Heavy Metal Testing

Medically necessary heavy metal testing is covered when there is documented exposure (occupational, avocational, industrial, ingestion) or specific clinical signs/symptoms consistent with toxicity for the named metals (e.g., lead, arsenic, mercury, cadmium, chromium, copper, zinc, etc.). Iron and lithium testing are excluded from this policy and several listed metals (boron, phosphorous, silica, strontium, sulfur, uranium, vanadium) are non-covered; zinc testing is specifically not covered for treating depression. Prior to testing, a detailed history including exposure documentation and a complete physical examination must be performed and recorded.

"Serum aluminum testing is covered for beneficiaries on chronic dialysis with evidence suggesting aluminum toxicity or for beneficiaries with documented chronic industrial aluminum exposure."

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