Lucid Diagnostics Secures Key Coding and Payment Milestones for EsoGuard and EsoCheck
Event summary
- CMS panel recommends maintaining EsoGuard's original gapfill payment basis under the Clinical Laboratory Fee Schedule.
- AMA approves new Category III CPT code for non-endoscopic cell collection procedures performed with EsoCheck.
- CDC/NCHS committee favorably responds to proposal for new ICD-10-CM diagnosis code identifying positive EsoGuard results.
- Lucid to begin submitting Medicare claims for EsoGuard tests performed at its Texas laboratory this month.
The big picture
Lucid Diagnostics' recent advancements in payment, billing, and coding pathways for its EsoGuard and EsoCheck products mark significant strides in the commercialization of its esophageal precancer testing solutions. These developments come at a time when the healthcare industry is increasingly focused on early detection and prevention of cancer, particularly among at-risk patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The company's ability to secure favorable recommendations from key regulatory bodies underscores the growing recognition of its diagnostic tools in the medical community.
What we're watching
- Regulatory Finalization
- Whether CMS will finalize the recommended payment methodology for EsoGuard in November as expected.
- Commercial Expansion
- The pace at which Lucid can expand access to EsoGuard through its two CLIA-certified laboratories.
- Clinical Integration
- How the new ICD-10-CM diagnosis code will enhance EsoGuard's clinical value as a triage tool.
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