Prior Authorizations for MUGA Scan and Myocardial Perfusion Imaging

Feb. 17, 2020

National Imaging Associates (NIA) Magellan Healthcare manages radiology prior authorizations on behalf of BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina and BlueChoice® HealthPlan. Effective May 1, 2020, prior authorizations for CPT-4 codes related to multiple gated acquisition (MUGA) scans and myocardial perfusion imaging are required for all groups that currently have the NIA radiology program. We recommend that you verify eligibility and benefits, and prior authorization requirements for all services rendered using My Insurance Manager (MIM) or the Voice Response Unit (VRU) at each patient visit.

Below is a list of the codes for the services:

Authorized CPT Code Description Allowable Billed Groupings
78472 MUGA Scan 78472, 78473, 78494, 78496
78451 Myocardial Perfusion Imaging – Nuclear Cardiology Study 78451, 78452, 78453, 78454, 78466, 78468, 78469, 78481, 78483, 78499


If you have questions about this bulletin, please send an email to provider.education@bcbssc.com.