Blue Jay TMS stands for Blue Jay Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. It is a non-invasive brain stimulation treatment that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. TMS can be used to treat depression and anxiety that has not responded to medication.
How Does TMS Work?
TMS works by delivering magnetic pulses to the prefrontal cortex region of the brain. This is the area that controls mood and emotional processing. The magnetic pulsespainlessly pass through the scalp and skull to stimulate nerve cells. This activates brain networks involved in mood regulation.
TMS increases blood flow and activates neurons in the targeted area. It also promotes neuroplasticity, which helps nerve cells form new connections. Over a course of treatment, TMS can lead to long-term changes in mood and cognition.
TMS vs ECT
TMS is often compared to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). However, there are some key differences:
- TMS does not require anesthesia or induce seizures like ECT
- TMS has less side effects and is better tolerated than ECT
- ECT causes memory loss while TMS does not
- TMS only stimulates the brain while ECT passes electric currents through the brain
Is TMS Covered By Insurance?
Most major insurance plans cover TMS therapy but coverage varies. TMS is covered by Medicare and usually covered by Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, and Cigna. The exact amount covered depends on your specific plan.
It’s a good idea to check your coverage in advance. Many TMS providers can check your benefits for you. Some clinics also offer financing plans to help with any out-of-pocket costs.
Who is a Candidate for TMS?
TMS is primarily used to treat depression but can also help anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and addiction. It is FDA-cleared for treating depression that has not improved with at least one antidepressant medication.
Some key factors that make someone a good candidate for TMS:
- You have been diagnosed with MDD (major depressive disorder)
- You’ve tried at least one antidepressant without improvement
- You have not had success with psychotherapy
- You do not have implants or devices that could be impacted by magnetic fields
- You are able to sit still for 40 minutes at a time
TMS is safe for most people but cannot be used in individuals with implants like pacemakers, cochlear implants, or aneurysm clips.
What Happens During a TMS Session?
Here is an overview of what to expect during a standard TMS session:
- You sit in a reclining chair and a electromagnetic coil is placed against your head in the prefrontal cortex
- The coil painlessly delivers rapid magnetic pulses to the brain, making a clicking sound
- This stimulates nerve cells which improves mood regulation
- You remain awake and alert – no sedation is given
- Each session lasts about 40 minutes
- Sessions are scheduled 5 days a week for 4-6 weeks
You can drive yourself home and resume normal activities right after each session. Many patients bring a book or use their phone during the treatment.
Are There Any Side Effects?
TMS is very well-tolerated with minimal side effects. The most common include:
- Headache – Usually mild and resolves with OTC pain medication
- Lightheadedness – Temporary dizziness that resolves in under an hour
- Scalp discomfort – Mild irritation at the site of stimulation
- Tingling/spasms in facial muscles – Usually dissipate shortly after treatment
These side effects are temporary and tend to improve over the course of treatment. Long-term side effects are very rare with TMS. It does not impact memory or cognition like ECT sometimes can.
What Happens After the Treatment Course?
Towards the end of the 4-6 week treatment course, most patients start to experience an alleviation in depressive symptoms. However, the full effects are seen in the weeks and months after the last session.
It is common for patients to continue improving for up to 6 months after finishing TMS. Many patients report increased energy, better sleep, improved concentration, and restored enjoyment in activities.
After completing an initial treatment course, maintenance TMS may be recommended. This involves shorter sessions spread out over several weeks to several months. This helps sustain the antidepressant effects.
Success Rates
TMS has been shown to be effective in reducing depressive symptoms for many patients who have not been helped by medications. Here are some key statistics on TMS success:
- 50-60% of patients see a significant improvement in depression symptoms with TMS
- 30-40% of patients achieve complete remission of their depression into the normal range
- Only 5% of patients report no noticeable improvement from TMS
These results indicate TMS can be an excellent option for treatment-resistant depression. The benefits continue to increase in the weeks and months after the sessions have ended.
Are the TMS Results Permanent?
For many patients, the antidepressant effects of TMS do end up being permanent. However, just like medication, there is always a possibility of relapse if the underlying illness returns.
Relapse rates after successful TMS treatment are around 20% in the first year. This means 80% of patients maintain their improvement long-term. These are much better odds of staying depression-free than relapse rates after stopping antidepressant medication.
