Doctor to Doctor &#187; Bulletin Newsletter

NCMS Due Deductibility Statement

Meetings & Events

02/04/2012
NCSEPS 2012 CODEquest Coding College – REGISTRATION CLOSED!
more info »

02/08/2012
Webinar: Blue Quality Physicians Program and Patient Centered Medical Home
more info »

02/14/2012
Continuing Care of Congestive Heart Failure
more info »

Contact Info

Address:
PO Box 27167
Raleigh, NC 27611

Phone:
1.919.833.3836
1.800.722.1350 (NC only)

Fax:
1.919.833.2023 FAX

© North Carolina Medical Society. All rights reserved.

Bulletin for January 27, 2012

Kristen Shipherd — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 19:01:00 +0000

Volume 63 Issue 4 – January 27, 2012

Featured Stories

Government-backed Loans to Physicians Skyrocket

Small Business Administration (SBA) loans to doctors have increased more than ten-fold in the past decade, according to a report on CNNMoney.com (Doctors living on loans, 1-20-12). SBA says loans to physician offices rose from less than $60 million in 2001 to $675 million in 2011.

Physician Organizations Propose Offset for Congress to Repeal SGR

The NCMS joined with 47 physician organizations this week to ask Congress to repeal Medicare’s sustainable growth rate (SGR) formula by using excesses from Overseas Contingency Operations (no longer needed for wars in Iraq and Afghanistan).

Written Policy Guidance Sought on Medicare Patients Billed Directly by Unenrolled Physicians

Physician organizations, including the NCMS and other state medical societies, have asked the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for written public policy guidance on how patients enrolled in Medicare may obtain reimbursement for covered services provided by physicians who are not enrolled in Medicare and bill their patients directly.

Palmetto GBA: Fix for Denied PA and NP Medicare Claims Coming this Week

Palmetto GBA (Government Business Administration) has informed the NCMS that the problem causing claims denials for Medicare patient office visits handled by physician assistants (PAs) and nurse practitioners (NPs) should be fixed this week.

In This Issue

NCMS Member Resource Center FAQ of the Week: 5010

NCMS PAC Spotlight: Douglas Sheets, MD

Leadership Changes Announced at NC DHHS

Want to Learn More About Blue Quality Provider Programs and Patient Centered Medical Home?

UHS Now Vidant Health

Physicians: Mandate for Drug Payments Disclosure Expected Soon

Meetings & Events

01/28/2012
Orthopaedic Symposium: Advances in Orthopaedics
more info »

02/02/2012
From Foam to Filters: What’s New in Venous Disease
more info »

02/04/2012
NCSEPS 2012 CODEquest Coding College – REGISTRATION CLOSED!
more info »

Contact Info

Address:
PO Box 27167
Raleigh, NC 27611

Phone:
1.919.833.3836
1.800.722.1350 (NC only)

Fax:
1.919.833.2023 FAX

© North Carolina Medical Society. All rights reserved.

Bulletin for January 20, 2012

Kristen Shipherd — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 21:36:22 +0000

Volume 63 Issue 3 – January 20, 2012

Featured Stories

Governor Names Delia Acting DHHS Secretary

Governor Perdue named senior policy advisor Al Delia as Acting Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), following the resignation of Secretary Lanier Cansler last Friday.

Update: NCMS Accountable Care Task Force

The NCMS Accountable Care Task Force met this week to discuss the progress of several North Carolina entities that are implementing programs to improve quality and bring greater accountability to the practice of medicine.

Are You Looking for More Information about the ACO Advanced Payment Program?

The AMA and CMS will be holding a call next Monday to help answer your questions about the ACO Advanced Payment program.

NCMS President Visits NC Medical Board

Robert W. Monteiro, MD, sat in on several important meetings during his visit the NCMB; the Board acted on issues such as the position statement for self-treatment/treatment of family members and the draft rules on continuing medical education.

