CPT code 78606 represents a nuclear medicine diagnostic imaging study of the brain that acquires four or more static views and evaluates cerebral blood flow. This functional brain scan is used to assess perfusion and regional activity and can inform diagnoses or management of neurologic conditions where blood flow or regional function is relevant. Nationally, such studies are important for hospitals and outpatient imaging centers that provide advanced neuroimaging services.

Key payers covered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of clinical context for CPT code 78606, common service settings, and the types of benchmarks and policy considerations typically addressed in payer coverage and reimbursement discussions. The publication highlights what to expect in terms of service definition, typical sites of service, and common modifier use (listed separately), while noting when input data are not available.

The report is organized to help clinical administrators, coding professionals, and policy analysts quickly understand the code’s clinical intent, service delivery context, and where to look for payer-specific guidance or updates. Data not available in the input are explicitly noted where applicable in detailed sections of the publication.