All PlansCoverageMedium impact
Magnetic Esophageal Sphincter Augmentation to Treat Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi·MS · Gastroenterology, General Surgery·Medical Policy
Effective date
Jan 31, 2025
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
This policy update clarifies that magnetic esophageal sphincter augmentation (LINX device) for GERD treatment remains classified as investigational and therefore not covered. The update includes recent FDA labeling changes regarding Barrett's Esophagus treatment guidance.
Action Required
By January 31, 2025: Billing team must ensure CPT codes 43284 (LINX placement), 43285 (LINX removal), and 43289 (unlisted laparoscopy) are flagged as investigational/non-covered in billing system. Update encounter forms to alert providers that magnetic esophageal sphincter augmentation procedures will be denied. Advise patients these procedures are not covered and require self-pay arrangements.