Empower Yourself

The first request costs No $$. 

Write to Dr. Stamatia Destounis.

Who is Dr. Destounis? Why are we writing to her?

Dr. Destounis is a member of the American Cancer Society Medical Advisory Team. She sits on medical advisory boards for several breast imaging technology companies. Dr. Destounis frequently lectures to professional groups, both nationally and internationally, on a variety of radiological subjects (excerpt from her bio on WebMD).  She has the ability to be a strong voice for the accessibility of abbreviated breast MRI for both insured and self-pay patients. 

Step 1 -- Copy the note below (or write your own):

Dear Dr. Stamatia Destounis:

 

PLEASE, as American College of Radiology Chair of the Commission on Breast Imaging, CONTINUE to widely publicize support for a unique Current Procedural Terminology" (CPT) identification of an  Abbreviated Breast MRI (AB-MRI or 'FAST' MRI).


A CPT code -- or support of a specific two digit modifier of existing MRI code such as '52'-- for 'FAST' Breast MRIs will promote an effective and cost-friendly screening option for dense breasts (more than 40% - 80% of women) and lobular breast cancer (second most common breast cancer). These are two important instances where current ‘standard of care’ mammogram screening is NOT effective, resulting in: delayed diagnosis, greater cancer growth, greater cost, greater life blighting, and greater death rate.

 

WITH an American Medical Association (AMA) CPT code -- or AMA approved two digit modifier -- the effectiveness of an 'Abbreviated' or 'Fast' MRI Breast screening can be clearly communicated to doctors and patients. It then can be reimbursed by personal Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) in all states, and covered by insurance in some states (Pennsylvania et al).

 

Best Regards,

 

A Human (with Breasts) who Trusts and Relies on the American College of Radiology 


WHY?


A CPT identifies each medical procedure with a unique 5 -digit health insurance code or with an existing CPT code with a specific two digit code added on.


Without a unique CPT code (or two digit add-on) self-pay is the only current way to get a 'FAST' Breast MRI. 


With a CPT Recognition, Health Saving Accounts (HSA) and insurance* can be applied. (*Depending on your state's requirements and your insurance carrier). 


Not sure if your state has coverage for fast breast MRI? Click here to check.

Current imaging CPT codes are listed here. Note that there is no unique code for abbreviated breast MRI (yet), but modifier -52 is recommended.

Is your state lacking coverage? Contact your state representative about Insurance / HSA coverage for supplemental breast screening.