In This Issue

Payor News

AMA Announces Improved Practice Management Center Website

NCMS Member Resource Center FAQ of the Week: Telemedicine

NCMS Member News

Construction Begins on New VA Clinic in Greenville

NC Dermatology Association Convenes

Legislative Cabinet Report

Meetings & Events

01/20/2012
Second Annual Duke Electrophysiology Summit
more info »

01/23/2012
AMA: Advance Payment Program Conference Call with CMS
more info »

01/25/2012
NC Safe Surgery Conference
more info »

Contact Info

Address:
PO Box 27167
Raleigh, NC 27611

Phone:
1.919.833.3836
1.800.722.1350 (NC only)

Fax:
1.919.833.2023 FAX

© North Carolina Medical Society. All rights reserved.

Bulletin for January 13, 2012

Kristen Shipherd — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 20:09:47 +0000

Volume 63 Issue 2 – January 13, 2012

In This Issue

What the NCMS PAC Can Do For You

NCMS Seeks Physician/PA Feedback on Electronic Health Records

Having Trouble Transitioning to EHRs? Apply Today for the North Carolina EHR Loan Fund

NCMSF to Host HIPAA 5010 Webinar

NCMS Member Resource Center FAQ of the Week

Report Forecasts Increased Flu Activity in Upcoming Weeks

Free Help for Adults Ready to Quit Smoking

NCSEPS Begins the New Year with New Leadership

CMS Provides Archive on ACO Forums and Information on Medicare Shared Savings and Advance Payment Models

Meetings & Events

01/13/2012
2012 NC Dermatology Annual Meeting
more info »

01/19/2012
Webinar: HIPAA 5010
more info »

01/20/2012
Second Annual Duke Electrophysiology Summit
more info »

Contact Info

Address:
PO Box 27167
Raleigh, NC 27611

Phone:
1.919.833.3836
1.800.722.1350 (NC only)

Fax:
1.919.833.2023 FAX

© North Carolina Medical Society. All rights reserved.

Bulletin for January 6, 2012

Kristen Shipherd — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 22:42:03 +0000

Volume 63 Issue 1 – January 6, 2012

Featured Stories

New HHS Rule Aims to Cut Paperwork, Saving Physicians Time and Money

A new regulation announced Thursday by the US Department of Health and Human Services establishes Electronic Funds Transfers (EFT) standards that, when implemented by health plans, will save physician practices and hospitals between $3 billion to $4.5 billion over the next ten years.

Medicare Physician Reimbursement Cut Still Looms

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is currently developing the 2012 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) to implement the zero percent update that was included in the Temporary Payroll Tax Cut Act signed by President Obama on December 23, 2011.

Public Payor News

Get more information on the 2012 Medicare participation enrollment extension; the status of CMS’s feedback reports; important changes in Medicare for 2012; and NC physicians named as innovation advisors to CMS.

In This Issue

NCMS Member News

Specialty Societies Meeting Update: ACP Scientific Session

Have a Question? Contact the NCMS Member Resource Center

Updates in Health Care News

Meetings & Events

01/13/2012
2012 NC Dermatology Annual Meeting
more info »

01/19/2012
Webinar: HIPAA 5010
more info »

01/20/2012
Second Annual Duke Electrophysiology Summit
more info »

Contact Info

Address:
PO Box 27167
Raleigh, NC 27611

Phone:
1.919.833.3836
1.800.722.1350 (NC only)

Fax:
1.919.833.2023 FAX

© North Carolina Medical Society. All rights reserved.

Special Bulletin: December 21, 2011

Kristen Shipherd — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 21:07:21 +0000

Volume 62 Issue 50 Special Edition – December 21, 2011

Featured Stories

Special Report: Managed Care in 2011

This special edition of the Bulletin focuses on the accomplishments achieved on your behalf in the managed care arena by the NCMS and the Physicians Advocacy Institute, a national organization in which the NCMS is actively involved. Throughout 2011 the NCMS remained actively engaged with the health plans. We successfully addressed and resolved a variety of managed care issues; read on for an overview of what we accomplished this year…

In This Issue

Meetings & Events

01/13/2012
2012 NC Dermatology Annual Meeting
more info »

01/25/2012
NC Safe Surgery Conference
more info »

02/04/2012
2012 NC Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons: CodeQuest
more info »

Contact Info

Address:
PO Box 27167
Raleigh, NC 27611

Phone:
1.919.833.3836
1.800.722.1350 (NC only)

Fax:
1.919.833.2023 FAX

© North Carolina Medical Society. All rights reserved.

