The Oregon Health Evidence Review Commission has proposed a "no coverage" determination on hip surgery procedures for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome, according to an American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons news release.
In response, AAOS and other orthopedic-focused societies are urging HERC to revise its coverage recommendation. AAOS submitted a letter expressing concern about the recommendation.
"We oppose the proposed determination put forth by HERC because we do not believe this decision is consistent with evidence showing that surgery is cost-effective treatment for management of FAI syndrome," AAOS President Joshua J. Jacobs, MD, stated in the letter. "Surgical treatment of FAI for symptomatic patients with ongoing disability issues can provide long-lasting symptom relief and allows these patients to return to work or other desired activities, reducing FAI's economic burden on society."
Andrea S. Herzka, MD, was appointed by the commission as an Oregon-based orthopedic expert reviewer to provide guidance on the issue. Dr. Herzka stated, "It is critical that HERC revise its coverage recommendation in order to be consistent with the other evidence-based coverage determinations and provide access to this safe, effective and cost-effective treatment to Oregon's public employees and Oregon Health Plan participants."
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