Per CMS Internet Only Manual (IOM), Publication 100-08, Medicare Program Integrity Manual, Chapter 13.2.2.1, "The LCD process may begin with informal meetings in which interested parties in the MAC's jurisdiction can informally discuss potential LCD requests. These meetings are for educational purposes only and are not pre-decisional negotiations. These meetings are permitted but are not required and the process allows requestors to communicate via conference call or in-person meeting before submitting a formal request. These meetings will assure that all relevant evidence needed for review for coverage is submitted with the request for a formal review."

A request for a call may be submitted via email, and should include the following information:

1. "Request for Informal Meeting - [Proposed Title of LCD]" in the subject line of the email
2. Summary information (1-2 paragraphs) for the request
3. Names, titles, and email addresses of requestor participants
4. Proposed availability for requestor participants

Medical Policy staff will reach out after the request is received to set up the call.