MALVERN, PA — Neuronetics, Inc. (NASDAQ: STIM) revealed a significant development in mental healthcare, announcing that Evernorth Health Services, a subsidiary of The Cigna Group, has expanded its coverage of NeuroStar® Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to include adolescents aged 15 and older with major depressive disorder (MDD). This expansion broadens access to a non-drug treatment option for millions, directly impacting families navigating depression in young people.
Immediate Access for Millions
Effective immediately, the expanded coverage aligns with the FDA clearance granted nearly a year ago for NeuroStar Advanced Therapy as the first first-line add-on treatment for adolescents aged 15-21 with MDD. Coverage by Evernorth now encompasses policies influencing 15 million lives, further expanding the reach of this innovative treatment option.
“This decision by Cigna/Evernorth is a significant step forward for adolescent mental healthcare and reflects the momentum we have built with payors over the past year since NeuroStar first received the FDA clearance for adolescents,” said Keith J. Sullivan, President and CEO of Neuronetics. “We are grateful that millions more families will now have easier access to NeuroStar TMS as a proven, non-drug treatment for major depression and can get the care they deserve.”
NeuroStar’s approval and subsequent adoption by major insurers—including Humana, Aetna, Medi-Cal, and others within the past year—underscore its reputation as a viable, effective solution for treating depression.
Addressing a Critical Mental Health Crisis
Major depression affects an estimated 4.3 million U.S. adolescents aged 15-21. This mental health challenge can severely disrupt academic progress, social relationships, and emotional development during critical formative years. While antidepressant medications provide relief for some, limitations in options make innovative treatments like TMS crucial for addressing unmet medical needs.
NeuroStar TMS offers a non-invasive, non-drug intervention with strong clinical outcomes. Unlike traditional medication treatments, which may result in side effects or require long-term dependency, TMS delivers targeted magnetic stimulation to specific regions of the brain associated with mood regulation.
“NeuroStar stands as the leading TMS device, backed by the most comprehensive data that clearly demonstrates its effectiveness in treating adolescent major depressive disorder,” said Dr. Geoffrey Grammer, Chief Medical Officer of Neuronetics. “At Neuronetics, we are deeply committed to putting patients first, advancing clinical research, and ensuring that those in need have access to life-changing, innovative solutions.”
Expanding Insurance Coverage and Access
Evernorth’s decision reflects growing recognition of NeuroStar TMS as a breakthrough therapy for adolescent depression, particularly for those seeking alternatives to prescription medications. This coverage expansion reduces barriers to care for families seeking effective, evidence-based solutions for managing adolescent mental health issues.
Over the past year, the therapy has gained traction among insurers, demonstrating alignment with FDA guidance and clinical research outcomes. The initiative supports a broader shift in healthcare toward innovative, patient-centered solutions that prioritize efficacy and accessibility in treating serious mental health conditions.
A Commitment to Change
For Neuronetics, the expanded coverage represents more than market growth; it symbolizes a commitment to improving the standard of care in adolescent mental health. As access to NeuroStar TMS grows, more families will have the opportunity to pursue effective treatments for depression, addressing a critical need in the U.S. mental health landscape.
With its focus on safety, efficacy, and innovation, Neuronetics continues to pave the way for newer, non-drug treatment options in mental health, offering hope to individuals and families impacted by major depressive disorder.
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