Category: eNews

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No Surprises Act Update

Colleagues:

MSSNY is fighting for physicians and patients over new federal rules implementing the No Surprises Act (NSA), the new federal law that limits surprise and emergency medical bills from out-of-network doctors, hospitals, and other providers.  Federal regulators recently issued an interim final rule to become effective in September 2021.  The new rule is the first of several rules that federal regulators will be issuing to implement the NSA.

In drafting the new rule, federal regulators made choices that may result in lower payments to physicians.

MSSNY is working with the AMA and national specialty societies to push back on the new rule, including speaking to federal regulators and submitting formal written comments. Last week, MSSNY representatives Dr. Michael Brisman and MSSNY Executive VP Troy Oechsner spoke with U.S. Treasury Department leaders.  As former regulator for the NY Department of Financial Services, Mr. Oechsner spoke of New York’s success in our state’s physician-friendly Surprise Billing Law, which MSSNY helped pass and which ensures both physicians and patients are treated fairly.  Dr. Brisman and Mr. Oechsner pointed to the importance of adequate physician payments to ensure patient access, particularly at rural or urban facilities that rely on out-of-network physician coverage.

One example of how the new rule may result in lower payments to physicians is the method for calculating the qualifying payment amount (QPA), which is a sum used in part to determine patient cost sharing and considered in the independent dispute resolution (IDR) review of payment conflicts between insurers and out-of-network physicians or other care providers.  Federal regulators chose a formula that keeps the QPA low by giving insurers certain flexibilities in calculating the QPA, in part by using broad definitions of “markets” and “geographic regions,” allowing reliance on small data sets, and low benchmarking for “new service codes” as well as by reducing the role of bonuses, risk sharing, penalties, and other incentive-based and retrospective payments or payment adjustments.

MSSNY is advocating for physicians and patients ahead of the second round of federal regulations, which are expected to address the IDR process, price comparison tools, and certain transparency requirements.  These rules may be the most crucial.  MSSNY will be working with the AMA and specialty societies to insist on rules that allow physicians to present a broad range of comparable costs such as the Usual Customary Rate and allow the IDR to weigh evidence equally.

More to come as our fight for you continues.

Joseph Sellers, MD, FAAP, FACP
MSSNY President.

FDA Authorizes Extension of the Shelf Life for J&J COVID-19 Vaccine
On July 29, 2021, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) authorized an extension of the shelf life for the Janssen/Johnson & Johnson (J&J) single-shot COVID-19 vaccine by 45 days, from 4.5 months to 6 months. The decision is based on data from ongoing stability assessment studies, which have demonstrated that the vaccine is stable at 6 months when refrigerated at temperatures of 36 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit (2 to 8 degrees Celsius).  This extension applies to refrigerated vials of J&J/Janssen COVID-19 vaccine that have been held in accordance with the manufacturer’s storage conditions.

Vaccination providers that have J&J vaccine in storage must:

1. Visit https://vaxcheck.jnj/ and enter the lot number to get the latest expiration date.
2. Mark the vials and carton with the new date displayed and also update the date in the NYSIIS or CIR inventory module.
3. Determine if any vaccine has expired: If you have vaccine in storage that has an expiration date prior to July 29, 2021 (based on the most current expiration date),  those vials should be disposed of as medical waste and reported as wastage in NYSIIS/CIR (see NYSIIS wastage reporting guidance here).

ACOG and SMFM Recommend COVID-19 Vaccination for Pregnant Individuals
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM), the two leading organizations representing specialists in obstetric care, recommend that all pregnant individuals be vaccinated against COVID-19. The organizations’ recommendations in support of vaccination during pregnancy reflect evidence demonstrating the safe use of the COVID-19 vaccines during pregnancy from tens of thousands of reporting individuals over the last several months, as well as the current low vaccination rates and concerning increase in cases.

Data have shown that COVID-19 infection puts pregnant people at increased risk of severe complications and even death; yet only about 22% of pregnant individuals have received one or more doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In making the strong recommendation in support of vaccination during pregnancy, both national organizations emphasize concerns about significant increases in COVID-19 cases due to the Delta variant and the regional low rates of vaccination in states across the country. Recent data have shown that more than 95% of those who are hospitalized and/or dying from COVID-19 are those who have remained unvaccinated. Pregnant individuals who have decided to wait until after delivery to be vaccinated may be inadvertently exposing themselves to an increased risk of severe illness or death. Those who have recently delivered and were not vaccinated during pregnancy are also strongly encouraged to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

Why I Am a MSSNY Member: Monica Sweeney, MD, MPH, FACP

$790 in Annual Savings for MSSNY Members: CareClix Telemedicine Platform
MSSNY members receive the discounted rate of $50 per month for the license fee with no start-up costs—for a total of $790 in savings.

The CareClix user-friendly HIPPA compliant platform enables physicians to conduct routine virtual visits with patients in any location. With CareClix you can:

• Add Value to Your Practice
• Maximize Billing
• Eligibility Checks
• Promote Patient Satisfaction
• Reduce Cancellations and No-Shows
• Integrated EHR

For clinical practices lacking the capacity to manage their own CCM programs, CareClix also provides a white-labeled, turn-key CCM service. This enables even the smallest community hospitals to provide CCM services for their seniors. Caring for the patients most-at-need requires vigilance and improved access.

CareClix believes that implementing and managing a CCM program requires much more than just a traditional telemedicine platform with videoconferencing. Our platform includes a comprehensive Chronic Care Management module. This includes out-of-the-box integration for 200+ devices, covering all major key vital signs used in CCM. Our platform easily integrates with our partners’ EMR systems, and we have a team that includes practicing physicians and experienced implementation experts.

To learn more about CareClix: careclix.com/for-providers/
To implement telemedicine for your practice visit: careclix.com/provider-signup/
Have questions? Contact sales@careclix.com

Are You a Dave Matthews Band Fan? Win 2 Tickets to Concert at Saratoga Performing Arts Center on September 18^th!
Through the generosity of MSSNY members Dr. Gregory Pinto and Dr. Natalie Adler of Saratoga, MSSNYPAC donors can enter to win two lawn seats for the Dave Matthews Band concert on Saturday, September 18, 2021 at 7:30 pm at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center.

Registration and qualified entry are required.  To register, text MSSNYPAC DMB to 52886 and follow the prompts.  To qualify, donate $100 to MSSNYPAC for each entry.  A single winner will be chosen on 9/8/21 among registrants who have donated $100 or more to MSSNYPAC between 9/14/20 and 9/7/21.

The higher your donation, the greater your chances to win!  Join, renew, or increase your membership today!  Contact Jennifer Wilks at mssnypac@mssny.org or 914-933-7722 with any questions.

