HeartFlow said today that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services finalized a new technology ambulatory payment classification for its HeartFlow FFRct analysis designed to help diagnose suspected coronary artery disease.
Under the newly finalized payment decision, Medicare-enrolled hospitals will be eligible for reimbursements of $1,450.50 for each technical component of the FFRct analysis. The new rules are set to take effect on January 1, 2018.
“CMS’s decision to assign a New Technology APC for FFRct technology for Medicare recipients is a recognition of the value of this technology and its demonstrated ability to reduce the number of invasive diagnostic coronary angiography procedures and help medical centers reduce costs. The HeartFlow Analysis is an important tool in helping us assess patients with suspected coronary artery disease and better understand how their coronary blockages affect blood flow to the heart,” Dr. Pamela Douglas of Duke University said in a press release.
Redwood City, Calif.-based HeartFlow’s FFRct technology works by taking the data from a standard CT scan and applying algorithms that result in a color-coded 3D “map” detailing the changes in flow across coronary lesions.
“The decision by CMS will help in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with suspected CAD and means the number of patients over age 65 who will have access to this technology will significantly increase. At our center, the use of the HeartFlow FFRct Analysis is transforming how we diagnose and treat patients with coronary artery disease, helping us move closer to achieving the triple aim of improving the patient experience, improving the health of our patients, and reducing healthcare costs at our institution.” Dr. Daniel Simon of the Cleveland Medical Center said in a prepared statement.
In late August, HeartFlow said it won positive medical policies for its HeartFlow FFRct fractional flow reserve analysis system from 3 separate Blue Cross Blue Shield providers.
