Memorial Sloan Kettering is dedicated to providing our patients with individualized care based on their specific needs and our unique expertise. We aim to ensure that all patients receive only what will be best for them and avoid unnecessary tests or treatments.

The Evidence-based Cancer Imaging Program, which develops and implements standards for the use of advanced imaging tests, helps us to achieve that goal.

The Protecting Access to Medicare Act (PAMA) 2014 requires healthcare professionals to consult appropriate use criteria (AUC) when ordering advanced diagnostic imaging tests such as CT scans, MRIs, PET scans or nuclear medicine scans. The program is currently in the Educational and Operations Testing period.

MSK has been designated a qualified provider led entity (QPLE) by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) in accordance with regulation 42 CFR 414.94. The imaging and treatment requirements for cancer patients are very different from those for other patients. As a QPLE, MSK is empowered to develop, modify, or endorse criteria for ordering advanced diagnostic imaging tests specific to the needs of patients with cancer.

In the Evidence-based Cancer Imaging Program, the AUC used at MSK are continually evaluated by teams of experts to ensure that they reflect the latest scientific evidence, state-of-the-art clinical practice, and the needs of our patients. (View our methodology).

Our comprehensive approach incorporates science, value, and expertise to ensure that all our patients receive the exact imaging studies that they require and that will be most beneficial to their needs.

• Our Methodology
  Memorial Sloan Kettering has mapped out a structured methodology to define appropriate use criteria (AUC) for advanced diagnostic imaging exams tailored to our patient population.
• Our Appropriate Use Criteria
  At MSK, we are continually optimizing quality, safety and efficiency in all areas of cancer care, we are developing appropriate use criteria (AUC) for advanced imaging services across the continuum of care.
• Conflict of Interest Policy
  The Evidence-based Cancer Imaging Program (ECIP) has established an additional conflict of interest process specifically for the PAMA mandate that has been integrated into MSK’s institutional conflict of interest disclosure process and system.