Bulletin for 12-16-2011

Kristen Shipherd — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 19:41:39 +0000

Volume 62 Issue 49 – December 16, 2011

In This Issue

Public Payor News

Strong Response Indicated for End of Life Survey

Celebrate the Holidays with a “Seasons Greetings” Gift to the NCMS Foundation!

Thank You for Your Referral: NCMS Members Recruiting Members

Registration Now Available for the 2012 NC OBGYN Society Annual Meeting

Medicare Shared Savings Program Application Timeline

Meetings & Events

01/13/2012
2012 NC Dermatology Annual Meeting
more info »

01/25/2012
NC Safe Surgery Conference
more info »

02/04/2012
2012 NC Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons: CodeQuest
more info »

Contact Info

Address:
PO Box 27167
Raleigh, NC 27611

Phone:
1.919.833.3836
1.800.722.1350 (NC only)

Fax:
1.919.833.2023 FAX

© North Carolina Medical Society. All rights reserved.

Bulletin for 12-9-2011

Kristen Shipherd — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 19:13:42 +0000

Volume 62 Issue 48 – December 9, 2011

Featured Stories

DOI Sides with Medicine, Blocks Controversial BCBSNC Radiology Policy

This week the North Carolina Department of Insurance (DOI) informed Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (BCBSNC) that the company could not implement a policy that would unilaterally reduce reimbursement rates to providers of certain hi-tech imaging procedures.

Vote Expected To Extend Medicare Physician Pay Rates; Survey Seeks Physician Input

The US House is expected to vote December 13 on legislation that will include a two-year extension of the current Medicare physician pay rates, including a one percent increase.

Celebrate the Holidays with a “Seasons Greetings” Gift to the NCMS Foundation!

The North Carolina Medical Society Foundation invites you to participate in its annual Season’s Greetings program – an uplifting way for you to honor friends, colleagues and other important people in your life while supporting the Foundation’s work to make sure physicians across our great state get the support they need to provide excellent care to their patients.

In This Issue

Physicians Foundation Watchlist Identifies 5 Key Issues for 2012

Charlotte Physician Joins NC Medical Board

HIPAA 5010 Deadline Just Around the Corner

Public Payor News

Survey Shows Growth in EHR Adoption by Physician Practices

Report: North Carolina’s Overall Health Continues to Improve Despite Challenges

Influenza Activity Stays at Low Levels in North Carolina

Physicians: 5010 Compliance by January 1, 2012

Meetings & Events

12/14/2011
Webinar: Electronic Discovery and Medical Practices
more info »

01/13/2012
2012 NC Dermatology Annual Meeting
more info »

01/25/2012
NC Safe Surgery Conference
more info »

Contact Info

Address:
PO Box 27167
Raleigh, NC 27611

Phone:
1.919.833.3836
1.800.722.1350 (NC only)

Fax:
1.919.833.2023 FAX

© North Carolina Medical Society. All rights reserved.

Bulletin for 12-2-2011

Kristen Shipherd — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 19:59:53 +0000

Volume 62 Issue 47 – December 2, 2011

In This Issue

Wondering Where Your EHR Incentive Check Is?

NC Medicaid Path to Payment Outlines Steps for EHR Incentive Program

Legislative Commission Releases Grant Money for Health Benefit Exchange

UHC Deploying a Revised Treatment Cost Estimator for Members in 2012

IPG Inks Agreement with BCBSNC to Provide Implantable Device Management

CMS to Require Prior Authorization on Power Mobility Devices in NC

CMS Redacts Physician NPI Numbers on Revalidation List

Social Media Update: Maintaining Professionalism While Using Social Networks and E-mail

POLST National Conference Registration Underway

Medical Student Survey: End-of-Life Care

NC Physician Selected for National Leadership Development Program

New Interim Administrator Takes Charge at CMS

University Health Systems Becomes Vidant Health in 2012

Celebrate the Holidays with a “Seasons Greetings” Gift to the NCMS Foundation!

