CommercialCoverageMedium impact
Bronchial Valves
Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi·MS · Pulmonology, Cardiothoracic Surgery·Medical Policy
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
BCBS Mississippi has updated their policy on bronchial valves, classifying them as investigational for all uses including treatment of prolonged air leaks and COPD/emphysema, meaning these procedures will not be covered despite FDA approval of some devices.
Action Required
Immediately: Billing team must verify coverage before scheduling bronchial valve procedures for BCBS Mississippi members. Update prior authorization workflows to flag these procedures as non-covered investigational. Inform pulmonology providers that all bronchial valve procedures (including Zephyr and Spiration valve systems) are considered investigational and will be denied by BCBS Mississippi regardless of FDA approval status.