The following information has been received by ANCO.
****ASCO NEWS****
The Food & Drug Administration (FDA) and the American Society for Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) have recently reported a shortage of cisplatin 1 mg/mL injections. The shortage has been reported by the three manufacturers; Bedford, Teva, and APP. APP currently has some availability, and Teva is on backorder with an expected release date sometime in January 2009. At this time Bedford is backordered and no release date is being provided.
The shortage of Leucovorin remains and no additional information on the manufacturing delays or release dates have been provided by Bedford or Teva.
More detailed information on these shortages can be found at the FDA website at http://www.fda.gov/cder/drug/shortages/default.htm#Current and the ASHP website at http://www.ashp.org/DrugShortages/Current/.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Monday, December 29, 2008
ACCC & ANCO News
The following information has been received by ANCO.
****ACCC NEWS****
The Association of Community Cancer Center's (ACCC) This Week At ACCC was published today and is available online at http://www.accc-cancer.org/mediaroom/newsletters/media_ACCCNEWSLETTER_12-29-2008.html. ANCO is an Institutional Member of ACCC. This edition features:
UnitedHealthcare Changes Requirement Related to Herceptin Coverage
Register Today: March 18-21, 2009, ACCC's 35th Annual National Meeting
FDA Approves Gleevec for New Indication
Welcome Aboard to ACCC's Newest Cancer Program Members
ACCC’s Drug Database and Compendia-Based Drug Bulletin Put on Hold
ACCC's Website to Be Upgraded and Improved
Oncology Review Journal Available Online to ACCC Members
Q&A on ACCC's Listserv: Smoking Cessation, K-ras Testing
ACCC's CE Blackboard: Lung Cancer, Year in Review
Take Our Survey: Oncology Issues and ACCC's Website
State Medical Oncology Societies Host Membership Meetings
****ANCO NEWS****
The Association of Northern California Oncologists (ANCO), Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, & Indiana University present
ASH Highlights 2008
Tuesday, February 10th, 2009; 5:30PM-9:15PM
Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason Street, San Francisco
(415) 394-1111
The Association of Northern California Oncologists was organized in 1990 to be an advocate for, educate, and inform the practicing oncologist and hematologist and represents 363 oncologists and hematologists throughout Northern California and other states.
ASH Highlights 2008 will summarize the major research and treatment advancements presented at December 2008’s ASH Annual Meeting. The program will focus on surgical, radiation, and medical oncology treatment modalities for hematological malignancies. The faculty will place these developments in context as to their immediate clinical utility.
Educational Objectives. At the conclusion of this educational activity, participants were able to:
• Review, summarize, and interpret important clinical results presented at the 2008 ASH Annual Meeting for surgical, radiation, and medical oncologists; oncology nurses; and, other health care professionals.
• Comprehend and implement of changes in treatment for hematological malignancies.
Target Audience. ASH Highlights 2008 has been designed to meet the educational needs of oncologists, oncology nurses, oncology pharmacists, and other health care professionals involved in the care of people with hematological malignancies.
Accreditation Statement and Designation of Credit. This activity was planned and implemented in accordance with the Essential Areas and Policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) through the joint sponsorship of the Indiana University School of Medicine and the Association of Northern California Oncologists (ANCO). The Indiana University School of Medicine is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
The Indiana University School of Medicine designated this educational activity for a maximum of 3.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
The California Board of Registered Nurses accepts courses approved for AMA PRA Category 1 Credits as meeting the continuing education requirements for renewal.
Disclosure Statement. In accordance with the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) Standards for Commercial Support, educational programs sponsored by the Indiana University School of Medicine (IUSM) must demonstrate balance, independence, objectivity, and scientific rigor. All faculty, authors, editors, and Planning Committee members participating in an IUSM-sponsored activity are required to disclose any relevant financial interest or other relationship with the manufacturer(s) of any commercial product(s) and/or provider(s) of commercial services that are discussed in an educational activity.
Program Planning Committee. The Physician Course Director for ASH Highlights 2008 is Steven Coutre, M.D., Stanford Univ. Dr. Coutre was assisted by the ANCO Board of Directors (Richard A. Bohannon, M.D., Norman Cohen, M.D., Jeffrey Cronk, M.D., Bradley Ekstrand, M.D., Ellie Guardino, M.D., Ph.D., John A. Keech, Jr., D.O., L. Wayne Keiser, M.D., Primo Lara, Jr., M.D., Daniel P. Mirda, M.D., Bimal J. Patel, M.D., Robert L. Robles, M.D., and Antoine Sayegh, M.D.) and Group and Institutional Member contacts (George Fisher, M.D., David Gandara, M.D., Joseph Mason, M.D., Hope Rugo, M.D., and Margaret Tempero, M.D.) in the selection of the faculty for ASH Highlights 2008..
Content Consultant. The Indiana University School of Medicine content consultant was Larry D. Cripe, M.D., Associate Professor of Hematology/Oncology.
Agenda & Faculty
5:30PM Registration, Exhibits, & Dinner (available through 7:00PM)
6:00PM Welcome, Introductions, & Talks
Richard A. Bohannon, M.D., ANCO President
Steven E. Coutre, M.D., Program Moderator, Stanford Univ.
Leukemia
Bruno Carneiro de Medeiros, M.D., Stanford Univ.
Lymphoma
Joseph Tuscano, M.D., Univ. of California, Davis
Multiple Myeloma
Steven E. Coutre, M.D., Stanford Univ.
Myelodysplastic Syndrome
Jason R. Gotlib, M.D., Stanford Univ.
9:15PM Adjourn
Acknowledgment of Commercial Support. Support for this educational activity is anticipated in part from Alaven, biogenIDEC, Celgene, Cephalon Oncology, Eisai, Enzon Pharmaceuticals, Genentech BioOncology, Genzyme Oncology, GlaxoSmithKline Oncology, Millennium, Ortho Biotech, and possibly others (as of the date of this mailing). The final list of supporters will be available at the meeting.
Download the meeting announcement/registration form at www.anco-online.org/ash.html.
****ACCC NEWS****
The Association of Community Cancer Center's (ACCC) This Week At ACCC was published today and is available online at http://www.accc-cancer.org/mediaroom/newsletters/media_ACCCNEWSLETTER_12-29-2008.html. ANCO is an Institutional Member of ACCC. This edition features:
UnitedHealthcare Changes Requirement Related to Herceptin Coverage
Register Today: March 18-21, 2009, ACCC's 35th Annual National Meeting
FDA Approves Gleevec for New Indication
Welcome Aboard to ACCC's Newest Cancer Program Members
ACCC’s Drug Database and Compendia-Based Drug Bulletin Put on Hold
ACCC's Website to Be Upgraded and Improved
Oncology Review Journal Available Online to ACCC Members
Q&A on ACCC's Listserv: Smoking Cessation, K-ras Testing
ACCC's CE Blackboard: Lung Cancer, Year in Review
Take Our Survey: Oncology Issues and ACCC's Website
State Medical Oncology Societies Host Membership Meetings
****ANCO NEWS****
The Association of Northern California Oncologists (ANCO), Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, & Indiana University present
ASH Highlights 2008
Tuesday, February 10th, 2009; 5:30PM-9:15PM
Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason Street, San Francisco
(415) 394-1111
The Association of Northern California Oncologists was organized in 1990 to be an advocate for, educate, and inform the practicing oncologist and hematologist and represents 363 oncologists and hematologists throughout Northern California and other states.
ASH Highlights 2008 will summarize the major research and treatment advancements presented at December 2008’s ASH Annual Meeting. The program will focus on surgical, radiation, and medical oncology treatment modalities for hematological malignancies. The faculty will place these developments in context as to their immediate clinical utility.
Educational Objectives. At the conclusion of this educational activity, participants were able to:
• Review, summarize, and interpret important clinical results presented at the 2008 ASH Annual Meeting for surgical, radiation, and medical oncologists; oncology nurses; and, other health care professionals.
• Comprehend and implement of changes in treatment for hematological malignancies.
Target Audience. ASH Highlights 2008 has been designed to meet the educational needs of oncologists, oncology nurses, oncology pharmacists, and other health care professionals involved in the care of people with hematological malignancies.
Accreditation Statement and Designation of Credit. This activity was planned and implemented in accordance with the Essential Areas and Policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) through the joint sponsorship of the Indiana University School of Medicine and the Association of Northern California Oncologists (ANCO). The Indiana University School of Medicine is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
The Indiana University School of Medicine designated this educational activity for a maximum of 3.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
The California Board of Registered Nurses accepts courses approved for AMA PRA Category 1 Credits as meeting the continuing education requirements for renewal.
Disclosure Statement. In accordance with the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) Standards for Commercial Support, educational programs sponsored by the Indiana University School of Medicine (IUSM) must demonstrate balance, independence, objectivity, and scientific rigor. All faculty, authors, editors, and Planning Committee members participating in an IUSM-sponsored activity are required to disclose any relevant financial interest or other relationship with the manufacturer(s) of any commercial product(s) and/or provider(s) of commercial services that are discussed in an educational activity.
Program Planning Committee. The Physician Course Director for ASH Highlights 2008 is Steven Coutre, M.D., Stanford Univ. Dr. Coutre was assisted by the ANCO Board of Directors (Richard A. Bohannon, M.D., Norman Cohen, M.D., Jeffrey Cronk, M.D., Bradley Ekstrand, M.D., Ellie Guardino, M.D., Ph.D., John A. Keech, Jr., D.O., L. Wayne Keiser, M.D., Primo Lara, Jr., M.D., Daniel P. Mirda, M.D., Bimal J. Patel, M.D., Robert L. Robles, M.D., and Antoine Sayegh, M.D.) and Group and Institutional Member contacts (George Fisher, M.D., David Gandara, M.D., Joseph Mason, M.D., Hope Rugo, M.D., and Margaret Tempero, M.D.) in the selection of the faculty for ASH Highlights 2008..
Content Consultant. The Indiana University School of Medicine content consultant was Larry D. Cripe, M.D., Associate Professor of Hematology/Oncology.
Agenda & Faculty
5:30PM Registration, Exhibits, & Dinner (available through 7:00PM)
6:00PM Welcome, Introductions, & Talks
Richard A. Bohannon, M.D., ANCO President
Steven E. Coutre, M.D., Program Moderator, Stanford Univ.
Leukemia
Bruno Carneiro de Medeiros, M.D., Stanford Univ.
Lymphoma
Joseph Tuscano, M.D., Univ. of California, Davis
Multiple Myeloma
Steven E. Coutre, M.D., Stanford Univ.
Myelodysplastic Syndrome
Jason R. Gotlib, M.D., Stanford Univ.
9:15PM Adjourn
Acknowledgment of Commercial Support. Support for this educational activity is anticipated in part from Alaven, biogenIDEC, Celgene, Cephalon Oncology, Eisai, Enzon Pharmaceuticals, Genentech BioOncology, Genzyme Oncology, GlaxoSmithKline Oncology, Millennium, Ortho Biotech, and possibly others (as of the date of this mailing). The final list of supporters will be available at the meeting.
Download the meeting announcement/registration form at www.anco-online.org/ash.html.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
ASH, NCCN, & UHC News
The following information has been received by ANCO.
****ASH NEWS****
The American Society of Hematology's (ASH) Practice Update was published recently and is available online at http://www.hematology.org/policy/practice. This edition features:
President-Elect Obama Nominates Daschle for HHS Secretary
Medicare Releases E-Prescribing Measure
New Report Analyzes 2007 PQRI Program Reporting Experience
ASH Submits Comments in Support of Iron Serum Study NCD
ASH Launches New Practice Page
Value-Based Purchasing Plan for Physicians Under Development at CMS
****NCCN NEWS****
NOW ON LINE! Northern California Cancer Center’s 2nd Annual Cancer Survivorship Conference held on November 8, 2008
To listen to and view go to www.nccc.org. and click on “Program Presentations” or http://www.nccc.org/site/c.foJNIXOyEpH/b.2913703/
Another Multiple Choice Test
Joan Venticinque, Cancer Survivor
Psychosocial Issues
Jeremy E. Bornstein, PhD, CPMC
A Life on Hold
Gregg Timmons, Cancer Survivor
Medical Issues
Sandra Horning, MD/Stanford
Transitioning from Oncologist to Primary Care Doctor
Judy Luce, MD/UCSF
Please mark your calendars! The 3rd Annual Post-Treatment Cancer Survivorship Conference is scheduled for November 14, 2009.
