External Counterpulsation (ECP) Therapy for Severe Angina

Medicare covers external counterpulsation (ECP) for patients with disabling angina (CCS Class III or IV or equivalent) who are judged by a cardiologist or cardiothoracic surgeon to be not readily amenable to revascularization due to inoperability, high operative risk, unfavorable coronary anatomy, or excessive comorbid risk. Treatment must be physician‑supervised and is typically delivered as a course of 35 one‑hour sessions (once or twice daily, ~5 days/week); all other cardiac uses and hydraulic ECP devices are nationally non‑covered.

"ECP is covered for patients with disabling angina corresponding to Canadian Cardiovascular Society (CCS) Class III or Class IV (or equivalent classification)."

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