TMS Therapy Cost UK: What You Should Know

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy is a unique treatment that may support symptoms of several mental illnesses. With emerging exposure to TMS comes increasing client interest and questions about how it works, who offers it, and how much it typically costs. Below, explore answers to these questions and how TMS is used in tandem with other, more conventional treatments like psychotherapy. In addition, find factors to consider when choosing whether TMS suits you.

What is transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy?  

The use of transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy as a non-invasive method of treatment is becoming more common in the UK for a host of conditions, including depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders. The procedure works by placing a magnetic coil against the scalp, which then delivers targeted pulses of magnetic energy to stimulate specific areas of the brain, primarily the prefrontal cortex. The electric pulses influence nerve cell activity and potentially alleviate symptoms related to mood disorders like depression by altering brain patterns in that region. Since TMS is a non-invasive procedure, patients remain awake during treatment.  

Common conditions treated with TMS

In the beginning, TMS was used as a diagnostic tool to assess the motor cortex of patients with neurological disorders like epilepsy. Researchers later discovered that TMS could also be used to treat other neurological conditions like migraine, Parkinson’s disease, and mild cognitive decline. Further applications include smoking cessation and a variety of mental health conditions. 

Although not effective for all clients, TMS can be an option for those with mental illnesses who don’t tolerate medication side effects well or whose conditions haven’t responded well to typical treatment. Mental disorders treated with TMS may include the following: 

• Major depressive disorder (MDD)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) 
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Anxiety disorders 
• Bipolar disorder 

How much does TMS treatment cost in the UK?  

TMS treatment has become more effective and affordable. In the UK, a typical full course of TMS treatment can cost between £4,000 and £8,000, and individual sessions can range from around £150 to £300 per session. The cost of a free safety screening and the initial assessment are typically included. This fee ensures clients don’t pay for an initial consultation unnecessarily if a patient advisor flags issues that disqualify them for TMS therapy. 

Factors influencing the cost of TMS therapy

The price of TMS therapy can fluctuate depending on several factors. For example, the location of the clinic can influence the price, as well as the number of sessions required. Most treatment courses involve 20 to 30 treatment sessions on average. There may be additional consultation, assessment, or follow-up fees, and treatment costs may also vary according to one’s symptoms or diagnosis. 

Is TMS therapy covered by health insurance in the UK?  

Insurance coverage can be central to TMS affordability. While some medical insurance may cover TMS treatment, coverage varies depending on the policy. Major insurers in the UK, like Bupa and AXA, may cover TMS treatment for mental health conditions, but it depends on the policy and the individual case. Insurers typically review their policies on a case-by-case basis, and the situation may change as TMS is a relatively new treatment in the UK. 

If you’re considering TMS therapy, you can contact your insurer directly to ask if they cover TMS treatment, review your policy documentation to see if TMS treatment is covered, and give feedback to your insurer to encourage them to cover TMS treatment. 

TMS therapy and the NHS

While TMS therapy is technically available on the NHS, it is not widely accessible in most areas due to its relatively new status in the UK. For this reason, only a small number of NHS trusts offer treatment of this type, usually with strict criteria for patient eligibility. In many cases, patients must have multiple failed antidepressant trials and referrals from a GP or psychiatrist. Clients seeking TMS treatment in the UK may have to access independent clinics instead. 

Financing options for TMS therapy patients

Some options may be available for clients who don't qualify for other options. For example, local clinics may offer finance packaging and payment plans. In addition, you may be able to take out a personal loan or credit for the expenses. These options are typically subject to terms and conditions and require interest payments. In some cases, employer assistance or workplace wellness programs can cover or offset the costs of TMS therapy.

Value of TMS therapy for mental health: Is it worth the cost?  

Available data suggests that TMS therapy may be worth the cost because it can offer significant symptom relief when other treatments like medication have failed. Researchers at Harvard Medical School say that roughly 50% to 60% of people with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) “experience a clinically meaningful response with TMS.” Approximately one-third of these individuals will experience complete remission of symptoms with regular treatments. However, experts caution that the exact success rates can vary depending on the clinic, treatment protocol, and patient characteristics, with some centers reporting higher rates due to expertise and equipment used. 

Effectiveness of transcranial magnetic stimulation compared to traditional treatments 

Studies also indicate that TMS can be more effective than conventional methods for certain conditions, such as medication and psychotherapy. For example, as opposed to the average 50% to 60% success rate that TMS provides, the success rate for medication in treating TRD is generally considered low, with only around 20% of patients achieving significant relief, even after multiple treatment attempts. This statistic shows how roughly one-third of individuals with major depressive disorder may not respond positively to standard antidepressant medications, even after several trials. 

