Appendix E - National Coverage Determinations Manual / Ultrasound Diagnostic Procedures

Why This Topic Matters

Coverage policy for diagnostic ultrasound affects whether claims are considered nationally covered, non-covered, or left to local contractor review. Understanding the scope of this article helps reduce claim denials, support compliant documentation, and distinguish broad ultrasound guidance from other diagnostic or procedural coding topics.

Article Sections

1. Ultrasound Diagnostic Procedures

   Introduces the policy topic and identifies the effective and revision context for the coverage guidance.

2. A. General

   Provides background on diagnostic ultrasound and explains how the procedures are organized for coverage review.

3. B. Nationally Covered Indications

   Lists the broadly covered ultrasound-related diagnostic uses included under the national coverage policy.

4. C. Nationally Non-Covered Indications

   Identifies the ultrasound-related uses that are not nationally covered under the policy.

5. D. Other

   Explains that ultrasound uses outside the listed categories are handled through local contractor discretion and review.