416.195—Determination of membership in new classes of new technology IOLs.

(a) Factors to be considered. CMS uses the following criteria to determine whether an IOL qualifies for a payment adjustment as a member of a new class of new technology IOLs when inserted at an ASC:
(1) The IOL is approved by the FDA.
(2) Claims of specific clinical benefits and/or lens characteristics with established clinical relevance in comparison to currently available IOLs are approved by the FDA for use in labeling and advertising.
(3) The IOL is not described by an active or expired class of new technology IOLs; that is, it does not share a predominant, class-defining characteristic associated with improved clinical outcomes with members of an active or expired class.
(4) Evidence demonstrates that use of the IOL results in measurable, clinically meaningful, improved outcomes in comparison with use of currently available IOLs. Superior outcomes include:
(i) Reduced risk of intraoperative or postoperative complication or trauma;
(ii) Accelerated postoperative recovery;
(iii) Reduced induced astigmatism;
(iv) Improved postoperative visual acuity;
(v) More stable postoperative vision;
(vi) Other comparable clinical advantages.
(b) CMS determination of eligibility for payment adjustment. CMS reviews the information submitted with a completed request for review, public comments submitted timely, and other pertinent information and makes a determination as follows:
(1) The IOL is eligible for a payment adjustment as a member of a new class of new technology IOLs.
(2) The IOL is a member of an active class of new technology IOLs and is eligible for a payment adjustment for the remainder of the period established for that class.
(3) The IOL does not meet the criteria for designation as a new technology IOL and a payment adjustment is not appropriate.