Question:

Is there a guideline that states that patients with a history of mastectomy must revert to a screening mammography study after a set number of negative diagnostic studies or after a specified number of years post-mastectomy?

Answer:

The American College of Radiology considers patients who have been treated for breast cancer (either with breast conservation or mastectomy) as high-risk patients, an indication for a diagnostic mammogram for the rest of their lives. However, as stated above, CMS allows the attending physician and the patient the flexibility to choose whether they want to continue with a diagnostic mammogram or revert back to the screening process.

This question was answered in our Breast & Bone Density Procedure Coding Guide. For more hot topics relating to radiology services, please visit our store or call us at 1.800.252.1578, ext. 2.

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