Spine, radiology groups push back on Cigna spinal cord stimulator policy

Spine

A letter from the American Society of Neuroradiology that was co-signed by multiple spine groups is calling out Cigna over its policies related to closed-loop spinal cord stimulation therapy.

The Nov. 30 letter expressed "profound objection" to Cigna's policy calling the therapy "experimental, investigational, and/or unproven" and said the classification neglects the research and evidence behind it.

The letter cited the benefits of closed-loop spinal cord stimulation and CMS' transitional pass through designation.

The letter urged Cigna to reevaluate its position and acknowledge the "overwhelming evidence supporting closed-loop SCS therapy."

The following medical societies co-signed the letter:

American Academy of Pain Medicine

American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

American Association of Neurological Surgeons

American Society of Anesthesiologists

American Society of Neuroradiology

American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine 

American Society of Spine Radiology

Congress of Neurological Surgeons

North American Neuromodulation Society

North American Spine Society

Society for Interventional Radiology


Cigna did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Becker's.

Copyright © 2024 Becker's Healthcare. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy. Cookie Policy. Linking and Reprinting Policy.

 

Featured Webinars

Featured Whitepapers