AMA Clinical Examples in Radiology - 2010 Bulletin 1
CMS Allows National Coverage for 18F-NaF PET and PET/CT Imaging for Bone Metastasis Pending CED Framework
CMS Allows National Coverage for 18 F-NaF PET and PET/CT Imaging for Bone Metastasis Pending CED Framework The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) posted a final coverage decision regarding 18 F-NaF positron emission tomography (PET) for bone metastasis on February 26, 2010. Pending a Coverage with Evidence Development (CED) framework, 18 F-NaF PET and PET/computed tomography (CT) imaging will be covered when used to identify bone metastasis of cancer either to modify the initial antitumor treatment strategy or to guide subsequent antitumor treatment strategy after the completion of initial treatment. Transmittals 119 (Pub 100-03, Medicare National Coverage...
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Article Overview
This article explains a Medicare coverage update involving nuclear medicine and PET imaging for oncology, with attention to CMS transmittals, effective dates, and the requirement that coverage be tied to a clinical study or registry context. It is relevant to radiology, nuclear medicine, oncology billing, and reimbursement staff who need to track federal coverage policy changes and related CMS guidance.
Why This Topic Matters
Coverage determinations can directly affect whether these imaging services are reimbursable, what documentation framework applies, and when claims may be submitted. The article helps readers monitor CMS policy updates and related implementation guidance from CMS and professional societies.
What You Will Learn
- The scope of the CMS coverage decision for PET-based bone metastasis imaging
- How the decision is tied to a coverage-with-evidence-development framework
- Which CMS manuals and transmittals are referenced for implementation
- Which professional organizations are mentioned in connection with the coverage update
- Where to look for further updates and related CMS materials
Who Should Read This
- Radiologists
- Nuclear medicine physicians
- Oncology providers
- Medical coders
- Billing and reimbursement staff
- Compliance teams
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