Alzheimer’s Foundation

New Medicare Reimbursement for Alzheimer’s PET Scans Boosts Interest in Memory Screening Day

Sept. 17, 2004 - National Memory Screening Day, part of the Alzheimer's Foundation of America (AFA) effort for early diagnosis of the disease is set for November 16, and is getting increased emphasis following yesterday's decision by Medicare to expand coverage for brain scans for individuals with suspected Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

On National Memory Screening Day, participating clinicians across the country will provide simple, cost-effective screening tests to those concerned about memory problems. These screenings, which consist of a series of questions and tasks, can indicate whether individuals should consult with a qualified healthcare professional for a complete evaluation.

As a follow up to a memory screening and medical examination, positron emission tomography (PET) could ultimately be one of the technological tools physicians utilize to determine a diagnosis.

Yesterday, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) said Medicare will cover PET scans for those who show signs of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias but whose final diagnosis "remains uncertain," as well as others who enroll in specific clinical trials.

The ruling comes in the midst of AFA's ongoing campaign to raise awareness of the importance of early detection, including implementing a national cognitive impairment screening and wellness initiative for older Americans. AFA's National Memory Screening Day on November 16 is one of the highlights of this initiative; for more information, visit http://www.nationalmemoryscreening.org.

"Memory screenings offered on National Memory Screening Day are a first step toward detection of dementia. Now, Medicare coverage of PET scans gives Americans a giant leap toward early diagnosis and treatment, which are critical to improving quality of life," said Eric J. Hall, AFA's chief executive officer.

"People can now move through the diagnostic process, knowing that can more easily obtain a definitive answer via a PET scan. Our hope is that this will encourage them to come forward and address their concerns. Early diagnosis empowers families to battle this disease," Hall added.

AFA had supported the Medicare proposal in a comment letter to CMS last July. It wrote, in part: "With no 'silver bullet' for dementia in the immediate future, we need to fully use all preventive measures and early interventions. PET studies will provide a valuable tool in predicting disease, and maximizing the therapeutic effects of available and evolving treatments."

According to AFA, individuals can benefit on multiple fronts from early diagnosis. They can take advantage of available and emerging medical treatments that work best to help slow the progression of symptoms when initiated early. In addition, they can embrace community support services; can be involved in decisions that affect their future care; and may be able to remain independent longer. Families can also be directed to community support services, which may relieve some of the impact on their physical and mental well-being.

Founded in 2002, AFA focuses on providing optimal care to individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related illnesses, and support for family members. It unites member organizations from coast-to-coast that provide hands-on services to meet a family's educational, emotional, social and practical needs. AFA's services include a toll-free hotline, educational materials and training for healthcare professionals. For more information, visit http://www.alzfdn.org or call 866-AFA-8484.

Copyright: SeniorJournal.com