What Is TMS?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive procedure that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate the brain to improve symptoms of depression and anxiety. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved TMS for the indications of major depressive disorder (MDD) and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) in adults ages 18 to 70. TMS is used when medication treatments or therapies haven't been effective. Many insurance plans cover TMS if you have not responded to traditional treatment options. Vail Health Behavioral Health now accepts Cigna and Medicare for TMS treatment.

How Does TMS Work?

During a TMS session, a magnetic coil is placed on the scalp and the device delivers a series of short magnetic pulses that stimulate nerve cells located in the region of the brain involved in depression and anxiety. These pulses generate an electrical current that causes the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. TMS allows neurons to change the way they communicate with each other, forming new communication pathways and new patterns of behavior. 

What Happens in a TMS Session?

Patients begin with a consultation with one of our Vail Health Behavioral Health psychiatrists to determine if you are a candidate for receiving TMS therapy. During a TMS session, patients recline in a comfortable chair and a magnetic coil is placed against the patient’s scalp. The TMS coil makes a clicking sound and produces a tapping sensation during the treatment. Patients are awake for the entirety of the session and are able to talk, listen to music, or watch videos. Each treatment ranges from 3 to 20 minutes, depending on the treatment protocol prescribed. Daily (weekday) treatment sessions for 6-8 weeks (30-36 treatments total) are typically required. Patient’s are able to drive themselves home and immediately return to normal activity following their procedure.
 

How to Schedule a TMS Session:

Our providers are administering TMS treatment to patients in-person at the Wiegers Clinic - Building A located within the Edwards Community Health Campus. Once a patient has been approved for TMS, our financial navigation team will work closely with your insurance to identify coverage options. Accepted insurances for TMS treatment include: Blue Cross Blue Shield/Anthem, Mountain Strong for Vail Health and Eagle County employees, United healthcare, Tricare/VA, Cigna, and Medicare. 

Monday – Friday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, by appointment

439 Edwards Access Rd, A207
Edwards, CO 81632

Interested in learning more about TMS treatments? Talk to your current behavioral health provider or call the Wiegers Clinic to speak with our TMS nurse coordinator at (970) 445-2489. Existing patients can schedule online by clicking the 'Request Appointment' button on providers.vailhealthbh.org.
  
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