Nuclear Cardiology

Single photon computed tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET) molecular imaging are used as primary cardiac imaging modalities to evaluate the function of the heart. It uses radioactive isotopes attached to sugars that are metabolized by cardiomyocytes. This creates an image of the metabolic activity of the heart and shows areas of ischemia or infarct. Other radiotracers can image the heart to diagnosis cardiac amyloidosis and sarcoidosis. 

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Quality experts urge CMS to fold imaging Appropriate Use Criteria Program into other value initiatives

After years of delays, the initiative's usefulness has "diminished significantly," imaging leaders from several noted institutions wrote in Health Affairs. 

quality imaging appropriateness clinical decision support CAS AUC

Lawmakers urge CMS to reexamine long-delayed imaging Appropriate Use Criteria program

The quality initiative has been pushed back several times, and some are concerned that it's no longer relevant and duplicates other efforts. 

Medical isotope specialist NorthStar announces new executive hire

Frank Scholz, PhD, will oversee the Beloit, Wisconsin, firm's Mo-99 expansion efforts and new radioisotope development programs, among other duties.

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Combining AI with cardiac imaging helps predict heart attacks, cardiovascular deaths

The findings were presented virtually during the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging's 2021 Annual Meeting.

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Imaging advocates offer guidance after reported spate of SPECT/CT payment denials

The Society of Nuclear Medicine & Molecular Imaging said it’s received “many complaints” from the field pertaining to various commercial payers. 

Humana

Humana agrees to take second look at panned payment change labeling PET/CT as ‘investigational’

The American Society of Nuclear Cardiology recently met with the Louisville, Kentucky, insurer, which shared an openness to reviewing a recent coverage determination. 

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CCTA is a safe, effective alternative to SPECT in patients with stable chest pain

The findings come by way of the RESCUE Trial, which included more than 1,000 participants from 44 different sites.

Humana

Imaging experts slam Humana for ‘ill-informed and wrong’ decision to deny coverage for PET/CT exams

The pair said that without hearing a solid argument, they will be "relentless" in opposing the insurance giant's coverage determination. 

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