CMS Says MRI Can Improve Health Outcomes in Medicare Patients With Pacemakers

CMS announced April 25 that there is sufficient evidence to conclude that MRI improves health outcomes for Medicare patients with implanted permanent pacemakers, according to an AAPC release.

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CMS has proposed to change the language in section 220.2.C.1 of the NCD Manual to remove the contraindication for Medicare coverage of MRI in patients with implanted permanent pacemakers.

MRI is currently non-covered for patients who have implanted pacemakers, but a new device could be the first pacemaker appropriate for use in an MRI environment. The device’s development led CMS to reconsider its NCD for the service.

Read CMS’ proposed decision memo on MRI NCD.

Read the AAPC release on MRI NCD.

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