Chinese Brain Computer Interface Device Secures Medical Insurance Code

Neuracle's brain-computer interface (BCI) device has achieved a significant milestone by securing a medical insurance code from China's National Healthcare Security Administration (NHSA). This development marks an important bridge between regulatory approval and clinical application, particularly benefitting patients with spinal cord injuries.

The Shanghai-based company, Neuracle, reported that the NHSA's prompt allocation of the medical insurance code reflects strong governmental support for innovative healthcare technology. This code also serves as an authoritative recognition of Neuracle's technological advancements and the clinical relevance of their device.

Neuracle's implantable BCI product features a movement function compensation system that specifically aids patients suffering from high-level paraplegia due to spinal cord injuries. With over 3.7 million individuals in China afflicted by spinal cord injuries and approximately 90,000 new cases diagnosed annually, this innovation is timely and critical.

The innovative BCI device operates through the implantation of a coin-sized, minimally invasive unit within the patient's skull. It captures and decodes brain signals in real time, enabling patients to control an external pneumatic glove using only their thoughts. This capability allows users to independently perform daily activities such as grasping objects and drinking water.

The assignment of a medical insurance code allows BCI implantation procedures to be included within China's medical insurance system, simplifying the reimbursement process. This will not only accelerate the clinical adoption of BCI technology but also offer essential financial protection for patients undergoing these procedures.

As highlighted by Pan Helin, a member of the expert committee of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, this development is poised to create a favorable ecosystem for the widespread application of BCI technology.

While the medical insurance code is a significant step, the product must still navigate the hospital procurement process, requiring configuration approval from the National Health Commission, as noted by Pan.

Clinical trials for BCI technology are actively underway in China. Recent reports from the Xinhua News Agency indicate that the first BCI research ward in Southwest China at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University has successfully treated its 100th patient.

The government's supportive policies are facilitating the growth of the industry, with BCI technology being highlighted for the first time in this year's Government Work Report presented at the National People's Congress. The upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan outlines BCI as one of six key future industrial sectors.

Regions such as Jiangsu, Beijing, Shanghai, and Sichuan are rapidly advancing their BCI industry development through targeted action plans, signifying a collaborative national effort.

Pan emphasized that BCI technology is in its nascent stages, aiming to improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities and help them regain certain functional movements, with significant potential for future advancements.

According to the Qianzhan Industry Research Institute, China's BCI market was valued at 2.3 billion yuan, approximately 333.6 million USD, in 2024, with projections to exceed 10 billion yuan by 2029—a compound annual growth rate of 35 percent. Long-term potential lies in BCI's capability to provide a vital platform for research across neuroscience, surgical robotics, and biological signal processing.