Medicare Benefits Schedule - Note TN.1.25

A response, for the purposes of administering MBS item 14249, is defined as attaining a reduction of at least 50% in the overall skin lesion score from baseline, for at least 4 consecutive weeks. Refer to the Product Information for methoxsalen for directions on calculating an overall skin lesion score. The definition of a clinically significant reduction in the Product Information differs to the 50% requirement for MBS-subsidy. Response only needs to be demonstrated after the first six months of treatment.

Related Items: 14249

• Previous - Note TN.1.24
• Next - Note TN.1.26

Extracorporeal photopheresis for the continuing treatment of erythrodermic stage III-IVa T4 M0 cutaneous T-cell lymphoma; if

1. in the preceding 6 months:
   (i) a service to which item 14247 applies has been provided; and
   (ii) the patient has demonstrated a response to this service; and
   (iii)the patient requires further treatment; and
2. the service is delivered using an integrated, closed extracorporeal photopheresis system; and
3. the patient is 18 years old or over; and
4. the service is provided in combination with the use of Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme-subsidised methoxsalen; and
5. the service is supervised by a specialist or consultant physician in the speciality of haematology.

 
Applicable once per treatment cycle

Fee: $2,036.95 Benefit: 75% = $1,527.75 85% = $1,938.25

(See para TN.1.25 of explanatory notes to this Category)