Higher US reimbursement for VADs (ventricular assist devices):
This article was originally published in Clinica
Executive Summary
The US Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has recommended the establishment of a new diagnosis related group to cover inpatient ventricular assist device procedures. The proposal, if approved, could mean a 40% rise in reimbursement for the procedure, from the current $38,000 to $53,000, notes Thoratec, the Pleasanton, California developer of the Heartmate left ventricular assist system. The new rule and payment level would take effect on October 1 2002.