Reimbursement for MRI
This program is supported by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. Content is independently developed by CMSC.
Mark Freedman, MD, MSc; Tanuja Chitnis, MD; and Ahmed Obeidat, MD, PhD, discusses the challenges associated with the cost of MRI and other important tools in the monitoring and assessment of MS.
EP: 1.The Value of Biomarker in Multiple Sclerosis
EP: 2.Evolving Methods of Multiple Sclerosis Diagnosis
EP: 3.Assays to Detect Neurofilament Light
EP: 4.Challenges and Opportunity With MRI
EP: 5.Neurofilament Light Chain and Acute Gadolinium Enhancing Lesions
EP: 6.Exploring Potential Applications of Neurofilament Light Chain in MS Prognosis and Care
EP: 7.Practical Considerations for the Use of Neurofilament Light Chain and MRI
EP: 8.How to Address Increasing Neurofilament Light Chain Levels
EP: 9.Weighing Treatment Decisions Based on Neurofilament Light Chain Levels
EP: 10.Monitoring Patients After a Change in Treatment Regimen
EP: 11.Assessing Lesion Types With MS Biomarkers
EP: 12.Neurofilament Light Chain and MS Prognosis, Treatment Effect, and Anticipation of Disease
EP: 13.The CLIMB Study
EP: 14.Reimbursement for MRI
EP: 15.Understanding the Underlying Progression of Multiple Sclerosis
EP: 16.Biomarkers, Patient Communication, and the Future of Care
EP: 17.Question and Answer about Neurofilament Light Chain and Other MS Biomarkers
In this segment, experts discuss the feasibility of a study examining the correlation between NFL levels and new gadolinium-enhancing lesions, expressing concerns about the practicality of conducting such a study due to the frequency of MRI scans required.
Mark Freedman, MD, MSc, then raises the issue of insurance coverage for NFL testing. There are potential benefits for insurers, such as cost savings and the non-invasive nature of blood tests compared to MRIs. He emphasizes the cost difference, stating that an MRI can be several thousand dollars, whereas an NFL test costs a few hundred dollars.
The discussion touches upon the potential convenience to patients, reduced time commitment, and the overall cost-effectiveness of NFL testing. Tanuja Chitnis, MD, adds another perspective, suggesting that insurers should consider whether biomarkers, including NFL, improve long-term outcomes in patient care. She highlights the importance of early detection and the potential for NFL to provide prognostic indicators of inflammatory disease activity.
Video synopsis is AI-generated and reviewed by HCPLive® editorial staff.
