Washington State Approves Coverage for Spinal Cord Stimulation, Granting Access to Care for Millions of Residents

On May 17, in a follow-up meeting with the Washington State Health Technology Clinical Committee (HTCC), members voted to cover spinal cord stimulation (SCS) for patients with nonsurgical low back pain, diabetic peripheral neuropathy and failed back surgery syndrome.  For more than 12 years, patients suffering from these conditions were denied access to SCS.

Due to efforts by NANS on behalf of national medical societies and physicians spanning the state and around the country, Washington State residents now have access to care for life-changing therapy. 
 
Prior to the May 17 meeting, national medical societies reinforced their support for SCS coverage in Washington State and voiced their concerns about the ongoing deliberations by the HTCC. They shared a letter that offered ongoing input and expertise by physicians who use or perform interventional pain procedures to accurately diagnose and treat patients with spine conditions.  
 
We are pleased about the results of the recent HTCC hearing as it represents a significant victory for millions of Washington residents suffering from debilitating spine pathologies.  
 
The HTCC provides a public comment period following key decisions. The public comment period for this matter is open until June 3. NANS intends to submit a comment to the HTCC.  
 
 
Read past news about this issue:   
 
Washington State Poised to Extend Coverage for SCS, 11/20/23 
NANS Leads Effort to Extend Coverage for SCS in Washington State, 10/4/23