HistoSonics announced today that it received new positive medical policy decisions for the use of histotripsy to treat liver tumors.
Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield issued four new medical policy decisions covering histotripsy for liver tumors. The decision expands insurance coverage across Highmark’s commercial plans over four states. This brings coverage to New York, Delaware, Pennsylvania and West Virginia, broadening access to about 7 million members.
The insurance win follows a May coverage nod that marked the company’s first major insurance coverage for the non-invasive treatment for primary and metastatic liver tumors.
Minneapolis-based HistoSonics develops the FDA-cleared Edison system, which uses focused ultrasound energy to provide histotripsy. Delivered via a robotic arm, histotripsy mechanically destroys and liquifies targeted tissue and tumors. It achieves this without the invasiveness or toxicity of traditional procedures. The company also has studies underway to look at histotripsy in kidney tumors.
HistoSonics reports nearly 2,000 patients treated to date with its histotripsy therapy. In April, the company last month shared 12-month data demonstrating histotripsy as a safe, effective and non-invasive treatment option. It could provide an alternative to those who haven’t responded to or are intolerant of standard of care therapies.
“This expanded Highmark coverage marks another critical step in delivering histotripsy to more patients who urgently need safe, non-invasive options,” said Mike Blue, President and CEO of HistoSonics. “Highmark’s decision not only reinforces the clinical value of our technology but also helps establish broader payer confidence as we continue working to expand access nationwide.”
Reports earlier this year suggested that some of the biggest names in medtech are circling HistoSonics for a potential acquisition. The company reportedly carries a $2.5 billion valuation.
