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.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
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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