AAO-HNS Advocates for Coverage of Balloon Sinus Ostial Dilation (8/5/20)

On July 1, following the Academy’s advocacy efforts and submission of clinical input, the Blue Cross Blue Shield Federal Employee Program updated its medical policy on “Balloon Ostial Dilation for Treatment of Chronic and Recurrent Acute Rhinosinusitis.” The procedure is now considered medically necessary for the treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis when specific criteria are met. The AAO-HNS will continue advocacy efforts to ensure coverage for balloon ostial dilation for recurrent acute rhinosinusitis, as the policy still deems the service investigational for this indication.