TMS therapy uses gentle magnetic stimulation to treat important areas of the brain that are often underactive in patients with depression. This non-invasive treatment has been cleared by the FDA to treat depression, anxious depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder when medication has not relieved symptoms.
If you are interested in TMS therapy, our team at Memorial Park Psychiatry is here to help. We will provide answers to a variety of questions that you may have, including ones pertaining to insurance coverage for TMS therapy in Houston.
Also known as transcranial magnetic stimulation, TMS therapy uses short magnetic pulses targeted at the brain’s left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, the region associated with mood regulation. These magnetic pulses, similar to those produced by an MRI, generate small electrical currents that stimulate neural cells. This stimulation encourages the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.
Researchers consider an imbalance of these neurotransmitters a potential cause of depression. Restoring their levels through TMS therapy may help reduce symptoms such as fatigue and low mood.
During your TMS session, you will be seated as your provider uses a handheld device to deliver the pulses to your brain. You may feel a gentle tapping as a result of your nerves adjusting to the stimulation. Your provider will discuss how long each session will last and the number of sessions that may be beneficial.
TMS therapy offers a variety of benefits for patients in Houston. It is often successful for patients with treatment-resistant depression, a form of the disorder where a patient’s symptoms have not improved after trying at least two antidepressants for an adequate dosage and length.
Because TMS is noninvasive and does not require any sedation, you can continue with your regular routine before and after each treatment session. Because TMS is non-pharmaceutical, you can avoid common side effects of antidepressants such as stomach issues, weight gain, fatigue, and decreased libido. Additionally, negative effects on memory or sleep are not a concern.
Most insurance plans in Houston provide coverage for TMS therapy. Although TMS therapy shows potential in addressing various conditions, the FDA has cleared it specifically for the treatment of major depressive disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder, which are also the diagnoses most frequently approved for insurance coverage.
Contacting your insurance provider before beginning TMS therapy remains essential to confirm coverage. Most plans require a diagnosis of depression or obsessive-compulsive disorder, along with documentation that at least two medications failed to relieve symptoms. In addition, patients must not be pregnant or nursing.
Contact your insurance provider prior to beginning your TMS treatment in Houston to fully understand your benefits and ensure you receive maximum coverage.
Insurance plans may vary in their coverage requirements. For example, your particular insurance plan may require you to receive TMS treatment from an in-network provider. There may also be a need for prior authorization, which documents the medical necessity for treatment. This may include documentation from your provider about experiencing limited or poor results with antidepressants.
Our team at Memorial Park Psychiatry is dedicated to supporting patients through every step of their care journey. It is natural to have questions when considering any medical treatment, and we are here to answer them. Many patients have questions about insurance coverage for TMS therapy in Houston.
Understanding this topic can help you approach your treatment with greater confidence as you learn what to expect. If you have questions or need assistance navigating coverage, contact us to speak with a member of our team.