AppliedVR’s RelieVRx, a virtual reality-based treatment for chronic lower back pain, has achieved a significant milestone by securing coverage through Highmark, one of the largest health insurance providers in the U.S. This move will make the FDA-approved device accessible to more than 4 million Highmark members, enhancing treatment options for those suffering from chronic pain. RelieVRx uses immersive therapy through VR headsets, enabling patients to manage their pain from home through a 56-session program focusing on bio-psycho-social aspects of chronic pain.
Highmark’s decision to adopt RelieVRx comes after rigorous evaluation of AppliedVR’s extensive clinical data. This includes a large randomized controlled trial (RCT) with over 1,000 participants that demonstrated the device’s efficacy in reducing pain intensity and improving daily life for users. With this data, Highmark determined that RelieVRx offers a cost-effective, non-pharmacologic therapy that could reduce the reliance on traditional pain medications, such as opioids. Eligible Highmark members diagnosed with moderate to severe chronic lower back pain can now access RelieVRx with a prescription from their healthcare provider, with no prior authorization required.
Matt Fickie, senior medical director at Highmark, emphasized the importance of integrating technological innovations into healthcare to improve outcomes and reduce costs. “We are committed to leveraging technology to enhance health outcomes while reducing costs. RelieVRx from AppliedVR provides our members suffering from chronic low back pain a scientifically backed, in-home immersive non-opioid treatment option.” he said.
RelieVRx offers a convenient and non-invasive treatment pathway, which has already seen widespread success. AppliedVR has partnered with more than 200 health systems and has helped over 60,000 patients worldwide. Its user-friendly design makes it accessible to patients of all ages and backgrounds, with consistently high usability ratings across various demographics.
Chronic pain is a growing concern in the U.S., with an estimated 72 million Americans affected by chronic lower back pain, a leading cause of disability. The economic burden of chronic pain is also staggering, costing the U.S. economy over $635 billion annually. The rise of opioid prescriptions has only exacerbated the issue, leading to widespread addiction and further burdening the healthcare system.
AppliedVR’s development of RelieVRx represents a forward-thinking approach to pain management, especially at a time when there is a heightened need for non-pharmacologic alternatives. By focusing on immersive therapy, AppliedVR offers a method that addresses the psychological, emotional, and physical components of pain. The FDA’s decision to grant RelieVRx Breakthrough Device Designation and De Novo authorization in 2021 underscored the innovative nature of this approach.
The company’s dedication to research and clinical validation is a cornerstone of its success. The large randomized controlled trial (RCT) conducted in 2023 further cemented RelieVRx’s place in the medical device market. The study revealed significant improvements in pain management for patients, making it clear that VR therapy could serve as a viable alternative to traditional treatments.
In addition to its collaboration with Highmark, AppliedVR has achieved other significant milestones. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) granted the company a unique Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) Level II code for RelieVRx, classifying it as durable medical equipment. This designation will further support reimbursement pathways and pave the way for broader adoption across health systems.
AppliedVR has also partnered with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to provide virtual reality-based therapy for chronic pain to veterans. The VA’s Federal Supply Schedule and Defense Logistics Agency’s Electronic Catalogue for Medical Supply Chain (ECAT) have made it easier for government customers to purchase RelieVRx for use in veteran care. Over 40 VA sites are currently using RelieVRx as part of their chronic pain treatment programs, with plans for further expansion. Additionally, the company has entered the worker’s compensation market, further broadening its reach.
Despite its technological nature, AppliedVR’s RelieVRx distinguishes itself from other digital therapeutics. Unlike app-based digital tools, RelieVRx is a medical device, which has allowed the company to overcome many of the challenges faced by digital therapeutic companies. By investing heavily in high-quality data and creating a clear reimbursement pathway, AppliedVR has been able to avoid the pitfalls that have hindered other digital therapeutics companies in the healthcare market.
Highmark’s decision to cover RelieVRx is a significant step forward in recognizing the potential of digital health technologies to improve patient outcomes. Highmark has been a pioneer in expanding coverage for digital therapeutics, becoming one of the first major commercial insurers to cover prescription digital tools. The insurer’s continued expansion into this space highlights a growing trend in the healthcare industry toward the adoption of digital health solutions.
With RelieVRx now covered by Highmark, thousands of patients suffering from chronic lower back pain will have access to an innovative, non-invasive treatment option that can be administered from the comfort of their own homes. As AppliedVR continues to expand its partnerships and broaden its reach, the company is well-positioned to become a leader in the field of digital pain management, offering hope to millions of patients seeking alternatives to traditional pain medications.
