CPT code 78601 represents a nuclear medicine diagnostic study of the brain using a radiopharmaceutical to obtain fewer than four static views and assess cerebral blood flow. This imaging service is clinically important for evaluating brain structure and perfusion in settings that guide diagnosis of ischemia, stroke sequelae, seizures, and other functional abnormalities. Nationally, nuclear brain imaging codes like 78601 are relevant to hospitals, imaging centers, and payers because they affect imaging utilization patterns, prior authorization workflows, and coverage policies for neurodiagnostic evaluations.

Key payers covered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of the clinical intent of the code, typical places of service, common modifiers associated with imaging services, and the payer landscape as it relates to coverage and billing practice. The publication also outlines benchmarking context, coding and billing considerations, and clinical scenarios where a perfusion-focused brain scan with fewer than four static views is used. Data not available in the input is noted where applicable.