The short answer is that Medicaid does cover spinal cord stimulators. There are a few things to keep in mind, though, when considering this type of coverage. First, spinal cord stimulators are considered to be medically necessary for those who have failed to respond to more conservative treatments for their chronic pain. This means that your doctor will need to provide documentation to Medicaid to support the need for this type of device. The second thing to keep in mind is that Medicaid is a state-run program, so coverage may vary from state to state. In some cases, Medicaid will only cover a portion of the cost of the device, so you may be responsible for paying some out-of-pocket costs. You should check with your Medicaid office to find out what coverage is available in your state.
Related reading: Extension Cord
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a spinal cord stimulator used for?
A spinal cord stimulator is used to send electrical signals to select areas of the spinal cord (dorsal columns) for the treatment of certain pain conditions, including: pain from damaged discs pain from arthritis pain from nerve root compression or disease There are also spinal cord stimulators that are used to treat chronic pain caused by cancer or fibromyalgia.
What is spinal cord stimulator trial and implantation?
A spinal cord stimulator trial and implantation is a procedure in which electrodes are implanted into the spine to send electrical current to specific nerves. This can help block pain signals from reaching the brain, providing relief from chronic pain.
What is the history of spinal cord stimulator?
The history of spinal cord stimulator can be traced back to the early 1970s when Shealy et al. implanted the first device directly on the dorsal column for the treatment of chronic pain. In 1971, Shimogi and colleagues first reported the analgesic properties of epidural spinal cord stimulation. Surgical implantation of a spinal cord stimulator is now a common procedure used to treat chronic pain due to various medical conditions.
Will my spinal cord stimulator device lose efficacy?
It is difficult to predict whether a spinal cord stimulator device will lose its efficacy. A good percentage of patients who receive SCS therapy maintain relief from their pain or disability. However, some patients may experience temporary or permanent reductions in function due to the stimulator being turned off too early or becoming ineffective over time. Some factors that can contribute to device efficacy loss include changes in electrode placement, implant location, wear and tear on the device, and use of other therapies (such as physiotherapy) concurrently with SCS. In order to ensure that your spinal cord stimulator remains effective over time it is important to follow the recommended instructions for use and consult with your health care professional about any changes or updates that may be necessary.
Do I need a spinal cord stimulator for my Pain?
A spinal cord stimulator is a medical device that helps to relieve pain by stimulating the nerves in your neck and spine. The stimulator uses electrical currents to help improve nerve impulse transmission.
Sources
- https://www.caresource.com/documents/2016-mm-0076/
- https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/are-spinal-cord-stimulators-worth-the-bad-side-effects
- https://www.medicaidtalk.net/does-medicaid-cover-spinal-cord-stimulators/
- https://www.bostonscientific.com/en-US/patients-caregivers/device-support/scs/how-scs-works.html
- https://painandspinespecialists.com/living-with-a-spinal-cord-stimulator-how-effective-is-this-treatment-for-chronic-pain/
- https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/treating-pain-with-spinal-cord-stimulators
- https://deukspine.com/spinal-cord-stimulator-review/
- https://knowledgeburrow.com/how-long-does-it-take-for-a-spinal-cord-stimulator-to-work/
- https://www.healthline.com/health/spinal-cord-stimulator
- https://www.nevrohfx.com/learn/article/how-much-does-a-spinal-cord-stimulator-cost/
- https://www.newchoicehealth.com/spinal-cord-stimulator-cost
- https://www.floridasurgeryconsultants.com/benefits-of-a-spinal-cord-stimulator/
- https://www.hca.wa.gov/about-hca/programs-and-initiatives/health-technology-assessment/spinal-cord-stimulation
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24237-spinal-cord-stimulator-scs
- https://www.chicagospine.net/news/spinal-cord-stimulation-for-back-pain/
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