76978 Insurance Policy Changes

Lung Imaging: Selected Techniques (CPB 0581, reviewed 2026-02-24)

Aetna's updated Lung Imaging policy (CPB 0581, effective 2026-02-24) clarifies coverage for Lung Imaging Fluorescence Endoscopy (LIFE) as medically necessary for specific lung cancer detection scenarios, while designating multiple advanced imaging modalities (CALIPER, contrast-enhanced ultrasound, 3D lung CT, Xenon Xe-129, and others) as experimental/investigational and not covered. Billing teams must immediately stop billing non-covered imaging codes and ensure prior authorization documentation for covered LIFE procedures in eligible patient populations.