 |
Expanded Coverage of Preventive Health Care MeasuresEffective 1/1/02 the following preventive health measures are reimbursable under the Medicare program: Pelvic examinations are covered services once every two years for women who are asymptomatic for cervical or vaginal cancers. Previously, this service was approved once every three years. Annual glaucoma screening is available to individuals with diabetes, family history of glaucoma, and /or for African-Americans who are 50 years or older. Glaucoma screening will be reimbursed if it is the only procedure performed that day. Screening colonoscopies for individuals not at high risk for colorectal cancer will be covered once every 10 years effective 7/1/02. In addition, screening mammographies will be reimbursed under the physician fee schedule instead of a flat fee for service basis. |