Mental Health Disorders Tied to Increased Risk of COVID-19 Related Mortality, Review Finds
MedPage Today (7/27, Grant) reports, “Mental health disorders were associated with an increased risk of COVID-19-related mortality, according to a systematic review and meta-analysis of 16 studies from seven countries.” Researchers “noted that although they were able to determine the associations between severe mental health disorders and risk of COVID-19 mortality, it wasn’t possible to identify significant differences between specific mental health disorders.” The review was published in JAMA Psychiatry.

80% of Female Surgical Residents Face Gender Bias & 4 More Study Findings
Women in surgical residency programs are far more likely to experience discrimination or sexual harassment than their male peers, a study published July 28 in JAMA Surgery found.

Researchers surveyed 6,764 residents enrolled in 301 general surgery programs nationwide about their experiences with gender discrimination and sexual harassment during the 2018-19 academic year.

Five findings:

1. About 80 percent of female residents reported experiencing gender discrimination, compared to 17.1 percent of male residents.
2. The most common type of gender discrimination was being mistaken for a nonphysician 一 often by patients or family members 一 with 77 percent of female residents reporting the experience. Just 4 percent of male residents reported the same.
3. Women who were pregnant and men who had children were more likely to experience discrimination.
4. Female residents were more likely to experience sexual harassment (42.5 percent) compared to male residents (21.5 percent).
5. The most common form of harassment was crude, demeaning or explicit comments reported by 37.3 percent of female residents and 19.5 percent of male residents.

To view the full study, click here.

–Bean, Becker’s Hospital Review

Nearly 4 in 10 US Physicians Have Side Gigs: 6 Medscape Survey Findings
Nearly 4 in 10 U.S. physicians have side gigs, or “side hustles,” indicating a continued trend of physicians pursuing a passion project or an additional way to make income, according to a new report from Medscape.
The report, released July 14, is based on a survey of 2,533 physicians, conducted March 5 through May 14.
Six survey findings:
1. Thirty-seven percent of survey respondents reported a side gig, compared to 63 percent who did not.
2. Forty-five percent of survey respondents who have a side gig said financial losses from the COVID-19 lockdowns prompted them to pursue a side gig.
3. Forty-eight percent of survey respondents who have a side gig cited earning extra money as the main goal for their side gig.
4. Consulting, being an expert witness, or chart review were the most popular medically related side gigs.
5. Real estate and investing advice were the most popular nonmedical side gigs.
6. Seventy-two percent of survey respondents who have a side gig said their side gig is equally or more fulfilling than their primary job.
Read more about the survey here.
–Gooch, Becker’s Hospital Review

Classified Ads Available for:

Physicians’ search services • allied medical placements • locum tenens • practice valuation • practice brokerage • practice consulting • real estate

For help, information or to place your ad, call Roseann Raia at 516-488-6100 ext. 302 

For the MSSNY 2021 Ad Rate Sheet, please click here.

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Do You Know an Outstanding Physician?
The Medical Society of the State of New York is accepting nominations for the 2020 Albion O. Bernstein, MD Award.  The deadline for applications has been extended to September 7, 2021. This prestigious award is given to:

“…the physician, surgeon or scientist who shall have made the most widely beneficial discovery or developed the most useful method in medicine, surgery or in the prevention of disease in the twelve months prior to December 2020.”

This award was endowed by the late Morris J. Bernstein in memory of his son, a physician who died in an accident while answering a hospital call in November 1940.

The $2,000 award will be presented to the recipient during a MSSNY Council Meeting.

Nominations must be submitted on an official application form and must include the nominator’s narrative description of the significance of the candidate’s achievements as well as the candidate’s curriculum vitae, including a list of publications or other contributions.

To request an application, please contact:

Committee on Continuing Medical Education
Miriam Hardin, PhD, Manager, Continuing Medical Education
Medical Society of the State of New York
99 Washington Avenue, Suite 408
Albany, NY 12210
518-465-8085
mhardin@mssny.org

Interested in Joining Premier Group Purchasing? Call MSSNY’s Dedicated Rep!
MSSNY has a group purchasing partnership with Premier Group Purchasing to provide lower operating costs and improved access to supplies and products for members who sign on to purchase through Premier negotiated agreements.

Sign up today or contact MSSNY’s dedicated representative, Samantha Garrett, at Samantha_Garrett@premierinc.com /212-901-1209.

Click the links below to access specifics on the program:
Continuum of Care Overview: High level overview of the Premier program and the value it provides GPO FAQ: Questions and answers to further introduce Premier and explain the program

Physician Practices information sheet: Provides value proposition of the Premier program, followed by specific suppliers and contracts members will be able to access, broken down by category

What to Expect: Step by step onboarding guide for members.

30 Great Vacation Ideas for Physicians
As July turns into August and “dog days of summer” are still to come, MedScape features 30 intriguing vacation locations for physicians that include everything from family vacations to learning vacations, rejuvenating vacations to adventure vacations, and budget vacations to splurge vacations.  The slideshow includes information from physicians about places they have visited and adventures they’ve had on their time off. Wishing all of our members a happy and healthy August!

MSSNYPAC: The Political Voice of New York State Physicians
MSSNYPAC members are a force for change in healthcare policy.

MSSNYPAC supports the policy initiatives that MSSNY members have prioritized through the MSSNY House of Delegates, the MSSNY Council and MSSNY’s various committees. A contribution to MSSNYPAC enables physicians to directly interact with policymakers on a personal level while providing crucial campaign support. Working together with grassroots activities like letter-writing, social media interactions, and in-district visits, collective political action by physicians is a powerful mechanism to voice the concerns of physicians and their patients.

The strength of MSSNYPAC and its effectiveness requires NY’s physicians to be “all-in” when it comes to safeguarding the profession of medicine, assuring patients can access needed care, and investing in the present and future viability of medical practices. With well-funded, often-opposing interest groups—including trial lawyers and insurance companies—seeking to expand liability and exert increasing control over clinical decision-making, physicians cannot afford to give up their seat at the discussion table.

MSSNYPAC increases your impact on healthcare policy formation. Join or renew your MSSNYPAC membership today:
Online: www.mssnypac.org/contribute
Phone/text:
914-933-7722
Mail: PAC Remittance Form

American Conference on Physician Health Sponsored by AMA, Mayo Clinic, and Stanford University
The 2021 American Conference on Physician Health (ACPH) joint scientific conference promotes scientific research and discourse on health system infrastructure, and the actionable steps organizations can take to improve physician well-being.

Sponsored jointly by the Mayo Clinic, Stanford University and the American Medical Association, this year’s conference theme is, “Achieving the quadruple aim: Resilient systems in times of crisis.” Participate in topical and relevant sessions with presenters and attendees from around the globe, while gaining valuable knowledge and information about best practices and tools to improve professional satisfaction in your medical practice.

Conference registration and hotel reservations 

• Registration rates: Available through Thursday, Sept. 23.
• To register for the conference and view agenda, visit the ACPH 2021 homepage.
• Hotel room rates: Special pricing for ACPH attendees available until Sept. 13 ($299 USD/night).
• Check out the ACPH conference website for all your planning needs—including the agenda, speaker bios, travel information, registration inclusions, and more!

