The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced that it intends to expand the diagnostic options available for women with possible breast cancer.

A new Medicare coverage policy will expand the use of image guidance for the biopsy some palpable lesions-masses that can be felt by hand-that are difficult to biopsy using only palpation, or touch. In 1999, CMS announced coverage of image guidance to biopsy nonpalpable lesions-masses that cannot be felt by hand-through the skin.

"By expanding access to this diagnostic test, we are improving the quality of care and the quality of life for many Medicare beneficiaries," said Sean Tunis, MD, MPH, director of CMS' Coverage and Analysis Group.

With image-guided biopsy, an imaging technology such as a stereotactic or ultrasound system is typically used to determine where to insert the biopsy needle. Image guidance provides a less invasive alternative to surgical biopsy, in which a piece of tissue is surgically removed.

Image guidance is also more accurate in diagnosing breast masses than using palpation to determine where to insert the biopsy needle for lesions that are difficult to biopsy by touch. This technique provides the clinician with a visualization of the breast tissue areas that produced an abnormality on the original mammogram.

The new benefit will be implemented later this year. Coverage decisions are never retroactive.

SOURCE:
Health Care Financing Administration (http://www.hcfa.gov)