15. Does my insurance cover the use of image guidance systems during sinus surgery?
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Berrylin J. Ferguson, M.D. Pittsburgh, PA
Insurance typically covers sinus surgery.
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Todd Kingdom, M.D. Denver, CO
Currently, this appears to vary depending on the geographic location of the procedure and the insurance company involved. The American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and the American Rhinologic Society have worked closely with the American Medical Association and the federal health care agencies to clarify this issue. Most believe it is a separate technology that requires special and unique equipment and expertise to apply. Thus, it should be a covered service. Unfortunately, insurance reimbursement remains inconsistent. The patient is best served by checking with both their insurance carrier and the surgeon if this technology is going to be utilized.
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Becky L McGraw-Wall, M.D. Houston, TX
Most insurance companies recognize the value of image-guided surgery and cover the cost of using an image guidance system during sinus surgery, if deemed necessary by the treating physician. Occasionally, additional justification and documentation is required by the insurance company; generally, this is all handled by the physician's office.
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Peter Hwang, M.D.
Associate Professor and Director
Stanford Sinus Center Stanford, CA
Image-guided technology is covered by many insurance plans. However, because image-guided technology is relatively new, it is not yet a universally covered benefit among all insurance plans. You may need to check with your own insurance company regarding coverage for image-guided surgical technology.
