CMS recognizes Outset Medical’s Tablo for special innovation payment
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CMS has approved an add-on payment to dialysis facilities when they use Outset Medical Inc.’s Tablo Hemodialysis System, according to a press release.
The award, the first in the agency’s Transitional Add-on Payment Adjustment for New and Innovative Equipment and Supplies (TPNIES) program for treating kidney disease, provides more money to dialysis providers who use innovative equipment for in-center or home dialysis.
“For too long [patients with end-stage renal disease] have faced a lack of innovation and options for their kidney treatment, restricting how, when and where they dialyze,” Leslie Trigg, CEO for Outset Medical, said in the release. “At Outset, we have always believed that dialyzing at home is vital to restoring identity, autonomy and a sense of self-worth for those managing kidney disease. Today’s news is a victory for innovation and patient choice.”
According to CMS, once a piece of equipment is approved for TPNIES, CMS Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) establish the add-on payment and the agency pays a dialysis provider 65% of the MAC-determined pre-adjusted payment reduced by an average per treatment offset amount of $9.32 per treatment.
The add-on payment continues for 2 calendar years.
“Outset’s Tablo Hemodialysis System not only addresses a 15-year gap in dialysis innovation, but it also delivers a device that is far easier and safer for users to navigate,” Varshi Broumand, MD, system dialysis medical director at CHRISTUS Health, said in the release. “Since most adults in the United States now have smartphones with similar touchscreen interfaces, patients have felt at home with Tablo’s touchscreen, on-screen animations and step-by-step instructions. This comfort has made the dialysis experience easier on patients, resulting in fewer complications and hospitalizations.”
Outset said the TPNIES approval was made after a comprehensive review of Tablo’s technology, as well as an open public comment period. Nearly 200 comments supportive of Tablo as a significant innovative improvement over the existing technology were submitted by health care providers, clinicians and patients during this process, the company said.
- References:
- Outset Medical’s Tablo Hemodialysis System receives landmark TPNIES approval from CMS. https://investors.outsetmedical.com/. Published and accessed Nov. 1, 2021.
- https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Medicare-Fee-for-Service-Payment/ESRDpayment