February 15, 2019 – Common & Uncommon Denominators

Thomas J. Madejski, MD MSSNY President
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Thomas J. Madejski, MD
MSSNY President


MSSNY eNews
February 15, 2019
Volume 22  Number 7

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Colleagues:

I have alluded to the confluence of information streams and activities that surrounds and runs through all of our lives. Last Saturday, I was honored to join our students, residents, fellows and MSSNY Young Physician members.  Immediate Past President Charles Rothberg, President Elect Art Fougner, and Vice President Bonnie Litvack also participated enthusiastically in discussions.  We were impressed by the thoughtfulness and maturity of our younger colleagues—they seemed to be smarter, better organized, and more committed to improving the lives of our patients and the practice of medicine than either of us were at a comparable age.  That should give us encouragement and great optimism for the care of our patients and the future of our profession!

Within 60-90 minutes, a number of data points swirled around me:

  • Joe Sellers, our MSSNYPAC Chair, gave a presentation on advocacy and the political process. He used the current measles outbreak in multiple areas in New York and 9 other states to demonstrate the importance of our policy development and advocacy activity to protect our citizens and improve the public health.
  • A number of resolutions were discussed for submission to the MSSNY House of Delegates. Second year medical student, Connor Sholtis, worked with University of Rochester MSS representatives Shireen Saxena, Randall Porter and other U of R students created a resolution that looks to reduce barriers to mental health care for medical students.  I believe this has the potential to begin to change our approach to student and physician stressors and improve physician wellness.
  • Carlos Zapata, YPS Councilor, moderated a social media discussion/ work session.
  • While participating in the social media workshop, I received a tweet that Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) had introduced legislation that would legalize marijuana at the federal level, designating the measure S. 420 in a nod to cannabis culture. The proposal, identical to a bill in the House, aims to ease the longstanding conflict between states where cannabis is legal in some form and the U.S. government, which categorizes marijuana as a dangerous illegal drug, similar to LSD or heroin.

I have to say the MSSNY presidency forces you to look for themes and common denominators that bring policy together to make our advocacy more effective.  The common denominator in all of this is what we in medicine do best— apply the science informing an issue to our patients and our communities.  The students gathered evidence relating to effective interventions for depression and applied it to their particular community.   Dr. Sellers reviewed the evidence for interventions to increase vaccinations and MSSNYs approach to counter pseudoscience that has caused a drop off in vaccination rates and immunity leading to a recrudescence of a preventable, potentially eradicable disease.

Personally, I look forward to discussing movement of marijuana to Schedule II with our federal representatives to allow the research needed to clear the smoky haze surrounding a complex psychoactive substance and define its proper place in the pharmacopoeia.

Our legislators have impressed me over many years with their knowledge of the many different subjects under legislative consideration. They rely on us to give them specific, evidence-based information about how legislative proposals effect our patients and their constituents. As Adam Smith opined, “Science is the great antidote to the poison of enthusiasm and superstition.”

Are You Coming or Not?

Come with me to Albany March 6th to help provide crucial information about the many issues effecting the citizens of New York State.  A few counties are providing bus transportation—call your county executive for information! Your colleagues, your patients, and our fellow citizens are depending on us.

Never be afraid to raise your voice for honesty and truth and compassion against injustice and lying and greed- William Faulkner

Comments? comments@mssny.org; @mssnytweet; @TomMadejski

Thomas J. Madejski, MD
MSSNY President



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Capital Update

SAVE THE DATE: MSSNY’s Annual “Physician Advocacy Day” (3/6)!
With nearly 40 newly elected legislators in Albany, the need for physician advocacy and grassroots involvement is greater than ever. With so much new representation, it’s vital for physicians to forge new relationships, and to strengthen existing relationships to ensure the physician community’s message about policies that could impact patient care is heard.

One opportunity is to participate in MSSNY’s “Physician Advocacy Day” that will be held on Wednesday, March 6th in the Lewis Swyer Theatre in the Egg located at the Empire State Plaza, Albany NY. Click here to register!

Join your colleagues from all around New York State and come to MSSNY’s Physician Advocacy Day to speak with your legislators and key policymakers to ensure they’re making the right choices for New York’s physicians and their patients.

