FDA Action Needed: Approval of Maintenance Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for Depression
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is one of the safest and most effective treatments for major depression. The FDA has approved it to treat teenagers and adults but only for a time-limited course of care. For most people, that is all the treatment they need. For others, they require maintenance (continuation) TMS. This article reviews the research and rationale that shows the need for the FDA to approve maintenance TMS now.
A New Treatment for Adolescent Depression: FDA Approves Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
The FDA got it right when they approved TMS therapy for adolescent depression (kids aged 15 and older). TMS is one of the most effective treatments for resistant depression. The decision to approve this treatment for kids is an absolute game-changer and will save many young lives. This article describes the dramatic impact of the FDA’s approval and covers research that shows TMS for kids to be safe, well-tolerated, and effective.
The Problem of Insurance Company Physicians Blocking Medical Care
What is really happening behind the scenes at insurance companies to block patients from more expensive (and sometimes more effective) medical treatments? This article discusses the need for transparency and reform of the involvement of “hired gun” physicians in routine denials of medical coverage.
The Strengthening Behavioral Health Parity Act (SBHPA): An Enormous Step Forward in Mental Health Parity
The Strengthening Behavioral Health Parity Act (SBHPA) was a major step toward mental health parity in the US. Before its passage, many Americans, especially those with ERISA-based health plans, were not protected by federal and state mental health parity laws. This article describes the history of mental health parity and what people can do to advocate for themselves.