The BetterHelp platform is not intended to provide any information regarding which medication or medical treatment may be appropriate for you. The content provides generalized information that is not specific to one individual. Do not take any action without consulting a qualified medical professional.

Long-term benefits of TMS treatment that may outweigh upfront costs 

While the initial cost of TMS can be high, for those with severe treatment-resistant depression, the long-term benefits and reduced need for ongoing medications may make it cost-effective. Clients often report feeling better for several months after completing TMS treatment, with the average duration of response being around a year. Although some individuals may be prescribed additional TMS sessions periodically to maintain their improved mood, the savings of using TMS for depression may outweigh the expenses in the long run. 

Questions to ask before starting TMS therapy

Individuals considering TMS therapy can benefit from thorough research, speaking to their healthcare providers, and compiling a list of questions for TMS physicians. One of the most comprehensive questions to ask would be inquiring about evidence of success for your specific symptoms and diagnoses. How many people has the physician treated with the same diagnosis? How long have they been practicing? 

You may also ask for information about potential side effects, how long it takes for the average person to see results, and how to prepare for treatments. Concerning costs, ask for a quote for the total cost of treatment, including initial consultation, sessions, and follow-ups. Find out about any additional fees not covered in the initial quote and what financing or payment options are available. 

Challenges and considerations 

Challenges in getting TMS treatment are often associated with affordability and the limited availability of clinics offering TMS therapy across the UK. If an individual has insurance, their plan may help with the costs, but providers often require pre-authorization or proof of medical necessity to cover treatment. This process typically involves gathering medical history records and documentation from your mental healthcare provider. 

Additionally, regional disparities can create significant challenges for some. Major cities are more likely to have TMS clinics than more rural or underserved areas. As such, individuals living in less populated areas might travel long distances to access treatment. This distance can add to the overall cost of treatment and might be a significant obstacle for people with physical disabilities or limited resources. 

When TMS therapy isn’t recommended for most patients 

Although highly effective for many, TMS therapy isn’t appropriate for everyone. For example, TMS can cause seizures, so the procedure isn’t recommended for people with a history or family history of seizures or epilepsy. In addition, TMS isn’t recommended for people with brain damage from a stroke, traumatic brain injury, or brain tumor, nor for people with metal implants such as aneurysm clips, stents, or bullet fragments above the shoulders. Similarly, people with implants controlled by physiological signals, such as pacemakers, ICDs, or VNS, may not be able to receive TMS treatment. 

The future of TMS therapy in the UK 

The future of TMS therapy in the UK looks promising. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has updated its guidance to recommend repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS treatment) for depression in routine clinical practice, sparking an increase in treatment centers opening. 

As more studies reaffirm efficacy, TMS may become more utilized as a depression treatment option. Further research may encourage more insurance companies to provide coverage and open up the potential for broader NHS funding initiatives. With functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) advancements, TMS can be better personalized to each patient's needs. Because of these advancements and its non-invasive nature, TMS may be used in pediatric research and therapeutic trials and as a potential preferred treatment option for the elderly population.

TMS therapy as a complementary mental health treatment

TMS and other neurotherapies may be integrated into comprehensive treatment regimens with different modalities, such as psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and lifestyle interventions. Psychiatrists may recommend individuals with conditions like major depressive disorder, treatment-resistant depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder to continue psychotherapy during a TMS treatment course. 

Psychotherapy is often recommended for individuals living with depression in tandem with other treatments. However, despite its popularity and efficacy, some people don’t seek talk therapy as an option. Often, barriers like a lack of accessibility, stigma associated with mental illness, and affordability concerns can arise, making psychotherapy seem out of reach. In these cases, online therapy platforms like BetterHelp may be accessible and affordable. Services are priced as low as 65 pounds and are billed every four weeks. In addition, online platforms offer unique resources, such as worksheets and support groups.  

A growing body of research also shows that online therapy is as effective as traditional for treatment-resistant depression. For example, one clinical trial published in Frontiers in Psychology showed that clients participating in online mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (eMBCT) for treatment-resistant depression experienced “significant reductions in depression symptoms.”  

Takeaway

Investing in your mental health can yield long-term benefits. If you're struggling with treatment-resistant depression or don't tolerate medication side effects well, speak to your doctor or therapist about your options. They might refer you to a psychiatrist who can assess your condition and determine if you'd be a good candidate for TMS. You may also consider speaking to a counselor or therapist if you don’t already. Online and in-person options are available for support in the UK.