AAPM&R Conducts Member Call-to-Action on Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction
As the Academy ramps up its grassroots advocacy on a range of key health policy issues around the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction and the Obama Administration’s Plan for Economic Growth and Deficit Reduction—on September 23, members were urged to contact their members of Congress on the Medicare physician payment cuts, post-acute care, the “60 percent rule” and other major topics. Thank you to those who have contacted their Senators and Representatives and if you have not had an opportunity to participate, click here for more information.
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Product Theaters and Technical Exhibit Provide Innovative Ideas for Patient Care
In addition to educational sessions, the AAPM&R 2011 Annual Assembly provides numerous opportunities for attendees to experience and learn first-hand about cutting edge technologies and state-of-the-art-treatments during Product Theaters and the Technical Exhibition.
Attendees can discuss products, experience demonstrations of new technologies and learn how products are used in patient care with the more than eight companies participating in the Product Theaters. Advance registration is not required or allowed. Attendance is available on a first-come, first-served basis; breakfast or lunch will be provided by the Academy. Click here to see presenting companies as well as times and locations.
The Technical Exhibit has representatives from more than 120 companies to provide demonstrations and answer questions related to leading-edge treatments and technologies. The Exhibit Hall opens with a Welcome Reception for attendees on Thursday, November 17, from 5 pm–7 pm. Click here for a list of exhibitors.
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Academy Submits Comments to the National Priorities Partnership
On August 22, the AAPM&R submitted comments in response to the National Priorities Partnership’s (NPP) report to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on the National Quality Strategy. HHS contracted with the National Quality Forum (NQF) to convene NPP to provide input on HHS's National Quality Strategy. NPP was specifically asked to identify national goals that map to the priorities put forth in the 2011 National Quality Strategy; provide input on measures for tracking national progress toward the goals; and offer guidance on high-leverage strategic opportunities to accelerate improvement.
The Academy was pleased to note the inclusion of 'functional status' in NPP's report; however, were concerned that there was no specific mention of people with disabilities, as well as specific barriers and challenges they may face.
Click here to view the Academy’s comment letter.
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AAPM&R Signs On AMA Letter Supporting the Repeal of the Medicare SGR
AAPM&R signed on a letter to the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction along with the AMA and one hundred and seventeen national and state medical societies. The letter emphasized the critical importance of the committee to include full repeal of the Medicare sustainable growth rate (SGR) formula in its final legislation.
To read the letter, click here.
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November 1, 2011, Deadline For Filing E-Prescribing Exemptions
CMS has published and approved the final changes for the 2012 e-Prescribing program. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) final rule details that physicians are required to have issued and reported at least 10 electronic scripts (e-scripts) by June 30 to avoid being penalized. The penalty will reduce all Medicare Part B claims paid under the 2012 fee schedule by 1 percent. However, CMS has allowed a few exemptions to the final rule which must be filed by November 1. To view more information, please click on the following links:
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Use this section to find links to news and resources relevant to physiatrists, found on the Web.
HHS Discontinues public access to national practitioner data bank
Learn more. NEJM’s comprehensive report on medical malpractice risk by specialty
Learn more. Impact of hospital drug shortages
Learn more.
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