****UHC NEWS****
UnitedHealthcare is removing the requirement to submit a pathology report to obtain coverage for trastuzumab. This change will be effective for claims submitted after 1/1/2009.
Herceptin claims that were submitted in 2008 that are pending payment will require the submission of the pathology report showing over expression of the HER2 gene. The pathology reports should be faxed to 915-231-1970 and you should use the dedicated fax cover sheet.
Herceptin claims submitted after 1/1/2009 will continue to be subjected to two reimbursement policies that may impact the reimbursement. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) policy and the Maximum Dosage Edit policy both review Herceptin claims. Both of these policies are posted on the unitedhealthcareonline web site.
UnitedHealthcare launched the Herceptin policy in early 2006 based on an audit showing that 12 percent of the patients being treated with trastuzumab did not have over-expression of the HER2 gene. Our last audit in September 2008, demonstrated that less than 1 percent of the submissions failed to show over- expression.
Our medical policy hasn’t changed – treatment of patients with under-expression is still inappropriate. We believe the recent audit demonstrates that this quality parameter is being followed and no longer requires the quality check.
There are other critical issues with HER2 gene expression testing. Studies show that concordance between local laboratories and a central laboratory with quality controls can be poor. The College of American Pathology has established accreditation for HER2 gene testing, but participation in the accreditation process is voluntary. UnitedHealthcare contracts with two national laboratories, Genezyme and Lab Corporation that meet the ASCO / CAP guideline recommendations and proficiency testing for HER2. We encourage the use of laboratories that meet these standards. If you don’t know the accreditation status of your current lab for HER2, we would encourage retesting, or a second opinion, from either of these laboratories for your UnitedHealthcare patients.
****ASH NEWS****
The American Society of Hematology's (ASH) Practice Update was published recently and is available online at http://www.hematology.org/policy/practice. This edition features:
President-Elect Obama Nominates Daschle for HHS Secretary
Medicare Releases E-Prescribing Measure
New Report Analyzes 2007 PQRI Program Reporting Experience
ASH Submits Comments in Support of Iron Serum Study NCD
ASH Launches New Practice Page
Value-Based Purchasing Plan for Physicians Under Development at CMS
****NCCN NEWS****
NOW ON LINE! Northern California Cancer Center’s 2nd Annual Cancer Survivorship Conference held on November 8, 2008
To listen to and view go to www.nccc.org. and click on “Program Presentations” or http://www.nccc.org/site/c.foJNIXOyEpH/b.2913703/
Another Multiple Choice Test
Joan Venticinque, Cancer Survivor
Psychosocial Issues
Jeremy E. Bornstein, PhD, CPMC
A Life on Hold
Gregg Timmons, Cancer Survivor
Medical Issues
Sandra Horning, MD/Stanford
Transitioning from Oncologist to Primary Care Doctor
Judy Luce, MD/UCSF
Please mark your calendars! The 3rd Annual Post-Treatment Cancer Survivorship Conference is scheduled for November 14, 2009.
****UHC NEWS****
UnitedHealthcare is removing the requirement to submit a pathology report to obtain coverage for trastuzumab. This change will be effective for claims submitted after 1/1/2009.
Herceptin claims that were submitted in 2008 that are pending payment will require the submission of the pathology report showing over expression of the HER2 gene. The pathology reports should be faxed to 915-231-1970 and you should use the dedicated fax cover sheet.
Herceptin claims submitted after 1/1/2009 will continue to be subjected to two reimbursement policies that may impact the reimbursement. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) policy and the Maximum Dosage Edit policy both review Herceptin claims. Both of these policies are posted on the unitedhealthcareonline web site.
UnitedHealthcare launched the Herceptin policy in early 2006 based on an audit showing that 12 percent of the patients being treated with trastuzumab did not have over-expression of the HER2 gene. Our last audit in September 2008, demonstrated that less than 1 percent of the submissions failed to show over- expression.
Our medical policy hasn’t changed – treatment of patients with under-expression is still inappropriate. We believe the recent audit demonstrates that this quality parameter is being followed and no longer requires the quality check.
There are other critical issues with HER2 gene expression testing. Studies show that concordance between local laboratories and a central laboratory with quality controls can be poor. The College of American Pathology has established accreditation for HER2 gene testing, but participation in the accreditation process is voluntary. UnitedHealthcare contracts with two national laboratories, Genezyme and Lab Corporation that meet the ASCO / CAP guideline recommendations and proficiency testing for HER2. We encourage the use of laboratories that meet these standards. If you don’t know the accreditation status of your current lab for HER2, we would encourage retesting, or a second opinion, from either of these laboratories for your UnitedHealthcare patients.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
CMS News
The following information has been received by ANCO.
****CMS NEWS****
Beginning December 19, 2008, the names of physicians and other health care professionals who reported quality information under the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) in 2007 will be available at www.medicare.gov\physician, the Physician and Other Healthcare Professional Directory located on www.medicare.gov. This information includes all eligible professionals identified by their National Provider Identifier (NPI) who submitted at least one quality data code on their Medicare claims for services furnished between July 1, 2007 and December 31, 2007.
The PQRI is a voluntary reporting program. A physician or other healthcare professional can choose whether to report quality information to Medicare under the PQRI program. Reporting quality information by professionals is an important means to promote improved quality of care to Medicare beneficiaries. There are, however, numerous reasons why physicians or other healthcare professionals, who are committed to providing high quality care to their patients, may have chosen not to report quality information under the PQRI Program which began in 2007.
For more information on the PQRI and the instructions for reporting and requirements for satisfactory reporting, go to http://www.cms.hhs.gov/pqri.
Detailed information on the 2009 PQRI may be found in the 2009 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule final rule with comment period (73 FR 69817 through 69847) that was published in the Federal Register on November 19, 2008. The final rule with comment period can be found in the “Related Links Outside of CMS” section of the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative website at: http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2008/pdf/E8-26213.pdf on the CMS website.
Reporting for the 2009 PQRI begins January 1, 2009. Please note there is no need to sign up or pre-register in order to participate.
****CMS NEWS****
Beginning December 19, 2008, the names of physicians and other health care professionals who reported quality information under the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) in 2007 will be available at www.medicare.gov\physician, the Physician and Other Healthcare Professional Directory located on www.medicare.gov. This information includes all eligible professionals identified by their National Provider Identifier (NPI) who submitted at least one quality data code on their Medicare claims for services furnished between July 1, 2007 and December 31, 2007.
The PQRI is a voluntary reporting program. A physician or other healthcare professional can choose whether to report quality information to Medicare under the PQRI program. Reporting quality information by professionals is an important means to promote improved quality of care to Medicare beneficiaries. There are, however, numerous reasons why physicians or other healthcare professionals, who are committed to providing high quality care to their patients, may have chosen not to report quality information under the PQRI Program which began in 2007.
For more information on the PQRI and the instructions for reporting and requirements for satisfactory reporting, go to http://www.cms.hhs.gov/pqri.
Detailed information on the 2009 PQRI may be found in the 2009 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule final rule with comment period (73 FR 69817 through 69847) that was published in the Federal Register on November 19, 2008. The final rule with comment period can be found in the “Related Links Outside of CMS” section of the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative website at: http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2008/pdf/E8-26213.pdf on the CMS website.
Reporting for the 2009 PQRI begins January 1, 2009. Please note there is no need to sign up or pre-register in order to participate.
ACCC, ASCO, & CMA News
The following information has been received by ANCO.
****ACCC NEWS****
The Association of Community Cancer Center's (ACCC) This Week At ACCC was published today and is available online at http://www.accc-cancer.org/mediaroom/newsletters/media_ACCCNEWSLETTER_12-22-2008.html. ANCO is an Institutional Member of ACCC. This edition features:
IOM Document on Colorectal Cancer Screening Available Online
Register Today: March 18-21, 2009, ACCC's 35th Annual National Meeting
FDA Approves Genzyme's Mozobil
ACCC’s Drug Database and Compendia-Based Drug Bulletin Put on Hold
ACCC's Website to Be Upgraded and Improved
Prostate Cancer Prevention Study Shows No Benefit for Use of Selenium and Vitamin E Supplements
Oncology Review Journal Available Online to ACCC Members
Q&A on ACCC's Listserv: Incentivizing Hospital-Employed Medical Oncologists
ACCC's CE Blackboard: Lung Cancer, Year in Review
Take Our Survey: Oncology Issues and ACCC's Website
State Medical Oncology Societies Host Membership Meetings
****ASCO NEWS****
The American Society of Clinical Oncology's (ASCO) e-News was published today and is available online at http://view.exacttarget.com/?j=fe54157873650d757c15&m=ff2d16787160&ls=fdf112797d60067f7116717d&l=fe52157576620c787c1c&s=fdf2157972640d79751d7073&jb=ffcf14&ju=fe3216717260057b741774. ANCO is a state/regional affiliate of ASCO. This edition features:
ASCO Recognized by FDA and Honored with Award
Cancer Policy Alert: FDA Issues Q&A on Medication Guides for ESAs; ASCO Launches Health Information Technology Social Networking Site
Check Out the Newest JCO Original Report on In Vivo Electroporation
Read the Newest JOP Feature, "Continued Regulatory Actions Affecting the Use of Erythropoiesis-Stimulating Agents (ESAs)"
Still Time to Register for the Jan. 15-17 GI Cancers Symposium
Early Registration Deadline for the 2009 GU Cancers Symposium: Jan. 23
Application Deadline for the 2009 IDEA Award: Jan. 14
Application Deadline for the 2009 ASCO Loan Repayment Program, Funded by Susan G. Komen for the Cure®: Jan. 15
Apply for the Medical Student Rotation, funded by Susan G. Komen for the Cure®
Apply for the Resident Travel Award, funded by Susan G. Komen for the Cure®
Check Out the Event, Cancer Advances: A Public Forum on Gastrointestinal Cancers
ASCO Expert Corner: Cancer Rates Across the Globe
Cancer.Net Feature: Seven Steps for a Healthier New Year
Cancer.Net Podcast: Cancer and the Winter Months
****CMA News****
The California Medical Association's (CMA) Alert was published today and is available online at http://www.calphys.org/html/news.asp. It featues:
Medical Board Changes CME Reporting Requirements
Obama Administration Looks at Health Care Reform
Physicians Can Earn 2% Medicare Bonus for e-Prescribing
Deadline to Make Medicare Participation Decisions for
2009 Is 12/31
Order CMA's 2009 Model Medical Staff Bylaws
CMA Foundation Publishes 2009 Antibiotic Awareness Toolkit
Save the Date: 2009 Leadership Academy
Benefit of the Week: 30-50% off Epocrates
****ACCC NEWS****
The Association of Community Cancer Center's (ACCC) This Week At ACCC was published today and is available online at http://www.accc-cancer.org/mediaroom/newsletters/media_ACCCNEWSLETTER_12-22-2008.html. ANCO is an Institutional Member of ACCC. This edition features:
IOM Document on Colorectal Cancer Screening Available Online
Register Today: March 18-21, 2009, ACCC's 35th Annual National Meeting
FDA Approves Genzyme's Mozobil
ACCC’s Drug Database and Compendia-Based Drug Bulletin Put on Hold
ACCC's Website to Be Upgraded and Improved
Prostate Cancer Prevention Study Shows No Benefit for Use of Selenium and Vitamin E Supplements
Oncology Review Journal Available Online to ACCC Members
Q&A on ACCC's Listserv: Incentivizing Hospital-Employed Medical Oncologists
ACCC's CE Blackboard: Lung Cancer, Year in Review
Take Our Survey: Oncology Issues and ACCC's Website
State Medical Oncology Societies Host Membership Meetings
****ASCO NEWS****
The American Society of Clinical Oncology's (ASCO) e-News was published today and is available online at http://view.exacttarget.com/?j=fe54157873650d757c15&m=ff2d16787160&ls=fdf112797d60067f7116717d&l=fe52157576620c787c1c&s=fdf2157972640d79751d7073&jb=ffcf14&ju=fe3216717260057b741774. ANCO is a state/regional affiliate of ASCO. This edition features:
ASCO Recognized by FDA and Honored with Award
Cancer Policy Alert: FDA Issues Q&A on Medication Guides for ESAs; ASCO Launches Health Information Technology Social Networking Site
Check Out the Newest JCO Original Report on In Vivo Electroporation
Read the Newest JOP Feature, "Continued Regulatory Actions Affecting the Use of Erythropoiesis-Stimulating Agents (ESAs)"
Still Time to Register for the Jan. 15-17 GI Cancers Symposium
Early Registration Deadline for the 2009 GU Cancers Symposium: Jan. 23
Application Deadline for the 2009 IDEA Award: Jan. 14
Application Deadline for the 2009 ASCO Loan Repayment Program, Funded by Susan G. Komen for the Cure®: Jan. 15
Apply for the Medical Student Rotation, funded by Susan G. Komen for the Cure®
Apply for the Resident Travel Award, funded by Susan G. Komen for the Cure®
Check Out the Event, Cancer Advances: A Public Forum on Gastrointestinal Cancers
ASCO Expert Corner: Cancer Rates Across the Globe
Cancer.Net Feature: Seven Steps for a Healthier New Year
Cancer.Net Podcast: Cancer and the Winter Months
****CMA News****
The California Medical Association's (CMA) Alert was published today and is available online at http://www.calphys.org/html/news.asp. It featues:
Medical Board Changes CME Reporting Requirements
Obama Administration Looks at Health Care Reform
Physicians Can Earn 2% Medicare Bonus for e-Prescribing
Deadline to Make Medicare Participation Decisions for
2009 Is 12/31
Order CMA's 2009 Model Medical Staff Bylaws
CMA Foundation Publishes 2009 Antibiotic Awareness Toolkit
Save the Date: 2009 Leadership Academy
Benefit of the Week: 30-50% off Epocrates
Saturday, December 20, 2008
ASCO, CMS, DHCS/MediCal, & Palmetto/J1MAC News
The following information has been received by ANCO.
