Does Medicare reimburse uniformly in all states?

No, reimbursement by Medicare varies by location, even within states.

Do all insurance companies reimburse for MetriScan tests?

No, this is quite variable. Some reimburse as a screening test, others do not. Those that reimburse for screening do not necessarily reimburse for follow-up testing during therapy.

Can MetriScan be used for therapy follow-up?

MetriScan is cleared for monitoring changes over time, but realistically, two factors must be considered. First, for the drug being given, what is the expected rate of change of bone density in the phalanges? Second, what is the precision capability of MetriScan? The precision capability of MetriScan is better than 1.2 %, comparable to DEXA precision. But some drug companies state that when being treated, the rate of change in the phalanges is significantly slower compared to the rate of change in the spine. In that case, following therapy with MetriScan involves a longer sampling interval than might be used with DEXA techniques.

Is MetriScan radiation safe?

Yes. The dose for a single measurement is less than 0.001 millirad (effective dose equivalent), less than 5% of that received during a dental x-ray.

Is MetriScan safe for the technologist/doctor?

Yes. With a patient load of 25 patients per month, the annual dose to the operator is less than 0.42 mrem compared to a typical annual occupational dose limit of 5,000 mrem, and can be further reduced by using the remote switch and stepping back one meter from the system.

Will the MetriScan BMD result agree exactly with a DEXA machine?

Not necessarily. Within the same patient, bone density varies from one anatomical site to another. Bone density at the phalanges is as well-correlated with the hip and spine as the hip and spine are correlated with each other. Studies have shown, however, that testing at the phalanges is an excellent predictor of hip fracture.

Is there a way to try the MetriScan system in our office?

Yes, in the U.S. Alara offers a 30-day trial. During that trial, your state will be notified on the temporary installation and you and/or your staff will be trained on use of the system. You are then free to run as many patients as you wish during the 30 day period. At the end of the trial, you may purchase the system, or return it. Extended payment terms may be possible.