Medicare Benefits Schedule - Item 61644

Single rest myocardial perfusion study for the assessment of the extent and severity of non‑viable myocardium, with PET, if:

(a) the service is performed because the service to which item 61325 applies cannot be performed due to unavailability of thallous chloride 201 (Tl-201); and

(b) the patient has left ventricular systolic dysfunction and probable or confirmed coronary artery disease; and

(c) the service is performed in conjunction with a rest myocardial perfusion study using technetium-99m; and

(d) the service is requested by a specialist or a consultant physician; and

(e) the service is not associated with a service to which item 11704, 11705, 11707, 11714, 11729 or 11730 applies; and

(f) this service and item 61325 are applicable only twice each 24 months (R)

Item 61644 is a substitute item that may only be used during periods of national shortage of Tl-201. See IN.4.4 of explanatory notes to this Category for further information. 

Bulk bill incentive

Fee: $329.00 Benefit: 75% = $246.75 85% = $279.65

(See para IN.4.4, IR.4.2 of explanatory notes to this Category)

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Item 61644 was introduced as a direct substitute for MBS item 61325. It may only be used during specified time periods, following a valid request for a single rest myocardial perfusion study to which item 61325 would apply but cannot be performed due to unavailability of thallium-201 (Tl-201).

Item 61644 was introduced via the Health Insurance (Section 3C Diagnostic Imaging – Additional Nuclear Medicine Services) Determination 2022. This is available on the Federal Register of Legislation.

Item 61644 is available for the period from 1 April 2022 until 30 June 2023. If the supply of Tl-201 is re-established before 30 June 2023, the substitute item may be suspended early to reflect this. Alternatively, the date may be extended if necessary.

Related Items: 61644

1. For any particular patient, a service associated with an attendance item listed in Part 2 of the general medical services table does not apply if a service to which item 61321 or 61325 or 61422 or 61644 applies is provided in the same day; unless:

1. the attendance service is provided after the service where clinical management decisions are made; or
2. the decision to perform the service on the same day was made during the attendance service subject to clinical assessment.

2. Limitations of items 61321 and 61325

1. Item 61321 is applicable not more than once in any 24 month period if the patient is 17 years old or older.
2. Item 61325 is applicable not more than twice in any 24 month period if the patient is 17 years old or older.

Item 61644 has been introduced as a direct substitute for MBS item 61325. See IN.4.4 of explanatory notes to this Category for further information.

Related Items: 61321 61325 61644