Cardiac PET Intensive Virtual Workshop (May 3-4, 2025)-ASNC Model Coverage: 2023 PET Policy Statement

ASNC Model Coverage: 2023 PET Policy Statement

Pdf Summary

The ASNC Policy Statement provides updated guidelines for cardiac positron emission tomography (PET) imaging for 2023. This revision addresses the growing use of cardiovascular PET and the expanded range of clinical conditions demanding its application since the last update in 2014. The document details scenarios in which cardiac PET is indicated, supported by relevant literature and appropriate use criteria (AUC) from various multisocietal documents published over recent years.<br /><br />The policy serves as guidance for clinicians, payers, and institutions like the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology (ASNC), detailing the medical necessity of cardiac PET studies. It aligns with the latest AUC documents, including the 2020 criteria for PET myocardial perfusion imaging and the 2023 guidelines for chronic coronary disease assessment.<br /><br />New sections have been added for evaluating coronary microvascular disease, myocardial viability, cardiac sarcoidosis, and infection, providing clinical codes (ICD-10) for coverage. The document advocates for the universal coverage of cardiac PET for indications classified as "appropriate" or "may be appropriate" per the AUC, while acknowledging that even "rarely appropriate" studies might warrant coverage after further review.<br /><br />Cardiac PET's role extends to diagnosing coronary artery disease (CAD), assessing myocardial viability, and evaluating conditions like ischemic cardiomyopathy and valvular heart disease. It offers precision in functional imaging over older techniques like SPECT, due to its rapid protocols, higher diagnostic accuracy, and lower radiation exposure.<br /><br />The policy emphasizes balancing technological advancements with clinical decision-making, urging reliance on firm AUC guidelines and evidence-based practices. Also included are pertinent resources from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) relating to procedural and billing codes, ensuring adherence to proper practices and patient safety in cardiovascular imaging.

Keywords

cardiac PET

ASNC guidelines

cardiovascular imaging

myocardial perfusion

coronary artery disease

AUC criteria

clinical conditions

diagnostic accuracy

Medicare coverage

nuclear cardiology