National Coverage Analysis (NCA) Tracking Sheet

Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation for AL Amyloidosis

CAG-00050N

Issue

Autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) is a process in which stem cells are harvested from a patient’s bone marrow or peripheral blood, stored, and then transplanted back into the patient following high dose chemotherapy use to treat various malignancies. The Coverage Issues Manuel (CIM), §35-30 does not have a policy decision in regards to coverage of ASCT for AL amyloidosis. Thus, coverage NCDs are made at contractor’s discretion. HCFA must evaluate whether there is enough scientific evidence that supports the “reasonable” and “necessary” criteria for a national coverage decision.

Benefit Category

Inpatient Hospital Services
Physicians' Services

Requestor Information

Requestor Name Requestor Letter
Daniel Wright, M.D., Boston Medical Center N/A
N/A

Important Dates

Formal Request Accepted and Review Initiated
09/17/1999
Expected NCA Completion Date
12/17/1999
Public Comment Period
10/18/1999 - 11/18/1999
Proposed Decision Memo Due Date
Proposed Decision Memo Released
Proposed Decision Memo Public Comment Period
Decision Memo Released
01/14/2000

Contacts

Lead Analysts
Jackie Sheridan-Moore
Lead Medical Officers

Medicare Benefit Category Determination Date

Actions Taken

September 15, 1999

Application received.

September 17, 1999

Formal request accepted for review.

January 14, 2000

Decision made limiting Medicare's current policy of contractor discretion. See Decision Memorandum dated 1/14/00.

January 27, 2000

Letter sent informing requestor of decision to limit contractor discretion.