Aetna Policy Update Expands TMS Availability for Adolescents With Depression

Core Insights - Aetna has updated its TMS coverage to include adolescents aged 15 and older with major depressive disorder (MDD), following FDA clearance for NeuroStar TMS as a first-line add-on treatment for this age group [4][5][9] - Neuronetics is the only TMS company with FDA clearance for adolescent treatment and has a dedicated health policy team to advocate for health policy updates [5][9] - Adolescent depression affects an estimated 4.3 million U.S. adolescents aged 15-21, impacting their academic performance, relationships, and emotional well-being [6] Company Overview - Neuronetics, Inc. is a medical technology company focused on improving the quality of life for patients with neurohealth disorders through its NeuroStar Advanced Therapy [4][7] - NeuroStar is a non-drug, noninvasive treatment indicated for MDD and is the leading TMS treatment for adults, with over 6.4 million treatments delivered [7] Industry Context - The policy update from Aetna reflects a growing trend among payers to expand adolescent coverage for TMS therapy, indicating a shift towards addressing mental health needs in younger populations [5][9] - The recognition of adolescent mental health treatment by major payors like Aetna is seen as a critical step in mitigating the mental health crisis among young people [9]