Proponents call proposed PET coverage 'bittersweet'

摘要

A proposal to expand Medicare coverage of FDG-PET studies for cancer staging and restaging has elicited mixed reactions among proponents. Though some applaud the move, others, particularly PET researchers, say it falls short of expectations.The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services proposes to cover one FDG-PET study for Medicare beneficiaries with biopsy-proven or strongly suspected solid tumors. The initial PET scan would be used fordiagnosis/staging and to guide management. The policy, based on experience from the National Oncologic PET Registry, would cover all cancers except prostate and breast cancer and the evaluation of regional lymph nodes in melanoma. The use of PET beyond the initial patient evaluation, however, will continue to require Coverage with Evidence Development (CED), most likely through the NOPR.