ACR asks CMS to broaden 2025 colorectal cancer screening coverage

The American College of Radiology (ACR) has asked the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to include follow-on colonoscopies in its proposed 2025 coverage for colorectal cancer screening.

In July, the CMS announced it would back Medicare reimbursement for CT colonography (CTC) for colorectal cancer screening. In recent comments submitted to the CMS, the ACR said it applauded the proposal but asked the agency to consider expanding the definition of a “complete colorectal cancer screening” to include follow-on colonoscopies in cases where CTCs identify polyps.

The ACR noted that the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) colorectal cancer screening recommendations explicitly state that abnormal findings identified by flexible sigmoidoscopy or CTC screening require follow-on colonoscopy for screening benefits to be achieved.

“We urge CMS to expand its approach to a ‘complete colorectal cancer screening’ in [section] 410.37 (k) to include follow-on screening colonoscopy after an abnormal result,” the ACR said.

The ACR’s comments were submitted September 6 and address several other specifics related to the 2025 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) proposed rule. The CMS is expected to release its final rule in early November.