MSSNY Pulse: December 2, 2022

Message from MSSNY President Parag Mehta, MD:
Urge Governor Hochul to Veto Wrongful Death!

Colleagues:
As we approach the end of 2022, we anticipate that the Wrongful Death lawsuit expansion legislation passed by the Legislature earlier this year will be sent to Governor Hochul for her consideration within a few weeks.  Thank you to the many of you who have sent her letters raising concerns about the huge adverse impact to patient care in our communities if this bill is signed into law, but we are now at a critical juncture where many more physicians must take this step.

MSSNY’s advocacy on this issue includes working with other groups similarly concerned with the adverse impact of this bill, as well as working with county medical societies on op-eds in newspapers across the State regarding the patient care consequences of a 40% increase in your liability premiums:

Please visit wrongful death liability issues to urge the Governor to veto this legislation through letters and tweets to Governor Hochul. Rejecting this legislation is the right thing to do for the patients of New York State. Profoundly untenable consequences to patient care will result if signed into law by the Governor.

And as a final note, I extend my heartfelt sympathies to the victims of the earthquakes in Indonesia, the tornado outbreak in our Southern Plains, and the most preventable of disasters—the recent shootings in Colorado and Virginia.

Parag Mehta, MD
MSSNY President


HHS Cybersecurity Center Warns of New Ransomware Threat
Ransomware incidents are rising in the healthcare industry as attackers eye the vast stores of patient data that providers collect.  Attacks on healthcare organizations doubled in the last year and cybersecurity firms are finding that threats are increasing in complexity and impact. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Health Sector Cybersecurity Coordination Center is cautioning the healthcare industry that Venus ransomware operators are targeting remote desktop services to encrypt Windows devices.

One of the country’s largest healthcare organizations, CommonSpirit Health, is still working to identify the ransomware that gained access to its system. CommonSpirit Health is still attempting to restore some functions lost in the attack.

Learn more about the Venus ransomware targeting health providers, and register for our Cyber Security Webinar here.

HHS cybersecurity center warns of new ransomware threat (Kelly, 11/14, Healthcare Dive).



The Clock is Ticking for Steep Medicare Physician Cuts for 2023 – Congress Must Act!
With just a few weeks left until CMS implements a drastic 8.5% cut to Medicare physician payments for 2023, physicians are again urged to contact their Respective Congressional representative and Senators Schumer and Gillibrand (Stop Cuts to Medicare Payments (p2a.co) to urge that they act to prevent this staggering cut

Please let them know that any cut, let alone the cut of this magnitude, is intolerable as many physician practices attempt to recover from the pandemic can barely keep their doors open to continue delivering patient care and employing staff.

The cuts are based upon a variety of provisions that will expire at the end of 2022. Late last year, MSSNY worked together with the AMA and state and specialty societies across the country to successfully persuade Congress to delay a “perfect storm” of Medicare payment cuts totaling 10% that, if permitted to be implemented, would have severely impeded patient access to care.

MSSNY is again working with the federation of medicine as part of a group effort to prevent the cut.  Before the end of the year, we are asking Congress to:

  • Extend the Congressionally enacted 3% temporary increase in the Medicare physician fee schedule
  • Provide relief for an additional 1.5% budget neutrality cut that is planned for 2023
  • End the statutory annual freeze and provide an inflation-based update for the coming year
  • Waive the 4% PAYGO sequester necessitated by passage of legislation unrelated to Medicare

Please let your legislators know that their constituents – your patients – will suffer from access issues if this cut is not prevented by the end of the year.  Again, you can send a letter to your members of Congress from here: Stop Cuts to Medicare Payments (p2a.co).


Join Us for MSSNY’s Lobby Day on March 14th, 2023
Please plan to put aside Tuesday, March 14th, 2023, for MSSNY’s annual Physician Advocacy Day. To register, click here: Physician Advocacy Registration.

For the first time since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, MSSNY’s lobby day will be held in person! It will take place at the Empire State Plaza (The Egg) in Albany from 7:45-11:00am. Physicians and their allies will hear from legislative leaders in the morning, and in the afternoon, they will meet with their respective legislators in meetings organized by county medical societies.

This year, we will be advocating for policies that address public health threats, remove barriers to patients accessing needed care, and reduce prior authorization and claim payment hassles. At the same time, we will voice our opposition to policies that will increase medical liability insurance costs and inappropriately expand the scope of practice for non-physicians.

Please plan to join hundreds of colleagues from around the state in Albany on March 14th!



ASPR One Dose Vial Information
On November 14, HHS opened ordering to jurisdictional and federal entity administration partners for a limited amount of the updated (bivalent) Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for people 12 years of age or older in single-dose vials. Deliveries will begin several days later. This vial presentation is in response to widespread requests from our vaccine administration partners for the greater flexibility this presentation provides.

