Subject:

Description/Scope

Wearable devices for stress relief are typically small and inconspicuous sensors worn on the wrist, waist, skin, or clothes to aid wearers in identifying stressful triggers. Stress relief wearables often include biofeedback to help wearers learn to modify their physiologic response and may contain a therapeutic intervention, such as a calming vibration, activated by device-detected physiologic stressful stimuli.

Note: Some benefit plans may exclude coverage of consumer wearable devices (such as a smart phone, smart watch, or other personal tracking devices), including any software or applications. Direct to consumer (DTC) applications are generally excluded from benefit plan coverage.

Position Statement

Investigational and Not Medically Necessary:

Wearable devices for management, monitoring or prevention of stress and stress-related conditions are considered investigational and not medically necessary for all indications.