MACs Seek Public Comments on Peripheral Nerve Block Coverage

CMS recently released Proposed Local Coverage Determinations (LCDs) that address Peripheral Nerve Blocks and Procedures for Chronic Pain. These draft LCDs, issued by five out of seven Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs), could significantly affect coverage for peripheral nerve ablation procedures, many of which now are deemed not medically necessary under the proposals.

ACR^® members are encouraged to review the proposed LCDs and related billing/coding articles and submit evidence-based comments challenging the coverage decisions. Interventional radiologists should act quickly; comment deadlines begin Nov. 8. Submissions may be made individually or jointly.

For more information about LCD activities or questions, contact Alicia Blakey, ACR Principal Economic Policy Analyst.