Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)

New interim item for cone beam computed tomography available from 1 July 2011. The new item will be treated as an item in Group I2 – Computed Tomography on the Diagnostic Imaging Services Table of the MBS.

Cone Beam Computed Tomography

As part of the 2011-12 Budget the Government announced that it would introduce a Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) item for cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). This will be an interim item that will make Medicare benefits available while the service is considered by the Medical Services Advisory (MSAC) for ongoing funding. The new item will have effect from 1 July 2011. http://www.comlaw.gov.au/Details/F2011L01323

The new item will be treated as an item in Group I2 – Computed Tomography on the Diagnostic Imaging Services Table (DIST) of the MBS.

Registration of CBCT equipment

Providers have previously been advised to register CBCT equipment as x-ray or orthopantomography equipment and claim corresponding items on the DIST. Providers are now required to amend their LSPN to register (or re-register) CBCT equipment as CT (equipment code “GAN”). This can be done using the form at:
www.medicareaustralia.gov.au/provider/medicare/files/lspn-amendment-form.pdf.

Please send the completed form to:

Provider Eligibility and Accreditation Section
Medicare Australia
PO Box 1001
GREENWAY ACT 2901

Or fax to: 02 6124 6219

This will enable claiming of the new item. From 1 July 2011, x-ray and orthopantomography items may no longer be claimed in relation to CBCT services. The item may be requested by dental practitioners.

Professional supervision requirements

CBCT services will be subject to the current professional supervision rules for CT, which state that the service must be performed under the professional supervision of a specialist in the specialty of diagnostic radiology who is available to monitor and influence the conduct of the examination and to attend on the patient personally if necessary. These requirements do not apply in the case of an emergency or because of medical necessity in a remote location.

Multiple services

Multiple services rules apply to all diagnostic imaging services, including CBCT services.

For details on the CBCT item, 56025 (and corresponding “NK” item 56026) go to: http://www.mbsonline.gov.au/.