In October, APMA informed members that five of the seven Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) released a problematic proposed Local Coverage Determination (LCD) that would significantly restrict coverage of peripheral nerve blocks (PNBs).
On November 7, APMA submitted its formal opposition to CGS, NGS, Noridian, Palmetto, and WPS, and urged the five MACs to rescind the policies as proposed. If rescission was not possible, APMA recommended the MACs make the following changes:
Maintain coverage for steroid injections to treat Morton's neuroma and remove the lifetime limit on Morton's neuroma steroid injections
Add the tibial nerve at the tarsal tunnel as a covered indication because peer-reviewed research supports its safety and clinical benefit
APMA also led a broader sign-on letter, signed by six other societies that represent providers who are committed to supporting patients' access to effective, non-surgical pain management. Read both letters and all past comments at www.apma.org/CommentLetters.
Contact the APMA Advocacy Department with any questions or concerns.