Is TMS Therapy Covered by TRICARE?
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational and educational purposes only. This blog is not taken as medical advice or used as a substitute for such. You should always speak to your own doctor or medical professional. You should always call 911 if you or someone close to you needs immediate help.
TRICARE offers coverage for transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) treatments as part of its range of outpatient services for Mental Health. TMS Therapy is a modern treatment designed to reduce the symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) in adults. In fact, TRICARE, is a top tier provider for active military and their families, backs their beneficiaries by including TMS therapy in its coverage. This sophisticated treatment, acknowledged for its success in treating MDD, is available to: – Active duty service members – Veterans – Spouses and children of both active and retired military members – Members of the National Guard or Reserve The coverage for TMS therapy under TRICARE is available to a wide range of individuals in the military community, ensuring that those who have served or are serving, along with their families, have access to this essential mental health treatment.
According to TRICARE insurance grants approval for the reimbursement of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) as a treatment for severe depression if it is deemed medically required and meets the criteria for coverage.
Like many insurances, To receive coverage for TMS, the treatment must be pre-approved, and the healthcare provider must confirm that the following conditions are met: – The patient is 18 years or older, – For retreatment, if the patient has not shown improvement with a less intense treatment, or – A less intense treatment is not deemed more suitable. When it comes to retreatment, TRICARE authorizes any retreatment sessions based on the patient’s response to treatment and can still be found as medically necessary.Please see the TRICARE manual for further information: https://manuals.health.mil/pages/DisplayManualHtmlFile/2022-08-03/AsOf/TP15/C7S3_8.html
How can we help?
If you or a loved one struggles with depression, know that there are many options available to you. Speaking to a doctor experienced with depressive disorders will ensure you get help that’s appropriate to your diagnosis.
It’s imperative to seek help if your medications or psychotherapy are not working for you or if you are experiencing side effects that impact your comfort and quality of life. If any of these are the case, TMS may be an option for you. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation can work when all other treatments have failed. It is performed as an in-office treatment. It’s painless, requires no sedation, and patients can go about their day immediately after their appointment.
Insurance coverage can significantly impact access to TMS treatment for individuals struggling with mental health conditions. By understanding their insurance policy, advocating for coverage when necessary, and choosing in-network providers, individuals can navigate the insurance process more effectively and increase the likelihood of receiving the treatment they need. As the field of mental health continues to evolve, ensuring adequate insurance coverage for innovative therapies like TMS is essential in promoting better mental health outcomes for all.
As a small Clinic Located in Central Ohio, A Child and Family Psychiatry is a proud provider of Alternative Treatment to treat Major Depressive Disorders. We believe that remission is possible and cultivate treatment plans to fit your unique needs. Our dedicated staff has helped many patients to overcome depression, even when other forms of treatment have failed.
Please our Coordinator, Elizabeth, today at 614-314-2291 or send us an email at [email protected] for more information or to book an appointment.