2016 was an impactful year for ACR advocacy efforts. Last month we reviewed our advocacy accomplishments in 2016, accomplishments that benefited 100% of our members. However, more than 95% of ACR and ARHP members had not invested in RheumPAC by the conclusion of the 2016 ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting. Each year, many of the same dedicated…
Take the challenge. Answers: B: No—Only the treating physician can take the HPI. The medical assistant is allowed to take the review of systems. If the documentation indicates the treating physician did not take the HPI, the insurance can deny the claim as not medically necessary. B: No—If the high-risk medication is not assessed and…
Did you know that the ACR holds an annual Knowledge Bowl competition in conjunction with the ACR/ARHP Annual Meeting? Two fellows, along with a faculty mentor, compete in two to three rounds of trivia, modeled on the television game show Jeopardy! For the past three years I have participated, along with my team, the University…
Charity Navigator, America’s largest and most-used independent evaluator of charities, has awarded the Rheumatology Research Foundation with its eighth consecutive four-star rating. The prestigious ranking is the highest possible award given out by Charity Navigator and recognizes good governance, sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency. Charity Navigator President and CEO Michael Thatcher…
When the controversial Medicare Part B Drug Payment Model final rule was not released by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) as expected before Nov. 21, it signaled an increasing likelihood of defeat for the proposed rule—a signal proved true on Dec. 15. A spokesperson for the CMS said, “After considering comments, CMS…
Take the challenge. D—As of January 2015, there are three new codes added to the arthrocentesis codes of 20600–20611. The new codes, 20604, 20606 and 20611, should be reported when the procedure is performed with ultrasound guidance and CPT 76942 should not be billed separately. The three new codes are defined as: 20604—Arthrocentesis, aspiration and/or…
To be an effective practice owner, it is necessary to understand the financial circumstances and environment of the practice’s operation. Well-managed practices prevent the loss of time and money. Therefore, to improve productivity and operating efficiencies, you need to have a basic understanding of billing and payment initiatives that will impact the practice’s bottom line….
Our elected officials make decisions every day that affect our lives and the lives of our patients. These decisions are often based on input they have received from advocates and lobbyists, constituents and fellow lawmakers. Regardless of our ideals, money plays a role in this decision making, because political contributions facilitate access to legislators and…
The ACR’s Affiliate Society Council (ASC) membership has grown from 34 states to 40 since 2015. The growth of the Council is mainly attributed to newly formed state societies, as well as existing state societies focusing on orienting themselves for advocacy on behalf of rheumatologists and their patients. Increased participation by state societies helps support…
A 38-year-old female patient returns to the practice for the second of three hyaluronate sodium injections of the left knee. The patient states the pain is somewhat better after her last injection. Her weight is 165 lbs., her height is 5 feet 6 inches, and her blood pressure is 120/81. After discussing the risks of…