All ANCO Online LIstServ postings are archived at the ANCO Online ListSev blog available at http://anco-online.blogspot.com/.
****ASCO NEWS****
The American Society of Clinical Oncology's (ASCO) Cancer Policy Today was published and is available online at http://view.exacttarget.com/?j=fe591578736405747c10&m=ff311d707460&ls=fdec12777c65017975127971&l=fe601575776601757d14&s=fe1f15797d620479731d75&jb=ffcf14&ju=fe2f167172660174711472. ANCO is a state/regional affiliate of ASCO. This edition features:
NIH Funding Appropriations Update
Update on Medicare Payment Provisions
Status of Legislation to Coordinate Treatment Care Planning
Update on E-Prescribing Initiatives
Genetic Nondiscrimination Bill Signed Into Law
ASCO Oncology Workforce Initiatives Update
Review of ESA Label Revisions
FDA Recognizes ASCO for Partnership on Critical Path Initiative
Update on Insurance Coverage of Clinical Trials
QOPI Update
Update on Expanded Access to Unapproved Drugs
Four Physicians Join the 111th Congress
President-elect Obama's Transition Team Reaches Out to Public on Health Care
ASCO Issues New Clinical Practice Guidelines
ASCO Creates Generic Chemotherapy Treatment Plan and Summary
ASCO Designs Modifiable Chemotherapy Consent Form
ASCO Issues Statement and Practice Resources on Exemplary Clinical Trial Site Attributes
ASCO Released EHR Field Guide
****CMS NEWS****
The transcript of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) ICD-10-CM/PCS National Provider Conference Call for Physicians that was held on November 17, 2008 is now available at
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/ICD10/Downloads/November17calltranscript.pdf .
CMS has updated the ICD-10 download files by posting the 2009 version of the following documents at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/ICD10/02_ICD-10-PCS.asp :
• ICD-10 General Equivalence Mappings (these refer to procedure codes)
• Reimbursement mappings and guides for the use of the Mappings
• 2009 version of ICD-10-Procedure Coding System (PCS)
• ICD-10 version of the digestive Medicare Severity Diagnosis Related Groups (MS-DRG)
The 2009 ICD-10-CM (Diagnosis codes) General Equivalence Mappings have been posted at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/ICD10/03_ICD_10_CM.asp .
The 2009 version of ICD-10-Clinical Modifications (CM), Diagnoses, will be posted by the end of December 2008 on the following sites:
http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/icd9.htm
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/ICD10/03_ICD_10_CM.asp
If you are unable to access any of the hyperlinks in this message, please copy and paste the URL into your Internet browser.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is pleased to announce the release of the detailed specifications for the 2009 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) measures and the 2009 PQRI measures groups. The following resources have been posted to the PQRI webpage on the CMS website:
2009 PQRI Quality Measure Specifications Manual and Release Notes- Contains the detailed specifications (including codes and reporting instructions) for the 153 2009 PQRI quality measures for claims or registry-based reporting and a summary of the changes from the 2008 PQRI Measure Specifications (in the form of release notes delineated by measure number).
2009 PQRI Implementation Guide - Provides guidance about how to implement 2009 PQRI claims-based reporting of measures to facilitate satisfactory reporting of quality data codes by eligible professionals for the 2009 PQRI.
2009 PQRI Measures Group Specifications Manual and Release Notes- Contains the detailed specifications and instructions for the seven (7) 2009 PQRI measures groups and a summary of the changes from the 2008 PQRI Measures Groups Specifications (in the form of release notes).
Getting Started with 2009 PQRI Reporting of Measures Groups - Provides guidance about implementing the 2009 PQRI measures groups.
To access the 2009 PQRI Quality Measure Specifications Manual and Release Notes, the 2009 PQRI Implementation Guide, the 2009 PQRI Measures Group Specifications Manual and Release Notes, or the Getting Started with 2009 PQRI Reporting of Measures Groups, visit http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PQRI/15_MeasuresCodes.asp#TopOfPage on the CMS website. Once on the Measure/Codes page, scroll down to the “Downloads” section and click on the appropriate link.
Please note that the 2009 PQRI quality measure specifications for any given quality measure may be different from specifications for the same quality measure used in 2008. Therefore, specifications for all 2009 PQRI quality measures, whether or not included in the 2008 PQRI program, must be obtained from the 2009 PQRI Quality Measure Specifications Manual.
In addition, measures group specifications are different from the specifications for individually reported measures that form the group. Therefore, the specifications and reporting instructions for the 2009 PQRI measures groups must be obtained from the 2009 PQRI Measures Group Specifications Manual.
Reporting for the 2009 PQRI begins January 1, 2009. Please note there is no need to sign up or pre-register in order to participate.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is pleased to announce a new section page on the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative web page. The “Spotlight” section page can be accessed on PQRI web page at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/pqri/ on the CMS website and click on the Spotlight tab. The “Spotlight” page is updated frequently and was created to alert eligible professionals to the newest program information available on the PQRI web page.
Detailed information on the 2009 PQRI may be found in the 2009 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule final rule with comment period (73 FR 69817 through 69847) that was published in the Federal Register on November 19, 2008. The final rule with comment period can be found in the “Related Links Outside of CMS” section of the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative website at: http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2008/pdf/E8-26213.pdf on the CMS website.
****DHCS/MediCal NEWS****
Effective for dates of service on or after February 1, 2009, providers may no longer bill Medi-Cal using a recipient’s Social Security Number (SSN). Claims submitted with a recipient’s SSN will be denied. All exemptions to this policy are discontinued except for Medicare crossover claims. Providers may continue to bill Medicare crossover claims using the recipient’s SSN.
Claims submitted with a valid nine-digit Client Index Number will continue to be accepted. However, all providers are expected to use the Medi-Cal identification number from the recipient’s Benefits Identification Card (BIC) or paper ID card when verifying eligibility, billing Medi-Cal or submitting Treatment Authorization Requests (TARs).
Medi-Cal recognizes the importance of protecting the identity and health information of recipients and strongly encourages all providers to avoid using a recipient’s SSN whenever possible.
This notice has been published on the Medi-Cal Web site, http://www.medi-cal.ca.gov/, as a link from the home page Newsroom section.
****PALMETTO/J1MAC NEWS****
12/18/08 Part B LCD Update
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/DocsCat/Providers~Jurisdiction%201%20Part%20B~121808%20Part%20B%20LCD%20Update?opendocument
This is the 12/18/08 Part B LCD Update. It contains Ambulance Services
(J1B-08-0007-L), Cardiovascular Nuclear Medicine: Myocardial Perfusion
Imaging & Cardiac Blood Pool Studies (J1B-08-0018-L), Category III CPT
Codes (J1B-08-0020-L), Diabetes Mellitus Therapy Using Hepatic Activation
or PIVIT Therapy (J1B-08-0024-L), Genetic Testing (J1B-08-0036-L),
Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone Analogs (J1B-08-0046-L), Intravenous Immune
Globulin IVIg, J1B-08-0047-L), Psychotherapy Services (J1B-08-0066-L),
Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (J1B-08-0079-L) and Nervous System
Studies- Autonomic Function, Nerve Conduction and Electromyography
(J1B-08-0054-L).
January 2009 J1 A/B MAC Medicare Advisory
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/DocsCat/Providers~Jurisdiction%201%20Part%20A~Publications~Medicare%20Advisory~January%202009%20J1%20AB%20MAC%20Medicare%20Advisory?opendocument
The January 2009 J1 A/B MAC Medicare Advisory is now available to be viewed
on the Palmetto GBA Web site.
All ANCO Online LIstServ postings are archived at the ANCO Online ListSev blog available at http://anco-online.blogspot.com/.
****ASCO NEWS****
The American Society of Clinical Oncology's (ASCO) Cancer Policy Today was published and is available online at http://view.exacttarget.com/?j=fe591578736405747c10&m=ff311d707460&ls=fdec12777c65017975127971&l=fe601575776601757d14&s=fe1f15797d620479731d75&jb=ffcf14&ju=fe2f167172660174711472. ANCO is a state/regional affiliate of ASCO. This edition features:
NIH Funding Appropriations Update
Update on Medicare Payment Provisions
Status of Legislation to Coordinate Treatment Care Planning
Update on E-Prescribing Initiatives
Genetic Nondiscrimination Bill Signed Into Law
ASCO Oncology Workforce Initiatives Update
Review of ESA Label Revisions
FDA Recognizes ASCO for Partnership on Critical Path Initiative
Update on Insurance Coverage of Clinical Trials
QOPI Update
Update on Expanded Access to Unapproved Drugs
Four Physicians Join the 111th Congress
President-elect Obama's Transition Team Reaches Out to Public on Health Care
ASCO Issues New Clinical Practice Guidelines
ASCO Creates Generic Chemotherapy Treatment Plan and Summary
ASCO Designs Modifiable Chemotherapy Consent Form
ASCO Issues Statement and Practice Resources on Exemplary Clinical Trial Site Attributes
ASCO Released EHR Field Guide
****CMS NEWS****
The transcript of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) ICD-10-CM/PCS National Provider Conference Call for Physicians that was held on November 17, 2008 is now available at
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/ICD10/Downloads/November17calltranscript.pdf .
CMS has updated the ICD-10 download files by posting the 2009 version of the following documents at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/ICD10/02_ICD-10-PCS.asp :
• ICD-10 General Equivalence Mappings (these refer to procedure codes)
• Reimbursement mappings and guides for the use of the Mappings
• 2009 version of ICD-10-Procedure Coding System (PCS)
• ICD-10 version of the digestive Medicare Severity Diagnosis Related Groups (MS-DRG)
The 2009 ICD-10-CM (Diagnosis codes) General Equivalence Mappings have been posted at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/ICD10/03_ICD_10_CM.asp .