Join us to urge your legislators to:

  • Proceed very cautiously on paradigm shifting proposals such as legalization of recreational marijuana (proposed in the State Budget) and creating a single payor health insurance structure;
  • Reject the $80/per patient cut to physicians treating patients covered by both Medicare and Medicaid;
  • Reject proposals that would add prior authorization burdens for care provided to Medicaid patients;
  • Support legislation to reduce excessive health insurer prior authorization hassles that delay patient care;
  • Reduce the high cost of medical liability insurance through comprehensive reforms;
  • Preserve opportunities for medical students and residents to become New York’s future health care leaders.

The morning program will be followed by a brief and informal luncheon to which members of each House are invited to speak with their constituents.  County medical societies will be scheduling afternoon appointments for physicians to meet with their elected representatives.

If you have any questions/comments, please contact Carrie Harring at charring@mssny.org.                                           (HARRING)


MSSNY Physician Leaders Advocate for Their Profession and Their Patients in the Nation’s Capitol
Several MSSNY physician leaders and staff members traveled to Washington, DC this week for meetings with many New York Congressional representatives.  Physicians advocated for several measures to improve and preserve patient access to needed physician care, including:

  • Assuring that any “surprise medical bill” law enacted on the federal level is consistent with New York’s comprehensive law which has become a model for the country;
  • Preserving seniors’ access to needed care through increases to the Medicare fee schedule to keep up with practice cost inflation;
  • Reducing the hassle factor associated with participation in the Medicare MIPS program and assuring EHR interoperability;
  • Lifting the DEA Schedule 1 classification of marijuana so that necessary research can be performed on potential medicinal benefits.

Among the attendees were the following: MSSNY President and Medina internist Dr. Tom Madejski; MSSNY Immediate Past-President and Long Island ophthalmologist Dr. Charles Rothberg; former MSSNY Councilor and Schenectady ophthalmologist Dr. John Kennedy; Erie County Medical Society Past-President, AMA Council on Legislation Chair and Roswell Park urologist Dr. Willie Underwood;  MSSNY Councilor and Queens Emergency Department Physician Dr. Carlos Zapata; MSSNY Legislative & Physician Advocacy Committee Vice-Chair Dr. Rose Berkun, Oswego Family practice physician Dr. Corliss Varnum; medical student Usman Aslam; and MSSNY staff.

The meetings occurred in conjunction with the American Medical Association’s annual National Advocacy Conference, where physicians across the country go to Washington to meet with their respective members of Congress.                                                                                 (AUSTER)


 

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Governor Releases Budget Amendments that Includes Across the Board Medicaid Payment Cut
Today Governor Cuomo gave to the Legislature his “30-day amendments” to his Executive Budget proposal that was formally introduced on January 15. While staff is continuing to review the entire proposal, of concern is a proposal that would impose an across the Board Medicaid cut to all covered Medicaid providers totaling $190 million.  Spending under the Medicaid global cap for FY 2020 is expected to be $19.4 billion. This could translate to a material per service cut (exact amount to be determined) to physicians and other health care providers.  Please remain alert for further update on this issue.                                                      (AUSTER)


Legislators Advance Legislation Aimed at Preventing Maternal Deaths
Legislation (S.1819, Rivera/A.3276, Joyner) advanced this week from the Senate Women’s Issues Committee, and from the Assembly Health and Codes Committees, that would establish maternal mortality review boards and the maternal mortality and morbidity advisory councils for New York State and New York City.  The goal of S1819/A3276 is to gather and review information related to maternal deaths and illness, to disseminate their findings and to develop recommendations and best practices to improve maternal health in New York.

The legislation also provides needed confidentiality protections regarding the board’s proceedings and requires the Board to report on its aggregate finding and recommendations.  MSSNY working together with the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (ACOG) is in support of this legislation and strongly backs its goal of improving health outcomes in New York.      (AVELLA, CLANCY)


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Physicians Urged to Oppose $80/Dual Eligible Patient Cut
All physicians are urged to contact their state legislators to urge that they reject a proposal contained in the 2019-20 Executive Budget that would significantly cut the payments that Medicaid makes to physicians to cover the Medicare Part B deductibles of their “dually eligible” patients.   You can send a letter in opposition by clicking here.