2021 American Conference on Physician Health
Thursday, Oct. 7 through Saturday, Oct. 9
Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch
Scottsdale, Az.

Join MSSNY’s Member Perks Program!
Exclusive perks and over $4,500 in savings on everything from pizza and the zoo, to
movie tickets, oil changes, hotels, and car rentals!

POPULAR FEATURES INCLUDE:

• Nearby Offers: Use our show & save mobile coupons to quickly access savings on the go.
• eTickets On Demand: Save up to 40% with no hidden fees.
• Showtimes: Find movies, watch trailers, and save up to 40% at a theater near you.
• Monthly Giveaways: Win cash, movie tickets, electronics, and more with our monthly contests.

And, with over 302,000 available discounts across 10,000 cities in the United States and Canada, you’ll never be far from savings!

Register at http://mssny.abenity.com

Classified Ads Available for:

Physicians’ search services • allied medical placements • locum tenens • practice valuation • practice brokerage • practice consulting • real estate

For help, information or to place your ad, call Roseann Raia at 516-488-6100 ext. 302 

For the MSSNY 2021 Ad Rate Sheet, please click here.

Office Space for Lease – Great Neck, NY
Large, fully equipped space available for lease up to 7 days per week. Includes onsite parking and is close to mass transit. Call 516-972-2986 for info.

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Rheumatology Practice Opportunity – Great Neck, NY
Opportunity available at an established rheumatology practice in Great Neck, NY. Looking for a dedicated physician to join, share or merge practices. Fully equipped office with onsite parking and proximity to mass transit. Contact 516-972-2986 for more info.

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AIDS Institute’s Office of the Medical Director for a Public Health Physician II
Health Research, Inc. (HRI) has a job opening within the AIDS Institute’s Office of the Medical Director for a Public Health Physician II. Please distribute this announcement widely through your networks. Interested individuals can apply for this position through the HRI website.

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Small Group and Independent Practitioners – Advancing Private Practices
The Best billing company GUARANTEED! Increase your annual revenue by 20-30%. Proven results and backed by 25 years of experience. Chooses MA MEDICLAIMS you will Save time on those RVUs/the 8-minute rule and have more time for your patient’s health. Get your free Practice analysis at www.ma-mediclaimsllc.com. Contact leslie.swartz@ma1mediclaimsllc.com or call 877-927-1996.

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Medical Office and Medical Practice (Upper East Side)
79th St near Lexington / Park. 750 sq Ft beautiful, street entrance, medical office for sale with a 25 + yr internal medical practice for sale. Office is in move in condition. Physician retiring. Waiting room. Secretarial area for 3. 1 Consult room. 2 exam Rooms 2 Toilets. Please contact: 917-770-8700 / email drklein@att.net

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MSSNY Supports the Wellbeing of All Physicians

Colleagues:

When I was informed about the three recent, tragic physician deaths at a NYC hospital, I immediately thought about the vital role MSSNY plays in supporting physicians—and how critical it is for all of us to get the word out to our colleagues about the help MSSNY provides.

MSSNY supports the health and wellbeing of all physicians through our Committee for Physicians Health (CPH)—which was founded in 1974 to provide non-disciplinary, confidential assistance to physicians, residents, medical students, and physicians’ assistants, including stress, substance abuse, and other psychiatric disorders—and more recently, with the addition of MSSNY’s revolutionary Peer to Peer Program.

As physicians, we know all too well the reality of stressors that range from the emotions that arise in the context of patient care to the demanding environment in which we practice medicine. Aside from the stressors in our own lives, I cannot begin to imagine trying to process the reality of three physician deaths in one hospital over a short period of time. How does a physician move on when faced with the loss of a colleague? Sometimes a fellow physician—who understands the unique challenges we routinely face—is best equipped to help.

MSSNY’s Physician Wellness and Resiliency Committee developed the Peer to Peer Program to provide physicians, residents, and medical students a completely confidential and anonymous opportunity to talk with a peer about some of life’s stressors. Under the Peer-to-Peer (P2P) program, physicians may engage in a one-time confidential discussion with a peer supporter—an individual trained to share experiences, listen without judgment, and validate feelings.

MSSNY has established a confidential helpline phone number (1-844-P2P-PEER) and an email address (p2p@mssny.org) so that physicians may be connected with a peer 24 hours a day/7 days a week.

Your membership in MSSNY allows us to support peers in need of support.

Joseph Sellers, MD, FAAP, FACP
MSSNY President.

MSSNY Legislative Podcast: 
Efforts on Behalf of NYS Physicians Continue into the Summer Months

US Surgeon General Issues Warning About Urgent Threat of Health Misinformation
Earlier this week U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy issued his first Surgeon General’s Advisory of this Administration to warn the American public about the urgent threat of health misinformation. Health misinformation, including disinformation, have threatened the U.S. response to COVID-19 and continue to prevent Americans from getting vaccinated, prolonging the pandemic and putting lives at risk, and the advisory encourages technology and social media companies to take more responsibility to stop online spread of health misinformation.

“Health misinformation is an urgent threat to public health. It can cause confusion, sow mistrust, and undermine public health efforts, including our ongoing work to end the COVID-19 pandemic,” said U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy. “As Surgeon General, my job is to help people stay safe and healthy, and without limiting the spread of health misinformation, American lives are at risk. From the tech and social media companies who must do more to address the spread on their platforms, to all of us identifying and avoiding sharing misinformation, tackling this challenge will require an all-of-society approach, but it is critical for the long-term health of our nation.”

Learn more and access the full advisory here.

Check with Your Legal Counsel Whether You Are Required to Follow Federal or State Employee Protection Standards
Physician offices should consult with their legal counsel to determine if they are required to comply with the recent federal OSHA Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) rules for protecting employees from airborne Covid-19 transmission or instead required to comply with newly enacted state requirements for all employers who are not subject to federal rules.

MSSNY’s General Counsel law firm, Garfunkel Wild, recently prepared an alert OSHA Issues Emergency Rules For Healthcare Employers And Updated Guidance For All Employers | Garfunkel Wild, that provided a summary of the requirements for the OSHA ETS.  The alert notes that exempted from compliance with the OSHA ETS are “employers performing healthcare services on an outpatient basis in a non-hospital setting, if non-employees are screened prior to entry and people with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 are not permitted to enter.”

However, employers that are exempt from the OSHA ETS must establish an airborne infectious disease plan required by New York State for all employers. The New York State Department of Labor (NY DOL) recently put forth model forms for all New York employers to adopt NY HERO Act | Department of Labor. The law requires all employers regardless of size to have extensive new workplace health and safety protections in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.  The statute requires that employers adopt a safety plan within 30 days of the Department of Labor posting the model forms (August 5).  After adopting a plan, the employer is required to share the safety plan with employees within 30 days.

