Echosens Announces BlueCross BlueShield Tennessee Policy Update on FibroScan Coverage

Echosens and BlueCross BlueShield Policy Update

On July 15, 2026, in a significant announcement for medical professionals and patients alike, Echosens revealed that BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee (BCBSTN) has updated its medical policy concerning noninvasive imaging techniques for chronic liver disease. This update is scheduled to take effect on July 31, 2026. The revision highlights the continued recognition of transient elastography using FibroScan® as a medically necessary procedure for evaluating and monitoring chronic liver conditions.

Clarification on Coverage

One of the key features of this revised policy is its effort to delineate the various noninvasive imaging technologies available on the market. While FibroScan® remains covered, the policy indicates that alternative noninvasive imaging technologies, which also assess the elastic properties of soft tissue, will be classified as investigational. This distinction is essential as it points to a growing need for clear guidelines that can assist healthcare providers in navigating the rapidly evolving landscape of medical technology.

BCBSTN has expressed that, currently, the evidence supporting coverage for other transient elastography techniques, such as ViTE (including Hepatus® and Mindray) and MAP (such as Liverscan C from Eieling), is deemed insufficient. This policy adjustment brings clarity to healthcare providers and ensures that patients receive evaluations that are backed by credible scientific evidence.

Amy Conner, the Director of Market Access and Pharma at Echosens, stated, "The updated policy provides additional clarity for providers by distinguishing between noninvasive technologies that may appear similar but have different evidence bases and coverage determinations." In an era where new technologies continue to flood the market, ensuring that clinicians understand the effectiveness and coverage of various imaging methods like FibroScan® is crucial for optimal patient care.

FibroScan® and its Importance

FibroScan® has revolutionized how chronic liver disease is assessed, offering a non-invasive and comprehensive solution for monitoring liver health. It is notable that FibroScan® is recognized globally and supported by a wealth of scholarly research, with over 5,600 peer-reviewed publications to its name. Furthermore, this technology has been incorporated into nearly 220 international clinical guidelines, emphasizing its importance and efficacy in medical practice.

In addition to distinguishing the coverage of FibroScan®, the updated policy specifies rules for coding and billing regarding these procedures. For examinations that incorporate image guidance and provider interpretation for ultrasound elastography (USE), adherence to CPT code 76981 is necessary. Should these requirements not be met, liver elastography should instead fall under CPT code 91200, making it critical for providers to be informed about these coding guidelines.

Echosens: A Leader in Noninvasive Diagnostics

Echosens continues to lead the charge in the domain of liver disease management through innovation and commitment to quality. The company is dedicated to improving diagnostics in liver health, providing tools that adhere to the highest standards of medical practice. With policies like those implemented by BCBSTN, Echosens and healthcare providers can work together to ensure patients receive the most reliable and effective care possible.

Conclusion

The announcement from Echosens regarding the changes made by BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee underscores the importance of clear policy in the face of advancing medical technologies. With FibroScan® firmly continuing its established place in chronic liver disease evaluation, patients can expect to benefit from well-established and proven methods for monitoring their health. As more noninvasive technologies become available, the healthcare system will rely on thorough policies to navigate changes in evidence and practice, ensuring patient care remains at the forefront of medical advancement.