Congress Eliminates the 3% Tax on Many Medicare Payments

Meetings & Events

12/03/2011
2011 Diabetes Day for Primary Care Physicians
more info »

12/07/2011
Practice Wellness Webinar: How to Convince Decision Makers to Practice Wellness
more info »

12/14/2011
Webinar: Electronic Discovery and Medical Practices
more info »

Contact Info

Address:
PO Box 27167
Raleigh, NC 27611

Phone:
1.919.833.3836
1.800.722.1350 (NC only)

Fax:
1.919.833.2023 FAX

© North Carolina Medical Society. All rights reserved.

Bulletin for 11-18-2011

Kristen Shipherd — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 15:00:02 +0000

Volume 62 Issue 46 – November 18, 2011

Featured Stories

OIG Identifies Major Flaws in Contingency-Based Auditors Program

The Office of the Inspector General (OIG) has found problems with data provided to CMS by multiple Zone Program Integrity Contractors (ZPICs).

Medicaid Recredentialing–What’s New?

How will the revised Medicaid recredentialing process affect you?

CMS Announces 90-Day Enforcement Delay for New HIPAA Standards

The Office of E-Health Standards and Services (OESS) within CMS announced Thursday that it would not initiate enforcement action until March 31, 2012, for any HIPAA covered entity that is not in compliance with new HIPAA Transaction Standards (5010).

In This Issue

UPDATE: Medicare eRx Incentive Program

NC Medicaid Expects to Save Millions with New Diabetic Supplies Vendor

Grant Funding Announced for Health Care Innovations

NCMS Foundation Showcases Quality Initiatives

Overview of NC HIT Landscape Subject of December Webinar

First Annual Rural Health Day Observed

AMA House of Delegates Adopts New Policies During Semi-Annual Meeting

Winston-Salem Surgeon Honored by AMA

Medicare Shared Savings Program and Advance Payment Model, Topics for Nov. 15 CMS National Provider Call

Meetings & Events

11/21/2011
AMA Webinar on ACO Rule
more info »

12/03/2011
2011 Diabetes Day for Primary Care Physicians
more info »

12/07/2011
Practice Wellness Webinar: How to Convince Decision Makers to Practice Wellness
more info »

Contact Info

Address:
PO Box 27167
Raleigh, NC 27611

Phone:
1.919.833.3836
1.800.722.1350 (NC only)

Fax:
1.919.833.2023 FAX

© North Carolina Medical Society. All rights reserved.

Bulletin for 11-11-2011

Kristen Shipherd — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 19:32:31 +0000

Volume 62 Issue 45 – November 11, 2011

Featured Stories

2% Medicaid Provider Rate Cut?

Did Medicaid shortfalls in the budget lead to cuts? Read on…

Doctors Urged to Act Now in Campaign to Repeal the SGR

The NCMS, AMA, and other physician organizations are urging their members to contact every member of Congress and ask them to repeal the sustainable growth rate (SGR) formula used to set Medicare physician reimbursement rates.

Medicaid Recredentialing Effort Underway

CSC, the Medicaid vendor responsible for enrollment and credentialing, is notifying physicians and other Medicaid providers that a federally mandated recredentialing process is getting underway.

In This Issue

Final 2011 ACO Accelerated Development Learning Session to be Held in Baltimore

Letters of Intent for Comprehensive Primary Care Initiative Due by November 15

Applications for Innovation Advisors Program Due November 15

UPDATE: CMS Extends Length of Revalidation Effort by Two Years

Registration for Medicare Symposium Now Available to Physicians

Public Comment Period Opens for Draft Opioid REMS Prescriber Education Program

“Heal the Claims Process” and PractEssentials: Resources to Help Cut Practice Costs

FDA Revises Warning Label for Trilipix

NC Smoke-Free Law Cited for Fewer Heart Attack Cases in ERs

FDA Sends Warning Letters to Tobacco Retailers

Officials Identify Source of E. coli Outbreak

NC Heart Surgeon Receives International Recognition

Make an IRA Rollover Gift to the NCMS Foundation!

Order Your Free 2012 NCMS Member Calendar Today!

Save the Date: AMA Webinar on ACO Rule Set for Nov. 21

Meetings & Events

11/12/2011
AMA Interim Meeting
more info »

11/17/2011
Dinner & Discussion: The Evolving Medical Practice – Wilmington
more info »

11/21/2011
AMA Webinar on ACO Rule
more info »

Contact Info

Address:
PO Box 27167
Raleigh, NC 27611

Phone:
1.919.833.3836
1.800.722.1350 (NC only)

Fax:
1.919.833.2023 FAX

© North Carolina Medical Society. All rights reserved.

