What is a National Coverage Determination (NCD)?

National Coverage Determinations (NCDs) originate from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Central Office and apply to all Medicare jurisdictions. The impetus for NCD development can come from different sectors, such as provider groups and beneficiary advocate groups, often working through legislative channels. The basis for most NCDs can be found in the Coverage Issues Manual (CIM) and the National Coverage Determinations Manual(external link).

CMS Developed a Medicare Coverage Center to further help providers understand the process related to determining Medicare covered services. Visit the CMS coverage center(external link), for more information.

Page Last Updated: Wednesday, 14-Dec-2011 10:35:32 CST