According to a recent press release, Medicare/Medicaid has released a final decision that would restrict coverage for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS), which is a widely-used lower back therapy. Non-invasive and inexpensive, TENS works to stimulate nerves through the skin through the use of a small, easily transportable electronic device. Medicare has opted to limit coverage for this therapy as a part of their upcoming national coverage decision.
Pain management specialists will have to look for other options to treat Medicare patients with chronic lower back pain. This may prove difficult, since TENS is considered standard of care for those physicians specializing in lower back disorders. It is estimated that over half of all American works have experienced prolonged back pain, and it is among the top complaints seen in doctors offices. TENS specifically has been used as a treatment option for over 30 years and is safe, cost-effective, and fast-acting. It also have relatively few side effects and is popular with patients. Medicare patients not suffering from chronic back pain may be able to use TENS for other disorders under Medicare coverage.
Attorney Doug Stoehr sees many cases in which chronic back pain has
resulted from an accident due to the fault of another. If you or a
loved one are now experiencing chronic pain after an accident, please contact our firm to schedule a consultation and discuss your legal options.
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