Bulletin for 11-4-2011

Kristen Shipherd — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 18:24:15 +0000

Volume 62 Issue 44 – November 4, 2011

Featured Stories

CMS Extends Deadline for E-Prescribing Hardship Exemption by One Week

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has extended the deadline for physicians to file for an e-Prescribing (eRx) Hardship Exemption to Tuesday, November 8, 2011.

NCMS Efforts to Secure E-Billing Mandate in Workers’ Comp Gets National Attention

This week, internet-based news service WorkCompCentral.com published an article about the North Carolina Industrial Commission’s and the General Assembly’s recent actions to require electronic billing and payment processes in the workers’ compensation system.

Physician Assistant Medicaid Enrollment Update

Following a stakeholder meeting last week in which the North Carolina Medical Society played an active role, the Division of Medical Assistance (DMA) has announced that the enrollment requirement for physician assistants (PAs), as well as for nurse practitioners (NPs), is being delayed until further notice.

CMS Extends Length of Revalidation Effort by Two Years

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced on October 28, 2011, that current efforts to revalidate the enrollment of every Medicare provider and supplier will be continued through 2015.

In This Issue

NCMS Offering Discounted Long-term Care Insurance

Updated EHR Incentive Programs FAQs Now Available

The National Ambulatory Care Survey (NAMCS): What’s New in 2012?

NCMS Remembers Physician Legislator James S. Forrester, MD

More Cases Reported in E. coli Outbreak

NC’s Infant Mortality Rate Lowest in Recorded History

New VA Outpatient Clinic Being Built in Goldsboro

Social Media @NCMedSoc: Check Out the Annual Meeting Photos on Facebook

2011 NCMS House of Delegates Actions

Meetings & Events

11/08/2011
Lean Healthcare 200: Applying the Fundamentals – Winston-Salem
more info »

11/09/2011
North Carolina Health Information Exchange Webinar
more info »

11/12/2011
AMA Interim Meeting
more info »

Contact Info

Address:
PO Box 27167
Raleigh, NC 27611

Phone:
1.919.833.3836
1.800.722.1350 (NC only)

Fax:
1.919.833.2023 FAX

© North Carolina Medical Society. All rights reserved.

Bulletin for 10-28-2011

Kristen Shipherd — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 17:09:00 +0000

Volume 62 Issue 43 – October 28, 2011

Featured Stories

New Bern Internist to Lead NCMS in 2012

Robert W. “Charlie” Monteiro, MD, was installed as President of the NC Medical Society during the 2011 Annual Meeting last weekend in Raleigh.

Follow NCMS President on Twitter

Follow Robert W. “Charlie” Monteiro on Twitter @NCMSPresident for updates regarding NCMS issues and activities.

Joint Complaint Filed Over BCBSNC Radiology Services Reimbursement Policy

On Tuesday, October 25, 2011, the NCMS, the NC Radiological Society and the NC Hospital Association filed a Joint Complaint with the NC Department of Insurance expressing concerns over a proposed Corporate Medical Policy issued by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of NC (BCBSNC).

Federal Judge Issues Temporary Injunction Against Part of New NC Abortion Law

U.S. District Court Judge Catherine Eagles temporarily stopped implementation of one piece of North Carolina’s new abortion law, which would have required health care providers to conduct an ultrasound at least four hours prior to performing an abortion procedure and to show and describe the images of the test to the patient prior to the procedure.

In This Issue

Members Convene at NCMS Annual Meeting

NCMS Honors Health Care Leaders at Annual Meeting

2011 Harris Award Presented to Carol Koeble, MD

NC Health Information Exchange Subject of November Webinar

eRx Exemption Deadline is Tuesday, November 1

CMS Offers eRx Payment Adjustment Feedback Report

What Do the Final ACO Rules Mean for Providers?