This limited introduction of single-dose vials is designed to allow partners to offer the updated COVID-19 vaccines in more places, such as physicians’ offices or mobile clinics that may not have the capacity or demand to keep multi-dose vials of COVID-19 vaccine on hand. It is the latest step in improving ease of access for COVID-19 vaccines and creates the potential for more equitable availability of this lifesaving product.

The U.S. government will continue distributing multi-dose vials of the updated Pfizer vaccine for people 12 years of age or older through our distribution network that reaches more than 70,000 vaccine administration sites.


Advisory: Updates to COVID-19 Treatment Recommendations
This announcement is to make you aware of updates to COVID-19 treatment recommendations. Emerging omicron subvariants (e.g., BQ.1 and BQ.1.1) are resistant to the monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) bebtelovimab and Evusheld (authorized for pre-exposure prophylaxis). On November 30, 2022, the FDA updated the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) fact sheet for the COVID-19 monoclonal antibody bebtelovimab. Due to the prevalence of Omicron sub-variants such as BQ.1/BQ.1.1, bebtelovimab is not currently authorized for emergency use in the U.S.



MSSNY 16th Annual Poster Symposium
MSSNY Medical Students and Resident/Fellow members are invited to submit abstracts that will be considered for poster presentation at this year’s House of Delegates. Deadline for abstract submission: 4 pm, Monday, January 16, 2023.

Please note that medical student membership requires enrollment in an LCME or COCA-accredited school. However, non-LCME/COCA students doing rotations in New York hospitals may participate without membership.  Click here for more details.


Abstract Reviewers Needed
MSSNY will once again hold a Residents/Fellows and Medical Students’ Poster Symposium during the 2023 MSSNY House of Delegates.  We are seeking volunteers to serve as reviewers of abstracts for the symposium. January 16, 2023 is the deadline for submission of abstracts and abstract review will take place between January 20 and February 20.

If you are interested in reviewing abstracts, please contact Kathy Rohrer at krohrer@mssny.org



Governor, Citing Costs, Vetoes Numerous Bills to Create Health Care Workgroups
Governor Hochul vetoed nearly 40 bills this week that would have required various state agencies to create various Task Forces and commissions, including bills relating an array of health care issues.  According to the Governor’s veto message, the bills “would collectively cost the State approximately forty million dollars, none of these costs are accounted for in the State Financial Plan” and that “because of the ongoing work of state agencies and authorities, a number of the proposals would result in duplication and unnecessary bureaucracy.”

Among the bills that were vetoed include bills that would have:

  • Created a maternal mental health workgroup
  • Created a primary reform commission
  • Created a fentanyl abuse and overdose prevention task force; and
  • Created a sickle cell disease detection and education program


Governor Signs Bill to Require CMV Risk Notification to Pregnant Patients
Just before Thanksgiving, Governor Hochul signed into law legislation (6287-B, Mannion) that will require OB-GYNs and midwives to provide information to their pregnant patients regarding the risks, transmission and prevention of cytomegalovirus (CMV) on their first visit during the pregnancy.  The materials to be shared with pregnant patients will be developed by the New York State Department of Health.  The requirement will take effect on or about May 22, 2023.



Governor Signs Bill to Limit Tactics for Collecting Medical Debts
Governor Hochul has signed into law legislation (A7363-A, Gottfried) that prohibits a hospital, physician, or any other health care provider from placing a lien on patient’s home or garnishing their wages to collect a medical debt. The law took effect on November 23, 2022.  In the press release announcing the signing of the bill into law, the Governor noted “No one should face the threat of losing their home or falling into further debt after seeking medical care”, and that “With medical debt a burden for far too many, this is an important step to address this crucial issue.”  The sponsors of the bill noted that “Over 50,000 New York patients have been sued for medical debt by non-profit hospitals in the past five years-4,000 during the COVID-19 pandemic”.


Opposition to Wrongful Death Statute Continues to Mount
This week, opposition to the pending Grieving Families Act continued to mount with the NY Post and Center Square calling on Governor Hochul to veto this legislation.

An op-ed opposing the bill from Dutchess County Medical Society President Dr. Adele El Kareh also ran in the Times Union, as well as one from Orange County Medical Society President Mandes Kates, PhD, MD, and Past President Mark Stamm, MD in The Warwick Advertiser.



Did You Miss Our No Surprises Act Webinar?
Did you miss the No Surprises Act Webinar on 11/30/22? No problem, we recorded it for you. This webinar, presented by the CMS team, addresses the formal processes since the law went into effect on 01/01/22. There was a lengthy Q&A with many provider-specific questions addressed. We thank CMS and its team for taking the time to provide this information and for taking the concerns of our Physicians and bringing them back to CMS leadership.


