Language:
Currency:
VAT Mode:
August 7, 1997
President Clinton signs into law the Medicare Bone Mass Measurement Coverage Standardization Act .
Effective date: July 1, 1998.

The law requires Medicare coverage for bone mineral density (BMD) studies of estrogen-deficient women. Emphasis is on the prevention of osteoporotic fractures.
 
October 31, 1997
The Federal Register lists HCFA reimbursements.
Effective date: January 1, 1998.
CPT Code 76075 (Central BMD: Spine/Hip) $92.00
CPT Code 76076 (Peripheral DEXA BMD: Wrist/Heel) $38.00
CPT Code 76977 (Peripheral Ultrasound BMD: Wrist/Heel) $32.00
 
May 1, 1998
Medical Equipment Consultants, Inc. announces revolutionary "No Investment Required" Bone Density System Placement Program with Fee per Scan Payment And Credit For Uncollected Scans. MEC will install turnkey Osteoporosis detection systems that will assist medical professionals with identifying patients at risk. MEC will also help medical practices develop community outreach programs, educate medical staff about CPT billings issues, and help obtain support from pharmacological companies and Osteoporosis organizations. This revolutionary program requires no monthly minimums.
 
July 1, 1998
Medicare starts guaranteeing payment for all bone scans performed on at-risk patients, even if the scan is negative.