House Votes to Remove Provision to Withhold 3% of Medicare Physician Payments

E. coli Outbreak in Wake County Prompts DPH Alert to Health Care Providers Statewide

Nov. 1 Deadline for Medicare eRx Exemption Just Days Away

Meetings & Events

11/08/2011
Lean Healthcare 200: Applying the Fundamentals – Winston-Salem
more info »

11/09/2011
North Carolina Health Information Exchange Webinar
more info »

11/12/2011
AMA Interim Meeting
more info »

Contact Info

Address:
PO Box 27167
Raleigh, NC 27611

Phone:
1.919.833.3836
1.800.722.1350 (NC only)

Fax:
1.919.833.2023 FAX

© North Carolina Medical Society. All rights reserved.

Bulletin for 10-21-2011

Kristen Shipherd — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 18:09:59 +0000

Volume 62 Issue 42 – October 21, 2011

Featured Stories

2011 NCMS Annual Meeting Is Underway in Raleigh

Physicians from across North Carolina began arriving today for the 2011 NCMS Annual Meeting at the Raleigh Marriott City Center.

Medicare Shared Savings Final Rule Reflects Changes Urged by Physicians and Hospitals, CMS Says

The federal government continued its push toward accountable care as it launched two initiatives derived from the Affordable Care Act (ACA) on Thursday–the Medicare Shared Savings Final Rule and the Advance Payment Model.

In This Issue

CMS Program Prepares Physicians for Pay-for-Performance

Innovation Advisors Program Seeks to Improve Care and Lower Costs

CORRECTION: Displaying of Employee Rights Posters

Panelists Will Discuss Challenges Facing Personalized Medicine

NCAHC Annual Conference Examines Medication Adherence

NCSEPS Presents Codequest Coding College 2012

NC Influenza Activity Remains Low as New Hanover-Pender County Doctors Urge Caregivers to Receive Flu Shots

New Employee Rights Poster Must Be Displayed in Medical Practice

Meetings & Events

10/21/2011
Fundamental Critical Care Support Course
more info »

10/21/2011
NCMS Annual Meeting and House of Delegates
more info »

10/27/2011
American Psychiatric Association’s Fall Institute for Psychiatric Services
more info »

Contact Info

Address:
PO Box 27167
Raleigh, NC 27611

Phone:
1.919.833.3836
1.800.722.1350 (NC only)

Fax:
1.919.833.2023 FAX

© North Carolina Medical Society. All rights reserved.

Bulletin for 10-14-2011

Kristen Shipherd — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 18:27:26 +0000

Volume 62 Issue 41 – October 14, 2011

Featured Stories

Nursing Board Committee Recommends Move Toward Independent Practice

Read on for the details of these recommendations, which would impact licensure and scope of practice among registered nurses.

NCMS 2011 Legislative Summary Will Help You Prepare for 2012

The NCMS Legislative Team has completed the 2011 Legislative Summary; take a look back at a historic year at the General Assembly for medicine and get a glimpse at the issues coming down the road in 2012.

2011 NCMS Annual Meeting Starts Next Friday!

Join us for the 2011 NCMS Annual Meeting, which is scheduled for Friday, October 21 – Sunday, October 23, 2011, at the Raleigh Marriott City Center.

In This Issue

NC Safe Surgery Conference Set for January

Loan Fund to Improve Access to Electronic Health Records

Television Ad Campaign Targets SGR; Physicians and Patients Urged to Call Congress

Medicare and Medicaid Reminders and Updates

Charlotte Seminar To Address Medicare Topics

Deadline for Filing for an eRx Exemption is November 1

2011-2012 Flu Season Officially Underway

NCMS Physicians Honored

Campbell University Announces New Public Health Degree

Raffle Drawing Benefits NCMS Foundation

House Select Committee on CON Meets

Meetings & Events

10/21/2011
Fundamental Critical Care Support Course
more info »

10/21/2011
NCMS Annual Meeting and House of Delegates
more info »

10/27/2011
American Psychiatric Association’s Fall Institute for Psychiatric Services
more info »

Contact Info

Address:
PO Box 27167
Raleigh, NC 27611

Phone:
1.919.833.3836
1.800.722.1350 (NC only)

Fax:
1.919.833.2023 FAX

Bulletin for 10-7-2011

Kristen Shipherd — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 15:36:45 +0000

Volume 62 Issue 40 – October 7, 2011

Featured Stories

UPDATE: BCBSNC’s Radiology Services Reimbursement Policy Revised and Reposted

See the latest developments on this issue that resulted from a meeting last week between the NCMS, the NC Radiological Society Society, the NC Hospital Association and Blue Cross Blue Shield NC.

