Dear Dr. Chaguturu,
It has come to our attention that Aetna has published a clinical policy bulletin (Policy #0952, www.aetna.com/cpb/medical/data/900_999/0952.html) on the medical necessity for ultrasound guidance on certain procedures. We have many concerns about the document as outlined below. Indeed, the evidence supporting ultrasound guidance to improve safety, benefits, and in some cases efficacy, is in fact strong. On behalf of our combined membership of >16,000 clinicians, we request a virtual meeting with you within the coming weeks to further discuss the policy. We hope to assist with more effective solutions that will NOT lead to unsafe care, low quality care, or increased barriers to care.
Multiple professional societies are represented by the signers of this letter. Three have led the creation of this response: The American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM), the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine (AMSSM), and the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (AAPM&R). The American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM, 8,500 members) represents all facets of medical ultrasound, including those who use this imaging technology in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal and related conditions. The AMSSM (5,036 members) and AAPM&R represent physicians who specialize in diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal and neurological conditions, including physically active people and athletes at all ages and skill levels. Multiple other societies share our viewpoints and have endorsed this letter as well.
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