Importantly, MSSNY has received clarification from the NY DOL that “the standard published by the Department provides that it does not apply to ‘Any employee within the coverage of a temporary or permanent standard adopted by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration setting forth applicable standards regarding COVID-19 and/or airborne infectious agents and diseases.’  As such, employers within the coverage of the current OSHA ETS (which is currently limited to healthcare) are not currently required to take action or adopt a plan pursuant to the NY HERO Act.”

Therefore, whether a physician’s office is required to follow the federal OSHA ETS or the NY DOL standard may vary from office to office.  For example, a primary care practice that treats patients with suspected Covid-19 would likely be required to comply with the federal OSHA standard, but an orthopedic practice that instructs all patients with suspected Covid to not enter the office may not be required to follow the federal standard but instead be required to comply with the state standard.

Again, physicians should consult with their legal counsel for how best to ensure their offices comply with these state or federal requirements.

Do You Know an Outstanding Physician?
The Medical Society of the State of New York is accepting nominations for the 2020 Albion O. Bernstein, MD Award.  The deadline for applications has been extended to September 7, 2021. This prestigious award is given to:

“…the physician, surgeon or scientist who shall have made the most widely beneficial discovery or developed the most useful method in medicine, surgery or in the prevention of disease in the twelve months prior to December 2020.”

This award was endowed by the late Morris J. Bernstein in memory of his son, a physician who died in an accident while answering a hospital call in November 1940.

The $2,000 award will be presented to the recipient during a MSSNY Council Meeting.

Nominations must be submitted on an official application form and must include the nominator’s narrative description of the significance of the candidate’s achievements as well as the candidate’s curriculum vitae, including a list of publications or other contributions.

To request an application, please contact:

Committee on Continuing Medical Education
Miriam Hardin, PhD, Manager, Continuing Medical Education
Medical Society of the State of New York
99 Washington Avenue, Suite 408
Albany, NY 12210
518-465-8085
mhardin@mssny.org

Workers Compensation Proposes Rule to Formally Cover Telehealth; In-Person Treatment Required for Every Third Clinical Encounter
The New York Workers Compensation Board has proposed a regulation to formally permit the Workers Compensation program to cover health care services to injured workers delivered via telehealth.  Among the key components of the proposed regulation for covering telehealth services:

• Every third clinical encounter must be an in-person assessment by the treating medical provider.

• The medical provider who provided treatment and care at the initial clinical encounter must also provide the treatment and care at any telehealth clinical encounter.

• When subsequent medical treatment and care will be performed by a medical provider other than the medical provider who treated at the initial clinical encounter, the subsequent treating medical provider must have an in-person clinical encounter with the claimant prior to providing medical treatment and care via telehealth, and thereafter every third clinical encounter with that subsequent treating provider must be an in-person clinical encounter.

• Telehealth is not permissible for services administered by physical therapists, occupational therapists, acupuncturists, and chiropractors.

• Permanency evaluations may not be performed via telehealth.

For more information, please review the proposed regulations here: Proposed Amendment of 12 NYCRR 325-1.13 (Telehealth).  Comments can be sent to regulations@wcb.ny.gov until September 12.

MSSNY Immediate Past President Bonnie Litvack, MD Discusses COVID-19 Vaccines with CNYCentral
Following is an excerpt from MSSNY Immediate Past President and member of the state’s vaccine task force Bonnie Litvack, MD’s interview with CNYCentral about COVID-19 vaccines:

“The state has told us they’re getting out of the vaccine business,” said Dr. Bonnie Litvack, the immediate past president of the New York State Medical Society.

Dr. Litvack is a member of the state’s COVID-19 vaccine task force. She said while the state will be prepared to reignite mass vaccination sites should they become necessary, so far, the plan would be to make your local pediatrician or pharmacy the place to go for a booster.

“The last discussions that we’ve had on that, is that vaccines would go back to the normal process of getting vaccines. Which would be through your doctor’s offices and pharmacies as you normally get your normal shots and booster shots,” said Dr. Litvack.

Health professionals like Dr. Litvack are urging New Yorkers to get vaccinated. In Onondaga County, just under 60% of the county’s entire population is fully vaccinated. Anyone without a vaccine is still vulnerable, especially to the highly transmissible Delta variant of the virus.

“If you are unvaccinated, you are vulnerable to it. In communities that have high numbers of unvaccinated people, the community is vulnerable,” said Dr. Litvack.

Take the Survey on the NYS Bureau of Narcotic Enforcement’s New Morphine Milligram Equivalents Calculator
NYS Bureau of Narcotic Enforcement (BNE) has recently developed a Morphine Milligram Equivalents (MME) Calculator, which is located on the New York State PMP (NYSPMP). They also developed a web-based survey to gather input from PMP users regarding anticipated use of the NYSPMP MME Calculator.

BNE is seeking MSSNY assistance in getting information on the use of the calculator.  The survey offers an opportunity for feedback from NYSPMP users in a format that will only take 10-15 minutes. The survey is available now and can be found by going to this link: https://forms.office.com/g/rQEi5fJfCs

The following QR code may be more convenient for some PMP users:

In addition to distributing the survey link, it would be helpful if you could include the attached document (Accessing the New York State Morphine Milligram Equivalents Calculator.pdf) to help PMP users locate the calculator, if they are not already aware of its location.

If you have questions, contact:

• Shirley Madewell (madewell@health.ny.gov)
• Sydney Russell-Wingo (Russell-Wingo@health.ny.gov)

For help locating the calculator, click Accessing the New York State Morphine Milligram Equivalents Calculator.

New York State Opioid Prevention Program’s Opioid Annual Report
The New York State – Opioid Annual Data Report, 2020 contains data on deaths, emergency department visits, and hospitalizations involving opioid overdoses, as well as data on opioid prescribing, admissions to substance use disorder treatment programs for heroin and other opioids, and on naloxone administration encounters.

Data-to-Action Reports:

• Overdose Deaths Involving Cocaine With and Without Opioids in New York State, 2010-2019
• Opioid-related Mortality and Public Perceptions in New York State

These Data-to-Action Reports are short communications on important topics that provide specific opioid-related data to mobilize public health action. Reports include key messages, quick facts describing the topics, figures illustrating relevant data, language describing recommendations, evidence-based approaches, and suggested actions and resources.

Opioid Data Dashboard: In addition, the Opioid Surveillance Data Dashboard application was updated on the NYSDOH website. This dashboard makes opioid-related data easily accessible to health officials and the public, and displays data for opioid indicators interactively at both state and county levels. The dashboard is designed to be a key resource for enhancing the utilization of opioid surveillance data, and assisting in the response to the opioid crisis.

The reports are available on the opioid data webpage (http://www.health.ny.gov/statistics/opioid/) on the NYSDOH website.

If you have questions and feedback, contact opioidprevention@health.ny.gov.

