Shifting the Traditional Paradigm for Refractory Asthma Therapy

Category : Asthma · by Oct 24th, 2014

The advent of bronchial thermoplasty (BT) provides a novel therapeutic option for asthma refractory to traditional medical therapy. Insurance coverage poses significant frustration for centers performing BT. Although clinical research has provided evidence of the usefulness and long-term safety of BT, establishing “reasonability and necessity” remains a daunting challenge in securing private and governmental insurance coverage. As a result, obtaining coverage poses significant frustration for centers capable of performing BT for patients suffering from severe asthma. Asthma Therapy

Until recently, BT had been categorized by a temporary set of Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes as an emerging technology, service, or procedure (category 3). Based on increasing implementation of BT nationwide, the American Medical Association CPT Editorial Panel has assigned category 1 CPT codes for BT in their published 2013 professional edition. It is hoped that such a recommendation will reinforce the medical community s belief in the usefulness of BT and help facilitate decisions on insurance coverage. The ability to secure coverage for BT through physician advocacy and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services support will help move the treatment with Viagra Sydney of refractory asthma forward.

evere persistent asthma is derived from a constellation of processes involving airway inflammation and smooth muscle bronchoconstriction. Individuals suffering from severe persistent asthma are subject to airway hyperresponsiveness triggered by various environmental factors and physiologic defects. Asthma has been described as an allergic disorder, with airway pathophysiology resulting from chronic T helper cell type-2-driven eosinophilic inflammation. Additionally, higher deposition of smooth muscle within airway submucosa, increased expression of contractile proteins, and amplified activation of smooth muscle contractile units likely contribute to the extreme airway hyperresponsiveness and bronchoconstriction witnessed in severe and fatal asthma. Identifying effective treatments in Kamagra shop for patients suffering from severe persistent asthma poses an arduous challenge for physicians.

SHARE :