via NewMediaWire — Neovasc, Inc. (Neovasc or the Company) (NASDAQ, TSX: NVCN) today announced the German Institute for the Hospital Remuneration System (“InEK”) has awarded the Neovasc Reducer™ (“Reducer”), a CE-Marked medical device for the treatment of refractory angina, NUB Status 1 designation yet again for 2022. Additionally, the Company announced the 500th patient has been treated in Germany.
New examination and treatment methods (NUBs) are comprised of novel and innovative medicines, medical products and procedures that can be utilized by hospitals before reaching full reimbursement eligibility. The NUB process opens the path for negotiations between hospitals and health insurers for the reimbursement of new medical treatments in the German healthcare system. InEK is responsible for prioritizing new therapies in Germany through the NUB process.
Reducer has been granted Status 1 – the highest priority designation available. The NUB decision is valid for one year and can be renewed annually. For 2022, 256 German hospitals applied for the Reducer NUB, and they can now negotiate full reimbursement coverage for the Reducer therapy.
“Our team has been focused on securing broad reimbursement coverage for Reducer so more patients can benefit from the therapy,” commented Fred Colen, Chief Executive Officer of Neovasc. “Obtaining NUB Status 1 for 2022 from the German reimbursement authorities is a vital component of our overall strategy. In the past several quarters, we have had significant reimbursement wins in Germany, France, the U.K., and the United States. These reimbursement expansions are a testament to the profound impact that the Reducer can have on patients.”
500th patient treated with the Reducer in Germany
The Cardiology team at Helios-Kliniken, Schwerin, Germany recently completed the 500th implant of the Reducer in Germany. The procedure marks another meaningful step as the Company continues to expand adoption of the procedure. Prof. Alexander Staudt, Director of Cardiology, and Dr. Philipp Hammer performed the procedure.
“We are extremely grateful to be able to offer this treatment for our patients with chronic refractory angina,” commented Prof. Staudt. “Prior to the availability of the Reducer, we struggled to treat these patients. Now, we have a reliable treatment option that offers them hope.”