NCMS Convenes Meeting with Benefits Exchange Stakeholders

Members of a wide variety of healthcare and business stakeholders came together on Thursday at the NCMS headquarters to discuss the current legislative proposals to form a state health benefit exchange.

Physician Assistants, Hold Your Medicaid Enrollment Applications!

North Carolina Medical Society (NCMS), the North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants, and the North Carolina Medical Group Managers collectively urge all PAs and their medical practices to hold their Medicaid enrollment applications. Read on to see why…

MedPAC Votes to Repeal the Medicare Sustainable Growth Rate; Physicians Not Happy with Alternative Proposal

By a vote of 15-2, the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC) voted Thursday to repeal the controversial sustainable growth rate (SGR) formula used to set Medicare physician reimbursement fees.

In This Issue

Deficit Reduction Committee Urged to Include Meaningful Medical Liability Reforms

Medicaid Alert: All Providers – Medicaid Recipient Appeal Process (Due Process) – EPSDT Seminar Set for October 18

Have Questions about EHR Incentive Program? Help Is a Click Away

Physicians: Are You Up to Date on Electronic Prescribing Incentives and Penalties?

NCMS Annual Meeting News: Hotel Reservation Deadline Extended

Rural Hope Offers Grant Opportunity for Health Care Facilities in Rural NC

HRSA Grants Help 18 North Carolina Community Health Centers Toward Becoming Patient-Centered Medical Homes

NCMSF-NCMGM Host Billing and Coding Webinar, Oct. 12, for Mid-Level Providers; Register Today!

TIPS Symposium Draws Large Turnout

5 Useful Tips When Using NCMSâ€™ Member Resource Center

House Select Committee on CON Announces Meeting Schedule

Meetings & Events

10/07/2011
HIPAA 5010 & ICD-10 Workshop presented by UnitedHealthcare – Wilmington
more info »

10/07/2011
NC Orthopaedic Association Annual Meeting
more info »

10/12/2011
Webinar: Billing and Coding for Mid-Level Providers
more info »

Contact Info

Address:
PO Box 27167
Raleigh, NC 27611

Phone:
1.919.833.3836
1.800.722.1350 (NC only)

Fax:
1.919.833.2023 FAX

Bulletin for 9-30-2011

Kristen Shipherd — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 17:17:43 +0000

Volume 62 Issue 39 – September 30, 2011

Featured Stories

Medical Liability Reforms Take Effect on Saturday

Provisions of Senate Bill 33 – Medical Liability Reforms will take effect on Saturday, October 1, 2011, in North Carolina.

BCBSNC and Allscripts Team Up To Offer EHR to Eligible Physicians; NCMS Foundation Offers Assistance In Helping Physicians with EHR

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina announced this week that it will collaborate with Allscripts to make Electronic Health Records (EHRs) available to more than 750 North Carolina physicians.

Update on Insurance Commissioner’s MLR Waiver Request

Read the latest developments regarding Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin’s request of the federal government to grant a statewide waiver from the Medical Loss Ratio (MLR) provision contained in the Affordable Care Act of 2010.

In This Issue

State Budget Conflicted on Therapy Services Under Medicaid

October 3 Deadline Looms for Medicare EHR Incentive Participants

Medicare eRx Payment Adjustment – November 1, 2011 Deadline Approaching

New Initiative Launched to Strengthen Primary Care

Final 2011 ACO Accelerated Development Learning Session To Be Held in Baltimore

2012 NCMS Leadership College Scholars Announced

Federal Grant To Help Create Healthier Communities in NC

Wilmington Clinic To Offer Care to Veterans

Charlotte Physician Endows New Award to Recognize Basic Research

Brunswick County Physicians Celebrate Legislative Victories at County’s Annual Meeting

Honor a Special Physician Assistant during PA Appreciation Week!