Physician Addiction: A Health Care Crisis Webinar December 6
The New York County Medical Society Cordially invites you to a CME program,  Physician Addiction: A Health Care Crisis, on Tuesday, December 6 from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. with Steven Mandel, MD and the Physician Wellness Committee: Jill Baron, MD, Harris Stratyner, MD, Stuart Gitlow, MD, Paul Earley, MD, Jeffrey Selzer, MD and Chris Bundy, MD. To register, Click Here  

Addiction in physicians is an extremely serious problem. It is estimated that up to 15% of physicians will develop a substance use disorder (SUD) during their lifetime. Job stress and comorbidities, especially post–COVID symptoms, have led many to turn to drugs and other substances to alleviate their anxiety. This program aims to provide education and a safe platform for physicians who may be struggling with substance use and to educate our physician members about the signs and symptoms for substance use and addiction so they can better identify patients with these conditions.

The program is the work of Steven Mandel, MD, and is supported through the Physician Wellness Committee, with Jill Baron, MD. Other participants include Harris Stratyner, MD; Stuart Gitlow, MD; Paul Earley, MD; Jeffrey Selzer, MD; and Chris Bundy, MD.

Accreditation Statement:
This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the Accreditation Requirements and Policies of the Medical Society of the State of New York (MSSNY) through the joint providership of the Westchester Academy of Medicine and the New York County Medical Society. The Westchester Academy of Medicine is accredited by MSSNY to provide Continuing Medical Education for physicians.

The Westchester Academy of Medicine designates this live webinar activity for a maximum of 1.5 AMA PRA Category I Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

The Society thanks the Clifford L. Spingarn, MD, Memorial Education Fund for support of this program.



Salary Data and Contract Review: What You Need to Know with Resolve CEO Kyle Claussen Tuesday, December 6
Resolve has empowered over 10,000 physicians in their employment agreements leading to national recognition with various state and national physician societies. Kyle Claussen is the CEO of Resolve and a partner in the law firm of Morgan Theeler, LLP. He received his undergraduate degree from North Dakota State University, his law degree from the University of La Verne College of Law, and his LL.M. in Taxation from Boston University. He is a member of the American Health Lawyers Association and is one of the leading experts in physician employment agreements. Kyle has been featured on a variety of physician focus media sources including ZdoggMD, White Coat Investor, Physician Side Gigs, Physician Moms Group, Beyond Medicine, The Physician Philosopher, and others. Register Today!


Cybersecurity: Locking the Back Door Webinar Wednesday, December 14
In this webinar, STI will introduce you to Cybersecurity Trends that are affecting the Healthcare industry. The cybersecurity landscape keeps evolving as bad characters continue to get more creative. Over the last year, they have come up with new attack vectors and adjusted their tactics to circumvent ways that had been implemented to prevent them in the past.

STI’s Director of Technical Services, Al Toper, is an Air Force veteran with over 40 years in the technology field. Please join him as he shows you these new attack vectors and things you can do to help prevent you from being the next victim. Register Today



Registration Now Open Medical Matters CME Webinar Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): An Evolving Story December 14th
Like influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) began surging unseasonably in 2022.  Learn more about the current RSV outbreak, and why experts are concerned about a “tripledemic” by registering for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): An Evolving Story on December 14th at 7:30am.  Faculty for this webinar are Edward Walsh, MD, Professor of Medicine at the University of Rochester, and Head of Infectious Diseases at the Rochester General Hospital, and William Valenti, MD, chair of MSSNY’s Infectious Diseases Committee.

Educational Objectives are:

  • Describe the 2022-2023 RSV season
  • Outline history and epidemiology of RSV infection
  • Identify strategies for prevention and treatment, including vaccine prospects

Additional information or assistance with registration may be obtained by contacting Melissa Hoffman at mhoffman@mssny.org.

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.


Check Out Adirondack Records Management.for All of Your Business Records Needs
Announcing a new member benefit with Adirondack Records Management. Adirondack specializes in business record storage and management, document scanning and conversion, confidential document destruction, and management programs that ensure retiring physicians’ records are in good hands for future needs. Pricing discounts for MSSNY members. Start saving today by calling (518) 465-3377/(518) 366-5531 or at ataball@msn.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 2022 Ad RateSheet, please click here.


Concierge Practice for Sale  Boca Raton Florida
FOR SALE: Established Independent Concierge Internal Medicine Practice in Boca Raton, Florida. Stable turnkey operation in a pleasant work environment. Ideal for someone with the desire to transition to a better approach to medical practice. Financing available.
Contact planahead2023@gmail.com.