The 2009 version of ICD-10-Clinical Modifications (CM), Diagnoses, will be posted by the end of December 2008 on the following sites:
http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/icd9.htm
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/ICD10/03_ICD_10_CM.asp
If you are unable to access any of the hyperlinks in this message, please copy and paste the URL into your Internet browser.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is pleased to announce the release of the detailed specifications for the 2009 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) measures and the 2009 PQRI measures groups. The following resources have been posted to the PQRI webpage on the CMS website:
2009 PQRI Quality Measure Specifications Manual and Release Notes- Contains the detailed specifications (including codes and reporting instructions) for the 153 2009 PQRI quality measures for claims or registry-based reporting and a summary of the changes from the 2008 PQRI Measure Specifications (in the form of release notes delineated by measure number).
2009 PQRI Implementation Guide - Provides guidance about how to implement 2009 PQRI claims-based reporting of measures to facilitate satisfactory reporting of quality data codes by eligible professionals for the 2009 PQRI.
2009 PQRI Measures Group Specifications Manual and Release Notes- Contains the detailed specifications and instructions for the seven (7) 2009 PQRI measures groups and a summary of the changes from the 2008 PQRI Measures Groups Specifications (in the form of release notes).
Getting Started with 2009 PQRI Reporting of Measures Groups - Provides guidance about implementing the 2009 PQRI measures groups.
To access the 2009 PQRI Quality Measure Specifications Manual and Release Notes, the 2009 PQRI Implementation Guide, the 2009 PQRI Measures Group Specifications Manual and Release Notes, or the Getting Started with 2009 PQRI Reporting of Measures Groups, visit http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PQRI/15_MeasuresCodes.asp#TopOfPage on the CMS website. Once on the Measure/Codes page, scroll down to the “Downloads” section and click on the appropriate link.
Please note that the 2009 PQRI quality measure specifications for any given quality measure may be different from specifications for the same quality measure used in 2008. Therefore, specifications for all 2009 PQRI quality measures, whether or not included in the 2008 PQRI program, must be obtained from the 2009 PQRI Quality Measure Specifications Manual.
In addition, measures group specifications are different from the specifications for individually reported measures that form the group. Therefore, the specifications and reporting instructions for the 2009 PQRI measures groups must be obtained from the 2009 PQRI Measures Group Specifications Manual.
Reporting for the 2009 PQRI begins January 1, 2009. Please note there is no need to sign up or pre-register in order to participate.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is pleased to announce a new section page on the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative web page. The “Spotlight” section page can be accessed on PQRI web page at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/pqri/ on the CMS website and click on the Spotlight tab. The “Spotlight” page is updated frequently and was created to alert eligible professionals to the newest program information available on the PQRI web page.
Detailed information on the 2009 PQRI may be found in the 2009 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule final rule with comment period (73 FR 69817 through 69847) that was published in the Federal Register on November 19, 2008. The final rule with comment period can be found in the “Related Links Outside of CMS” section of the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative website at: http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2008/pdf/E8-26213.pdf on the CMS website.
****DHCS/MediCal NEWS****
Effective for dates of service on or after February 1, 2009, providers may no longer bill Medi-Cal using a recipient’s Social Security Number (SSN). Claims submitted with a recipient’s SSN will be denied. All exemptions to this policy are discontinued except for Medicare crossover claims. Providers may continue to bill Medicare crossover claims using the recipient’s SSN.
Claims submitted with a valid nine-digit Client Index Number will continue to be accepted. However, all providers are expected to use the Medi-Cal identification number from the recipient’s Benefits Identification Card (BIC) or paper ID card when verifying eligibility, billing Medi-Cal or submitting Treatment Authorization Requests (TARs).
Medi-Cal recognizes the importance of protecting the identity and health information of recipients and strongly encourages all providers to avoid using a recipient’s SSN whenever possible.
This notice has been published on the Medi-Cal Web site, http://www.medi-cal.ca.gov/, as a link from the home page Newsroom section.
****PALMETTO/J1MAC NEWS****
12/18/08 Part B LCD Update
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/DocsCat/Providers~Jurisdiction%201%20Part%20B~121808%20Part%20B%20LCD%20Update?opendocument
This is the 12/18/08 Part B LCD Update. It contains Ambulance Services
(J1B-08-0007-L), Cardiovascular Nuclear Medicine: Myocardial Perfusion
Imaging & Cardiac Blood Pool Studies (J1B-08-0018-L), Category III CPT
Codes (J1B-08-0020-L), Diabetes Mellitus Therapy Using Hepatic Activation
or PIVIT Therapy (J1B-08-0024-L), Genetic Testing (J1B-08-0036-L),
Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone Analogs (J1B-08-0046-L), Intravenous Immune
Globulin IVIg, J1B-08-0047-L), Psychotherapy Services (J1B-08-0066-L),
Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (J1B-08-0079-L) and Nervous System
Studies- Autonomic Function, Nerve Conduction and Electromyography
(J1B-08-0054-L).
January 2009 J1 A/B MAC Medicare Advisory
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/DocsCat/Providers~Jurisdiction%201%20Part%20A~Publications~Medicare%20Advisory~January%202009%20J1%20AB%20MAC%20Medicare%20Advisory?opendocument
The January 2009 J1 A/B MAC Medicare Advisory is now available to be viewed
on the Palmetto GBA Web site.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
CMS News
The following information has been received by ANCO.
****CMS NEWS****
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available the Medicare Part B Drug and Biological Average Sales Price (ASP) Payment Amounts for January 1, 2009 to March 31, 2009 on the CMS website at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/McrPartBDrugAvgSalesPrice/01a1_2009aspfiles.asp#TopOfPage. The files are located in the "Downloads" section of this web page.
****CMS NEWS****
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available the Medicare Part B Drug and Biological Average Sales Price (ASP) Payment Amounts for January 1, 2009 to March 31, 2009 on the CMS website at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/McrPartBDrugAvgSalesPrice/01a1_2009aspfiles.asp#TopOfPage. The files are located in the "Downloads" section of this web page.
ACCC News
The following information has been received by ANCO.
****ACCC NEWS****
The Association of Community Cancer Center's (ACCC) This Week At ACCC was published today and is available online at http://www.accc-cancer.org/mediaroom/newsletters/media_ACCCNEWSLETTER_12-15-2008.html. It features:
ACCC's Hospital Summit Highlights Trends in Cancer Care
CMS Offers PQRI Conference Call Tomorrow
Save the Date: March 18-21, 2009, ACCC's 35th Annual National Meeting
Oncology Review Journal Available Online to ACCC Members
Q&A on ACCC's Listserv: E & M Services on the Same Day As Chemotherapy
ACCC's CE Blackboard: Update on Multiple Myeloma
Take Our Survey: Oncology Issues and ACCC's Website
State Medical Oncology Societies Host Membership Meetings
****ACCC NEWS****
The Association of Community Cancer Center's (ACCC) This Week At ACCC was published today and is available online at http://www.accc-cancer.org/mediaroom/newsletters/media_ACCCNEWSLETTER_12-15-2008.html. It features:
ACCC's Hospital Summit Highlights Trends in Cancer Care
CMS Offers PQRI Conference Call Tomorrow
Save the Date: March 18-21, 2009, ACCC's 35th Annual National Meeting
Oncology Review Journal Available Online to ACCC Members
Q&A on ACCC's Listserv: E & M Services on the Same Day As Chemotherapy
ACCC's CE Blackboard: Update on Multiple Myeloma
Take Our Survey: Oncology Issues and ACCC's Website
State Medical Oncology Societies Host Membership Meetings
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Oncology ERx Demo
The following e-Prescribing demonstration is being made available for ANCO members by OnPoint.
Roberta Buell invites you to participate as an attendee in the following online training session:
Topic: Oncology ERx Demo
Host: Roberta Buell
Date: Monday, December 22, 2008
Time: 11:00AM Pacific Standard Time
Session number: 576 823 503
Session password: queenb
-------------------------------------------------------
To join the training session
-------------------------------------------------------
1. Go to https://shp.webex.com/shp/k2/j.php?ED=116139172&UID=1042670477
2. Enter your name and email address.
3. Enter the session password: queenb
4. Click "Join Now".
5. Follow the instructions that appear on your screen.
Note: You can view more information about the session at https://shp.webex.com/shp/k2/j.php?ED=116139172&UID=1042670477.
-------------------------------------------------------
To join the teleconference only
-------------------------------------------------------
Call-in toll-free number (US/Canada):
866-469-3239
Global call-in numbers: https://shp.webex.com/shp/globalcallin.php?serviceType=TC&ED=116139172&tollFree=1
Show toll-free dialing restrictions: http://www.webex.com/pdf/tollfree_restrictions.pdf
-------------------------------------------------------
For assistance
-------------------------------------------------------
You can contact Roberta Buell at:
bbuell@covad.net
1-800-795-2633
To add this meeting to your calendar program (for example Microsoft Outlook), click this link:
https://shp.webex.com/shp/k2/j.php?AT=down&ED=116139172&EF=MA&UUID=1042670477&SHA2=rkuXDWcz9nPwRwYzmMJVFWoGl/G70EceT2MHqRgMfkg=
EVERY provider in Oncology can benefit from e-prescribing and ALL can participate - it is an easy additional revenue stream for every practice large and small. According to the CMS call a few weeks ago – a “qualified” product (see below) must be CCHIT 2008 certified – at present there is still no Oncology specific EMR’s (if they have one) that has achieved this certification yet. OnPoint has researched all solutions thoroughly and we are endorsing and helping to build www.oncologyerx.com. There is a demo on the site. This product is no more than the Allscripts e-prescribing module carved out as a stand alone, web-based (ASP) application. It is tried and true (been used in practices for over 10 years) and has been rated the best e-prescribing module for ANY EMR (including Next-Gen and all the rest that are not really in the Oncology space). It is an excellent product and was hand-picked by a diverse panel of experts. The overall initiative is being sponsored by some major
companies including Cisco, Microsoft, etc. who all believe as we do – that e-prescribing is good medicine – check this page out - http://www.nationalerx.com/sponsors.htm to see the list if interested.
Behind the scenes:
Smart ID out of Grand Rapids, Mi (also a large Oncology practice) is a sponsor of this initiative. You may already recognize them – they have been in business for about 6 years and they are the current vehicle by which oral drug dispensing systems are installed into Oncology practices – they do all the credentialing, software installation, etc. so the progression to this was natural – they acquired the rights to this free product in Oncology and are hosting this as vehicle for our practices. OnPoint Oncology and Smart ID will build additional oncology specific functionality on top of an already excellent platform.
The problem:
Oncology is very late, when compared to other specialties, to adopt e-prescribing technology because the oncology space is very difficult for technology companies to tackle. Oncology EMR companies have not had the functionality to support e-prescribing and no physician has had much incentive to e-prescribe until now. Even still, only about 15% all oncology practices have EMR’s and at present everyone’s only true alternative will be to purchase one (average price is $10,000) or use this free one. The offices are scrambling – onPoint has done much research to determine that this is one of the few times EVER that free is really free - Thanks Bill Gates - Technical stuff below…
THE TECHNICAL STUFF:
Medicare has updated their document explaining the E-prescribing incentive program. It is titled “Medicare’s Practical Guide to the E-prescribing Incentive Program.” It can be found here:
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/partnerships/downloads/11399.pdf
Oncologyerx.com meets all the requirements of a qualified system found on page 7 of the guide.
The requirements of a qualified E-prescribing system are:
1. Generate a complete medication list that incorporates data from pharmacies and benefit managers (if available)
2. Select medications, transmit prescriptions electronically* using the applicable standards, and warn the prescriber of possible undesirable or unsafe situations
3. Provide information on lower-cost, therapeutically-appropriate alternatives (for 2009, tiered formulary information, if available, meets this requirement)
4. Provide information on formulary or tiered formulary medications, patient eligibility, and authorization requirements received electronically from the patient’s drug plan
Another requirement of a qualified system is to be able to send the prescription electronically. Oncologyerx.com supports this functionality as well.
Sign up at http://www.oncologyerx.com today to earn an additional 2% from Medicare!
Roberta Buell invites you to participate as an attendee in the following online training session:
Topic: Oncology ERx Demo
Host: Roberta Buell
Date: Monday, December 22, 2008
Time: 11:00AM Pacific Standard Time
Session number: 576 823 503
Session password: queenb
-------------------------------------------------------
To join the training session
-------------------------------------------------------
1. Go to https://shp.webex.com/shp/k2/j.php?ED=116139172&UID=1042670477
2. Enter your name and email address.
3. Enter the session password: queenb
4. Click "Join Now".
5. Follow the instructions that appear on your screen.
Note: You can view more information about the session at https://shp.webex.com/shp/k2/j.php?ED=116139172&UID=1042670477.
