Now...
National Coverage Determination
Microvolt T-Wave Alternans Testing
Using the Analytic Spectral Method

On March 21, 2006, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a decision memo stating...

“Microvolt T-Wave Alternans diagnostic testing is covered for the evaluation of patients at risk for sudden cardiac death, only when the analytic spectral method is used.”

Read the complete decision memo.

Who should be tested?

Medicare patients at risk for Sudden Cardiac Death

• Previous heart attack victims
  75% of people who die from SCD have suffered a previous infarct with those at highest risk in the six months following a heart attack
• Coronary artery disease
  80% of SCD victims have signs and/or symptoms of coronary artery disease (CAD). CAD risk factors include smoking, family history of cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol or an enlarged heart.

How is Medicare Billed for the MTWA Test

• Use CPT Code -93025
  Microvolt T-wave alternans for assessment of ventricular arrhythmias
• Use ICD-9-CM Diagnosis Codes
  For a listing of recommended ICD-9-CM Diagnosis codes typically associated with risk of sudden cardiac death that support MTWA testing click here.

How much does Medicare pay for the MTWA test?

• National average for MTWA testing (CPT Code 93025) is currently $286.89 Actual reimbursement varies by geographical region