Centene has created a positive coverage policy for minimally invasive sacroiliac joint fusion, according to a July 14 news release.
The policy considers the procedure medically necessary for lower back and buttock pain in certain conditions. The decision was based on clinical evidence showing the effectiveness of SI-Bone's iFuse implant system.
"This decision by Centene is an important step in providing greater access to the iFuse procedure for millions of eligible patients," said Jeffrey Zigler, vice president of market access and reimbursement at SI-Bone.
Centene is an intermediary for health insurance programs and focuses on care for underinsured and low-income patients.