-------------------------------------------------------
To join the teleconference only
-------------------------------------------------------
Call-in toll-free number (US/Canada):
866-469-3239
Global call-in numbers: https://shp.webex.com/shp/globalcallin.php?serviceType=TC&ED=116139172&tollFree=1
Show toll-free dialing restrictions: http://www.webex.com/pdf/tollfree_restrictions.pdf
-------------------------------------------------------
For assistance
-------------------------------------------------------
You can contact Roberta Buell at:
bbuell@covad.net
1-800-795-2633
To add this meeting to your calendar program (for example Microsoft Outlook), click this link:
https://shp.webex.com/shp/k2/j.php?AT=down&ED=116139172&EF=MA&UUID=1042670477&SHA2=rkuXDWcz9nPwRwYzmMJVFWoGl/G70EceT2MHqRgMfkg=
EVERY provider in Oncology can benefit from e-prescribing and ALL can participate - it is an easy additional revenue stream for every practice large and small. According to the CMS call a few weeks ago – a “qualified” product (see below) must be CCHIT 2008 certified – at present there is still no Oncology specific EMR’s (if they have one) that has achieved this certification yet. OnPoint has researched all solutions thoroughly and we are endorsing and helping to build www.oncologyerx.com. There is a demo on the site. This product is no more than the Allscripts e-prescribing module carved out as a stand alone, web-based (ASP) application. It is tried and true (been used in practices for over 10 years) and has been rated the best e-prescribing module for ANY EMR (including Next-Gen and all the rest that are not really in the Oncology space). It is an excellent product and was hand-picked by a diverse panel of experts. The overall initiative is being sponsored by some major
companies including Cisco, Microsoft, etc. who all believe as we do – that e-prescribing is good medicine – check this page out - http://www.nationalerx.com/sponsors.htm to see the list if interested.
Behind the scenes:
Smart ID out of Grand Rapids, Mi (also a large Oncology practice) is a sponsor of this initiative. You may already recognize them – they have been in business for about 6 years and they are the current vehicle by which oral drug dispensing systems are installed into Oncology practices – they do all the credentialing, software installation, etc. so the progression to this was natural – they acquired the rights to this free product in Oncology and are hosting this as vehicle for our practices. OnPoint Oncology and Smart ID will build additional oncology specific functionality on top of an already excellent platform.
The problem:
Oncology is very late, when compared to other specialties, to adopt e-prescribing technology because the oncology space is very difficult for technology companies to tackle. Oncology EMR companies have not had the functionality to support e-prescribing and no physician has had much incentive to e-prescribe until now. Even still, only about 15% all oncology practices have EMR’s and at present everyone’s only true alternative will be to purchase one (average price is $10,000) or use this free one. The offices are scrambling – onPoint has done much research to determine that this is one of the few times EVER that free is really free - Thanks Bill Gates - Technical stuff below…
THE TECHNICAL STUFF:
Medicare has updated their document explaining the E-prescribing incentive program. It is titled “Medicare’s Practical Guide to the E-prescribing Incentive Program.” It can be found here:
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/partnerships/downloads/11399.pdf
Oncologyerx.com meets all the requirements of a qualified system found on page 7 of the guide.
The requirements of a qualified E-prescribing system are:
1. Generate a complete medication list that incorporates data from pharmacies and benefit managers (if available)
2. Select medications, transmit prescriptions electronically* using the applicable standards, and warn the prescriber of possible undesirable or unsafe situations
3. Provide information on lower-cost, therapeutically-appropriate alternatives (for 2009, tiered formulary information, if available, meets this requirement)
4. Provide information on formulary or tiered formulary medications, patient eligibility, and authorization requirements received electronically from the patient’s drug plan
Another requirement of a qualified system is to be able to send the prescription electronically. Oncologyerx.com supports this functionality as well.
Sign up at http://www.oncologyerx.com today to earn an additional 2% from Medicare!
CMS News
The following information has been received by ANCO.
****CMS NEWS****
Registration will close at 3:30 p.m. EST, December 15, 2008, or when available space has been filled. No exceptions will be made, so please be sure to register prior to this time.
2008 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative
National Provider Question & Answer Session
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CMS) Provider Communications Group will host the ninth in a series of national provider conference calls that began in November of 2007 on the 2008 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI). This toll-free call will take place from 3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m., EST, on Tuesday, December 16, 2008.
Following a short presentation on the final PQRI 2007 reporting experience and a discussion of results from 2007, the lines will be opened to allow participants to ask questions of CMS PQRI subject matter experts.
Educational products are available on the PQRI dedicated web page located at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PQRI on the CMS website, in the Educational Resources section.
Feel free to download the resources prior to the call so that you may ask questions of the presenters, Dr. Michael Rapp and Dr. Daniel Green.
Conference call details:
Date: December 16, 2008
Conference Title: 2008 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative National Provider Call
Time: 3:30-5:00 p.m. EST
In order to receive the call-in information, you must register for the call. It is important to note that if you are planning to sit in with a group, only one person needs to register to receive the call-in data. This registration is solely to reserve a phone line, NOT to allow participation. If you cannot attend the call, replay information is available below.
Registration will close at 3:30 p.m. EST on December 15, 2008, or when available space has been filled. No exceptions will be made, so please be sure to register prior to this time.
To register for the call participants need to go to http://www2.eventsvc.com/palmettogba/121608
Fill in all required data.
Verify your time zone is displayed correctly the drop down box.
Click "Register".
You will be taken to the “Thank you for registering” page and will receive a confirmation email shortly thereafter. Note: Please print and save this page, in the event that your server blocks the confirmation emails. If you do not receive the confirmation email, please check your spam/junk mail filter as it may have been directed there.
For those of you who will be unable to attend, a replay option will be available shortly following the end of the call. This replay will be accessible from 4:00 p.m. EST 12/16/2008 until 11:59 p.m. EST 12/23/2008. The call in data for the replay is (800) 642-1687 and the passcode is 76618434.
If you require services for the hearing impaired please send an email to Medicare.TTT@PalmettoGBA.com.
****CMS NEWS****
Registration will close at 3:30 p.m. EST, December 15, 2008, or when available space has been filled. No exceptions will be made, so please be sure to register prior to this time.
2008 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative
National Provider Question & Answer Session
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CMS) Provider Communications Group will host the ninth in a series of national provider conference calls that began in November of 2007 on the 2008 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI). This toll-free call will take place from 3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m., EST, on Tuesday, December 16, 2008.
Following a short presentation on the final PQRI 2007 reporting experience and a discussion of results from 2007, the lines will be opened to allow participants to ask questions of CMS PQRI subject matter experts.
Educational products are available on the PQRI dedicated web page located at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PQRI on the CMS website, in the Educational Resources section.
Feel free to download the resources prior to the call so that you may ask questions of the presenters, Dr. Michael Rapp and Dr. Daniel Green.
Conference call details:
Date: December 16, 2008
Conference Title: 2008 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative National Provider Call
Time: 3:30-5:00 p.m. EST
In order to receive the call-in information, you must register for the call. It is important to note that if you are planning to sit in with a group, only one person needs to register to receive the call-in data. This registration is solely to reserve a phone line, NOT to allow participation. If you cannot attend the call, replay information is available below.
Registration will close at 3:30 p.m. EST on December 15, 2008, or when available space has been filled. No exceptions will be made, so please be sure to register prior to this time.
To register for the call participants need to go to http://www2.eventsvc.com/palmettogba/121608
Fill in all required data.
Verify your time zone is displayed correctly the drop down box.
Click "Register".
You will be taken to the “Thank you for registering” page and will receive a confirmation email shortly thereafter. Note: Please print and save this page, in the event that your server blocks the confirmation emails. If you do not receive the confirmation email, please check your spam/junk mail filter as it may have been directed there.
For those of you who will be unable to attend, a replay option will be available shortly following the end of the call. This replay will be accessible from 4:00 p.m. EST 12/16/2008 until 11:59 p.m. EST 12/23/2008. The call in data for the replay is (800) 642-1687 and the passcode is 76618434.
If you require services for the hearing impaired please send an email to Medicare.TTT@PalmettoGBA.com.
Friday, December 12, 2008
Estimate the Impact of 2009 Medicare Fees
The following information has been received by ANCO.
As you know, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has released the 2009 Physician Fee Schedule (PFS). This new fee schedule implements the 1.1% increase in physician services reimbursement that Congress mandated in the Improvement for Patients and Providers Act of 2008 Medicare bill, also known as MIPPA. On the surface, this was a short-term positive because it averted a 10.6% cut in services reimbursement, and replaced it with a slated increase of 1.1%. However, the devil is in the details at CMS. That is why we are providing a tool that will help you estimate the impact of the Medicare changes for 2009.
Go to the Community Oncology Alliance (COA) website at http://www.communityoncology.org and log into the Administrators’ Network temporary area. You can download the tool, which was developed and tested by actual community oncology practices as part of the COA Administrators’ Network in development. The tool will show you the impact on E&M and drug administration revenue, as well as the impact of bonus payments if you participate in the PQRI and/or e-prescribing programs.
In order to actually increase services payments by 1.1%, the Medicare PFS conversion factor decreases from $38.09 in 2008 to $36.07 in 2009, while the physician work value units increase by approximately 12%. The net is that E&M revenues will increase; however, oncology-specific drug administration codes will go down.
The PQRI bonus has been increased to 2% of services in 2009 and the new e-prescribing bonus is an additional 2% beginning in 2009.
The fact that drug administration fees will decrease in 2009 is simply ludicrous. This is the problem with blindly supporting increases to the Medicare PFS that can adversely impact community oncology.
As a result, COA has launched the most comprehensive study ever undertaken to identify and quantify the clinical and operational components of delivering cancer care. A committee drawn from the ranks of medical oncologists, mid-level providers, nurses, pharmacists, and administrators is advising one of the top healthcare policy and research firms in the country, which has been commissioned by COA. Community oncology practices from across the country will be asked to participate in this landmark study for community oncology. The data gathered will be instrumental in supporting a massive outreach program to the new Administration and Congress being developed by COA. More information on this study will be provided shortly.
As you know, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has released the 2009 Physician Fee Schedule (PFS). This new fee schedule implements the 1.1% increase in physician services reimbursement that Congress mandated in the Improvement for Patients and Providers Act of 2008 Medicare bill, also known as MIPPA. On the surface, this was a short-term positive because it averted a 10.6% cut in services reimbursement, and replaced it with a slated increase of 1.1%. However, the devil is in the details at CMS. That is why we are providing a tool that will help you estimate the impact of the Medicare changes for 2009.
Go to the Community Oncology Alliance (COA) website at http://www.communityoncology.org and log into the Administrators’ Network temporary area. You can download the tool, which was developed and tested by actual community oncology practices as part of the COA Administrators’ Network in development. The tool will show you the impact on E&M and drug administration revenue, as well as the impact of bonus payments if you participate in the PQRI and/or e-prescribing programs.
In order to actually increase services payments by 1.1%, the Medicare PFS conversion factor decreases from $38.09 in 2008 to $36.07 in 2009, while the physician work value units increase by approximately 12%. The net is that E&M revenues will increase; however, oncology-specific drug administration codes will go down.
The PQRI bonus has been increased to 2% of services in 2009 and the new e-prescribing bonus is an additional 2% beginning in 2009.
The fact that drug administration fees will decrease in 2009 is simply ludicrous. This is the problem with blindly supporting increases to the Medicare PFS that can adversely impact community oncology.
As a result, COA has launched the most comprehensive study ever undertaken to identify and quantify the clinical and operational components of delivering cancer care. A committee drawn from the ranks of medical oncologists, mid-level providers, nurses, pharmacists, and administrators is advising one of the top healthcare policy and research firms in the country, which has been commissioned by COA. Community oncology practices from across the country will be asked to participate in this landmark study for community oncology. The data gathered will be instrumental in supporting a massive outreach program to the new Administration and Congress being developed by COA. More information on this study will be provided shortly.
