CVRx Announces CMS Proposal for Barostim Payment in Outpatient Setting.

CVRx announced that CMS has proposed to keep the Barostim implant procedure as part of the New Technology Ambulatory Payment Classification, with an associated payment of approximately $45,000 for procedures performed in the outpatient setting. The company expects CMS to publish the 2026 Medicare Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System final rule in November, taking effect on January 1, 2026.

Minneapolis-based CVRx, Inc. (NASDAQ: CVRX) announced that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has proposed to keep the Barostim implant procedure within the New Technology Ambulatory Payment Classification (APC) 1580. This proposal includes an associated payment of approximately $45,000 for procedures performed in the outpatient setting [1].

The Barostim implant procedure involves the use of an implantable device that delivers electrical pulses to the baroreceptors in the wall of the carotid artery. These pulses activate the body’s baroreflex, triggering an autonomic response to the heart. The device is designed to restore balance to the autonomic nervous system, thereby reducing symptoms of heart failure [1].

CMS is also soliciting comments about the need for a Level 6 Neurostimulator APC, which could potentially further enhance reimbursement for the procedure. The company expects CMS to publish the 2026 Medicare Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) final rule in November, with the rule set to take effect on January 1, 2026 [1].

This proposal follows other positive developments for CVRx. In October 2024, CMS assigned Barostim to a higher-paying MS-DRG for inpatient procedures. Additionally, Barostim was approved to transition from Category III to Category I CPT codes for physician payments as of January 1, 2026 [1].

Kevin Hykes, President and CEO of CVRx, expressed appreciation for the CMS proposal, noting that these reimbursement updates will help expand access to Barostim for patients suffering from heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. He believes these updates will support the broader market adoption and long-term growth of the device [1].

References:
[1] https://www.massdevice.com/cvrx-medicare-reimbursement-win-barostim-therapy/
[2] https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/cvrx-inc-announces-proposed-cms-payment-barostim-implant-procedure-support