A rational insurance coverage policy for repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for major depression

Although most health insurance plans do not cover repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) for the treatment of major depression, coverage is increasing, with approval often granted on a case-by-case basis. Accordingly, it is important for physicians who are advocating for coverage on behalf of their patients to provide cogent arguments based on published data. Most patients presenting for rTMS have medication resistance that is beyond the Food and Drug Administration-approved indication of one failed but adequate trial of an antidepressant medication. However, recent naturalistic studies lend support to the proposition that rTMS is efficacious for more medication-resistant patients.