NC Medical Board to Offer Advice to Licensees

Meetings & Events

10/04/2011
HIPAA 5010 and ICD-10 Workshop presented by UnitedHealthcare – Charlotte
more info »

10/04/2011
HIPAA 5010 & ICD-10 Workshop presented by UnitedHealthcare – Asheville
more info »

10/05/2011
HIPAA 5010 & ICD-10 Workshop presented by UnitedHealthcare – Winston-Salem
more info »

Contact Info

Address:
PO Box 27167
Raleigh, NC 27611

Phone:
1.919.833.3836
1.800.722.1350 (NC only)

Fax:
1.919.833.2023 FAX

Bulletin for 9-23-2011

Kristen Shipherd — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 18:12:37 +0000

Volume 62 Issue 38 – September 23, 2011

Featured Stories

MedPAC Offers Savings Plan to Offset Cost of SGR Repeal But Physicians Remain Concerned as NCMS Keeps Watch

On Tuesday MedPAC posted draft recommendations aimed at offsetting the budgetary costs of repealing the SGR.

NCMS Among Organizations Asking Deficit Reduction Committee to Repeal the SGR

The North Carolina Medical Society joined dozens of national and state physician organizations on Thursday in asking the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction to include a repeal of the sustainable growth rate (SGR) formula in its final legislation.

NC Medical Board to Continue Discussion on Self-Treatment Position Statement, Moves Forward With Rule

At its September meeting, the North Carolina Medical Board Policy Committee discussed at length its current position statement regarding Self-Treatment and Treatment of Family Members and Others with Whom Significant Emotional Relationships Exist.

In This Issue

NCMS Actively Engaged in Health Information Exchange Developments

CMS ePrescribing Deadline Draws Near

NCMS Working with CCNC to Reach Out to Specialists

Friend-of-the-Court Brief Filed in Florida Supreme Court in Support of Upholding Medical Liability Reform

NCMS Member FYI: Palmetto GBA Now Offering Online Provider Services

Tell Us What You Think: Readership Survey Now Available

Bernstein Dinner and Lecture Set for October 6 in Chapel Hill

UNCSOM Dean Roper to Address the October 12 Durham-Orange County Medical Society Meeting

NCMS Photo Contest: The Results Are In

NC Medical Board To Discuss Its Position on Self Treatment and Treatment of Others

Meetings & Events

10/07/2011
NC Orthopaedic Association Annual Meeting
more info »

10/21/2011
Fundamental Critical Care Support Course
more info »

10/21/2011
NCMS Annual Meeting and House of Delegates
more info »

Contact Info

Address:
PO Box 27167
Raleigh, NC 27611

Phone:
1.919.833.3836
1.800.722.1350 (NC only)

Fax:
1.919.833.2023 FAX

Bulletin for 9-16-2011

Kristen Shipherd — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 19:16:24 +0000

Volume 62 Issue 37 – September 16, 2011

Featured Stories

Breaking News: MedPAC Addresses SGR Issue

The Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC) is considering a proposal to address the sustainable growth rate (SGR) used to determine physician Medicare reimbursement fees.

DMA Announces Requirement To Direct Enroll PAs and NPs

In its September bulletin to all providers, the Division of Medical Assistance (DMA) announced a new requirement for all physician assistants and nurse practitioners to direct enroll in Medicaid. It is the North Carolina Medical Society’s understanding that the elimination of “incident to” billing and new fee schedules for these non-physician practitioners will follow on the heels of the enrollment effort.

House Select Committee Studies Certificate of Need Law

The House Select Committee on Certificate of Need Process and Related Hospital Issues met on Wednesday, September 14 to hear an overview of the Certificate of Need program in North Carolina.

In This Issue

Potential for Reduced Battery Performance Behind Recall of Medtronic Model 8637 SynchroMedII Implantable Fusion Pump

FDA Medwatch: Risk of Abnormal Heart Rhythms with Zofran

EHR Loan Program Expands to All of North Carolina — Contact NCMS Foundation for Assistance

Federal Grants Aid Health Care Development in NC

UHC Hosts HIPAA 5010 and ICD-10 Workshops

NCMS Offers PQRS Submission Discounts Through Covisint DocSite

CMS Clinical Quality Measures Presentation Available Online