New DRAFT BCBS Policy in Five States Calls Closed-Loop SCS "Experimental"

*This story has been updated. Read more here.

Earlier this month, Blue Cross Blue Shield issued a draft policy in Illinois, Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Montana calling closed-loop spinal cord stimulators "experimental, investigational, and/or unproven.”  
 
Specifically, Blue Cross Blue Shield policy, "Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) and Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) Stimulation" SUR712.009, states:
 
“Closed-loop spinal cord stimulators (e.g., Evoke® Spinal Cord Stimulator, Saluda Medical or the Wavegate StimuLux™ System, Wavegate Corp.) are considered experimental, investigational and/or unproven for all indications, including but not limited to, treatment of chronic leg or back pain that is refractory to conservative therapy or for individuals who are not candidates for surgery.”
 
The NANS Advocacy and Guidelines Committee have together issued comment in opposition of this policy, concluding, "This technological advancement is a tremendous step forward for the benefit of our patients suffering from chronic pain. Patient access to this scientifically validated advancement should not be limited. The North American Neuromodulation Society strongly urges you to reconsider your position on the closed loop SCS therapy." 

To Submit Your Commentary to Blue Cross Blue Shield

Deadline for comment: March 1