Alliance Applauds CMS for Expanding Medicare Access to TAVR

The following is a statement from Sue Peschin, MHS, President and CEO of the Alliance for Aging Research, regarding the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ (CMS) final National Coverage Determination for Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR).
 
“CMS’ final TAVR coverage policy is a landmark victory for older adults with severe aortic stenosis. By ending a 14-year coverage with evidence development requirement and modernizing facility and procedural requirements, CMS is putting patients, clinical expertise, and quality outcomes first.
 
These reforms will streamline access for patients and families, particularly in underserved communities, and allow Medicare coverage to keep pace with medical progress.
 
We thank CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz for listening to patients and advocates—and for turning that listening into action. This decision proves that Medicare can protect quality while empowering physicians to make the best choice for their patients.”

Learn more about the Alliance’s advocacy efforts on this issue. Read a recent comment letter comment letter, the Alliance’s statement on the decision memo when it was proposed, and results of our polling calling for the removal of the CED.