LCD/NCD Portal

NCD160.25

 

MULTIPLE ELECTROCONVULSIVE THERAPY (MECT)

 

Effective Date of this Version

• 4/1/2003

 

Benefit Category

• Physicians' Services.

• Note: This may not be an exhaustive list of all applicable Medicare benefit categories for this item or service.

 

Indications and Limitations of Coverage

• The clinical effectiveness of the multiple-seizure electroconvulsive therapy has not been verified by scientifically controlled studies.

• In addition, studies have demonstrated an increased risk of adverse effects with multiple seizures.

• Accordingly, MECT cannot be considered reasonable and necessary and is not covered by the Medicare program.

 

Claims Processing Instructions

• TN AB-03-003 (Program Memorandum Intermediaries/Carriers)

 

Coverage Transmittal Link

• http://www.cms.gov/transmittals/downloads/R166CIM.pdf

 

National Coverage Analyses (NCAs)

• This NCD has been or is currently being reviewed under the National Coverage Determination process.

• The following are existing associations with NCAs, from the National Coverage Analyses database.

• Original consideration for Multiple-Seizure Electroconvulsive Therapy (CAG-00134N) opens in new window

 

Medicare NCD Link