CMS Portable Hand-Held X-Ray Instrument Form

This low intensity X-ray imaging device is a light weight portable hand-held instrument using a low level isotope as its penetrating energy source. It can picture any part of the human anatomy that can be inserted in the space between the energy source and the viewing mechanism. The device can be useful in making an immediate diagnosis in the following settings: isolated areas, accident scenes, sports events and emergency rooms. It is also useful in the following instances where fluoroscopy would ordinarily be used: localization of foreign bodies, selected surgical procedures and the evaluation of premature or low birth weight infants.

The use of the portable hand-held X-ray instrument as an imaging device is covered under Medicare. It should be reimbursed as part of the physician's professional service, and no additional charge should be allowed.