Spark Biomedical Has Been Issued New CMS Codes for Transcutaneous Auricular Neurostimulation (tAN^® ) Therapy viaSparrow Ascent

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services codes will help increase accessibility to wearable bioelectric medicine for opioid withdrawal.

Dallas, TX [August 2024] – Spark Biomedical, Inc., a leader in non-invasive neurostimulation technology, has been issued two unique Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) codes by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).These codes cover Sparrow_® Ascent, the first FDA-cleared non-invasive neurostimulation device for opioid withdrawal treatment that delivers transcutaneous auricular neurostimulation (tAN ®) therapy, and its daily-disposable Earpiece Kit. The issuance of these codes is a critical step in securing insurance coverage, making this innovative treatment more accessible to people with opioid use disorder nationwide.

Bridging a Critical Gap in Opioid Recovery

In the United States, the opioid crisis continues with devastating impact, causing over 100 overdose deaths daily. Despite the severity of this epidemic, less than 20% of individuals with opioid use disorder receive adequate treatment. The new HCPCS codes granted for Sparrow Ascent represent a significant advancement in the accessibility of effective opioid detox solutions. Through the use of innovative bioelectric medicine, Sparrow Ascent bridges crucial treatment gaps, enabling those who cannot leave their homes, jobs, or families to manage this initial step toward recovery effectively.

Transforming Treatment with Home-Based Recovery

Recognizing the critical need for accessible opioid withdrawal treatment options, the decision by CMS establishes Sparrow Ascent as the first opioid withdrawal treatment device to be recognized as durable medical equipment (DME). Set to take effect on October 1, 2024, these codes not only enhance the accessibility of opioid withdrawal treatment but also empower individuals to commence their recovery journey from the comfort of their own homes.

Spark Biomedical CEO,Daniel Powell, commented on the development, saying, “We are pleased that CMS recognizes the profound impact that The Sparrow Ascent can have on the opioid epidemic, and we are determined to continue to obtain widespread coverage so that every American struggling with opioid addiction can access this life-saving therapy.”

Next Steps

Looking forward, Spark Biomedical is committed to leveraging the new HCPCS codes to expand Sparrow Ascent access to as many Americans with opioid use disorder as possible. Spark will continue to work closely with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to ensure a smooth implementation of the codes and expand access to Sparrow Ascent. Additionally, Spark Biomedical will continue its efforts in research and development to keep pushing the boundaries of innovation with bioelectric medicine, offering the world a better way forward in the areas of mental health, women’s health, hemostasis, pediatrics, and chronic pain.

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