Category B (Nonexperimental/investigational) device

Category B (Nonexperimental/investigational) device refers to a device for which the incremental risk is the primary risk in question (that is, initial questions of safety and effectiveness of that device type have been resolved), or it is known that the device type can be safe and effective because, for example, other manufacturers have obtained FDA premarket approval or clearance for that device type.

Source

42 CFR § 405.201

Scoping language

Scope. This subpart establishes that
(1) CMS uses the FDA categorization of a device as a factor in making Medicare coverage decisions; and
(2) CMS may consider for Medicare coverage certain devices with an FDA-approved investigational device exemption (IDE) that have been categorized as Category B (Nonexperimental/investigational) device.
(3) CMS identifies criteria for coverage of items and services furnished in IDE studies.