Iridex Comments on Changing Glaucoma Reimbursement Landscape

Core Viewpoint - Iridex Corporation's new Local Coverage Determination (LCD) L37531, effective November 17, 2024, is expected to enhance physician interest in its laser-based glaucoma treatments, as it clarifies that Iridex's products are not classified as Micro-Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) procedures, thus exempting them from new reimbursement limitations [1][2][3]. Group 1: Company Overview - Iridex Corporation is a leader in developing and marketing innovative laser-based medical systems for treating glaucoma and retinal diseases [5][6]. - The company sells over 50,000 Cyclo G6 probes annually, indicating strong market penetration and product adoption [2]. Group 2: Impact of the New LCD - The new LCD clarifies that treatments using Iridex's laser consoles and probes are not classified as MIGS, allowing the Cyclo G6 product family to remain unaffected by reimbursement limitations [2][3]. - The LCD is expected to create reimbursement advantages for Iridex's glaucoma treatments, potentially increasing the adoption of its MicroPulse Transscleral Laser Therapy (MPTLT) among physicians [3][4]. - The LCD outlines specific reimbursement limitations, including that MIGS is not a first-line treatment for mild to moderate glaucoma and prohibits simultaneous procedures involving MIGS and aqueous shunts [4]. Group 3: Physician Perspectives - Physicians have expressed the importance of having coverage for various glaucoma treatments, emphasizing the value of Transscleral Cyclophotocoagulation (TSCPC) as a versatile therapy [3]. - Feedback from the recent American Academy of Ophthalmology conference indicates a growing interest among physicians in increasing the use of Iridex's MicroPulse and Continuous Wave therapies [4].