ANCO's San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium Highlights 2008
The Association of Northern California Oncologists (ANCO) & Indiana University present
San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium Highlights 2008
Wednesday, January 14th, 2009; 5:30PM-9:15PM
Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason Street, San Francisco
(415) 394-1111
The Association of Northern California Oncologists was organized in 1990 to be an advocate for, educate, and inform the practicing oncologist and hematologist and represents 363 oncologists and hematologists throughout Northern California and other states.
San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium Highlights 2008 will summarize the major research and treatment advancements presented at December 2008’s San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium. The faculty will focus on surgical, radiation, and medical oncology treatment modalities and place these developments in context as to their immediate clinical utility.
At the conclusion of this educational activity, participants should be able to:
• Review, summarize, and interpret important clinical results presented at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium for surgical, radiation, and medical oncologists; oncology nurses; and, other health care professionals.
• Comprehend and implement changes in surgical, radiological, and medical treatment for breast cancer.
San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium Highlights 2008 has been designed to meet the educational needs of oncologists, oncology nurses, oncology pharmacists, and other health care professionals involved in the care of people with breast cancer.
Accreditation Statement and Designation of Credit. This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the Essential Areas and Policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) through the joint sponsorship of the Indiana University School of Medicine and the Association of Northern California Oncologists (ANCO). The Indiana University School of Medicine is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
The Indiana University School of Medicine designates this educational activity for a maximum of 2.25 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
The California Board of Registered Nurses accepts courses approved for AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™ as meeting the continuing education requirements for renewal.
Disclosure Statement. In accordance with the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) Standards for Commercial Support, educational programs sponsored by the Indiana University School of Medicine (IUSM) must demonstrate balance, independence, objectivity, and scientific rigor. All faculty, authors, editors, and Planning Committee members participating in an IUSM-sponsored activity are required to disclose any relevant financial interest or other relationship with the manufacturer(s) of any commercial product(s) and/or provider(s) of commercial services that are discussed in an educational activity.
Program Planning Committee. The Physician Course Director for San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium Highlights 2008 is Helen K. Chew, M.D., Univ. of California, Davis. Dr. Chew was assisted by the ANCO Board of Directors (Richard A. Bohannon, M.D., Norman Cohen, M.D., Jeffrey Cronk, M.D., Bradley Ekstrand, M.D., Ellie Guardino, M.D., Ph.D., John A. Keech, Jr., D.O., L. Wayne Keiser, M.D., Primo Lara, Jr., M.D., Daniel P. Mirda, M.D., Bimal J. Patel, M.D., Robert L. Robles, M.D., and Antoine Sayegh, M.D.,) and Group and Institutional Member contacts (George Fisher, M.D., David Gandara, M.D., Joseph Mason, M.D., Hope Rugo, M.D., and Margaret Tempero, M.D.) in the selection of the faculty for San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium Highlights 2008.
Content Consultant. The Indiana University School of Medicine content consultant is Bryan Schneider, M.D.
Agenda & Faculty
5:30PM Registration, Exhibits, & Dinner (available through 7:00PM)
6:00PM Welcome, Introductions, & Talks (Richard A. Bohannon, M.D., ANCO President, & Helen K. Chew, M.D., Program Moderator, Univ. of California, Davis)
• Surgical Oncology (Michael Alvarado, M.D., Univ. of California, San Francisco)
• Radiation Oncology (Allen Chen, M.D., Univ. of California, Davis)
• Medical Oncology (Ellie Guardino, M.D., Ph.D., Stanford Univ.)
9:15PM Adjourn
Acknowledgment of Commercial Support. Support for this educational activity is anticipated in part from Abraxis Oncology, Agendia, AstraZeneca, Celgene, Cephalon Oncology, Eisai, Genentech BioOncology, GlaxoSmithKline Oncology, Ortho Biotech, Pfizer Oncology, Roche Oncology, Sanofi Aventis Oncology, and possibly others (as of the date of this mailing). The final list of supporters will be available at the meeting.
Download the meeting announcement/registration form at www.anco-online.org/sabcs.html.
San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium Highlights 2008
Wednesday, January 14th, 2009; 5:30PM-9:15PM
Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason Street, San Francisco
(415) 394-1111
The Association of Northern California Oncologists was organized in 1990 to be an advocate for, educate, and inform the practicing oncologist and hematologist and represents 363 oncologists and hematologists throughout Northern California and other states.
San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium Highlights 2008 will summarize the major research and treatment advancements presented at December 2008’s San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium. The faculty will focus on surgical, radiation, and medical oncology treatment modalities and place these developments in context as to their immediate clinical utility.
At the conclusion of this educational activity, participants should be able to:
• Review, summarize, and interpret important clinical results presented at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium for surgical, radiation, and medical oncologists; oncology nurses; and, other health care professionals.
• Comprehend and implement changes in surgical, radiological, and medical treatment for breast cancer.
San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium Highlights 2008 has been designed to meet the educational needs of oncologists, oncology nurses, oncology pharmacists, and other health care professionals involved in the care of people with breast cancer.
Accreditation Statement and Designation of Credit. This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the Essential Areas and Policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) through the joint sponsorship of the Indiana University School of Medicine and the Association of Northern California Oncologists (ANCO). The Indiana University School of Medicine is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
The Indiana University School of Medicine designates this educational activity for a maximum of 2.25 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
The California Board of Registered Nurses accepts courses approved for AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™ as meeting the continuing education requirements for renewal.
Disclosure Statement. In accordance with the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) Standards for Commercial Support, educational programs sponsored by the Indiana University School of Medicine (IUSM) must demonstrate balance, independence, objectivity, and scientific rigor. All faculty, authors, editors, and Planning Committee members participating in an IUSM-sponsored activity are required to disclose any relevant financial interest or other relationship with the manufacturer(s) of any commercial product(s) and/or provider(s) of commercial services that are discussed in an educational activity.
Program Planning Committee. The Physician Course Director for San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium Highlights 2008 is Helen K. Chew, M.D., Univ. of California, Davis. Dr. Chew was assisted by the ANCO Board of Directors (Richard A. Bohannon, M.D., Norman Cohen, M.D., Jeffrey Cronk, M.D., Bradley Ekstrand, M.D., Ellie Guardino, M.D., Ph.D., John A. Keech, Jr., D.O., L. Wayne Keiser, M.D., Primo Lara, Jr., M.D., Daniel P. Mirda, M.D., Bimal J. Patel, M.D., Robert L. Robles, M.D., and Antoine Sayegh, M.D.,) and Group and Institutional Member contacts (George Fisher, M.D., David Gandara, M.D., Joseph Mason, M.D., Hope Rugo, M.D., and Margaret Tempero, M.D.) in the selection of the faculty for San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium Highlights 2008.
Content Consultant. The Indiana University School of Medicine content consultant is Bryan Schneider, M.D.
Agenda & Faculty
5:30PM Registration, Exhibits, & Dinner (available through 7:00PM)
6:00PM Welcome, Introductions, & Talks (Richard A. Bohannon, M.D., ANCO President, & Helen K. Chew, M.D., Program Moderator, Univ. of California, Davis)
• Surgical Oncology (Michael Alvarado, M.D., Univ. of California, San Francisco)
• Radiation Oncology (Allen Chen, M.D., Univ. of California, Davis)
• Medical Oncology (Ellie Guardino, M.D., Ph.D., Stanford Univ.)
9:15PM Adjourn
Acknowledgment of Commercial Support. Support for this educational activity is anticipated in part from Abraxis Oncology, Agendia, AstraZeneca, Celgene, Cephalon Oncology, Eisai, Genentech BioOncology, GlaxoSmithKline Oncology, Ortho Biotech, Pfizer Oncology, Roche Oncology, Sanofi Aventis Oncology, and possibly others (as of the date of this mailing). The final list of supporters will be available at the meeting.
Download the meeting announcement/registration form at www.anco-online.org/sabcs.html.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
ASCO News
The following information has been received by ANCO.
****ASCO NEWS****
The American Society of Clinical Oncology's (ASCO) Cancer Policy Today was published today and is available online at http://view.exacttarget.com/?j=fe5a157870660075751d&m=ff311d707460&ls=fdec12777c65017975127971&l=fe601575776601757d14&s=fe1f15797d620479731d75&jb=ffcf14&ju=fe3416717360057e771c70. ANCO is a state/regional affiliate of ASCO. This edition features:
Update on ASCO's Electronic Prescribing Web site
ASCO Launches Health Information Technology Social Networking Site
FDA Issues Q&A on Medication Guides for ESAs
Diversity in Oncology Initiative Accepting Applications Starting December 15
ASCO/AMA Survey Update
****ASCO NEWS****
The American Society of Clinical Oncology's (ASCO) Cancer Policy Today was published today and is available online at http://view.exacttarget.com/?j=fe5a157870660075751d&m=ff311d707460&ls=fdec12777c65017975127971&l=fe601575776601757d14&s=fe1f15797d620479731d75&jb=ffcf14&ju=fe3416717360057e771c70. ANCO is a state/regional affiliate of ASCO. This edition features:
Update on ASCO's Electronic Prescribing Web site
ASCO Launches Health Information Technology Social Networking Site
FDA Issues Q&A on Medication Guides for ESAs
Diversity in Oncology Initiative Accepting Applications Starting December 15
ASCO/AMA Survey Update
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
ACCC, ASCO, CMA, CMS, & Palmetto/J1MAC News
The following information has been received by ANCO.
****ASCO NEWS****
The American Society of Clinical Oncology's (ASCO) e-News was published today and is available online at http://view.exacttarget.com/?j=fe6b15787064007c7515&m=ff2d16787160&ls=fdf712797765047476177577&l=fe6315757666067a7d14&s=fdf2157972640d79751d7073&jb=ffcf14&ju=fe26167173650d74701272. ANCO is a state/regional affiliate of ASCO. This edition features:
Deadline to Receive a Discounted Registration Rate for the 2009 GI Cancers Symposium: Dec. 12
Cancer Policy Alert: Congress Likely to Take Up Additional NIH Funding After Recess; Prepare for Coding Changes in the New Year
Read the Newest JCO Original Report on a New Chemical Entity that Arrests Cancer Cells
Check Out the Newest JOP feature, "Continued Regulatory Actions Affecting the Use of Erythropoiesis-Stimulating Agents (ESAs)"
Letters of Intent Submission-Deadline Extended to Dec. 11 for the 2009 ACRAs
Application Deadline Approaching for the 2009 IDEA Grant
Application Deadline Approaching for the 2009 ASCO Loan Repayment Program, Funded by Susan G. Komen for the Cure®
Application Deadline Approaching for the 2009 Translational Research Professorship
Early Registration Deadline Approaching for the 2009 GU Cancers Symposium
Review the ASCO State/Regional Affiliates Calendar of Events
Cancer.Net Features: Traveling With Cancer
Cancer.Net Features: Evidence-based Medicine in Cancer Care
Cancer.Net Podcasts: Cancer and the Holidays
****CMA NEWS****
The Association of Community Cancer Center's (ACCC) This Week At ACCC was published today and is available online at http://www.accc-cancer.org/mediaroom/newsletters/media_ACCCNEWSLETTER_12-08-2008.html. ANCO is an Institutional Member of ACCC. This edition features:
A Few Seats Still Available for ACCC's Hospital Summit: at Only $169, Don't Miss It!
Hospitals See Continuing Profit Decline on Medicare Patients, Says MedPAC Staff
Study Finds Changes in Medicare Reimbursement for ESAs Associated with Increased Need for Blood Transfusion
Men with Wives, Significant Others More likely to be Screened for Prostate Cancer
Q&A on ACCC's Listserv: Position Description for a Radiation Oncology Nurse
Save the Date: March 18-21, 2009, ACCC's 35th Annual National Meeting
ACCC's CE Blackboard: Breast Cancer Concepts
Take Our Survey: Oncology Issues and ACCC's Website
State Medical Oncology Societies Host Membership Meetings
****CMA NEWS****
The California Medical Association's (CMA) Alert was published today and is available online at http://www.calphys.org/html/news.asp. It features:
CMA Sponsors Bill to Stop Unfair Health Insurance Cancellation
It's Time to Make Medicare Participation Decisions for 2009
CMA Supports Regulations to Reduce Diesel Emissions
Superior Court Upholds DMHC "Balance Billing" Regulation
CMA RICO Victory: HealthNet Sends Contract Addendums to Physicians
Deadline to Request CPPI Quality Data Is 12/16
State Will Take Up Family PACT Issue with New Administrator
Benefit of the Week: Group Dental Insurance
****CMS NEWS****
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CMS) Provider Communications Group will host the ninth in a series of national provider conference calls that began in November of 2007 on the 2008 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI). This toll-free call will take place from 3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m., EST, on Tuesday, December 16, 2008.
