Optum Behavioral Health, a UnitedHealth Group subsidiary that serves more than 48 million covered lives, announced that it will now cover Deep TMS therapy for adolescents aged 15 and older diagnosed with major depressive disorder. The policy change expands BrainsWay’s payer base to include a new patient segment and brings the total number of covered lives for adolescent Deep TMS therapy to roughly 180 million across all participating insurers.
The expansion aligns with other major payers that already cover the therapy for adolescents, including Evernorth Health Services, CVS/Aetna, Medi‑Cal, and several Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans. By adding Optum to the list, BrainsWay gains access to a broader network of providers and patients, positioning the company to capture a larger share of the growing adolescent mental‑health market.
BrainsWay’s Deep TMS platform received FDA clearance for adolescent use on November 13, 2025, based on real‑world evidence from 1,120 patients treated at 35 centers. The company holds three FDA‑cleared indications—major depressive disorder (including anxious depression), obsessive‑compulsive disorder, and smoking addiction—underscoring the breadth of its therapeutic portfolio.
The coverage expansion is expected to accelerate system placements and lease agreements, strengthening BrainsWay’s competitive position in the neurostimulation market. With a larger insured patient base, the company can increase utilization of its proprietary H‑coil technology, which delivers non‑invasive magnetic pulses to targeted brain regions. The move also signals broader payer acceptance of Deep TMS as a viable adjunct therapy for adolescents, potentially opening additional revenue streams and reinforcing BrainsWay’s growth trajectory.
CEO Hadar Levy said, “Deep TMS has already changed the trajectory of care for adults facing depression, and extending access to younger patients reflects a shared commitment to early intervention, innovation, and meaningful clinical impact.” The statement highlights the company’s focus on expanding access to underserved populations while maintaining a strong clinical foundation.
Adolescent depression remains a significant public health challenge, with an estimated 5 million U.S. teens aged 15‑21 experiencing major depressive disorder. Deep TMS offers a non‑pharmacologic option for patients who do not respond to or tolerate medication, addressing an unmet need in this age group.
Overall, the Optum coverage expansion represents a strategic win for BrainsWay, expanding its market reach, reinforcing its competitive advantage, and setting the stage for continued growth in the adolescent mental‑health segment.
The content on BeyondSPX is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial or investment advice. We are not financial advisors. Consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. Any actions you take based on information from this site are solely at your own risk.