Insurance Coverage One Factor in Lumbar Fusion Rates

The rate of lumbar fusion surgery dropped substantially in North Carolina after a commercial insurance carrier in the state began denying coverage for the controversial surgery for certain conditions, according to new research. But insurance carrier policies are only one factor that influence how frequently lumbar fusion surgery is performed. Another new research study found that geographical location, the doctor’s training and whether the physician is in private or academic practice are other factors. Both articles were published online this month in the journal Spine. Lumbar fusion ...