Cochlear implant coverage
This article was originally published in The Gray Sheet
Executive Summary
CMS accepts Cochlear Corp. (Nucleus 24 contour implant system) request July 8 for consideration of expanded cochlear implant national coverage based on the firm's expanded labeling, granted by FDA in 2000. FDA allows implantation in patients with test scores of 50% or less, but CMS currently permits coverage for patients with demonstrated test scores of 30% or less. CMS requests that the public submit medical evidence and published literature detailing expanded use of cochlear implants in adults and children, patient selection criteria and the appropriate screening needed to qualify a patient for an implant. The agency expects to issue a decision by April 4, 2005...