National Government Services (NGS) which is one of our country’s largest Medicare contractors has made a proposal to stop paying for routine testing of vitamin D! They have announced that if this proposal passes, they will only cover vitamin D testing for patients with chronic kidney disease, osteomalacia, hypercalcemia, and rickets. All other vitamin D testing, specifically routine testing, would be denied.
Medicare has the stated purpose of supporting early detection and prevention of medicine. This proposal seems in direct contradiction to their stated goal.
Given the many studies, including some prospective studies, that I have reviewed in my book that show the ability of vitamin D to be preventive for many of the chronic diseases of our society, this seems very shortsighted to me. Since many Medicare patients are already financially stressed, most of them will not pay out of pocket to get their own vitamin D testing. In my opinion the result will be the earlier development of chronic degenerative diseases which will only increase the costs of Medicare.
If you agree with me, I encourage you to write your congressman and/or Senator to object to this proposed revision of policy by Medicare.
I am 71 years old and I had to have Vitamin D. Testing because of Health problems and Osteoporsis. The lab where it was done have informed me that it will not be covered by Medicare. It is of the utmost importance for my well being that I have this test.
I was just informed that my results were in and my levels were extremely low and I need to be put on Medication immediately.
Low levels of Vitamin D can lead to some levels of Cancer if not treated and in the long run will cost the government more money.
I feel that the Government has let the elderly down and refuses to acknowledge the fact that we need help.
Sincerely,
Virginia Rizzuto