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Independence Blue CrossCommercial · Coverage · Medical Policy · PA · Cardiology, Internal Medicine, NephrologyMedium impact

11.02.29, Renal Denervation for Uncontrolled Hypertension

Act
by Dec 31, 2025
Effective date
Jan 1, 2026
Identified
Jun 19, 2026

Summary

Independence Blue Cross policy 11.02.29a (effective 01/01/2026) classifies renal denervation for uncontrolled hypertension as experimental/investigational and non-covered, despite FDA approval of two devices (Paradise® and Symplicity Spyral™). Billing teams must deny all claims for renal denervation procedures and associated devices under this policy, regardless of FDA status.

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What to do

by Dec 31, 2025 · 5 steps
01Billing team must configure claims system to automatically deny CPT codes 0338T and 0339T (renal denervation procedures) and HCPCS codes C1735 and C1736 (renal denervation catheters) for Independence Blue Cross commercial plans.
02Update denial reason to 'Experimental/Investigational - Not Covered per Policy 11.02.29a.' Inform providers and front desk staff that prior authorization requests for these codes will be denied.
03Educate clinical staff that patient financial responsibility documentation must be provided at time of service.
04Flag any claims submitted with these codes for manual review and immediate denial.
05Note: This policy contradicts FDA approval status—escalate any member appeals to medical management with supporting literature.

Codes mentioned

C1735C1736

Original notice

11.02.29, Renal Denervation for Uncontrolled Hypertension
medpolicy.ibx.com · Always check the source before changing claims.
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Related changes

See all Independence Blue Cross changes →
MA11.120, Renal Denervation for Uncontrolled HypertensionMediumEffective Oct 28, 2025 · Medical PolicyMA11.120a, Renal Denervation for Uncontrolled HypertensionMediumEffective Apr 1, 2026 · Medical Policy11.02.29a, Renal Denervation for Uncontrolled HypertensionMediumEffective Apr 1, 2026 · Medical PolicyBrowse every Independence Blue Cross change in the policy list

Related policy hubs

Independence Blue Cross policiesPA policy changesCardiologyInternal MedicineNephrologyCode C1735Code C1736

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