2022 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule
As reported earlier this week, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released the proposed rule for the 2022 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule.  The AMA report to state medical societies noted that, while it will analyze and develop a summary of the 1,700+ page proposal, it is important to highlight that the 2022 Medicare conversion factor would be reduced by approximately 3.75% from $34.8931 to $33.5848. This is largely a result of the expiration of a 3.75% increase to the conversion factor at the end of calendar year 2021, as enacted by Congress to prevent what otherwise would have been a devastating cut to many physicians in their Medicare payments.

Working together with the AMA and the federation of medicine, MSSNY will strongly advocate that Congress avert this significant cut and extend the 3.75% increase for 2022. Please note that the impact table in the proposed rule does not seem to include the 3.75% reduction in the conversion factor.

Access the proposed rule (PDF).

Additional resources:

• CMS press release
• Physician Fee Schedule fact sheet
• QPP fact sheet (.ZIP)

Click here to view the AMA specialty impact table.

Classified Ads Available for:

Physicians’ search services • allied medical placements • locum tenens • practice valuation • practice brokerage • practice consulting • real estate

For help, information or to place your ad, call Roseann Raia at 516-488-6100 ext. 302 

For the MSSNY 2021 Ad Rate Sheet, please click here.

Small Group and Independent Practitioners – Advancing Private Practices
The Best billing company GUARANTEED! Increase your annual revenue by 20-30%. Proven results and backed by 25 years of experience. Chooses MA MEDICLAIMS you will Save time on those RVUs/the 8-minute rule and have more time for your patient’s health. Get your free Practice analysis at www.ma-mediclaimsllc.com. Contact leslie.swartz@ma1mediclaimsllc.com or call 877-927-1996.

CMS Releases Proposed Rule for 2022 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule
Yesterday, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released the proposed rule for the 2022 Medicare physician fee schedule. The American Medical Association (AMA) staff is in the process of analyzing and developing a summary of the 1,700+ page proposal but in the meantime, there is a key issue of which physicians need to be aware. Notably, the 2022 Medicare conversion factor would be reduced by approximately 3.89% from $34.8931 to $33.5848.

This is largely a result of the expiration of a 3.75% increase to the conversion factor at the end of calendar year 2021, as averted for 2021 by Congressional action. The AMA will strongly advocate that Congress avert this significant cut and extend the 3.75% increase for 2022. Please note that the impact table in the proposed rule does not seem to include the 3.75% reduction in the conversion factor.

The text of the proposed rule can be accessed here, and several other links are below:

• CMS Press Release
• Physician Fee Schedule Fact Sheet
• QPP Fact Sheet (please note this is different from the link in the press release, which was broken)

Medicare Increases Payment for Cognitive Care
Alzheimer’s dementia affects one in nine people age 65 and older and kills more than breast and prostate cancer combined.  The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has taken steps to address this public health crisis by increasing payment for and expanding access to cognitive assessment and care plan services.

Effective January 1, 2021, Medicare increased payment for these services to $282 (may be geographically adjusted) when provided in an office setting, added these services to the definition of primary care services in the Medicare Shared Savings Program, and permanently covered these services via telehealth.

4 Things to Know About the Cognitive Assessment & Care Plan Services

1. If your patient shows signs of cognitive impairment at an Annual Wellness Visit (AWV) or other routine visit, you may perform a more detailed cognitive assessment and develop a care plan
2. The Cognitive Assessment & Care Plan Services (CPT code 99483) typically start with a 50-minute face-to-face visit that includes a detailed history and patient exam, resulting in a written care plan
3. If you report evaluation and management (E/M) services, you can offer this service, including: physicians (MD and DO), nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, and physician assistants.
4. Use CPT code 99483 to bill for this service. Part B coinsurance and deductible apply. You may bill this code separately from the AWV.

For More Information
Please review more detail on Medicare coverage requirements and billing standards at www.cms.gov/cognitive.
For more information on assessing cognitive impairment, please refer to the Alzheimer’s and Dementia Resources for Professionals webpage here.

More on New York State Employer Safety Plans Required by August 5
As reported last week, the New York State Department of Labor put forth model forms for all New York employers to follow in adopting required airborne infectious disease exposure prevention standards in response to legislation enacted into law (the New York Health and Essential Rights Act – NY HERO Act) earlier this year. The law requires all employers regardless of size to have extensive new workplace health and safety protections in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The statute requires that employers adopt a safety plan within 30 days of the Department of Labor posting the model forms (August 5). After adopting a plan, the employer is required to share the safety plan with employees within 30 days.

As a follow up to the article, MSSNY has been advised by the New York State Department of Labor that “the standard published by the Department provides that it does not apply to ‘Any employee within the coverage of a temporary or permanent standard adopted by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration setting forth applicable standards regarding COVID-19 and/or airborne infectious agents and diseases.’ As such, employers within the coverage of the current OSHA ETS (which is currently limited to healthcare) are not currently required to take action or adopt a plan pursuant to the NY HERO Act.”

Therefore, whether a physician’s office is required to follow the federal OSHA ETS or the NY DOL standard may be on a case-by-case basis. As noted in the recent alert by MSSNY’s General Counsel, the Garfunkel Wild law firm, OSHA Issues Emergency Rules for Healthcare Employers and Updated Guidance for All Employers | Garfunkel Wild, exempted from compliance with the OSHA ETS are “employers performing healthcare services on an outpatient basis in a non-hospital setting, if non-employees are screened prior to entry and people with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 are not permitted to enter.”

Physicians should consult with their legal counsel for how best to ensure their offices comply with these state and/or federal requirements.

New York County Medical Society Honors Leaders at June 23, 2021 Annual Meeting

Arthur Cooper, MD and Keith LaScalea, MD

During its June 23^rd Annual Meeting, the New York County Medical Society (NYCMS) honored outgoing president Arthur Cooper, MD and welcomed incoming president Keith LaScalea, MD. Dr. LaScalea graduated from SUNY –  Binghamton and the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, completed his residency in Internal Medicine at New York Presbyterian Hospital, and is on the faculty in the Division of Internal Medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine.

In addition to his clinical practice as a primary care physician he is involved in teaching, curriculum development, and holds multiple roles in the College administration. On July 12, 2021, Doctor LaScalea was listed as one of Crain’s New York Business “Notables in Health Care.”

NYCMS also welcomed officers Erick Eiting, MD, President–Elect; Thomas Sterry, MD, Vice President; Jessica J. Krant, MD, MPH, Secretary; and Jill R. Baron, MD, Treasurer.  Loren Wissner Greene, MD and Stuart Gitlow, MD serve as Assistant Secretary and Assistant Treasurer respectively.

Milton Haynes, MD

Milton Haynes, MD Receives Nicholas Romayne, MD Lifetime Achievement Award
During the NYCMS annual meeting, incoming president Dr. LaScalea presented Milton Haynes, MD with the Nicholas Romayne, MD Lifetime Achievement Award—which is named for the Society’s first president and recognizes exceptional contribution to the Society.

