Optum/United Healthcare Expands NeuroStar TMS Coverage to Nurse Practitioners
Event summary
- Optum/United Healthcare updated its TMS clinical policy to allow psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) to order, supervise, and administer NeuroStar TMS therapy.
- The policy applies to 26 states and Washington, D.C., expanding access to 34.8 million commercial covered lives.
- Previously, only psychiatrists had the authority to administer TMS therapy.
- Neuronetics' health policy team advocated for the policy update, recognizing the role of PMHNPs in mental healthcare.
The big picture
The policy update reflects a broader trend in healthcare towards expanding the scope of practice for advanced practice providers, particularly in mental health. This shift aligns with efforts to address the growing demand for mental health services and the shortage of psychiatrists. Neuronetics stands to benefit from increased access to its NeuroStar TMS therapy, potentially driving higher utilization and revenue.
What we're watching
- Access Expansion
- How the policy update will affect patient access in underserved communities and the pace of adoption among PMHNPs.
- Reimbursement Dynamics
- Whether other payors will follow Optum/United Healthcare's lead in expanding TMS coverage to PMHNPs.
- Market Penetration
- The impact of increased coverage on Neuronetics' revenue growth and market share in the TMS therapy space.