The Seattle Times reported that TMS was presented in Tupelo as an option for people with treatment-resistant depression, with insurer requirements differing.
A treatment option described in Tupelo
The Seattle Times, in an Associated Press report filed from Tupelo, described transcranial magnetic stimulation, or TMS, as an option for people with treatment-resistant depression. The report said TMS uses a magnetic field generator to deliver pulses of electric current to the brain to stimulate activity.
According to The Seattle Times, TMS received FDA approval in 2008. The report said American Psychiatric Association guidelines consider TMS a treatment option for depression after a patient has not responded to one medication.
Coverage and eligibility considerations
The Seattle Times reported that insurance requirements for TMS can differ, although coverage for the procedure had steadily increased at the time of the report. The article said guidelines also allow TMS treatment for people who cannot tolerate medication side effects and for people who cannot take SSRIs, including pregnant women.
The report also stated that people with metal medical devices or metallic tattoos in their heads or necks cannot receive TMS.
Research cited in the report
The Seattle Times cited two studies from 2013, one conducted by a manufacturer and another by the National Institutes of Health. According to the report, the studies found that one-third of people with treatment-resistant depression achieved remission.
The report also said that 50% to 60% of participants reported improvement in depressive symptoms. A Tupelo psychiatrist quoted by The Seattle Times said there were good one-year remission rates, with no depression during the first year.
One patient’s account
The Associated Press report included the experience of Karr Ayres, a 64-year-old woman from Hickory Flat who said she had lived with depression for more than 30 years. The Seattle Times reported that she had stayed home and away from other people and had gone through multiple medication courses without relief.
According to the article, Ayres said TMS helped her return to church, enjoy time with her grandchildren and travel with her husband. Her experience was presented by The Seattle Times as an individual account of seeking help after medications had not provided relief.
What this means for Mississippi patients
For Mississippians looking for treatment locally, this directory lists 21 published clinics in Mississippi, while coverage rules and treatment eligibility may vary.
This is general information, not medical advice.
More Mississippi reporting on access & coverage.
This report is educational and is not medical advice. Coverage, availability and eligibility can change; verify details with the named source or your care team.