Does Insurance or Medicare Cover Scrambler Therapy?
In most cases, no. As of 2026, Scrambler Therapy / Calmare® is generally not covered by commercial insurance or traditional Medicare. Here's the full picture — and what you can do about it.
Medicare
There is no national coverage determination for Scrambler Therapy. Most CMS claims are denied as "investigational." Some Medicare Advantage plans evaluate on a case-by-case basis, especially for cancer-related neuropathic pain.
Commercial insurance
Major commercial payers (UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, Cigna, BCBS) generally classify Scrambler Therapy as experimental. A small number of patients have obtained coverage by:
- Documenting failed prior treatments (medications, nerve blocks, physical therapy).
- Submitting peer-reviewed studies from Mayo Clinic and Johns Hopkins with the appeal.
- Working with a pain physician who will write a detailed letter of medical necessity.
VA coverage
Several VA medical centers offer Scrambler Therapy in-house at no cost to eligible veterans. Ask your VA primary care provider about a pain-management referral.
HSA & FSA
Scrambler Therapy is generally an eligible medical expense for HSA and FSA accounts when prescribed for a chronic pain condition. Save your receipts and the prescribing physician's note.
Workers' comp & auto injury
Workers' compensation and auto-injury carriers occasionally approve Scrambler Therapy when documented as a less expensive alternative to long-term opioid therapy or implantable stimulators.