Austin, Texas-based LDR has faced significant reimbursement pushback for its Mobi-C device, according to MedCityNews.
Here are five things to know:
1. The Mobi-C is the only FDA-approved artificial cervical disc for two-level cervical disc replacement.
2. Jeffrey Zigler, LDR's senior director of reimbursement and health economics, commented coverage varies depending on which plan patients have, and where they live.
3. Warsaw, Ind.-based Zimmer Biomet recently announced its acquisition of LDR Holding for $1 billion, and believes it can bring power to bear on the payer relation side of the business.
4. Adam Johnson, Zimmer Biomet spine unit president, commented the company has a strong market access team that is equipped to successfully negotiate with payers. He expects approval expansion for the device in the next five years.
5. Blue Cross Blue Shield in Illinois, Montana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas now cover two-level disc replacements. Mr. Zigler noted the company is currently working with Anthem on coverage, as well as continues to work with Aetna and Cigna.