Amidst the most momentous week of the year’s tumultuous healthcare reform activities, we arrived in Washington, D.C., for the annual ACR Advocates for Arthritis Capitol Hill Fly-In. This was to be my first visit to Congress. Although my alma mater, Georgetown University, was a short distance from the Capitol dome, as a student I had little interest in the political process—particularly as it related to medicine. Now, however, as a young rheumatologist, I am increasingly aware of the impact health policy has on my daily practice. I have also watched the healthcare reform debate unfold over the last year, recognizing that this is a critical time for physicians to be vocal and active. There is a great deal at stake, and we are surrounded daily by the very issues debated in Washington. Why not take our opinions directly to the decision makers?
Search results for: primary care providers
The ACR Benchmark Survey Results
In 2009, the ACR’s Committee on Rheumatologic Care (CORC) began its third Economic Benchmark Survey to update information from the previous surveys conducted in 1999 and 2003.
Drug Updates
Information on New Approvals and Medication Safety
Update on Meaningful Use
On December 30, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released the long-awaited proposed rule establishing the Electronic Health Record (EHR) Incentive Program, which lays out a set of standards, implementation specifications, and certification criteria for EHR technology. This program has been developed in response to the “American Recovery and Reinvestment Act” (ARRA), which authorizes the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to provide a reimbursement incentive for physician and hospital providers who become “meaningful users” of an EHR.
A Sobering Reality in Sierra Leone
Trip to focus on lupus takes on another purpose
H1N1 Influenza A Virus Brings Many Questions, Few Answers
Rheumatologists grapple with vaccine concerns and the impact of medications on response
Drug Updates
Information on New Approvals and Medication Safety
REMS Required
How will this FDA drug safety program affect rheumatology offices?
Quality Measures and Reporting
A call for professional responsibility
Members Comment on Drug Safety
The ACR recently conducted a survey of U.S. members about the issue of drug safety, sources of information, and related issues. The survey netted 454 responses.