You can read MSSNY’s memo of opposition to the Legislature here.

While the exact cut for each physician would depend on the physician’s patient mix and services provided, we estimate that the cut would be $80 per patient.  That is because the 2019 Medicare Part B deductible is $185, and studies show that on average Medicaid only pays 56% of the Medicare fee schedule in New York.

Given that there are hundreds of thousands of patients in New York who are “dually eligible”, practices that see a large number of dual eligible patients be profoundly impacted.  For example, if a physician’s patient mix includes 500 such dual eligible patients – which could certainly be the case for many types of specialty physicians – that amounts to a decrease of over $40,000 per year – funds that could go toward upgrading electronic health records, hiring additional staff to allow for more time with patients, upgrading facilities or other medical equipment. In past years, physicians have had to absorb significant cuts from Medicaid for the care that they provide to their senior and disabled patients covered by both Medicare and Medicaid, making it much harder for these physicians to deliver community-based care. Please urge your legislators know how unfair this cut is.  Please urge them to oppose balancing the state budget on the backs of dedicated community physicians seeking to deliver quality care to their patient.        (AUSTER)


Governor’s Staff Testifies Before Legislative Body Regarding Cannabis Regulation and Taxation Act
On Wednesday 2/13, Governor Cuomo’s staff testified to members of the Senate and Assembly at a public hearing regarding the legalization of adult-use of cannabis. The governor’s administration was represented by Alphonso David, Counsel to the Governor; Axel Bernabe, Associate Counsel for Health; Jason Starr, Assistant Counsel; Jen McCormick, First Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Agriculture and Markets; and Dr. Chinazo Cunningham, member of faculty at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and a member of the Governor’s Workgroup on Cannabis Regulation.

Mr. David, supported by his staff, provided an outline of the plan in this year’s budget proposal and addressed a large list of questions and concerns raised by members of the legislature. He described their approach as “integrated” and discussed the three separate markets (adult-use, medical and hemp).

Questions from state representatives focused on how regulation would be structured, how communities would be impacted, how law enforcement officials would manage driving, use, sale, etc. and what the economic implications would be. Of note were questions about the ability to test for impaired driving and how to prevent legally purchased cannabis from getting into the hands of minors. Mr. David and staff acknowledged that some of the aspects of this program are still being worked out and would require further research and discussion.

A copy of David’s testimony can be found here.

The hearing can be watched here.      

This week MSSNY President Dr. Tom Madejski was quoted in an article that highlighted the diverse array of groups – Doctors, Parents, Mental Health Advocates and Police – that have raised concerns with proposals to legalize “adult use” or recreational marijuana use.  A copy of the article can be found here.

Dr. Madejski also issued the following statement which can be found here regarding the discussion at the Cannabis hearing that praised the efforts of the Administration proposal to assure necessary public education regarding cannabis use, but continuing to raise concerns about diversion to youth and the potential increase in drugged driving.                                                              (AVELLA, CLANCY)


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Your Help is Requested to Complete the SHIN-NY Customer Satisfaction and Usage Survey
NORC at the University of Chicago, an independent non-profit research organization, is administering a web survey designed to assess user experiences with health information exchange services offered by New York’s Qualified Entities (QEs).  The results of this survey will be used to improve health information exchange services provided by New York’s Qualified Entities and the Statewide Health Information Network of New York (SHIN-NY).

The survey asks about how an organization uses specific clinical data exchange services provided by New York’s eight QEs in care delivery. Questions also focus on the level of satisfaction with the different QE services as well as any challenges around the use of the services.

The New York eHealth Collaborative (NYeC) is asking physicians that receive a mail or email invitation to participate in the survey as soon as possible. After completing this brief online survey, respondents will receive a gift code or can donate their gift to a charitable organization.