Following a short presentation on the final PQRI 2007 reporting experience and a discussion of results from 2007, the lines will be opened to allow participants to ask questions of CMS PQRI subject matter experts.
Educational products are available on the PQRI dedicated web page located at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PQRI on the CMS website, in the Educational Resources section.
Feel free to download the resources prior to the call so that you may ask questions of the presenters, Dr. Michael Rapp and Dr. Daniel Green.
Conference call details:
Date: December 16, 2008
Conference Title: 2008 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative National Provider Call
Time: 3:30-5:00 p.m. EST
In order to receive the call-in information, you must register for the call. It is important to note that if you are planning to sit in with a group, only one person needs to register to receive the call-in data. This registration is solely to reserve a phone line, NOT to allow participation. If you cannot attend the call, replay information is available below.
Registration will close at 3:30 p.m. EST on December 15, 2008, or when available space has been filled. No exceptions will be made, so please be sure to register prior to this time.
To register for the call participants need to go to http://www2.eventsvc.com/palmettogba/121608
Fill in all required data.
Verify your time zone is displayed correctly the drop down box.
Click "Register".
You will be taken to the “Thank you for registering” page and will receive a confirmation email shortly thereafter. Note: Please print and save this page, in the event that your server blocks the confirmation emails. If you do not receive the confirmation email, please check your spam/junk mail filter as it may have been directed there.
For those of you who will be unable to attend, a replay option will be available shortly following the end of the call. This replay will be accessible from 4:00 p.m. EST 12/16/2008 until 11:59 p.m. EST 12/23/2008. The call in data for the replay is (800) 642-1687 and the passcode is 76618434.
If you require services for the hearing impaired please send an email to Medicare.TTT@PalmettoGBA.com.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is pleased to announce that two (2) new educational resources on the 2009 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) have been posted to the PQRI webpage on the CMS website.
2009 PQRI Quality Measure List- This reference list outlines the 153 quality measures which were published in the in the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) 2009 final rule on November 19, 2008. To access the 2009 PQRI Quality Measure list, visit http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PQRI/15_MeasuresCodes.asp#TopOfPage on the CMS website. Once on the Measure/Codes page, scroll down to the “Downloads” section and click on the “2009 PQRI Quality Measures List” link.
The detailed measure specifications will be available on this webpage on or before December 31, 2008.
Registry Requirements for Submission of 2009 PQRI Data on Behalf of Eligible Professionals- This document describes the high-level requirements for a registry to qualify to submit under the registry-based reporting alternatives for 2009. This document also outlines how a registry can become qualified for 2009 data submission. To access the Registry Requirements for Submission of 2009 PQRI Data on Behalf of Eligible Professionals document, visit http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PQRI/20_Reporting.asp#TopOfPage on the CMS website. Once on theReporting page, scroll down to the “Downloads” section and click on the “Registry Requirements for Submission of 2009 PQRI Data on Behalf of Eligible Professionals” link.
To qualify to submit data on behalf of eligible professionals seeking incentive payments for 2009, registries are required to go through a self-nomination and vetting process if they are new to PQRI registry reporting or to notify CMS of their desire to continue PQRI data submission in 2009 if they were qualified in 2008. Selected registries must meet certain technical and other requirements specified by CMS.
Detailed information on the 2009 PQRI, including the 2009 Registry Requirements, may be found in the final 2009 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule rule with comment period (73 FR 69817 through 69847) that was published in the Federal Register on November 19, 2008. The final rule with comment period can be found in the “Related Links Outside of CMS” section of the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative website at http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2008/pdf/E8-26213.pdf on the CMS website.
The Medicare Learning Network (MLN) is pleased to announce the availability of the Advanced Practice Nursing & Physician Assistants (APN/PA) web page. This dedicated web page is for Medicare fee-for-service (FFS) advanced practice nurses and physician assistants who provide services to Medicare beneficiaries.
From this web page, you will be able to access and peruse the Medicare FFS program topics in order to keep abreast of policy and operational updates specific to Advanced Practice Nurses and Physician Assistants.
One of the educational resources featured on this webpage is the "Advanced Practice Nurse/Physician Assistant Web-Based Training Program" – this interactive web-based training program provides definitions of the Advanced Practice Nursing/Physician Assistant provider types; outlines the qualifications of the Advanced Practice Nursing/Physician Assistant provider types; describes collaboration/supervision requirements for Advanced Practice Nursing/Physician Assistant Medicare reimbursements; lists the Medicare billing requirements for Advanced Practice Nursing and Physician Assistants; and identifies links to Medicare manuals and other resources.
This web page is updated on a regular basis, so check it often for timely and reliable information from MLN.
For more information, visit the web page at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNProducts/70_APNPA.asp#TopOfPage on the CMS website.
****PALMETTO/J1MAC NEWS****
Medicare Part B Competitive Acquisition Program (CAP): CAP Claims
Submission Deadlines and Unused CAP Drugs
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/DocsCat/Providers~Current%20News~Medicare%20Part%20B%20Competitive%20Acquisition%20Program%20(CAP):%20CAP%20Claims%20Submission%20Deadlines%20and%20Unused%20CAP%20Drugs?opendocument
In preparation for the 2009 CAP postponement, this article is a reminder
about upcoming CAP deadlines. It is very important that participating CAP
physicians understand and comply with these deadlines because failure to do
so will affect physicians' ability to be reimbursed.
Medicare Part B Drug Competitive Acquisition Program (CAP): CAP Post
Payment Review in 2009
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/DocsCat/Providers~Current%20News~Medicare%20Part%20B%20Drug%20Competitive%20Acquisition%20Program%20(CAP):%20CAP%20Post%20Payment%20Review%20in%202009?opendocument
After January 1, 2009, the CAP post payment review process will continue
for 2008 claims. The post payment review process for the CAP is conducted
to verify drug administration for Medicare claims submitted by an Approved
CAP Vendor. For this process, a small sample of physician and Vendor claims
and other documentation is examined in order to establish that drugs billed
by an Approved CAP Vendor were administered and were medically necessary.
Time Limit for Filing Medicare Claims
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/DocsCat/Providers~Ohio%20Part%20B%20Carrier~Publications~Physician-Supplier%20Guide~Claims%20Filing:%20Medicare~Time%20Limit%20for%20Filing%20Medicare%20Claims?opendocument
Medicare law designates specific time limits for submitting claims for
physician and other Part B services. The terms of the law require that a
claim be filed no later than the end of the calendar year following the
year in which the service was furnished. Exceptions are outlined in this
article.
****ASCO NEWS****
The American Society of Clinical Oncology's (ASCO) e-News was published today and is available online at http://view.exacttarget.com/?j=fe6b15787064007c7515&m=ff2d16787160&ls=fdf712797765047476177577&l=fe6315757666067a7d14&s=fdf2157972640d79751d7073&jb=ffcf14&ju=fe26167173650d74701272. ANCO is a state/regional affiliate of ASCO. This edition features:
Deadline to Receive a Discounted Registration Rate for the 2009 GI Cancers Symposium: Dec. 12
Cancer Policy Alert: Congress Likely to Take Up Additional NIH Funding After Recess; Prepare for Coding Changes in the New Year
Read the Newest JCO Original Report on a New Chemical Entity that Arrests Cancer Cells
Check Out the Newest JOP feature, "Continued Regulatory Actions Affecting the Use of Erythropoiesis-Stimulating Agents (ESAs)"
Letters of Intent Submission-Deadline Extended to Dec. 11 for the 2009 ACRAs
Application Deadline Approaching for the 2009 IDEA Grant
Application Deadline Approaching for the 2009 ASCO Loan Repayment Program, Funded by Susan G. Komen for the Cure®
Application Deadline Approaching for the 2009 Translational Research Professorship
Early Registration Deadline Approaching for the 2009 GU Cancers Symposium
Review the ASCO State/Regional Affiliates Calendar of Events
Cancer.Net Features: Traveling With Cancer
Cancer.Net Features: Evidence-based Medicine in Cancer Care
Cancer.Net Podcasts: Cancer and the Holidays
****CMA NEWS****
The Association of Community Cancer Center's (ACCC) This Week At ACCC was published today and is available online at http://www.accc-cancer.org/mediaroom/newsletters/media_ACCCNEWSLETTER_12-08-2008.html. ANCO is an Institutional Member of ACCC. This edition features:
A Few Seats Still Available for ACCC's Hospital Summit: at Only $169, Don't Miss It!
Hospitals See Continuing Profit Decline on Medicare Patients, Says MedPAC Staff
Study Finds Changes in Medicare Reimbursement for ESAs Associated with Increased Need for Blood Transfusion
Men with Wives, Significant Others More likely to be Screened for Prostate Cancer
Q&A on ACCC's Listserv: Position Description for a Radiation Oncology Nurse
Save the Date: March 18-21, 2009, ACCC's 35th Annual National Meeting
ACCC's CE Blackboard: Breast Cancer Concepts
Take Our Survey: Oncology Issues and ACCC's Website
State Medical Oncology Societies Host Membership Meetings
****CMA NEWS****
The California Medical Association's (CMA) Alert was published today and is available online at http://www.calphys.org/html/news.asp. It features:
CMA Sponsors Bill to Stop Unfair Health Insurance Cancellation
It's Time to Make Medicare Participation Decisions for 2009
CMA Supports Regulations to Reduce Diesel Emissions
Superior Court Upholds DMHC "Balance Billing" Regulation
CMA RICO Victory: HealthNet Sends Contract Addendums to Physicians
Deadline to Request CPPI Quality Data Is 12/16
State Will Take Up Family PACT Issue with New Administrator
Benefit of the Week: Group Dental Insurance
****CMS NEWS****
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CMS) Provider Communications Group will host the ninth in a series of national provider conference calls that began in November of 2007 on the 2008 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI). This toll-free call will take place from 3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m., EST, on Tuesday, December 16, 2008.
Following a short presentation on the final PQRI 2007 reporting experience and a discussion of results from 2007, the lines will be opened to allow participants to ask questions of CMS PQRI subject matter experts.
Educational products are available on the PQRI dedicated web page located at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PQRI on the CMS website, in the Educational Resources section.
Feel free to download the resources prior to the call so that you may ask questions of the presenters, Dr. Michael Rapp and Dr. Daniel Green.
Conference call details:
Date: December 16, 2008
Conference Title: 2008 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative National Provider Call
Time: 3:30-5:00 p.m. EST
In order to receive the call-in information, you must register for the call. It is important to note that if you are planning to sit in with a group, only one person needs to register to receive the call-in data. This registration is solely to reserve a phone line, NOT to allow participation. If you cannot attend the call, replay information is available below.
Registration will close at 3:30 p.m. EST on December 15, 2008, or when available space has been filled. No exceptions will be made, so please be sure to register prior to this time.
To register for the call participants need to go to http://www2.eventsvc.com/palmettogba/121608
Fill in all required data.
Verify your time zone is displayed correctly the drop down box.
Click "Register".
You will be taken to the “Thank you for registering” page and will receive a confirmation email shortly thereafter. Note: Please print and save this page, in the event that your server blocks the confirmation emails. If you do not receive the confirmation email, please check your spam/junk mail filter as it may have been directed there.
For those of you who will be unable to attend, a replay option will be available shortly following the end of the call. This replay will be accessible from 4:00 p.m. EST 12/16/2008 until 11:59 p.m. EST 12/23/2008. The call in data for the replay is (800) 642-1687 and the passcode is 76618434.