Dr. Haynes, who served as president of the Society in 2000 – 2001, is a graduate of Howard University College of Medicine, is board certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and is a fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.  Prior to his retirement, Dr. Haynes was in private practice, a Senior Attending at Lenox Hill Hospital, and Attending at North General Hospital. He was Clinical Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University Medical Center.

Dr. Haynes served as Chair of MSSNY’s Committee on Healthcare Disparities, and as a member of the AMA Commission to Eliminate Racial and Ethnic Healthcare Disparities.

In honoring the many contributions of Dr. Haynes to the medical profession, Dr. LaScalea called him a “creative disrupter” who “brought the concepts of diversity, equity, and inclusion light years ahead of their time.”

NYC Seeing Rise in COVID-19 Cases as Delta Variant Spreads Further
Bloomberg (7/12, Querolo) reports COVID-19 cases “in New York City are climbing for the first time in months as the delta variant gains traction and vaccination rates in some boroughs remain stubbornly low.” New York City’s “seven-day average rate of positive tests has risen slowly throughout July, and had roughly doubled in two weeks to 1.27% as of Saturday.” On average, “there were 328 new confirmed and probable cases daily over the past week, up from 208 as of June 28.” The New York Post (7/12, Marsh, Raskin) reports “Staten Island is experiencing an uptick in COVID-19 cases at least partly because of the recent spread of the highly contagious Delta variant among unvaccinated New Yorkers.”

COVID-19 Vaccination Enrolled Providers: Please Update Contact Information for Excelsior Pass Applications
Excelsior Pass mobile application is New York State’s voluntary and secure way to retrieve and present digital proof of COVID-19 vaccination or negative COVID-19 test results. In order for users to retrieve the vaccination pass, their vaccination data within NYSIIS/CIR must be correct and up-to-date. Providers are responsible for entering all vaccination data and remediating any data errors for users who report difficulty in retrieving their pass. For more information on what to look for and how to fix data errors, please review this factsheet.

Some vaccinated individuals have been reporting difficulty obtaining their Excelsior Pass.  Beginning this week, an e-mail will be sent to these individuals directing them to review their vaccination record with their provider.  The e-mail will direct individuals to their vaccination provider by giving them the provider’s primary and secondary points of contact and contact information as it was submitted on the provider’s COVID-19 Vaccination Program enrollment form, unless updated information has been submitted by the provider entity.  If the contact information is outdated or there is a better point of contact who can assist vaccinated individuals with review and correction of their vaccination record, please submit updated information here.

Classified Ads Available for:

Physicians’ search services • allied medical placements • locum tenens • practice valuation • practice brokerage • practice consulting • real estate

For help, information or to place your ad, call Roseann Raia at 516-488-6100 ext. 302 

For the MSSNY 2021 Ad Rate Sheet, please click here.

Small Group and Independent Practitioners – Advancing Private Practices
The Best billing company GUARANTEED! Increase your annual revenue by 20-30%. Proven results and backed by 25 years of experience. Chooses MA MEDICLAIMS you will Save time on those RVUs/the 8-minute rule and have more time for your patient’s health. Get your free Practice analysis at www.ma-mediclaimsllc.com. Contact leslie.swartz@ma1mediclaimsllc.com or call 877-927-1996.

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Membership Doesn’t Cost, It PAYS

Colleagues:

My membership in MSSNY began when I was a young physician, and my involvement with—and devotion to—the organization has grown exponentially over the years. Since many of my colleagues are aware of my dedication to MSSNY, I am often asked “What has MSSNY done for me lately?”

My initial answer is very simple: “MSSNY membership doesn’t cost, it PAYS.”

Here are but a few of the many ways your membership in MSSNY pays for itself: 

• Saved you from a 25% to 47% increase in malpractice premiums by defeating the wrongful death expansion proposal in the just-completed legislative session.
• Saved you from a 2% across the board Medicare cut. For a practice with $500,000 in anticipated Medicare revenue for this year, MSSNY prevented a $10,000 cut.
• Saved you from an across the board 1% Medicaid cut. Your savings are based on the amount of Medicaid revenue you take in each year.
• Saved physicians enrolled in the Excess program from paying for half the cost of an Excess Insurance policy, saving up to $40,000 for some physicians.
• Saves you money daily through significant discounts from our medical supplies group purchasing organization, telemedicine platform, disability and other insurance plans, legal assistance, and more.
• Saves you money and time through our Physician Payment and Practice program that assists physicians with payment and other care approval hassles from commercial and public insurers.

Joseph Sellers, MD, FAAP, FACP
MSSNY President.

Burnout Hits Female Physicians Harder Than Men
Female physicians experience burnout more frequently than men, report spending more time doing administrative duties and spend more time working off the clock, according to a June 15 report by EHR vendor Athenahealth.

The study collected data from 799 physicians who use a variety of EHR vendors. Data was collected between Oct. 13 and Dec. 23.

Six study findings:

1. Twenty-eight percent of physicians reported feeling burned out at least once per week, and physicians spend an average of 13.5 hours per week on tasks other than patient care.
2. More than a quarter of physicians (29 percent) agreed or strongly agreed that their practice is set up to minimize administrative burden. Sixty-one percent of physicians said their organization has not taken steps in the last 12 months to curb physician burnout.
3. More than half of women (51 percent) reported feeling burned out a few times a month, compared to 43 percent of men. Women were also less likely to feel their workload is manageable and less likely to believe they would be with their organization in the next three years.
4. Women reported that administrative tasks accounted for 29 percent of their working time, compared with 25 percent for men.
5. Women spent more time working at home, with 19 percent of work time conducted at home, compared to 14 percent for men.
6. Physicians aged 65 and older reported feeling burnout less frequently than younger physicians (35 percent and 48 percent, respectively). Older physicians were more likely to report they have enough time to spend with each patient and their workload is manageable.

—Mitchell, Becker’s Hospital Review

Do You Know an Outstanding Physician?
The Medical Society of the State of New York is accepting nominations for the 2020 Albion O. Bernstein, MD Award. This prestigious award is given to:

“…the physician, surgeon or scientist who shall have made the most widely beneficial discovery or developed the most useful method in medicine, surgery or in the prevention of disease in the twelve months prior to December, 2020.”

This award was endowed by the late Morris J. Bernstein in memory of his son, a physician who died in an accident while answering a hospital call in November, 1940.

The $2,000 award will be presented to the recipient during a MSSNY Council Meeting.

Nominations must be submitted on an official application form and must include the nominator’s narrative description of the significance of the candidate’s achievements as well as the candidate’s curriculum vitae, including a list of publications or other contributions.