Rheumatology Practice Sublet – Great Neck, NY
Sublet opportunity available at an established medical office in Great Neck, NY. Prime location near LIJ, Northshore University and St. Francis Hospitals. Fully equipped office with onsite parking and proximity to mass transit. Contact 516-972-2986/susanrita1@msn.com for more info.


Medical Office for Share in Medical Park with Free Big Parking Lot in Westchester County
Medical office for sublet in Medical Park with free big parking lot, located at West Harrison, border of White Plains in Westchester County. Office includes a big waiting room with a kitchen, doctors office, exam room, and reception area. All rooms are available for whole days of Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, Thursday (Thursday full day on every 1st and 3rd week and Thursday morning on every 2nd and 4th week each month, or we can discuss more options). Monthly rent $600 for once a week usage, $1100 for twice a week usage, $1500 for three-day a week usage. Newly renovated and fully furnished. Text May if you are interested 646-338-4803



Rendr – Transforming Healthcare – Leadership Opportunity: Associate Chief Medical Office, SVP of Population Health, Bilingual English and Chinese (Mandarin or Cantonese) preferred
Job Position: Associate Chief Medical Office, SVP of Population Health in this role, you will lead and provide a wide range of support through population health, quality measures, practice transformation, Rendr360 department, House Calls, and other projects. Please send resumes careers@rendrcare.com. We are offering leadership opportunities to Physicians who are interested in providing high-quality clinical care to our patients in the diverse communities that we serve. As a rapidly growing network, we provide a supportive environment for our physicians to practice medicine under the guidance of dedicated medical leadership. www.rendrcare.com.

MSSNY Pulse: November 18, 2022

Message from MSSNY President Parag Mehta, MD:
Happy Thanksgiving!

Colleagues:
This past weekend, MSSNY Delegates to the American Medical Association (AMA) Interim Annual Conference successfully brought numerous resolutions before physicians from around the country (see article below for details).  Approximately two dozen delegates and alternates from New York attended the AMA Conference in Honolulu, listening to and speaking with other delegates from around the USA and beyond.

As your MSSNY President, I attended along with our President-Elect Dr. Paul Pipia and Vice President Jerome Cohen.  Our MSSNY Delegation was led by Drs. Charlie Rothberg and Joseph Sellers.  Please join me in congratulating our New York physician leaders for working to advocate for our interests.

This month, we celebrate Native American Heritage Month, which aims to provide a platform for Native people in the United States of America to share their culture, traditions, music, crafts, dance, and ways and concepts of life.

I wish you hope, joy, peace, good health, and love today and always. Happy Thanksgiving Day!

I am blessed and grateful to be surrounded by a devoted and talented staff, gifted leaders, and amazing members of MSSNY. Though we are far apart, we are connected with MSSNY Pulse.

And finally, I am sharing beautiful thoughts from Hawaiian culture written by Kumu Keala Ching:

‘O ke aloha ka mea i ho’ola ai ma ke ola à e ola ke ala pono ma ‘o aku o ka hana aloha. “O ia nò ka mea
nui ma kêia ao hulihuli, e nânã ià ‘oe iho ma mua o kou kuhi hewa ià ha”i. E ola ke aloha à e ala ke ola!

Compassion (gentleness, unity, truth, humbleness, and patience) is what brings healing within life’s journey, and the living journey is beyond our work of compassion. We embrace this mindset as we journey within these changing times, observing within before pointing at the wrong beyond. Live compassionately and journey beyond.

Encouraging the mindset of compassion during these times of change! The truth will guide our journey!

Embrace gentleness within and beyond E Akahai è
Firmly standing upon unity seen and unseen E Lökahi kü
Live, speak and know the truth. Truth is life ‘Oia’i’o nô
Eternal humbleness is truly the flame of life. Ha’aha’a è
Know and be patient. Patience is a gift Ahonui, Ahonui, Ahonui
Compassion is recognized, seen, and unseen Aloha

Parag Mehta, MD
MSSNY President


MSSNY Advocates for New York Physicians and Patients at the AMA
MSSNY Delegates to the American Medical Association (AMA) Interim Annual Conference this past weekend successfully brought numerous resolutions before physicians from around the country.

Among the many issues MSSNY brought to national attention included:

  • Advocating for federal rules requiring increased hazard pay for physicians working during health emergencies such as COVID.
  • Requiring COVID vaccinations for public schools.
  • Protecting physicians in state medical licensing boards from external political influence, particularly related to charges based on health misinformation.
  • Allowing physicians to claim CME credits that more accurately reflect hours spent on preparing and presenting CME programs.
  • Working to streamline or eliminate unproven metric collection by physicians that takes away from patient quality care.
  • Improving the FairHealth database — which is considered in New York  surprise billing disputes — by including frequency reporting.