To help prevent relapses, some patients opt for “booster” TMS sessions every so often, such as every few months. For long-lasting results it is also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle in terms of exercise, diet, sleep, and stress management.
Blue Jay Health TMS
Blue Jay Health is a network of TMS clinics across the United States. They have treated over 15,000 patients with TMS for depression.
Here are some key facts about Blue Jay Health:
- Over 150 convenient clinic locations across 22 states
- Accept all major insurance plans including Medicare
- Specialize exclusively in TMS therapy
- Board-certified physicians oversee all treatment
- Advanced TMS equipment customized for patient comfort
- Complimentary consultations to review treatment options
Blue Jay Health aims to make TMS as accessible and affordable as possible. They offer a modern and comfortable environment for treatment. Their team of TMS specialists provide customized plans focused on long-term remission of depression symptoms.
What Sets Blue Jay Health Apart?
There are a few key factors that set Blue Jay Health apart from other TMS providers:
- Network of Clinics – With over 150 locations, Blue Jay Health has made TMS more convenient through increased access.
- Specialization – Their clinics focus exclusively on TMS, allowing their team to become uniquely experienced and skilled.
- Customer Service – Many patient reviewers highlight exceptional service and genuine care from the Blue Jay staff.
- Advanced Technology – They use the latest TMS equipment and techniques to optimize results and comfort.
- Ongoing Support – After TMS is finished patients receive follow-ups and continued mental health support.
These advantages allow Blue Jay Health to provide a cutting-edge TMS experience that gives patients the greatest chance for overcoming depression long-term.
How Much Does TMS Cost at Blue Jay Health?
The cost for a full course TMS through Blue Jay Health is typically between $8,000-$12,000. This all-inclusive price covers:
- Consultation and screening
- Mapping session
- 36 treatment sessions
- Follow-up appointments
Many insurances cover a significant portion of TMS treatment. Blue Jay Health accepts Medicare, Tricare, and all major private insurers. They provide assistance checking coverage and benefits.
For patients with high deductibles or copays, Blue Jay Health offers financing options including a zero interest 18-month payment plan. Their goal is to work to make this effective depression treatment affordable and accessible.
How to Get Started with Blue Jay Health
If you are struggling with treatment-resistant depression and think TMS could help, take these steps to get started with Blue Jay Health:
- Check Insurance Coverage – Blue Jay can verify what your plan covers at no cost.
- Schedule a Consult – Meet with a TMS specialist and have your treatment options reviewed.
- Complete Screening – If you are eligible, you will get cleared to start TMS therapy.
- Begin Sessions – Daily morning or afternoon TMS sessions are scheduled based on your availability.
- Achieve Remission – Over 4-6 weeks your depression goes into remission so you can get your life back!
You can schedule a free insurance benefits check and consultation through the Blue Jay Health website or by calling them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about Blue Jay TMS:
Is TMS definitely covered by my insurance?
TMS coverage varies by plan. Blue Jay will check your benefits to confirm if TMS treatment will be covered before you begin. Medicare and most major health plans cover TMS.
Are there any negative long-term effects of TMS?
There is no evidence of negative long-term side effects associated with TMS. It has been shown to be very safe through decades of research and clinical use. It does not cause memory loss or brain damage.
How long do TMS results last?
For most patients, TMS provides long-lasting relief from depression. Relapse rates in the first year are around 20% which is lower than medication. Some periodic maintenance sessions may be recommended. Healthy lifestyle choices also help sustain mood improvements.
Can TMS be combined with antidepressants or therapy?
Yes, TMS is safe to use alongside antidepressants and psychotherapy. Your treatment provider can advise if combination therapy is recommended in your case. Many find TMS works when other treatments have not.
Is TMS painful at all?
No, TMS is not painful. You may feel a tapping or knocking sensation on your scalp during treatment. Any side effects like headache or discomfort are typically very mild.
Conclusion
Blue Jay TMS therapy is an FDA-cleared treatment that safely and effectively improves depression and anxiety. It works when antidepressants and therapy have not by stimulating mood-regulating areas of the brain.
Over a course of sessions, TMS can produce lasting relief from symptoms. It has been life-changing for many people with treatment-resistant mental health conditions. Blue Jay Health has made this innovative treatment more accessible through its nationwide network of clinics.
If you have exhausted other options for depression, consider TMS as an evidence-based solution. Contact Blue Jay Health to learn more and see if this could be your path forward to lasting wellness.