Fisher Wallace Stimulator Cost
The Fisher Wallace Stimulator is a portable medical device that is designed to gently stimulate particular brain regions responsible for a healthy mood and sleep.
Cleared by the FDA to help treat anxiety, insomnia and depression, the product, as of this publishing, is available as an over-the-counter device in Europe.
How much does the Fisher Wallace Stimulator cost?
The official website, FisherWallace.com, is straightforward as to how much the device costs, noting two options: either than $599 option for those with Medicaid, Medicare, TRICARE, Veteran, disability benefits, and first responder families, and the $699 option, which seems to be designed for everyone outside of the groups mentioned prior. The company does offer a 30-day return and refund policy, encouraging you to use the device at least twice a day for 20 minutes, once in the morning and evening, and if you do not see noticeable results, then you can return the device for a full refund. However, as per the fine print, the company will apply a 10 percent restocking fee and will not refund the shipping costs.
As for health insurance, the company notes that they are not in network with any private insurance companies, however, they do note that some popular insurance companies, such as Blue Cross or Aetna, for example, may reimburse the purchase of the device if your doctor is able to provide a letter of medical necessity. In most cases, they do note that you should be prepared to have your insurance company deny your claim at first; however, the company may oblige after contesting the charge. You can download a template via the official website to increase your chances of having your health insurance cover or at least pay a portion of the device. Talk with your health insurance company for any questions you may in regards to the device and the costs you’re responsible for.
For Medicaid, the only state to cover the device, at the time of this writing, was Maine, but this could change over time. Tricare for Life, on the hand, is said to cover the device in full as long as it’s rejected by Medicare, but it’s only covered for any veteran or immediate family member of a member who has either been retired and over the age of 65 or on permanent disability and younger than 65.
Regardless of how you plan on purchasing the device, you will need prior authorization if you live in the United States and it can be done in two ways: either via an online form, which will cost $18 or you can ask your doctor to fax or email a prescription or completed authorization form to the company.
What’s included in the price?
Aside from the FDA-cleared stimulator, the purchase also includes one electrode headset, a velcro headband, six sponges, two AA batteries, a carrying case and an instruction manual. All new purchases come with a one-year limited manufacturing warranty.
How it works
The device uses proprietary waveforms to help stimulate the brain to produce serotonin and other neurochemicals that are responsible for sleep and an overall healthier mood. Proven to be safe and effective in medical studies, it’s currently cleared by the FDA to help treat anxiety, depression and insomnia.
When worn, the device will produce gently electrical pulses at patented frequencies to help stimulate the brain. Refer to the video below to see how you use it.
Side effects
According to the official FAQ, side effects, while rare, can exist. 1 in 500 patients did report feeling a headache while using the device, while 1 in 250 felt an increase in wakefulness immediately after using the device. They do note, however, if you experience this, you should avoid using it three weeks before bedtime. Improper use can also lead to a minor electrode irritation, which will occur when the sponges are not wet enough before applying. The company highly encourages that you wash the online video and read the instruction video as to how to use the device.
Fisher Wallace Stimulator reviews
About 25 people on this Drugs.com forum thread talked about the device, with mixed results noted. One person noted her husband saw a difference as long as you used it twice a day, but since she didn’t have much time to commit to the schedule, she didn’t see as much of a difference. Another said she felt she saw a difference but was unsure whether it was a placebo effect or timing. Lastly, a licensed psychologist in Michigan said his wife, who suffered from Parkinson’s, saw very good results, noting it had no side effects, was simple to use and considered to be quite useful for a variety of symptoms.
David Levine, via the Scientific American, stated he has been using it for six years to help with his chronic pain and anxiety, noting that he found it to be relaxing and reminded him of how he practiced transcendental meditation while in college.
Tips to know
Patients who wear implanted devices, such as a pacemaker or nerve stimulator, are not qualified for the device as it may interfere with the functioning of this device. Other patients may not qualify as well; to see if you’re a candidate for the device, refer to this questionnaire form on the official website.
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