Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy is the premier treatment for those struggling with depression, anxiety, and PTSD. We offer TMS at Inland Empire TMS because of its strong track record of success at delivering relief to patients.
TMS is especially renowned for its ability to provide relief to individuals who haven’t responded to traditional therapies. Patients who have tried antidepressants, talk therapy, or other approaches without success are often able to find full relief from symptoms through TMS therapy.
At Inland Empire TMS, we are committed to serving our community with the latest in evidence-based care. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most significant updates in TMS therapy, including the groundbreaking approval of TMS for treating teenagers with depression.
FDA Approves TMS for Teens with Depression
The biggest news this year in TMS treatment was the expansion of FDA approval to include teenagers. In March, the FDA approved the use of TMS therapy for teenagers and adolescents aged 15 to 21 dealing with major depressive disorder (MDD). This marks the first time that TMS has been officially approved for individuals in this younger age group, and opens exciting opportunities for treatment.
Depression in teens is a growing concern in the U.S., with nearly 1 in 5 adolescents experiencing a major depressive episode each year. Many of these teens struggle to find effective relief with antidepressants, which can carry risks such as onerous side effects or limited efficacy. TMS is an excellent alternative depression treatment because it directly targets the brain regions associated with mood regulation and does not involve medication.
The FDA approval for TMS therapy for teenagers was based on studies demonstrating the safety and effectiveness of TMS in treating adolescent depression, with more than 10,000 patient results included in the studies. In the studies, 78 percent of teenage patients experienced significant improvements in mood and overall functioning without the systemic side effects often seen with medications.
FDA approval for TMS therapy for teenagers opens the pathway for insurance coverage of TMS for patients aged 15 and older as insurance coverage for a treatment often depends on FDA approval. We have already seen insurance companies signal they are willing to include coverage for patients aged 15 and older.
If you are a parent of a teenager and interested in TMS coverage for your child, please contact us at (951) 228-3743. If your insurance company has not already updated its coverage, we will file a special appeal on your behalf to ensure TMS therapy for your child is covered. We are familiar and experienced with the appeal process and have already been successful at obtaining coverage for teenage patients.
FDA Approves TMS for Late Life Depression
In June, the FDA further expanded the age range available for depression treatment with TMS to include late life depression. FDA approval was granted to treat patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) up to age 86, changing the previous upper age limit of 68. The inclusion of 18 additional years of TMS therapy approval is a significant advancement in the treatment of seniors, an often ignored age group who nevertheless suffer significantly from depression.
Expanding Coverage: Insurance Companies Embrace TMS
One of the barriers to accessing TMS has historically been insurance coverage. However, this is rapidly changing. In 2023, more insurance providers began expanding their policies to include TMS as a covered treatment for depression, anxiety, and PTSD. This reflects the growing recognition of TMS as an essential tool in mental health care.
This year, with the new FDA approval for teenage depression treatment and late life depression treatment, we are seeing insurance companies further embrace TMS coverage. We are also seeing insurers modify requirements for TMS coverage, making it easier for patients to qualify for TMS. Many commercial insurance companies like Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, and others are following the guidelines of TRICARE, which has a lower threshold for patients to qualify for TMS coverage.
The shift is significant because TMS is a high-value investment for patients. TMS is the only depression treatment alternative that offers long-lasting benefits without the ongoing costs of medication or therapy expenses. With improved coverage, more individuals can afford this transformative treatment.
TMS for PTSD: A New Frontier
Another promising area of research involves TMS for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Veterans and trauma survivors often face debilitating symptoms, such as flashbacks, hypervigilance, and emotional numbness. TMS offers a unique approach by targeting the brain’s emotional regulation centers.
Studies funded by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) have shown that TMS significantly reduces PTSD symptoms in many veterans. These findings are paving the way for expanded use of TMS in trauma-informed care.
At Inland Empire TMS, we have always promoted TMS therapy for PTSD treatment in the military and veteran population. TMS is an excellent choice for military members and their families, who often deal with depression, anxiety, and PTSD as part of the reality of military life. We are excited to see others begin to spread the word about using TMS to treat PTSD.
Spreading the Word: Alternative Depression Treatments for Riverside County
As a TMS clinic serving Murrieta, Temecula, Menifee and the broader Riverside County community, we are thrilled about these advancements in TMS coverage and adoption. The Inland Empire area is fortunate to have convenient access to TMS and the relief it provides from depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
TMS is increasingly recognized as a safe and effective treatment for mental health challenges. It is particularly appealing to those looking for alternative depression treatments that do not require medication or pharmaceuticals to treat their issues.
The approval of TMS for teens with depression is particularly exciting. We know how important it is to intervene early in mental health struggles, and TMS offers a gentle yet powerful tool for helping young people recover and thrive.
How Inland Empire TMS Can Help You
If you or a loved one is struggling with depression, anxiety, or PTSD, we are here to help. We offer state-of-the-art TMS therapy tailored to each patient’s needs. Our treatment philosophy is to deliver cutting-edge care with a personalized approach that can transform lives.
We are passionate about spreading awareness of TMS and ensuring that Riverside County residents have access to this life-changing treatment. As part of this commitment, we are expanding our reach early next year by opening a new clinic location in Corona to provide easier access to patients in Corona, Riverside, and north Riverside County.
Please contact us today to schedule an appointment to see if TMS therapy is right for you or a family member. We are here to help!
