CQCI Clinical Patient Imaging - Information for Physicians

Clinical Research FDG-PET/CT Scans

The ordering and performance of research and clinical research PET studies, including FDG-PET/CT scans, is complicated due to the study type, funding source, insurance coverage if standard of care, reimbursement issues related to Medicare beneficiaries, and whether the patient is participating in an IRB-approved clinical trial. Clinical PET/CT scans are performed in the Huntsman Cancer Institute Cancer Hospital on the third floor. If the patient is on a research study where the FDG-PET/CT scans are part of an approved IRB study and standard of care, they are most often performed in the Center for Quantitative Cancer Imaging. This is due to the fact that the patient is on a research study and the PET/CT acquisition parameters are often defined, and the FDG uptake time may be expressly defined. In addition, the images are often sent for central review, and additional post-processing may be required per the study protocol.

Scheduling a Research or Clinical Research FDG-PET/CT Scan

To schedule a research or clinical research FDG-PET/CT scan, please follow the procedures as outlined below.

• Research patients: Please contact our technologist staff (801-213-5176) or clinical coordinator (801-585-5942). They will provide you with the appropriate scheduling form if required.
• Standard-of-care research scans with commercial or Medicare insurance: Most commercial insurance carriers require pre-authorization for PET scans. Generally, clinic notes and/or history and physicals are needed when requesting pre-authorization and/or certification of coverage. This information is typically only available from the referring physician. These requests will also require ordering in EPIC. This will be discussed with the requestor and facilitated by our staff.

If you have any questions, please call 801-213-5176 or 801-585-5942.