CMS Boosts iovera's Outpatient Reach: A Lucrative Opportunity

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has recently established additional payment for iovera in outpatient settings, a move that is expected to significantly enhance the drug's market reach and provider adoption. This policy change, driven by the Non-Opioids Prevent Addiction in the Nation (NOPAIN) Act, is a boon for Pacira BioSciences, the manufacturer of iovera, and presents an attractive investment opportunity for those seeking stable, income-focused investments.

The CMS's proposed rule for 2025 extends separate payment for iovera to both ambulatory surgical centers (ASC) and hospital outpatient (HOPD) settings. This policy, pending finalization, will provide separate Medicare reimbursement for iovera, a non-opioid pain management drug, in these outpatient environments. The proposed payment rate is ASP + 6%, or $1.41 per billing unit.

This new policy is expected to influence the adoption of iovera by healthcare providers in outpatient settings, as it offers increased financial incentives for using the drug. The separate reimbursement rate will allow providers to offset the cost of iovera more effectively, making it a more attractive option for postsurgical pain management. This could lead to increased usage of iovera, driving market growth opportunities.

Pacira BioSciences, the manufacturer of iovera, has expressed enthusiasm about this policy, as it will offer clinicians greater ability to utilize iovera for long-lasting non-opioid pain control and transition to outpatient environments. As iovera is the only covered single-dose product approved for both local and regional analgesia across surgical procedures, this new reimbursement policy could significantly expand its market reach.


The CMS's policy change aligns with the author's investment preferences, as it focuses on a sector that generates stable profits and cash flows, in this case, the healthcare industry. The new reimbursement policy for iovera in outpatient settings is expected to drive increased adoption by healthcare providers, leading to potential market growth opportunities.

In conclusion, the CMS's establishment of additional payment for iovera in outpatient settings presents a lucrative investment opportunity for those seeking stable, income-focused investments. This policy change, driven by the NOPAIN Act, is expected to significantly enhance iovera's market reach and provider adoption, driving market growth opportunities. Pacira BioSciences, the manufacturer of iovera, stands to benefit from this policy change, making it an attractive investment option for those seeking reliable, income-generating investments in the healthcare sector.