Increased Coverage for Neurostimulation Therapy for Neuropathic Pain 

UnitedHealthcare has updated its medical policy to expand patient access to dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurostimulation devices for treatment chronic pain. The updated medical policy goes into effect on March 1, 2022. 

The new coverage gives access to the Abbott (Abbott Park, IL) Proclaim DRG neurostimulation system, which is designed to treat nerve pain conditions caused by complex regional pain syndrome or peripheral causalgia. 

"The addition of coverage for a DRG stimulation therapy by one of the nation’s largest insurers is an important development for patients living with chronic pain who have exhausted other treatments," said Kiran Patel, MD, Spine and Pain Institute of New York. "The new clinical guidance from UnitedHealthcare means that people will now have the ability to consider Abbott’s DRG treatment as an accessible option to manage their chronic pain."

DRG stimulation therapy involves implanting a small battery device, typically in the abdomen or buttock, and running thin insulated leads near the DRG. The leads deliver electrical pulses to the nerves, which block pain signals from traveling to the spinal cord and the brain, thereby reducing pain in specific areas of the body.

The neurostimulator enables Bluetooth wireless connectivity, giving patients control of their stimulation levels through an Apple iPod Touch device or an app on their iPhone.