Does this mean any smoker or tobacco user 65 or older can receive treatment for tobacco dependence?
No. Coverage is limited to those tobacco users who have a “disease or adverse health effect caused or complicated by tobacco use” may take advantage of this new benefit. It also covers tobacco users who are being “treated with a therapeutic agent whose metabolism or dosing is affected by the use of tobacco.” (Medlearn Matters Number MM3834, http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/MM3834.pdf) Click on the titles to view Diseases and Health Effects Related to Smoking and Drug Interactions with Smoking.
No. Coverage is limited to those tobacco users who have a “disease or adverse health effect caused or complicated by tobacco use” may take advantage of this new benefit. It also covers tobacco users who are being “treated with a therapeutic agent whose metabolism or dosing is affected by the use of tobacco.” (Medlearn Matters Number MM3834, http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/MM3834.pdf) Click on the titles to view Diseases and Health Effects Related to Smoking and Drug Interactions with Smoking. Adverse health effects of caused or complicated by tobacco use can be ascertained with a detailed medical and tobacco use history or objectively with medical diagnostics including (but not limited to) spirometry, chest radiology, lipid profiles, etc.
