Updated policy for severe aortic stenosis (AS) now covers asymptomatic patients under Coverage with Evidence Development (CED)

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has finalized the National Coverage Determination (NCD) for transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

See What Changed

Key policy benefits

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Expanded patient access

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More flexible care delivery

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Enables earlier treatment

The finalized NCD preserves the Heart Team structure while increasing access to earlier, more efficient care including asymptomatic patients with severe AS. The policy also increases flexibility for patient evaluation, as well as operator and hospital requirements.1,2,3

Now, more patients can benefit from proactive identification, evaluation, and treatment planning.

What to do now

  • View updated patient and program criteria
  • Assess current patient identification and evaluation pathways
  • Discuss opportunities to support earlier treatment with your Heart Team and program stakeholders
  • Connect with Edwards Lifesciences for program support
Learn About the Updates

References:   1. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Decision Memo for Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) (CAG-00430R2). Published September 10, 2026. Accessed September 10, 2026. CMS Decision Memo. 2. Stinis C, Tunis S, Lauck S, et al. Impact of pre-procedural requirements on time to aortic valve replacement: transcatheter AVR vs surgical AVR. Am Heart J Plus. 2026;61(100698);1-8. 3. Spoon DB, Tunis S, Giri J, et al. Transcatheter aortic valve replacement outcomes during the public health flexibility period. Mayo Clin Proc. 2024;99(8):1236-1247.

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