CMS designation hints at virtual reality reimbursement

Healthcare organisations are increasingly relying on virtual reality technology to complement care. Reimbursement from payers for these solutions would increase usage of virtual reality headsets, however the process will take time. As the market becomes more defined virtual reality companies can appeal to providers on the clinical impact and cost savings of their solutions, market products directly to consumers or seek regulatory and payer approvals, a time consuming process. 

A recent CMS ruling represents the first signal that clinicians will get reimbursed for usage of these technologies by Medicare. CMS designated a new durable medical equipment designation for virtual reality company AppliedVR's RelieVRx therapy, the first time the designation had been made for a virtual reality-based therapy, CMS justified the designation because the software and device were “so integral”. However, a specific reimbursement structure for what the company will be paid for has not yet been set. According to CMS, this will take place at a subsequent meeting.

It remains to be seen whether other virtual reality companies will be able to follow in AppliedVR's foot steps.