CMS releases coverage decision and acceptable diagnoses for fecal-occult tests

Article Overview

This article explains a CMS national coverage decision affecting fecal-occult blood tests and the kinds of diagnosis categories tied to coverage under Medicare. It is aimed at coding, billing, and laboratory staff who need to understand how the policy relates to clinical diagnostic lab services, colorectal cancer screening, and compliance requirements such as laboratory certification and date-of-service reporting. The discussion is centered on the policy update, the types of diagnoses addressed, and related program guidance.