FDA and Medicare approval of the radiopharmaceuticals used in PET has always been a prerequisite for public-sector reimbursement.

• Medicare will pay for PET if:
  
  • the patient is enrolled in a study of PET efficacy
    
  • If institutions are part of a "PET Registry"
    
• Insurance Coverage
  
  • Most major insurers cover PET
    
  • Coverage varies by carrier
    
  • Pre-certification usually required
    
  • Carriers may limit facilities at which PET is covered.