Open Bionics, Bristol, England, received Pricing, Data Analysis and Coding (PDAC) approval for its Hero Arm, the first such approval of a 3D-printed prosthetic device. The assigned code for the transradial device is L-6880 (Electric hand, switch or myoelectric controlled, independently articulating digits, any grasp pattern or combination of grasp patterns, includes motor(s)).
“PDAC approval enables prosthetists to bill the Hero Hand with confidence that they’re using the correct coding to receive the appropriate reimbursement,” said Joel Gibbard, CEO of Open Bionics. “We know that without PDAC approval, some patients have faced a tough fight to get health insurance to fund their Hero Arms, so this is a huge step forward.
“Gaining PDAC approval removes ambiguity around insurance claims, which should help patients who have eligible benefits to receive Hero Arms via their insurance providers, making the Hero Arm even more accessible for the people that need it. PDAC approval also derisks the chance of clinicians doing work without compensation.”
