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Vagus Nerve Stimulation
Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi·MS · Neurology, Neurosurgery, Psychiatry +1 more·Medical Policy
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
Updated policy on Vagus Nerve Stimulation clarifies that VNS is medically necessary only for medically refractory seizures, while all other conditions including depression, heart failure, stroke impairment, and headaches are considered investigational. Transcutaneous VNS devices are investigational for all indications.
Action Required
Immediately: Billing team must verify VNS claims are only submitted for medically refractory seizures with proper documentation of therapeutic antiepileptic drug levels or intolerable adverse events. Flag any VNS claims for depression, heart failure, stroke, headaches, or other non-seizure conditions as investigational and likely to be denied. Update prior authorization processes to require seizure documentation.