Pelvic Floor Electrical Stimulation in the Treatment of Adult Urinary Incontinence

CMS evidence review | evidence_type=Technology Assessment | record_type=technology_assessment | document_id=10 | year=2000

Pelvic Floor Electrical Stimulation (PFES) for urinary incontinence refers to the use of a non-implantable electrical device that delivers variable rates of current through the pelvic floor with the intent of strengthening pelvic floor musculature. Currently, §65-9 (C) of the Coverage Issues Manual states that the effectiveness of these devices is unproven, and therefore cannot be covered under §1862(a)(1) of the Social Security Act as a "reasonable and necessary" treatment. HCFA is currently evaluating this issue to determine whether sufficient scientific evidence exists to allow for a reconsideration of this national policy.

Associated Medcac: MEDCAC Meeting for Urinary Incontinence (Medical and Surgical Procedures Panel) - 04/12/2000 Associated Nca: Original Consideration for Pelvic Floor Electrical Stimulation for Urinary Incontinence (CAG-00021N) Issue: Pelvic Floor Electrical Stimulation (PFES) for urinary incontinence refers to the use of a non-implantable electrical device that delivers variable rates of current through the pelvic floor with the intent of strengthening pelvic floor musculature. Currently, §65-9 (C) of the Coverage Issues Manual states that the effectiveness of these devices is unproven, and therefore cannot be covered under §1862(a)(1) of the Social Security Act as a "reasonable and necessary" treatment. HCFA is currently evaluating this issue to determine whether sufficient scientific evidence exists to allow for a reconsideration of this national policy. Other Material: Other Material 1 Questions: Questions Technology Assessment: Download Technology Assessment [PDF, 2MB].