CommercialCoverageMedium impact
Vertebral Fracture Assessment with Densitometry or Biomechanical Computed Tomography
Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi·MS · Radiology, Orthopedics, Endocrinology +3 more·Medical Policy
Effective date
Mar 1, 2025
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
BCBS Mississippi has updated their policy on Vertebral Fracture Assessment to include Biomechanical Computed Tomography (BCT) in addition to dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, but maintains that screening for vertebral fractures using either method is considered investigational. The policy adds CPT code 0743T for BCT procedures.
Action Required
By March 1, 2025: Billing team must update systems to recognize that CPT code 0743T (Biomechanical Computed Tomography for vertebral fracture assessment) is considered investigational by BCBS Mississippi and claims will likely be denied. Verify coverage with other payers before performing these procedures. Update encounter forms to alert providers that both traditional VFA (CPT 77086) and BCT (CPT 0743T) screening are not covered unless medically necessary for specific diagnostic purposes rather than screening.