Thoratec Announces New CMS Outpatient Reimbursement Codes

Thoratec, a company specializing in products to treat cardiovascular disease, has recognized the new outpatient reimbursement codes for ventricular assist device (VAD) supplies and accessories issued by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

The 26 new HealthCare Common Procedure Coding System codes, which will take effect on Oct. 1, enable hospitals, specialty home-care suppliers and home-care agencies to bill clearly and precisely for VAD-related electrical equipment, replacement supplies and accessories used by patients in a home-care setting. The level of reimbursement under these new codes will be determined prior to their implementation.

The new codes generally describe the VAD supplies and accessories that patients need to have replaced over a six- or 12-month time frame. They include the microprocessor control unit, power base unit, monitor control cables, batteries and other items used in the patient's home. Thoratec's HeartMate XVE LVAS (left ventricular support system) is the first and only FDA-approved device for destination therapy, or the permanent support of late-stage heart failure patients who not eligible for heart transplantation, the company said.