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How Much Does rTMS Cost? | Braincare Performance Center Carlsbad

What is rTMS Therapy?

Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain, which can improve symptoms of depression. It’s particularly helpful for those who haven’t responded well to medication or therapy.

rTMS Cost vs. Other Depression Treatments

When looking at the cost of rTMS, it’s important to evaluate it against other forms of treatment, such as medications and therapy.

Medications: While the initial cost is lower than rTMS, the ongoing costs can be significant due to refills and potential dosage adjustments. Plus, side effects may lead to additional healthcare costs.

Psychotherapy: The initial costs are generally lower per session than rTMS. However, the costs can accumulate over months or years of regular sessions.

rTMS: The upfront investment may be higher, yet the course of treatment is much shorter (usually 4-6 weeks). That means you have the potential for lasting benefits with fewer ongoing expenses.

rTMS Long-Term Results and Cost Efficiency

While rTMS may have a higher initial cost, its long-term benefits often make it a cost-effective choice:

Efficacy: rTMS has shown high success rates in treating depression, often outperforming medications

Reduced expenses over time: Many patients experience lasting improvements, reducing the need for ongoing treatments

Quality of life: The non-invasive nature of rTMS means fewer side effects and potential improvements in overall functioning.

rTMS therapy is effective for many patients, reducing the need for ongoing medication and frequent therapy sessions. This long-term efficiency can lead to significant cost savings by reducing the frequency of relapses and hospitalizations.

How to Calculate Your rTMS Cost

The cost of rTMS varies by area, but generally, the average cost of rTMS treatment is $200-$500 per session. The total cost of a course of rTMS treatment can range between $6000 to $15,000. However, your insurance can cover most of this cost. [link to insurance page]

Here’s how to find the average cost of rTMS therapy in your zip code:

Fairhealth Consumer home screen
Step 1:

Go to https://www.fairhealthconsumer.org/ and click  “Medical and Hospital Costs.”

Fairhealth Consumer provider zip code screen
Step 2:

Choose your zip code. In this case, we entered the zip code of BrainCare Carlsbad. 

Fairhealth Consumer CPT code screen
Step 3:

Enter the CPT code. For rTMS, the code is 90868.

Fairhealth Consumer Terms of Use popup
Step 4:

Agree to the Terms of Use when the window pops up.

Fairhealth Consumer rTMS code screen
Step 5:

Click on “Get your cost.”

Fairhealth Consumer rTMS Cost screen
Step 6:

You’ll see your in-network and out-of-network prices per session of rTMS. 

Insurance and rTMS

Many insurance providers now cover rTMS therapy. At BrainCare Carlsbad, we work with the following insurers: TRICARE, TRICARE for Life, United Healthcare/Optum, and Cigna.

We’re here to help you navigate the insurance process. Our team can:

  • Verify your coverage
  • Provide necessary documentation for pre-authorization
  • Help you submit your claims

For more information, please see our Insurance Coverage page.

The Value of rTMS Treatment

When considering the cost of rTMS, it’s crucial to consider its value:

  • Potential for long-lasting symptom relief
  • Reduced need for ongoing medications and their associated costs
  • Improved ability to work and engage in daily activities
  • Enhanced overall quality of life

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About rTMS Cost

Q: Will my insurance cover rTMS therapy?

A: Many insurance providers do cover rTMS. Your treatment may be covered if you have TRICARE, TRICARE for Life, United Healthcare/Optum, or Cigna. Contact us for assistance.

Q: How many sessions will I need?

A: Typically, patients need 20-30 sessions for effective treatment.

Q: Are there any side effects?

A: rTMS is generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects, such as mild headache or scalp discomfort.

Q: Can I use my FSA or HSA to pay for rTMS?

A: Yes, you can use your FSA or HSA to cover the cost of rTMS therapy.

Take the Next Step Towards Wellness

Don’t let concerns about cost prevent you from exploring an effective treatment option. Contact BrainCare Carlsbad today to schedule your consultation and receive personalized information about rTMS therapy costs.

I have been a military physician for most of my career. And I have seen a lot of functional marines and sailors with Chronic Fatigue, Depression, Anxiety, TBI, and PTSD who didn’t seek treatment because they felt physically strong or didn’t want to take medications due to their operational status. I have also witnessed close friends report exhaustion and near helplessness. Witnessing firsthand their transformation after receiving MeRT treatment made me a believer in its effectiveness.”

OLUSEYI AWODELE, M.D., M.S., BRAINCARE CARLSBAD MEDICAL DIRECTOR