The MSSNY Delegation to the AMA collaborated with specialty society and other New York and national representatives to the AMA to advance these and other initiatives that are crucial to protect physicians and our patients.

Highlights from the 2022 AMA Interim Meeting

MSSNY’s Delegation to the AMA. Advocating for physicians and our patients in New York and around the country.

MSSNY American Medical Association delegates meet in Hawaii to review proposed resolutions.

MSSNY Delegates Leif Knight (left) and Dr. Frank Dowling (right) with other members of the AMA LGBT caucus.

MSSNY Delegate Dr. Dan Choi serves on AMA Reference Committee B dealing with resolutions on legislation.

MSSNY Delegate Dr. Daniel Choi sits on an AMA Reference Committee at the AMA conference.

MSSNY Delegate Leif Knight sits on the AMA Reference Committee at the National Conference in Honolulu.

MSSNY Delegate Dr. Howard Huang testifies at the AMA in support of resolution for equitable compensation for medical residents.

MSSNY Delegate Dr. Dan Gold speaks against the AMA resolution to allow health insurance across state lines that would undermine New York’s strong consumer and physician protections.

MSSNY Vice President Dr. Jerry Cohen at the AMA Meeting 2022 advocating MSSNY’s position on “Collaborative Care”, to retain language that protects the integrity of the physician-patient.

MSSNY Delegate Dr. Frank Dowling testifies at the AMA in support of HPV vaccinations for age-appropriate students.

MSSNY Delegate Dr. Erick Eiting speaks in favor of an AMA resolution favoring coverage for vaccinations for seniors through Medicare Part B.

MSSNY Past President Dr. Bonnie Litvack speaks in favor of AMA resolution for health insurance coverage of diagnosis and treatment of implant associated malignancies.

MSSNY Delegate Dr. Charles Lopresto testifies before the AMA in support of hazard pay for physicians during a disaster emergency.

MSSNY Delegate and ace medical student Anjlee Panjwani testifies in support of the AMA resolution for physicians practicing evidence based medicine in a post-Dobbs era.

MSSNY Delegate Dr. Carlos Zapata testifies in support of protecting the physician-patient relationship with respect to reproductive health services, including abortion.

 


MLMIC Ad


New Survey Reveals Current Physician Practice Environment is Not Sustainable to Improve Health Outcomes
The Physicians Foundation released part three of its 2022 Survey of America’s Physicians, which assessed the state of the physician practice and strategies to improve it.

“Before the pandemic and now, regulations and compliance have changed the landscape of physician practice—resulting in an environment that has negatively impacted physicians’ ability to deliver patient care and their overarching outlook on the profession,” said Gary Price, M.D., president of The Physicians Foundation. “Not only has our survey found that nearly half of physicians do not have high professional morale, but also that half would not recommend medicine as a career to young people. Many physicians feel overworked, underappreciated, and unable to do their jobs to the best of their ability.”

Approximately one in three physicians has experienced a reduction in staff over the past year with the most shortages reported for registered nurses (90%), nursing assistants (86%), social workers (85%), physicians (84%) and licensed practice nurses (83%).

Among those who reported staff shortages, physicians stated that the most impactful contributing factors were:

  • 85% reported administrative burdens
  • 79% reported increased working hours without compensation
  • 71% reported reduced salaries/benefits

Physician-Informed Solutions
Without action to address how we staff our care centers and how we deliver primary care, shortages will grow, and the resulting health of the country will worsen. The path towards this action is clear—physicians have identified what would most support them in ensuring access to high-quality, cost-efficient care for all patients. Approximately nine in 10 physicians identified simplifying/streamlining prior authorization for medical services and prescriptions; reimbursing physicians for providing telehealth services; simplifying access to integrated mental health services and advancing interoperability of EHRs as important.

For more check out The Physicians Foundation’s Part Three of Three: 2022 Survey of America’s Physicians.


MSSNY 16th Annual Poster Symposium Friday, April 21, 2023
MSSNY Medical Students and Resident/Fellow members are invited to submit abstracts that will be considered for poster presentation at this year’s House of Delegates. Deadline for abstract submission: 4 pm, Monday, January 16, 2023.

Please note that medical student membership requires enrollment in an LCME or COCA-accredited school. However, non-LCME/COCA students doing rotations in New York hospitals may participate without membership.  Click here for more details.



Abstract Reviewers Needed
MSSNY will once again hold a Residents/Fellows and Medical Students’ Poster Symposium during the 2023 MSSNY House of Delegates.  We are seeking volunteers to serve as reviewers of abstracts for the symposium.  January 16, 2023, is the deadline for submission of abstracts and abstract review will take place between January 20 and February 20.