For more information or if you have any questions, please contact the NORC at the University of Chicago team at SHIN-NY@norc.org or call them at 1-800-975-2754.  (AUSTER)


NYS Senate and NYS Assembly Advance Bill Mandating Patient Education for C-Section; Physician Action Urged
Senate Bill 2888/A.318, sponsored by Senator Julia Salazar and Assemblymember Amy Paulin, has advanced to the Senate calendar after being reported from the Senate Women’s Issues Committee this week by a 4-2 vote with one additional Senator voting without recommendation. 

The measure would require all physicians and other health care providers to provide all maternity patients with written information as to the risks associated with Cesarean section. This measure has already passed the NY State Assembly. The Medical Society of the State of New York & ACOG are opposed to this measure as it interferes with the physician patient relationship by requiring a written communication to every single pregnant women whom the physician recommends a  C-Section. MSSNY, the NYS Academy of Family Physicians & ACOG are concerned that an individual patient may have different risk factors and health needs.  Furthermore, the terminology of the bill is not consistent with the typical medical practice. 

The Medical Society is also troubled by the proliferation here in New York State, and nationally, calling for legislation requiring educational information that physicians will need to cite that pertains to women’s health issues.  Nationally, a disproportionate number of these bills apply only to physicians when they are treating pregnant women.  Furthermore, states have gagged or coerced physician communications for politicized public health issues.   This measure mandates physicians to provide “a script” that may not comply with the latest medical evidence on Cesarean section.  Physicians are urged to contact their Senate members and urge defeat of the bill.  Senate members can be reached through the main senate switchboard at (518) 455-2800 or by sending a letter through the MSSNY Grassroots Action Center here.                     (CLANCY)   


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MSSNY Seeking Information on NYS Physicians Having Difficulties with Walmart on Prescribing Practices
The Medical Society of the State of New York is interested in hearing from physicians who may have received a letter from Walmart in regards to the prescribing practices for controlled substances.   Walmart, Walgreens, and CVS pharmacies have implemented the CDC Guidelines for Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain as corporate policy.  MSSNY has learned that Walmart has sent letters to physicians throughout the country about their prescribing practices.   In the letters, Walmart indicated that it will no longer be accepting physicians’ prescriptions for Controlled Substances II-V after Walmart’s review of a physician’s prescribing practice.

MSSNY is extremely concerned about corporate policies that could result in refusal to fill prescriptions above certain doses and to refuse to fill prescriptions from certain physicians based on the corporation’s arbitrary definitions of questionable prescribing patterns.  MSSNY is aware that a few NYS physicians have received this letter and several physicians have been told by Walmart that it will not honor any prescription for Controlled Substance II-V.   MSSNY has brought this matter to the attention of the NYS DOH Bureau of Narcotics and is awaiting further information from them.   In particular, we have raised concerns that such policies could result in patients unfairly being denied access to needed medication.  Any physician who may have received this letter, please contact Pat Clancy, Sr. Vice President, Public Health and Education/Managing Director, at pclancy@mssny.org or by phone at 518-465-8085.            (CLANCY)


Physician’s Electronic Emergency Preparedness Toolkit Updated
Be sure to check out MSSNY’s newly updated Physician’s Electronic Emergency Preparedness Toolkit at the MSSNY CME website.  This essential toolkit is set up in four modules and provides participants with a total of 15 free CME credits.  Each module offers a comprehensive selection of resources on everything from legal protections and best practices to go-bag and office checklists.  MSSNY designed this resource to assist medical professionals in becoming fully prepared and ready for the next public health emergency.  MSSNY has also created a new podcast to accompany the updated toolkit, be sure to listen to it here.                 (HOFFMAN, CLANCY)


“What’s Your Diagnosis? Psychological First Aid” Interactive CME Webinar
Be sure to register for the next Medical Matters webinar, What’s Your Diagnosis? Psychological First Aid.  This program will involve more interaction from participants.  You will be asked to answer questions about a case and discussion will follow.  Find out if you’re fully prepared to include psychological first aid during an emergency on February 20th at 7:30am.  Registration is open for this program here. Faculty will be Craig Katz, MD, co-vice chair of MSSNY’s Emergency Preparedness and Disaster/Terrorism Response Committee.

