The X-STOP procedure is covered by Medicare and select private health plans. Private health plans typically require you or your physician to submit paperwork for prior authorization or predetermination (approval) for coverage of an elective surgery.

Prior authorization is a process used by health plans to review certain medical and surgical health services. The goal is to ensure that the service is medically necessary.

Predetermination is a review process conducted by the health plan to verify the medical necessity of a planned procedure. Predetermination is often a condition of plan payment.

It’s important to follow the individual plan process outlined in the provider manual because the prior authorization and appeals processes vary from plan to plan.

If needed, your surgeon can provide you with more information regarding the prior authorization process. A Medtronic Provider Relations Specialist is also available to support you and your surgeon. Please ask your surgeon about the support offered by the Medtronic Provider Relations Specialist during this process. Learn more.

For more information about reimbursement information, please visit our Reimbursement Resource Center.

Talk to your primary care doctor or a spine specialist about the X-STOP Spacer.