If you are interested in reviewing abstracts, please contact Kathy Rohrer at krohrer@mssny.org


How to Tell Patients They’re Dying
Successful communication with patients entails conveying what is happening to them and ensuring that they understand. Some physicians say death and dying are not dirty words, so they should not be afraid to tell the patient, but at the same time, physicians should be mindful of how and when to say them. Physicians should be clear enough and use the D-word if needed. But it does not have to be said or repeated unnecessarily, as long as the patient understands what you mean.

Read more about Dr. Nakagawa’s approach and beliefs in telling a patient of their limited time remaining.

How to Tell Patients They’re Dying (Nakagawa, Medpage).



New NYSDOH Report Supports Efforts to Prevent Opioid Overdose Deaths in NY and Provides Specific Data to Mobilize Public Health Action
The New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) has just released the latest report in a series of Data to Action reports supporting efforts to prevent opioid overdose deaths in the state. Data to Action reports are short communications on important topics that provide specific data to mobilize public health action. This report, Continuous buprenorphine prescriptions for 6 months or more for the treatment of opioid use disorder in New York State, 2017-2021, presents data and information regarding continuous buprenorphine prescriptions for 6 months or more for the treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD). Additionally, it informs the general public, local health departments, emergency medical service providers and emergency departments/hospitals, correctional health settings, healthcare insurance providers, community and family members as well as other coalitions and organizations that work on opioid abuse, dependence, and overdose preventions about the trends of buprenorphine dispensing for 6 months or more for OUD. It also provides recommended actions and resources to promote the use of buprenorphine for the treatment of OUD.

For more information:

Opioid data dashboard: https://www.health.ny.gov/opioiddashboard


More County Medical Society Leaders Urge Governor Hochul to Veto Disastrous Lawsuit Expansion Bill
As physicians continue to press Governor Hochul to veto legislation that would strike a huge blow to New York’s health care safety net and make patient access to care even more challenging, this week Spectrum News reported on the opposition to this legislation from the Dutchess County Medical Society noting a letter from DCMS that states “The citizens of Dutchess County and all of New York will lose out. They will face increased health insurance premiums and longer wait times, which lead to worse health outcomes.”

This is the latest in a series of op-eds across New York State from MSSNY and county medical society leaders urging the Governor to veto legislation (S.74-A/A.6770), which would raise New York’s already excessive liability insurance costs by 40% by greatly increasing the types of damages awardable in wrongful death lawsuits.   Other physician leader op-eds have appeared in the Albany Times-Union, Buffalo News, Syracuse Post-Standard, Poughkeepsie Journal, Utica Observer-Dispatch Westchester Journal-News. Additionally, the New York Post issued an editorial calling on Governor Hochul to veto the bill that quotes MSSNY President Dr. Parag Mehta.

There are many other groups urging Governor Hochul to veto this legislation.  Hospitals, business groups, and municipalities are all taking various steps to urge a veto. The Lawsuit Reform Alliance of New York released an ad campaign, “Not One More Cost Hike”, to educate elected officials, local business owners, families, and voters of the costly consequences of A.6770/S.74-A.  Their ads have appeared in several news outlets across the State of New York.  More information can be found at www.NotOneMoreCostHike.org

Again, physicians across the state can join the thousands of their colleagues who have already registered their opposition to this legislation by sending a letter from Veto Liability Expansion (p2a.co).


CPH Banner


New Law Will Require Certain Information to be Provided to Patients with Epilepsy
Earlier this year Governor Hochul signed into law a bill A3298 (nyassembly.gov) that require physicians and other clinicians treating a patient for their epilepsy and at elevated risk of sudden unexpected death due to epilepsy (SUDEP) to provide the patient with written materials about the risk of SUDEP.  As reported in previous publications, MSSNY together with the New York State Neurological Society worked with the sponsors to narrow the applicable patient scenarios where the information would be required to be provided.

The law technically took effect this past week, November 15.  However, since the law requires that the patient materials are to be developed by the New York State Department of Health and they have not been developed yet, DOH officials have indicated that the law cannot be enforced at this time.

Earlier this week, MSSNY participated in a meeting convened by the NYSDOH together with physician experts in neurology and epilepsy to help develop the pamphlet that will be provided to physicians to provide to these patients who are at elevated risk of SUDEP.


Transition of Medicaid Pharmacy Benefit to a Single State Formulary Begins April 1, 2023
Starting April 1, 2023, the NYS DOH will transition the Medicaid pharmacy benefit from Managed Care (MC) to the Medicaid Pharmacy program, NYRx. Features of the new program include providing the State with full visibility into prescription drug costs, centralized negotiation power, and a single drug formulary with standardized utilization management protocols, as compared to the numerous and varying formularies used by MC plans under the existing program.