Educational Objectives:

  • Describe the basic tenets of psychological first aid (PFA)
  • Identify resources to assist patients during and after trauma
  • Describe a scenario and review questions and answers

The Medical Society of the State of New York is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

The Medical Society of the State of New York designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA/PRA Category 1 credits™.  Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity. 

(HOFFMAN, CLANCY)


Registration Now Open for New Veterans Matters CME Webinars
The Medical Society of the State of New York is proud to announce two NEW Veterans Matters webinars scheduled for February and March 2019. These webinars are:

Veterans Matters: The Special Mental Health Needs of Women Veterans

When:  Thursday February 28, 2019 at 7:30am – Register here.

Faculty: Colonel Malene Ingram, MD, US Army Reserves

Educational Objectives:

  • Review how the increased role of women in the military has impacted their mental health.
  • Describe mental health concerns unique to women veterans and how to identify and treat them.
  • Identify the barriers that women veterans face in getting the specific care they need

Veterans Matters: Military Culture: Everything Physicians Need to Know About Veterans as Patients

When: Thursday, March 14 2019 at 7:30am – Register here.

Faculty: Lt. Col Lance Allen Wang, & Marcelle Leis, CM Sgt. (Ret)

Educational Objectives

  • Describe the unique aspects of military culture and how they impact patients who are veterans.
  • Explain the Dwyer Peer-to-Peer program as a resource to assist veteran patients re-acclimating from a group to an individual mentality.
  • Review and identify resources to improve physician’s ability to fully treat veterans who are transitioning back into civilian life.

Additional information or assistance with registration can be obtained by contacting Sarah Humes at shumes@mssny.org or (518)465-8085

The Medical Society of the State of New York is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

The Medical Society of the State of New York designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA/PRA Category 1 creditsä.  Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

 (HUMES, HOFFMAN)


For more information relating to any of the above articles, please contact the appropriate contributing staff member at the following email addresses:

pschuh@mssny.org mauster@mssny.org  pclancy@mssny.org  mavella@mssny.org
charring@mssny.org
eNews
MSSNY Physician leaders meet in Washington, DC with New York legislators to support efforts to assure patient access to care.

Senator Schumer

Dr. Willie Underwood; Dr. Corliss Varnum; Dr. Charles Rothberg; MSSNY President Dr. Tom Madejski; Senator Schumer; Dr. Carlos Zapata;  Medical Student Usman Aslam; and MSSNY Sr. VP Of Legislative Affairs Moe Auster

Dr. Corliss Varnum; Dr. Charles Rothberg; US Rep. Paul Tonko (20th Cong. District); MSSNY President Tom Madejski; MSSNY Senior VP Legislative Affairs Moe Auster; and Medical Student Usman Aslam

MSSNY EVP Phil Schuh  (second from left) joins the MSSNY contingency at US Rep. Morelle’s (25th District) office.

Dr. Rose Berkun (first on left) joined the group at US Rep. Elise Stefanik (21st District).

Update on ZocDoc Pricing Change
MSSNY and its General Counsel, Garfunkel Wild, P.C., met with representatives of Zocdoc to better understand the planned change in its pricing model, and to discuss concerns raised by MSSNY’s members. Zocdoc currently charges its customers a flat annual fee (with no booking fee), and is now moving to a substantially reduced annual fee, with an additional per new patient booking fee based on the physician specialty.

The new policy is effective April 1, 2019.  Zocdoc has received a legal opinion from the New York State Department of Health (based upon information provided by and a request from ZocDoc) advising that its new pricing model does not constitute an illegal referral business or fee splitting under New York law.  They are currently pursuing guidance from the federal government prior to implementing this new pricing plan for Medicaid and Medicare patients. MSSNY and Garfunkel Wild will continue to monitor the situation and keep all members appraised of any new developments. Members with questions can reach out to MSSNY ‘s Legal Counsel Garfunkel Wild, PC: Barry Cepelewicz (516-393-2725); Hayden Wool (516-393-2232); or James Dering (518-560-4021).


Recreational Marijuana: NY Police, Doctors and Educators Fight Legalization
New York’s recreational marijuana battle sits on the frontline of a generational war over American cannabis laws. As debate heats up, USA TODAY Network New York is compiling answers to key questions about legalized cannabis. The findings will be updated each Monday as New York considers joining the 10 states that allow adults to use marijuana.

