National_Coverage_Determinations_Manual / 220.6.6

Why This Topic Matters

Coverage policy details can affect whether PET services are considered payable under Medicare and whether supporting documentation is needed. The article also helps users track the evolution of melanoma-related PET guidance by effective date and service category.

Article Sections

1. FDG PET for Melanoma

   Overview of the melanoma-specific coverage policy and the effective-date framework used throughout the article.

2. Evaluation of Recurrent Melanoma Prior to Surgery As Alternative to Gallium Scan

   Coverage guidance for a recurrent melanoma evaluation scenario, along with related timing, documentation, and facility-related limitations.

3. Diagnosis, Staging, and Restaging

   Coverage guidance for diagnostic and disease-assessment uses of FDG PET in melanoma, including general documentation expectations.

4. Monitoring Response to Treatment

   Coverage guidance for response-to-treatment monitoring and the referenced evidence-development context.

5. Requirements

   General requirements describing the broad clinical situations addressed in the policy and the documentation expectations tied to them.