CMS’ MEDCAC Votes Against CT Screening for Lung Cancer

CMS’ Medicare Evidence Development and Coverage Advisory Committee (MEDCAC), which advises the agency on coverage issues, voted against Medicare covering CT screening for lung cancer in heavy smokers.  MEDCAC felt that the evidence for CT screening  was insufficient.  The decision is somewhat surprising in light of: (1) the National Lung Screening Trial found a 20 percent reduction in death among  heavy smokers who have had CT screening and (2) the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force gave CT screening for lung cancer a “B” rating. CMS is not bound by MEDCAC’s recommendations and a draft coverage determination is expected this November.