Information regarding specific outpatient drugs covered by the NYRx Medicaid Pharmacy program, and whether a prior authorization is required, can be found on the eMedNY website. However, when the pharmacy benefit transitions to NYRx, many Managed Care (MC) patients will be able to continue taking their medication without needing prior authorization, at least initially.

NYS DOH will use clinical editing criteria which may enable members to continue to receive non-formulary/non-preferred medication. Additionally, prior authorizations established in Managed Care will continue to be honored and could allow for non-formulary/non-preferred drug coverage. There will also be a transition period from April 1, 2023 through June 30, 2023, during which members will be provided with a one-time, temporary fill for drugs that would normally require prior authorization under the NYRx Preferred Drug Program (PDP). This will allow additional time for prescribers to either seek prior authorization or switch to a preferred drug which does not require prior authorization.

MSSNY has participated in numerous stakeholder meetings to work to minimize any potential new administrative burdens on physicians and their patients, which will continue as DOH announces new elements of the program. To learn more, view DOH’s comprehensive FAQ.



MSSNY in The News
MSSNY Assistant Treasurer Dr. Frank Dowling and NY Delegate Dr. Corliss Varnum were featured this week in Medpage Today’s article COVID Vaccine Mandates in the Spotlight at the AMA’s Interim Meeting.

Dutchess County Medical Society was also mentioned in Spectrum News 1 Albany’s story Hochul faces renewed veto calls for expansion of wrongful death law.


Highlights to CMS Final Rule
As many of you are aware, CMS has finalized their 2023 Medicare payment rule, which incorporates a 4.5% cut to the conversion factor. MSSNY is working together with the AMA to urge Congress to prevent these cuts. You can help by sending a letter from this link: Stop Exorbitant and Unsustainable Cuts to Medicare Payments.

Below are the additional highlights. MSSNY will be putting on a webinar in January to review specific code changes to further assist your practice.

Telehealth
CMS has decided to include several additional services to the Medicare CY 2023 Telehealth Services List on a Category 3 basis. Category 3 services were temporarily added to the Medicare Telehealth Services List in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and have a reasonable likelihood of clinical benefit when furnished via telehealth. The Medicare Telehealth Services List is available on the CMS website.

Chronic Pain Management & Treatment Bundles
CMS finalized their proposal to create separate coding and payment for Chronic Pain Management and Treatment (CPM) services beginning January 1, 2023, by creating HCPCS codes G3002 and G3003, with two modifications to HCPCS code G3002.

Procedures Subject to the Multiple Procedure Payment Reduction (MPPR) and the OPPS Cap
The list of services for 2023 that are subject to the MPPR are diagnostic cardiovascular services, diagnostic imaging services, diagnostics ophthalmology services, and therapy services. CPT® codes 0493T, 0642T, 0651T, 0658T, and 76883 are not within the statutory scope of services to which the OPPS cap applies, as they cannot be split into professional and technical components, or they only describe the professional component (PC). Therefore, CMS proposed to add these codes to the OPPS DRA caps list in error. CMS will not add the aforementioned codes to the list of services to which the OPPS cap applies. However, CPT® codes 0640T, 0641T, 0689T, 0690T, 0694T, 0700T, and 0701T, meet the definition of imaging services under section 1848(b)(4)(B of the Act, and thus, should be subject to the OPPS cap.

Caregiver Behavior Management Training
Caregiver training codes, CPT® codes 96202 and 96203, are new codes to be used to report the total duration of face-to-face time spent by providers providing group training to guardians and caregivers of patients.

Proposed Revisions to the “Incident to” Physician’s Services Regulation for Behavioral Health Services
In support of CMS’ 2022 Behavioral Health Strategy to improve access to and quality of mental health care services, CMS is finalizing its proposal to amend the direct supervision requirement under “incident to” regulations at § 410.26 to allow behavioral health services to be furnished under the general supervision of a physician or NPP when these services or supplies are provided by auxiliary personnel incident to the services of a physician or NPP.

Evaluation and Management Visits
CMS finalized their proposal to create Medicare-specific coding payment of ‘Other E/M’ prolonged services, like what CMS adopted in CY 2021 for payment of Office/Outpatient (O/O) prolonged services. Specifically, CMS adopted the general CPT framework for Other E/M visits, so that practitioner time or medical decision making (MDM) would be used to select the E/M visit level. This includes listing the qualifying activities by the physician or nonphysician practitioner (NPP) that count toward the time spent when time is used for the visit level. CMS also finalized their proposal to adopt the revised CPT codes and descriptors for Other E/M visits, except for prolonged services, which CMS proposes Medicare-specific coding. Additionally, CMS adopted the CPT E/M Guidelines regarding MDM for E/M services.

