MEDCAC rebuffs beta amyloid PET imaging

CMS's Medicare Evidence Development & Coverage Advisory Committee (MEDCAC) concluded there is inadequate evidence to determine whether beta amyloid PET imaging can change health outcomes in patients who display early symptoms of cognitive dysfunction. The average vote of the 12 voting committee members was 2.2 on a scale of 1-5, where 1 is "low confidence" and 5 is "high confidence."

The committee met to discuss a National Coverage Assessment (NCA) for beta amyloid PET imaging for diagnosing and managing dementia and neurodegenerative disease. MEDCAC provides CMS advice and recommendations about the adequacy of scientific evidence needed to determine whether medical items and services can be covered under Medicare, which does not currently cover beta amyloid PET imaging. ...