy in 2017, and Medicare's coverage policy, we are extremely happy that Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield has now also recognized the clinical value and improved quality of life that the StimRouter brings to their members. As payers continue to update their coverage policies, more patients who suffer from chronic pain will be able to receive an effective, non-medicated treatment option that fits their specific needs."
StimRouter was the first FDA-cleared, minimally invasive, long-term, neuromodulation medical device indicated to treat chronic pain of a peripheral nerve origin. StimRouter received the CE mark required for commercial sales in Europe in February of 2014. The patient-controlled medical device is an adjunct to other modes of therapy and is being well received by patients and clinicians alike.
Under Highmark's updated policy, implanted peripheral nerve stimulators, such as the StimRouter, are considered medically necessary when members meet specific criteria. To learn more visit Highmark's website.
For more information on the StimRouter, please visit www.stimrouter.com.
About the StimRouter® Neuromodulation System
The StimRouter Neuromodulation System is indicated for pain management in adults who have severe intractable chronic pain of peripheral nerve origin, as an adjunct to other modes of therapy (e.g., medications). The StimRouter is not intended to treat pain in the craniofacial region. StimRouter is a minimally-invasive neuromodulation medical device consisting of a thin, implanted lead with conductive electrode, external pulse transmitter (EPT), and hand-held wireless patient programmer. Electrical signals are transmitted transdermally from the EPT through the electrode, down the lead to the target nerve. StimRouter is programmed at the direction of the physician to meet patient requirements but is controlled by the patient to address the patients specific, changing pain management needs. Individual results may vary. Precautions, Warnings and Contraindications can be found at www.StimRouter.com.
About Bioness, Inc.
Bioness is the leading provider of innovative technologies helping people regain mobility and independence. Bioness solutions include implantable and external neuromodulation systems, robotic systems and software based therapy programs providing functional and therapeutic benefits for individuals affected by pain, central nervous system disorders and orthopedic injuries. Currently, Bioness offers six medical devices within its commercial portfolio which are distributed and sold on five continents and in over 25 countries worldwide. Our technologies have been implemented in the most prestigious and well-respected institutions around the globe with approximately 90% of the top rehabilitation hospitals in the United States currently using one or more Bioness solution. Bioness has a singular focus on aiding large, underserved customer groups with innovative, evidence-based solutions and we will continue to develop and make commercially available new products that address the growing and changing needs of our customers. Individual results vary. Consult with a qualified physician to determine if this product is right for you. Contraindications, adverse reactions and precautions are available online at www.bioness.com.
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StimRouter® and Bioness® are trademarks of Bioness, Inc. | www.bioness.com | Rx Only | Additional information about StimRouter can be found at www.stimrouter.com
SOURCE Bioness, Inc.
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