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Society Opposes Proposals that Could Limit Access to Thyroid Ultrasound and DXA
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Endocrine Insider On August 29, The Endocrine Society submitted comments to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) on the proposed 2009 physician fee schedule. The schedule includes a 1.1 percent increase for all services as mandated in the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act (MIPPA), which the Society supported. However, the schedule also includes proposed regulations for independent diagnostic testing facilities (IDTFs) stipulating that only radiology-certified professionals would be eligible to perform or oversee diagnostic procedures. The outcome of this requirement could be reduced patient access to important diagnostic services, including thyroid ultrasound and dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans. The Society requested that IDTF provisions, if forwarded, only apply to advanced imaging services such as MRI and CT scans and not to ultrasound or x-ray. The Society also requested that CMS consider changing anticipated equipment costs related to DXA services and including DXA scans for men with increased fracture risk as a preventive service under the Medicare program. To view a copy of the Society's letter to CMS, please click here.
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