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Neurofeedback may be conceptualized as a type of biofeedback that uses the electroencephalogram (EEG) as a source of feedback data. Neurofeedback differs from traditional forms of biofeedback in that the information fed back to the patient (i.e., EEG tracings) is a direct measure of global neuronal activity or brain state, compared to feedback of the centrally regulated physiological processes such as tension of specific muscle groups or skin temperature. The patient may be trained to either increase or decrease the prevalence, amplitude or frequency of specified EEG waveforms (e.g., alpha, beta, theta waves), depending on the changes in brain function associated with the particular disorder. It has been proposed that training of slow cortical potentials can regulate cortical excitability, and that using the EEG as a measure of CNS functioning can help train patients to modify or control their abnormal brain activity.

Neurofeedback is being explored for the treatment of a variety of disorders including attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), learning disabilities, traumatic brain injury, seizure disorders, substance abuse-related disorders, menopausal hot flashes, panic and anxiety disorders, fibromyalgia, tinnitus, substance abuse, depression, stress management, or sleep disorders. Two training protocols, training of slow cortical potentials (SCPs) and theta/beta training, are typically used in children with ADHD. For training of SCPs, surface-negative SCPs and surface-positive SCPs are generated over the sensorimotor cortex. Negative SCPs reflect increased excitation and occur during states of behavioral or cognitive preparation, while positive SCPs are thought to indicate reduction of cortical excitation of the underlying neural networks and appear during behavioral inhibition. In theta/beta training, the goal is to decrease activity in the EEG theta band (4-8 hertz [Hz]) and increase activity in the EEG beta band (13-20 Hz), corresponding to an alert and focused but relaxed state. Alpha-theta neurofeedback is typically used in studies on substance abuse. Neurofeedback for epilepsy has focused on sensorimotor rhythm up-training (increasing 12-15 Hz activity at motor strip) or altering slow cortical potentials. It has been proposed that learned alterations in EEG patterns in epilepsy are due to operant conditioning, and are not conscious or voluntary.  A variety of protocols have been described for treatment of migraine headaches.

Neurofeedback is considered investigational.

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Investigative service is defined as the use of any treatment procedure, facility, equipment, drug, device, or supply not yet recognized by certifying boards and/or approving or licensing agencies or published peer review criteria as standard, effective medical practice for the treatment of the condition being treated and as such therefore is not considered medically necessary.

The coverage guidelines outlined in the Medical Policy Manual should not be used in lieu of the Member's specific benefit plan language.

8/26/2005: Code Reference section reviewed, no changes

8/31/2006: Policy reviewed, no changes

6/19/2009: Policy reviewed, no changes

6/26/2009: Policy Description section updated

09/09/2010:  Policy description updated to add information regarding neurofeedback for epilespy. Policy statement unchanged.

09/23/2011: Policy reviewed. Policy description updated; policy statement unchanged.

Blue Cross Blue Shield Association Policy # 2.01.28

All codes billed for this procedure are considered investigational and not eligible for coverage. 

Non-Covered Codes

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