Carotid ultrasound

nycmusic @nycmusic,
Other members may comment on whether their carotid ultrasound or other Non-Invasive Vascular tests were covered by Medicare, but, as with everything related to Medicare, it must be medically necessary, and that will vary by individual.

I think the best source of information would be Medicare itself. Call the phone number on your insurance card and ask.

Has you provider recommended/ordered the test? If ordered, the health care facility's billing department may be able to give you an estimate, but the final decision is still with Medicare.

If your doctor documents an appropriate diagnosis or
symptom Medicare covers it.
If you have risk factors such as diabetes or atherosclerosis it is appropriate for assessment of stroke risk. A physical exam when the doctor uses his stethoscope on your neck to listen for flow abnormalities is the starting point. Your overall health history can justify the expense.

I would expect that an earlier CAC showing significant deposition, and familial problems, say with a parent or parents, siblings.....genetics do offer some predictive validity. Even so, while my dad had 100% occlusion on the right side and 90% on the left, a subsequent Doppler showed mine to be in good condition....for my age and genetics.....and sex.

@roch no , I am just curious, since some family had strokes….i’d love to know my carotid is clear, or address a problem if not….if we are urged to get mammograms, etc., one would think these non-invasive tests would be done, BEFORE serious problems arise…strokes can disable and or kill, reason enough to be concerned.