A growing opposition movement across law enforcement, education and public health is attacking the politically charged push to legalize recreational marijuana in New York.

Many of the powerful advocacy groups suggest passage could lead to spikes in drugged driving and marijuana-related health risks ranging from smoking hazards to psychotic episodes.

LEGAL POT: Northeast states grapple with recreational marijuana bills in 2019 legislative sessions. Some warn New York’s sudden rush towards legal marijuana ignores how profit-driven corporations hooked generations of Americans on alcohol, cigarettes and opioids, killing millions and straining public resources.

“We have many different intoxicants in our society, none of them are particularly helpful, and I think adding one more is not in society’s interest,” said Dr. Thomas Madejski, president of the Medical Society of The State of New York. (Feb 15 Lohud Rockland/Westchester Journal News)


AMA Presented Prestigious Dr. Nathan Davis Award to MSSNY Member Richard “Doc” Izquierdo, M.D., for Outstanding Public Service
Dr. Izquierdo has served his Bronx community for nearly six decades as a physician, health care innovator, community leader and Medical Society advocate. Dr. Izquierdo was chosen for the AMA’s top public service award for his lifetime of work, serving generations of Bronx residents. The award was presented to Dr. Izquierdo at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. as part of the AMA’s National Advocacy Conference.

Dr. Izquierdo’s daughter, Paloma Izquierdo-Hernandez, was scheduled to accept the award on her father’s behalf but her flight was canceled due to inclement weather in New York. MSSNY President Dr. Madejski stepped in to accept the award on behalf of Dr. Izquierdo. Click here to view a video of Dr. Madejski accepting the award.



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Women Are Overlooked, Undervalued in Healthcare, Research Suggests
A study by The Lancet publishing on Feb. 9 stated, “Women are overlooked by medical researchers and undervalued in health-related careers, a series of reports in the British medical journal the Lancet has found.”

The reports’ authors “found medical research was skewed toward the needs of men, with almost three quarters of biomedical research papers failing to consider differences in outcome according to sex.” One report indicated that “women outnumbered men at junior levels, but their numbers dwindled in senior posts.” A separate report “found women suffered from bias when applying for research funding.” he studies can be found here, here, and here.


CVS Unveils New HealthHub Store to “Manage” Chronic Conditions and Test Blood
CVS Health has unveiled three redesigned health-focused concept stores in the Houston market, according to CNBC. The pilot stores, called HealthHubs, have space for services to help customers manage such chronic conditions as diabetes, hypertension and asthma. Each store also has an expanded health clinic with a lab for blood testing and health screenings. Beyond those services, there are also wellness rooms equipped to handle yoga classes and seminars.

While the new stores have less space for greeting cards, seasonal items and general merchandise, consumers can still find toys, candy. In addition, consumers can buy more health-focused products, such as medical equipment and supplies for diabetes care and sleep apnea.

After acquiring Aetna in November, CVS promised to transform its stores to improve the health of its customers and lower healthcare costs. (Feb 13 Beckers)


Dr. Millar Appears on Local TV Health Show
Onondaga Medical Society President Dr. MaryAnn Millar appeared as a guest on a local TV show Bridge Street; Your Health to talk about the Onondaga County Medical Society and their mission to help their community.

DFS Emergency Adoption Calling for 18 Month Delay of WC Fee Schedules
Please see the following regarding Department of Financial Services’ (DFS) emergency adoption calling for an 18-month delay of the WC medical fee schedules for NYS No-Fault Auto cases-

Charges for Professional Health Services

Date Published in State Register: February 27, 2019

Contact: Camielle Barclay

The notice of proposed rule for No-Fault Auto will be published in the NY State Register on February 20, 2019 with a public comment period, open until April 22, 2019.  Based on this proposed rule, DFS is delaying adoption of the update WC medical fee schedules until October 1, 2020.  Therefore, physicians who treat NYS auto accident victims will need to use the current/existing WCB fee schedule which became effective on June 1, 2012.  This is the link for the NY State Register:  https://www.dos.ny.gov/info/register/2019.htmlOnce the February 20, 2019 notice is published, you will be able to submit your comments to DFS regarding the delayed adoption.


