Some rheumatologists question the depth of research and the approval’s implications for patient access
The Law of Unintended Consequences Rears Its Head
A program to improve drug safety has increased drug prices for patients with gout and FMF
ALERT: 2010 ICD-9-CM/CPT Code Changes
As of January 1, physicians can no longer bill the inpatient/outpatient consultation evaluation and management (E/M) codes for Medicare patients. E/M codes for new or established patients should be used as appropriate.
ALERT: 2010 ICD-9-CM/CPT Code Changes
As of January 1, physicians can no longer bill the inpatient/outpatient consultation evaluation and management (E/M) codes for Medicare patients. E/M codes for new or established patients should be used as appropriate.
Reading Rheum
Handpicked Reviews of Contemporary Literature
Doctor or Accountant?
Complex coding and reimbursement rules can detract from patient care
Gout
Patient Fact Sheet
Pseudogout
Pseudogout is a type of arthritis that, as the name implies, can cause symptoms similar to gout, but which are a reaction to a different type of crystal deposit. This type of arthritis may be one of the most misunderstood forms, and is often mistaken for gout and other conditions, including RA. Proper diagnosis is important because untreated pseudogout may lead to a severe form of joint degeneration and ongoing inflammation, resulting in chronic disability.
2008 REF Gout Print to Be Chosen by Ignacio Garcia-De La Torre, MD
While attending the ACR Annual Scientific Meeting in Boston, ACR member Ignacio Garcia-De La Torre, MD, visited the ACR Research and Education booth to purchase the latest Rodnan commemorative gout print, A Fisher-King.
Is Your Office Lab Up to Par?
Rheumatology practices with laboratory testing facilities in their offices can offer important benefits to patients and physicians. During their care of patients with musculoskeletal and rheumatic diseases, rheumatologists may order many tests, including erythrocyte sedimentation rate, synovial fluid analysis, complete blood count, fecal occult test, and urinalysis. While the prompt receipt of test results and the capability to evaluate specimens in the office directly improves efficiency, it is important to remember that offices must be certified to perform laboratory testing, particularly high-complexity tests such as the analysis of synovial fluids.