If you require services for the hearing impaired please send an email to Medicare.TTT@PalmettoGBA.com.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is pleased to announce that two (2) new educational resources on the 2009 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) have been posted to the PQRI webpage on the CMS website.
2009 PQRI Quality Measure List- This reference list outlines the 153 quality measures which were published in the in the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) 2009 final rule on November 19, 2008. To access the 2009 PQRI Quality Measure list, visit http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PQRI/15_MeasuresCodes.asp#TopOfPage on the CMS website. Once on the Measure/Codes page, scroll down to the “Downloads” section and click on the “2009 PQRI Quality Measures List” link.
The detailed measure specifications will be available on this webpage on or before December 31, 2008.
Registry Requirements for Submission of 2009 PQRI Data on Behalf of Eligible Professionals- This document describes the high-level requirements for a registry to qualify to submit under the registry-based reporting alternatives for 2009. This document also outlines how a registry can become qualified for 2009 data submission. To access the Registry Requirements for Submission of 2009 PQRI Data on Behalf of Eligible Professionals document, visit http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PQRI/20_Reporting.asp#TopOfPage on the CMS website. Once on theReporting page, scroll down to the “Downloads” section and click on the “Registry Requirements for Submission of 2009 PQRI Data on Behalf of Eligible Professionals” link.
To qualify to submit data on behalf of eligible professionals seeking incentive payments for 2009, registries are required to go through a self-nomination and vetting process if they are new to PQRI registry reporting or to notify CMS of their desire to continue PQRI data submission in 2009 if they were qualified in 2008. Selected registries must meet certain technical and other requirements specified by CMS.
Detailed information on the 2009 PQRI, including the 2009 Registry Requirements, may be found in the final 2009 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule rule with comment period (73 FR 69817 through 69847) that was published in the Federal Register on November 19, 2008. The final rule with comment period can be found in the “Related Links Outside of CMS” section of the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative website at http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2008/pdf/E8-26213.pdf on the CMS website.
The Medicare Learning Network (MLN) is pleased to announce the availability of the Advanced Practice Nursing & Physician Assistants (APN/PA) web page. This dedicated web page is for Medicare fee-for-service (FFS) advanced practice nurses and physician assistants who provide services to Medicare beneficiaries.
From this web page, you will be able to access and peruse the Medicare FFS program topics in order to keep abreast of policy and operational updates specific to Advanced Practice Nurses and Physician Assistants.
One of the educational resources featured on this webpage is the "Advanced Practice Nurse/Physician Assistant Web-Based Training Program" – this interactive web-based training program provides definitions of the Advanced Practice Nursing/Physician Assistant provider types; outlines the qualifications of the Advanced Practice Nursing/Physician Assistant provider types; describes collaboration/supervision requirements for Advanced Practice Nursing/Physician Assistant Medicare reimbursements; lists the Medicare billing requirements for Advanced Practice Nursing and Physician Assistants; and identifies links to Medicare manuals and other resources.
This web page is updated on a regular basis, so check it often for timely and reliable information from MLN.
For more information, visit the web page at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNProducts/70_APNPA.asp#TopOfPage on the CMS website.
****PALMETTO/J1MAC NEWS****
Medicare Part B Competitive Acquisition Program (CAP): CAP Claims
Submission Deadlines and Unused CAP Drugs
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/DocsCat/Providers~Current%20News~Medicare%20Part%20B%20Competitive%20Acquisition%20Program%20(CAP):%20CAP%20Claims%20Submission%20Deadlines%20and%20Unused%20CAP%20Drugs?opendocument
In preparation for the 2009 CAP postponement, this article is a reminder
about upcoming CAP deadlines. It is very important that participating CAP
physicians understand and comply with these deadlines because failure to do
so will affect physicians' ability to be reimbursed.
Medicare Part B Drug Competitive Acquisition Program (CAP): CAP Post
Payment Review in 2009
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/DocsCat/Providers~Current%20News~Medicare%20Part%20B%20Drug%20Competitive%20Acquisition%20Program%20(CAP):%20CAP%20Post%20Payment%20Review%20in%202009?opendocument
After January 1, 2009, the CAP post payment review process will continue
for 2008 claims. The post payment review process for the CAP is conducted
to verify drug administration for Medicare claims submitted by an Approved
CAP Vendor. For this process, a small sample of physician and Vendor claims
and other documentation is examined in order to establish that drugs billed
by an Approved CAP Vendor were administered and were medically necessary.
Time Limit for Filing Medicare Claims
http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/DocsCat/Providers~Ohio%20Part%20B%20Carrier~Publications~Physician-Supplier%20Guide~Claims%20Filing:%20Medicare~Time%20Limit%20for%20Filing%20Medicare%20Claims?opendocument
Medicare law designates specific time limits for submitting claims for
physician and other Part B services. The terms of the law require that a
claim be filed no later than the end of the calendar year following the
year in which the service was furnished. Exceptions are outlined in this
article.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
CMS & US Oncology Physician Services News
The following information has been received by ANCO.
****CMS NEWS****
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is pleased to announce that the specifications for the E-Prescribing measure, which will be used to determine whether an eligible professional is a successful E-Prescriber and may qualify for a 2% incentive payment for the 2009 reporting period, has been posted to the CMS website. The measure specifications may be found in the “Downloads” section of the E-Prescribing Incentive Program webpage at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PQRI/03_EPrescribingIncentiveProgram.asp#TopOfPage on the CMS website.
An eligible professional does not have to enroll in order to participate in the E-Prescribing Incentive Program. Furthermore, an eligible professional does not need to participate in PQRI in order to participate in this incentive program.
Beginning January 1, 2009, eligible professionals may participate in the E-Prescribing Incentive Program by submitting information required by the E-Prescribing measure on their Medicare Part B claims.
Detailed information on the implementation of the E-Prescribing Incentive Program for 2009 may be found in the final 2009 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule rule with comment period that was published in the Federal Register on November 19, 2008. A copy of the final rule with comment period is on display at the Federal Register and can be viewed at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/center/physician.asp on the CMS website.
The revised Facilitator's Guide - Companion to Medicare Physician Guide: A Resource for Residents, Practicing Physicians, and Other Health Care Professionals (October 2008) is now available in downloadable format from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Medicare Learning Network. This publication, which includes all the information and instructions necessary to prepare for and present a Medicare Resident, Practicing Physician, and Other Health Care Professional Training Program including instructions for facilitators, customization guide, a PowerPoint presentation with speaker notes, pre- and post-assessments, master assessment answer keys, and evaluation tools, may be accessed at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNProducts/MPUB/list.asp.
The ICD-10-Clinical Modification/Procedure Coding System Fact Sheet, which provides general information about the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Edition, Clinical Modification/Procedure Coding System (ICD-10-CM/PCS) including benefits of adopting the new coding system, structural differences between ICD-9 CM and ICD-10-CM/PCS, and implementation planning recommendations, is now available in print format from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Medicare Learning Network. To place your order, visit http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNProducts/01_Overview.asp, scroll down to “Related Links Inside CMS” and select “MLN Product Ordering Page.”
****US Oncology Physician Services news****
US Oncology Physician Services is an ANCO Corporate Member. US Oncology Physician Services is hosting a webcast entitled Legislative, Regulatory, and Community Action Update on Thursday, December 11th, at 12PM. This interactive webcast will discuss the impact of the new administration on healthcare and oncology; provide an update on policy, laws, and regulations; and, highlight changes to expect in 2009. Visit www.opspharmacist.com/opes for more information and to register.
****CMS NEWS****
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is pleased to announce that the specifications for the E-Prescribing measure, which will be used to determine whether an eligible professional is a successful E-Prescriber and may qualify for a 2% incentive payment for the 2009 reporting period, has been posted to the CMS website. The measure specifications may be found in the “Downloads” section of the E-Prescribing Incentive Program webpage at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PQRI/03_EPrescribingIncentiveProgram.asp#TopOfPage on the CMS website.
An eligible professional does not have to enroll in order to participate in the E-Prescribing Incentive Program. Furthermore, an eligible professional does not need to participate in PQRI in order to participate in this incentive program.
Beginning January 1, 2009, eligible professionals may participate in the E-Prescribing Incentive Program by submitting information required by the E-Prescribing measure on their Medicare Part B claims.
Detailed information on the implementation of the E-Prescribing Incentive Program for 2009 may be found in the final 2009 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule rule with comment period that was published in the Federal Register on November 19, 2008. A copy of the final rule with comment period is on display at the Federal Register and can be viewed at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/center/physician.asp on the CMS website.
The revised Facilitator's Guide - Companion to Medicare Physician Guide: A Resource for Residents, Practicing Physicians, and Other Health Care Professionals (October 2008) is now available in downloadable format from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Medicare Learning Network. This publication, which includes all the information and instructions necessary to prepare for and present a Medicare Resident, Practicing Physician, and Other Health Care Professional Training Program including instructions for facilitators, customization guide, a PowerPoint presentation with speaker notes, pre- and post-assessments, master assessment answer keys, and evaluation tools, may be accessed at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNProducts/MPUB/list.asp.
The ICD-10-Clinical Modification/Procedure Coding System Fact Sheet, which provides general information about the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Edition, Clinical Modification/Procedure Coding System (ICD-10-CM/PCS) including benefits of adopting the new coding system, structural differences between ICD-9 CM and ICD-10-CM/PCS, and implementation planning recommendations, is now available in print format from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Medicare Learning Network. To place your order, visit http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNProducts/01_Overview.asp, scroll down to “Related Links Inside CMS” and select “MLN Product Ordering Page.”
****US Oncology Physician Services news****
US Oncology Physician Services is an ANCO Corporate Member. US Oncology Physician Services is hosting a webcast entitled Legislative, Regulatory, and Community Action Update on Thursday, December 11th, at 12PM. This interactive webcast will discuss the impact of the new administration on healthcare and oncology; provide an update on policy, laws, and regulations; and, highlight changes to expect in 2009. Visit www.opspharmacist.com/opes for more information and to register.
Monday, December 1, 2008
ACCC News
The following information has been received by ANCO.
****ACCC NEWS****
The Association of Community Cancer Center's (ACCC) This Week at ACCC was published today and is available online at http://www.accc-cancer.org/mediaroom/newsletters/media_ACCCNEWSLETTER_12-01-2008.html. ANCO is an Institutional Member of ACCC. This edition features:
Just Two Weeks Until ACCC's Hospital Summit: At Only $169.
Audio Files of ACCC Final Rule Analysis Conference Call Available on Website
CMS Will Cover In-Vitro Lab Test for Some Liver Neoplasms
NCI Teleconference Provides CIS Partnership Program Update
Study Confirms PET as Powerful Imaging Tool in Cancer Management
Q&A on ACCC's Listserv: Patient Assistance with Co-pays for Radiation Therapy
ACCC's CE Blackboard: Breast Cancer Concepts
Take Our Survey: Oncology Issues and ACCC's Website
GlaxoSmithKline Wins U.S. Approval for Platelet Drug
"Annual Report to the Nation" Finds Declines in Cancer Incidence & Death Rates
State Medical Oncology Societies Host Membership Meetings
****ACCC NEWS****
The Association of Community Cancer Center's (ACCC) This Week at ACCC was published today and is available online at http://www.accc-cancer.org/mediaroom/newsletters/media_ACCCNEWSLETTER_12-01-2008.html. ANCO is an Institutional Member of ACCC. This edition features:
Just Two Weeks Until ACCC's Hospital Summit: At Only $169.
Audio Files of ACCC Final Rule Analysis Conference Call Available on Website
CMS Will Cover In-Vitro Lab Test for Some Liver Neoplasms
NCI Teleconference Provides CIS Partnership Program Update
Study Confirms PET as Powerful Imaging Tool in Cancer Management
Q&A on ACCC's Listserv: Patient Assistance with Co-pays for Radiation Therapy
ACCC's CE Blackboard: Breast Cancer Concepts
Take Our Survey: Oncology Issues and ACCC's Website
GlaxoSmithKline Wins U.S. Approval for Platelet Drug
"Annual Report to the Nation" Finds Declines in Cancer Incidence & Death Rates
State Medical Oncology Societies Host Membership Meetings
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