Medicine Innovation & Entrepreneurship Conference Saturday April 27th, 8-5 pm
We invite Physicians interested in innovation & entrepreneurship to join fellow physician innovators at the first start up conference for doctors by doctors. The MIE physician speakers, who have a proven track record of successfully starting their own endeavors, have volunteered their time to help doctors in the healthcare innovation space. A complete list of speakers can be found on the website. We also will be featuring an investor / venture capitalist panel for any physicians who are looking for funding for their innovative idea. Only 50 spots remaining.

Healthcare innovation is not just for tech giants and we want to help our fellow physicians bring their ideas to life. Come join us for this transformative event!

RSVP at www.medicineandtech.com with discount code MSSNY for 15% off all registration categories.


Universal Healthcare in CA Would Cost $17 Billion Annually, Analysis Suggests
The San Francisco Chronicle (2/8) reported, “Universal health care in California could cost $17.3 billion a year,” according to a proposal put forward by health policy researchers at UC Berkeley. Under the plan, some 3 million uninsured Californians would gain access to healthcare coverage.

The article said this is one of several recent analyses. This one differs from the others in that universal healthcare is estimated to cost about twice as much, given that it “builds in the assumption that the uninsured would get on private health insurance plans, whereas other estimates factor in federal funding for getting more people on Medi-Cal, which is jointly paid for by the federal and state governments.”


New WC Medical Fee Schedule
The Chair adopted an updated Workers’ Compensation Medical Fee Schedule on December 26, 2018. The new Medical Fee Schedule will be effective for services provided on or after April 1, 2019. The new WC fee schedule is an increase of 10-37% for physicians.

The Board adopted the use of ICD-10 October 1, 2015, as previously announced in Subject Number 046-785 Chair Announces Adoption of ICD-10. Therefore, effective April 1, 2019, the Board will require full compliance with ICD-10.

The Workers’ Compensation Medical Fee Schedule is published by Optum Insight. Copies may be obtained by mail, telephone, or online.

By mail, write to: Official New York Workers’ Compensation Fee Schedule, PO Box 88050,
Chicago, IL 60680-9920 By phone: Call (800) 464-3649, option 1.

Online: Go to www.optum360coding.com, keyword New York, or https://www.optum360coding.com/Product/40508/.

Clarissa M. Rodriguez
Chair WCB


 

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Rare Find — Great Office Share
Wonderful office share in terrific location at great price. Available Monday, Wednesday, Friday and weekends. Choice of smaller windowed consultation room with adjoining exam room or big windowed consultation room with one or two exam rooms. Beautiful bright rooms, lovely reception area and front . First-rate building on 58th Street between Park and Lexington. Rent by day (about $180). Front desk and office management available if needed, along with many other amenities, including internet, ultrasound, EMG Kitchen, optional C Arm. Willing to make changes for new tenant. Call 646-642-0700.


Are You Trying to Lease Your Medical Office or Sell Your Medical Practice? Trying to Sell New or Used Medical Equipment?
Clineeds, the new online platform designed for medical providers. With Clineeds you can lease your medical officeshared your office spacebuy and sell used medical equipment, or post healthcare job opportunities. LISTING IS FREE! Why wait? Click here to sign-up: www.clineeds.com/sign-up


PHYSICIAN OPPORTUNITIES

Pediatrician BC, P/T
Seeking motivated, enthusiastic pediatrician for P/T position in solo practice in Long Island. Coverage will increase over time. Great opportunity for those seeking part time hours in an established practice.   Fax resume to 516-858-2389.


Physician Wanted to Help Shape the Future of Primary Care
98point6 is a healthcare technology company committed to delivering more affordable, accessible, high-quality primary care. To support our mission, the insights of forward-thinking physicians like you are invaluable. Members of our exclusive Primary Care Council have no clinical responsibilities and are generally compensated for participation, which requires only a few hours per year.

Interested? Learn more and apply today at www.98point6.com/pcc


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