Does insurance typically pay for MRIs of women with a recent diagnosis of breast cancer?
Some insurance companies provide reimbursement for breast MR imaging, and some do not. Many insurance companies have responded positively to prior research by reimbursing for breast MRI in high-risk women. Based on the results of this study, it is possible that more insurance companies will consider reimbursing women who have a current breast cancer diagnosis and undergo breast MRI. The American College of Radiology is working to help standardize reimbursement for this important test. 21. Does Medicare typically reimburse for MRIs for women with a recent diagnosis of breast cancer? Medicare’s national coverage policy for MRI states that MRI scans may be covered as diagnostic services if reasonable and necessary, and if performed on an FDA-approved model of MRI equipment. Local Medicare contractors have discretion to determine the circumstances under which a MRI scan is covered. Some contractors have selective coverage for MRI breast imaging, depending on patient diagnosis. 22. Given th