To request an application, please contact:
Committee on Continuing Medical Education
Miriam Hardin, Ph.D., Manager, Continuing Medical Education
Medical Society of the State of New York
99 Washington Avenue, Suite 408
Albany, NY 12210
518-465-8085 mhardin@mssny.org
DEADLINE FOR NOMINATIONS EXTENDED: September 7, 2021

New York State Employer Safety Plans for Employees Required by August 5
As reported earlier this week, the New York State Department of Labor put forth model forms for all New York employers to follow in adopting required airborne infectious disease exposure prevention standards in response to legislation enacted into law (the New York Health and Essential Rights Act – NY HERO Act) earlier this year. The law requires all employers regardless of size to have extensive new workplace health and safety protections in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.  The statute requires that employers adopt a safety plan within 30 days of the Department of Labor posting the model forms (August 5).  After adopting a plan, the employer is required to share the safety plan with employees within 30 days.

The airborne infectious disease exposure prevention plans must be activated by the employer when an airborne infectious disease is designated by the New York State Commissioner of Health as a highly contagious communicable disease that presents a serious risk of harm to the public health.  However, the DOL announcement notes that, while employers must adopt plans as required by the law, “as of the date of this writing no designation is currently being made and therefore, plans are not required to be in effect.”

There were also recent federal rules adopted by the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) imposed on certain healthcare employers to help prevent transmission of Covid-19 to employees, as noted in the recent alert by MSSNY’s General Counsel, the Garfunkel Wild law firm.  Physicians should consult with their legal counsel for how best to ensure their offices comply with these new state and federal requirements.

New Help for Physicians to Start—Or Sustain—Life in Private Practice
Starting and maintaining a private practice isn’t easy. Coding, billing, documentation and state regulations can be complicated, but being accurate is essential, according to Kathleen Blake, MD, MPH, the AMA’s vice president of health care quality and a cardiologist who worked in private practice for many years.

In addition to considerable clinical skills and acumen, physicians in private practice also need management and marketing know-how to build successful and sustainable practices, she said.

“These aren’t skills they teach you in most medical schools,” she said, “but they are essential for anyone in private practice or even considering starting a private practice. According to AMA research, about 44% of physicians are in private practice, and they have needs that are not just associated with delivering medical care.

“You hear this all the time. The best referral is an existing patient asking, ‘Would you see my family members?’” she said, but private practice physicians need more than just referrals to build their patient panels. They also need to create an efficient management structure, establish a positive patient experience, and build a personal online brand, she added.

Help in Pursuing Private Practice Medicine

Working with the new AMA Private Practice Physicians Section (AMA-PPPS), Dr. Blake and her colleagues helped aggregate resources for physicians at all stages of private practice: from those completing their training who are exploring practice options to mid-career doctors managing an established practice.

“We felt it was important to identify and understand the various challenges physicians face in private practice and publish in one place what I like to call news you can use to help them have a sustainable practice and enduring, positive relationships with their patients, families and communities,” she said.

The result was a collection of AMA private practice sustainability resources. The resources cover vital issues such as how to get started in private practice, managing business operations, and developing a positive patient experience. Content includes curated webinars, research and recent AMA news articles on private practice, including profiles of physicians who are succeeding in this vibrant practice mode.

Read the full AMA article here.

NYS Department of Financial Services (DFS) Again Extends Audio-Only Telehealth Coverage
The latest emergency regulation from DFS, released on Wednesday, July 7^th, continues coverage for Telehealth services delivered via audio-only until at least October 1^st. However, it is unclear if DFS will renew come October, making clarifying legislation potentially necessary.

Please note that last year a statute was enacted that requires Medicaid to cover audio-only Telehealth. The New York State Department of Health (DOH) recently issued a guidance document for how Medicaid will continue to cover Telehealth services, including audio-only services.

To view the latest extending regulation, click here.

Save Money with Premier Group Purchasing: Call MSSNY’s Dedicated Rep!
MSSNY has a group purchasing partnership with Premier Group Purchasing to provide lower operating costs and improved access to supplies and products for members who sign on to purchase through Premier negotiated agreements.

Sign up today or contact MSSNY’s dedicated representative, Samantha Garrett, at Samantha_Garrett@premierinc.com /212-901-1209.

Click the links below to access specifics on the program:
Continuum of Care Overview: High level overview of the Premier program and the value it provides GPO FAQ: Questions and answers to further introduce Premier and explain the program

Physician Practices information sheet: Provides value proposition of the Premier program, followed by specific suppliers and contracts members will be able to access, broken down by category

What to Expect: Step by step onboarding guide for members.

Telehealth’s Impact: Physician Survey Analysis
COVID-19 Healthcare Coalition | November 2020

The experience of physician practices engaging in an unprecedented number of telehealth visits in 2020 is captured in this report from a survey of 1,600 physicians, issued by the COVID-19 Healthcare Coalition.

75% of physicians reported that telemedicine enabled them to provide quality care in the areas of COVID-19-related care, acute care, chronic disease management, hospital/ED follow-up, care coordination, preventative care, and mental/behavioral health.

60% reported that telehealth improved the health of their patients.

55% reported that telehealth improved their work satisfaction.

73% reported that no or low reimbursement will be a major challenge post-COVID.

64% said that technology challenges, such as lack of access to broadband and technological illiteracy, are a barrier to sustained use of telehealth, pointing to the need for policies that support audio-only services where needed.

Click here to view the full report.

Classified Ads Available for:

Physicians’ search services • allied medical placements • locum tenens • practice valuation • practice brokerage • practice consulting • real estate

For help, information or to place your ad, call Roseann Raia at 516-488-6100 ext. 302 

For then MSSNY 2021 Ad Rate Sheet, please click here.

Small Group and Independent Practitioners – Advancing Private Practices
The Best billing company GUARANTEED! Increase your annual revenue by 20-30%. Proven results and backed by 25 years of experience. Chooses MA MEDICLAIMS you will Save time on those RVUs/the 8-minute rule and have more time for your patient’s health. Get your free Practice analysis at www.ma-mediclaimsllc.com. Contact leslie.swartz@ma1mediclaimsllc.com or call 877-927-1996.

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Office Rental 30 Central Park South
Two fully equipped exam, two certified operating, bathrooms and consultation room.  Shared secretarial and waiting rooms.  Elegantly decorated, central a/c, hardwood floors. Next to Park Lane and Plaza hotels. $1250 for four days a month. Available full or part-time. 212.371.0468 / drdese@gmail.com.

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Professional Office Space For Sale – Albany, NY
319 S. Manning Blvd, Suite 308A. Albany NY. Located on the St. Peter’s Hospital Campus. 2000 SF. Bright, 3rd floor location. Office is in move in condition. Waiting room, front reception area for 3 staff, 2 consult rooms, 4 exam rooms, 1 large procedure room, eat in break room, storage room, walk in storage closet. 369K. Contents negotiable. Please contact 518-222-4956 / email perrotmi@yahoo.com

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Medical Office and Medical Practice (Upper East Side)
79th St near Lexington / Park. 750 sq Ft beautiful, street entrance, medical office for sale with a 25 + yr internal medical practice for sale. Office is in move in condition. Physician retiring. Waiting room. Secretarial area for 3. 1 Consult room. 2 exam Rooms 2 Toilets. Please contact: 917-770-8700 / email drklein@att.net

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NYS Department of Financial Services (DFS) Once Again Extends Audio-Only Telehealth Coverage
The latest emergency regulation from DFS, released on Wednesday, July 7^th, continues coverage for Telehealth services delivered via audio-only until at least October 1^st. However, it is unclear if DFS will renew come October, making clarifying legislation potentially necessary.

