In a significant move, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, has announced a revision in rates for neuro-implants for beneficiaries under the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS). The move will benefit both central government employees and pensioners.

This change is aimed at streamlining the process for permission and reimbursement of costs associated with crucial medical devices like Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) implants, Intra-Thecal Pumps, and Spinal Cord Stimulators.

Key highlights of the CGHS rates revision:

This revision supersedes previous memos from 2008, 2014, and 2018, detailing new rates and guidelines for reimbursement of neuro-implants.

Here’s what beneficiaries should know:

Who can prescribe and approve?

DBS Implants: Prescribed by a neurologist at a government hospital.

Intra-Thecal Pumps and Spinal Cord Stimulators: Require approval from two specialists in neurology or neurosurgery.

The CGHS Director is responsible for the final approval of requests.

Application process:

Beneficiaries must submit their requests for neuro-implants to the appropriate technical committee. For serving employees, this request goes through their department, while pensioners should approach the Additional Director of their respective CGHS zone.

Also read: Central govt employees, pensioners alert! CGHS guidelines revised – Here are new benefits and more details

Revised costs:

The updated costs for various devices are as follows (inclusive of GST):

DBS Non-Rechargeable Device: ₹8,37,497 – ₹10,32,586

DBS Rechargeable Device: ₹11,24,049 – ₹13,89,936

Intra-Thecal Pump: ₹5,29,898

Spinal Cord Stimulator: ₹13,90,243

Note: These costs do not cover the surgery expenses.

Warranty and validity:

Each device comes with a one-year warranty covering battery failures or malfunctions, and the revised rates will remain effective for two years from the date of this announcement.

Understanding Neuro-Implants:

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Implants: These devices help manage movement disorders, including Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor, by sending electrical impulses to specific brain regions.

Intra-Thecal Pump: A device that delivers medication directly to the spinal fluid, often used for chronic pain management.

Spinal Cord Stimulators: These devices help relieve chronic pain by sending electrical signals to the spinal cord, effectively masking pain signals to the brain.

This revision marks a vital step in improving access to essential medical treatments for CGHS beneficiaries, ensuring timely care and support for those in need. For further details, beneficiaries are encouraged to consult their healthcare providers or the CGHS office.