The ACC joined with the American College of Radiology, the Heart Rhythm Society and the Society for Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance to pen a letter in support of changes proposed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) that would expand Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) coverage for patients with implanted cardiac devices. Patients with devices lacking labeling from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the MR environment would be able to undergo MRI when certain criteria are met. The societies also suggested specific changes to the coverage reflecting current evidence that address pacemaker dependent-patients, a minimum waiting period after device implantation, abandoned leads and clarified necessary supervision standards. After considering comments from the public, CMS will issue a final national coverage determination by April 11.

Keywords: ACC Advocacy, United States, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, U.S., United States Food and Drug Administration, Medicaid, Medicare, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Pacemaker, Artificial, Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy

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