Please note that last year a statute was enacted that requires Medicaid to cover audio-only Telehealth. The New York State Department of Health (DOH) recently issued a guidance document for how Medicaid will continue to cover Telehealth services, including audio-only services.

To view the latest extending regulation, click here.

Department of Labor Adopts Model Forms for Employers for Required Airborne Infection Prevention Plans
Today, the New York State Department of Labor put forth model forms for all New York employers to follow in adopting required airborne infectious disease exposure prevention standards in response to legislation enacted into law (the New York Health and Essential Rights Act – NY HERO Act) earlier this year. The law requires all employers regardless of size to have extensive new workplace health safety protections in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.  The statute requires that employers adopt a safety plan within 30 days of the Department of Labor posting the model forms, and to share the safety plan with employees within 60 days of the posting of the model forms.

The airborne infectious disease exposure prevention plans must be activated by the employer when an airborne infectious disease is designated by the New York State Commissioner of Health as a highly contagious communicable disease that presents a serious risk of harm to the public health. The DOL website notes that, while employers must adopt plans as required by the law, “as of the date of this writing no designation is currently being made and therefore, plans are not required to be in effect.” 

The standard and model plans are available in English and will be available in Spanish in the coming days. Employers are required to provide a copy of the adopted airborne infectious disease exposure prevention plan and post the same in a visible and prominent location within each worksite. 

There were also recent federal rules adopted for healthcare employers for preventing transmission of COVID-19 to employees, as noted in the recent alert by MSSNY’s General Counsel, the Garfunkel Wild law firm [see article below]. Physicians should consult with their legal counsel for how best to comply with these new state and federal requirements.

OSHA Issues Emergency Rules for Healthcare Employers and Updated Guidance for All Employers
On June 10, 2021, OSHA issued an Emergency Temporary Standard (the “Standard”) specific to COVID-19, including health screening mandates and COVID-specific protocols, and paid leave requirements for certain healthcare providers.  The Standard generally enforces CDC protocols that have been recommended during the pandemic.  On the same day, OSHA also issued “Guidance on Mitigating and Preventing the Spread of COVID-19 in the Workplace” for all other employers (the “Guidance”).

The Guidance focuses on protections for unvaccinated or otherwise “at-risk” workers, who are described as those that “cannot be protected through vaccination, cannot get vaccinated, or cannot use face coverings.”  The Guidance notes that, unless otherwise required, most employers no longer need to take steps to protect fully vaccinated workers who are not otherwise at-risk from exposure to COVID-19 in the workplace, or well-defined portions of the workplace, where all employees are fully vaccinated.

In addition to the Standard and Guidance, it is important to confirm with state and local requirements as well.

Read guidance in its entirety here.

If you have questions regarding the above, please contact the Garfunkel Wild attorney with whom you regularly work, or contact Garfunkel Wild at info@garfunkelwild.com.

$790 in Annual Savings for MSSNY Members: CareClix Telemedicine Platform
MSSNY members receive the discounted rate of $50 per month for the license fee with no start-up costs—for a total of $790 in savings.

The CareClix user-friendly HIPPA compliant platform enables physicians to conduct routine virtual visits with patients in any location. With CareClix you can:

• Add Value to Your Practice
• Maximize Billing
• Eligibility Checks
• Promote Patient Satisfaction
• Reduce Cancellations and No-Shows
• Integrated EHR

For clinical practices lacking the capacity to manage their own CCM programs, CareClix also provides a white-labeled, turn-key CCM service. This enables even the smallest community hospitals to provide CCM services for their seniors. Caring for the patients most-at-need requires vigilance and improved access.

CareClix believes that implementing and managing a CCM program requires much more than just a traditional telemedicine platform with videoconferencing. Our platform includes a comprehensive Chronic Care Management module. This includes out-of-the-box integration for 200+ devices, covering all major key vital signs used in CCM. Our platform easily integrates with our partners’ EMR systems, and we have a team that includes practicing physicians and experienced implementation experts.

To learn more about CareClix: careclix.com/for-providers/
To implement telemedicine for your practice visit: careclix.com/provider-signup/
Have questions? Contact sales@careclix.com

Physicians Worked Fewer Hours in 2020, Survey Finds
Compared to January 2019, U.S. physicians worked fewer hours per week on average when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, according to research published June 23 in JAMA Network Open. 

Researchers from the Association of American Medical Colleges used national survey data to assess how weekly hours worked among physicians changed from January 2019 to December 2020. The study involved 2,563 physicians and 8,853 observations. At the start of the study period, the average number of hours worked per week was 50.8.

Five findings:

1. In March 2020, physicians’ mean weekly hours worked fell to 49.
2. The decrease hit a low in May 2020, when the average number of hours worked was 47.5.
3. In the summer months, weekly hours worked began to climb before hitting another low in November.
4. Physicians’ average number of weekly hours worked was 47.8 in December — a 6 percent decrease from January 2019.
5. Overall, the number of physicians working full time fell from 84.1 percent before COVID-19 to 80.7 percent during the pandemic.

“This study found that physicians’ work hours have significantly decreased since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in the U.S., accelerating an existing, gradual decline,” researchers said. “These observed changes may reflect the decrease in healthcare utilization and the increased flexibilities instigated by COVID-19-driven regulations.”

— Carbajal, Becker’s Hospital Review

Reporter Looking for NY Patients to Interview for National Story
A reporter with USA Today is looking to set up interviews with long-haul COVID patients in New York. The story will focus on patients who have had financial struggles, including but not limited to challenges returning to work, filing disability claims, or health insurance coverage struggles. The national story will appear in USA Today and outlets across the country.

If you have patient(s) willing to share their stories, please send contact information to Roseann Raia at MSSNY.

Classified Ads Available for:

Physicians’ search services • allied medical placements • locum tenens • practice valuation • practice brokerage • practice consulting • real estate

For help, information or to place your ad, call Roseann Raia at 516-488-6100 ext. 302 

For the MSSNY 2021 Ad Rate Sheet, please click here.

Small Group and Independent Practitioners – Advancing Private Practices
The Best billing company GUARANTEED! Increase your annual revenue by 20-30%. Proven results and backed by 25 years of experience. Chooses MA MEDICLAIMS you will Save time on those RVUs/the 8-minute rule and have more time for your patient’s health. Get your free Practice analysis at www.ma-mediclaimsllc.com. Contact leslie.swartz@ma1mediclaimsllc.com or call 877-927-1996.