Transtelephonic Monitoring of Cardiac Pacemakers

Transtelephonic monitoring of cardiac pacemakers is covered to detect early signs of pacemaker failure when documented with minimum 30-second readable strips (free-running, magnetic unless contraindicated, and ECG). MACs should use specified Guideline I and Guideline II schedules (distinct intervals for single- and dual-chamber devices) as maximum frequencies that can be paid without further development; more frequent monitoring requires written medical justification. Pacemaker clinic visits are also covered (including exams and reprogramming) with separate recommended frequencies for lithium-battery devices, and the transmitter device is not covered as durable medical equipment.

"Transtelephonic monitoring of cardiac pacemakers is covered to identify early signs of pacemaker failure (battery depletion, internal electronic problems, loss of atrioventricular synchrony) for pa..."