CMS proposes Medicare cover screening for depression

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services on July 19 proposed that Medicare cover annual screening for depression for beneficiaries in primary care settings that have staff-assisted depression care supports in place to assure accurate diagnosis, effective treatment and follow-up. In a proposed decision memo, the agency said the evidence is adequate to conclude that screening for depression in adults is reasonable and necessary for the prevention or early detection of illness or disability, and is appropriate for individuals entitled to benefits under Part A or enrolled under Part B.

CMS will accept public comments on the proposed coverage determination and then issue a final decision memorandum.