Home or Residence Services (CPT Codes 99341, 99342, 99344, 99345, 99347-99350)
CMS finalized a work RVU of 1.00 for CPT code 99341, a work RVU of 1.65 for CPT code 99342, a work RVU of 2.87 for CPT code 99344, a work RVU of 3.88 for CPT code 99345, a work RVU of 0.90 for CPT code 99347, a work RVU of 1.50 for CPT code 99348, a work RVU of 2.44 for CPT code 99349, and a work RVU of 3.60 for CPT code 99350. CMS also finalized their proposal to refine the direct PE inputs by removing supply item SK062 (codes 99341 and 99342). For CPT code 99344, CMS is proposing to refine the direct PE inputs by removing supply items SK062, SJ053, and SJ061.

Prolonged Services for Home or Residence Services (CPT Codes 99358, 99359)
CMS finalized their proposal to create a new code, G0318, for a prolonged home or residence visit. They also finalized their proposal to change the status indicator for prolonged CPT codes 99358 and 99359 to “I,” which indicates that these codes are not valid for Medicare purposes, and that Medicare uses another code for reporting of, and payment for, these services. To see the summary in its entirety please click here.

Keep your eyes open for an upcoming webinar MSSNY will be conducting specific to code changes in January. You don’t want to miss this!



Audits, Yes, Audits! Need Help Managing Your Insurance Contracts?
Audits, yes, audits! When was the last time you or your staff looked at your contracts with insurance companies? If it has been over a year, it is time to review and identify if anything needs to be updated or has potentially expired. Many contracts are “evergreen contracts,” meaning they will renew yearly until either party would like to amend. But this could be holding back your reimbursement, and you may lose additional dollars. Another good practice is to take a random sample of your claims and compare them to the contract. Doing this exercise checks the accuracy of contract rates vs. actual rates to ensure everything is correct. If you notice that things are not, it is time to contact your provider relations manager for a call. If you do not know who your provider relations rep is, contact Heather Lopez at hlopez@mssny.org for assistance.


Spoil the No Surprise Act Webinar
MSSNY is hosting a webinar on the upcoming No Surprise Act(NSA effective 1/01/2022), and our experts are here to give YOU the information YOU need to be at ease. In collaboration with CMS, we will provide YOU with detailed specifics to spoil any Surprises.

Edyne Zephirin from CMS will be presenting the webinar on November 30th @ 7:30 am specific to the No Surprise Act.  Please register today to save your spot and share it with your colleagues



Physician Addiction: A Health Care Crisis Webinar December 6
The New York County Medical Society Cordially invites you to a CME program,  Physician Addiction: A Health Care Crisis, on Tuesday, December 6 from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. with Steven Mandel, MD and the Physician Wellness Committee: Jill Baron, MD, Harris Stratyner, MD, Stuart Gitlow, MD, Paul Earley, MD, Jeffrey Selzer, MD and Chris Bundy, MD. To register, Click Here  

Addiction in physicians is an extremely serious problem. It is estimated that up to 15% of physicians will develop a substance use disorder (SUD) during their lifetime. Job stress and comorbidities, especially post–COVID symptoms, have led many to turn to drugs and other substances to alleviate their anxiety. This program aims to provide education and a safe platform for physicians who may be struggling with substance use and to educate our physician members about the signs and symptoms for substance use and addiction so they can better identify patients with these conditions. The program is the work of Steven Mandel, MD, and is supported through the Physician Wellness Committee, with Jill Baron, MD. Other participants include Harris Stratyner, MD; Stuart Gitlow, MD; Paul Earley, MD; Jeffrey Selzer, MD; and Chris Bundy, MD.

Accreditation Statement:
This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the Accreditation Requirements and Policies of the Medical Society of the State of New York (MSSNY) through the joint providership of the Westchester Academy of Medicine and the New York County Medical Society. The Westchester Academy of Medicine is accredited by MSSNY to provide Continuing Medical Education for physicians.

The Westchester Academy of Medicine designates this live webinar activity for a maximum of 1.5 AMA PRA Category I Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

The Society thanks the Clifford L. Spingarn, MD, Memorial Education Fund for support of this program.


Salary Data and Contract Review: What You Need to Know with Resolve CEO Kyle Claussen Tuesday, December 6, @ 12 pm
Kyle Claussen is the CEO of Resolve and a partner in the law firm of MorganTheeler, LLP. He received his undergraduate degree from North Dakota State University, his law degree from the University of La Verne College of Law, and his LL.M. in Taxation from Boston University. Kyle is a member of the American Health Lawyers Association and is one of the leading experts in physician employment agreements.

Resolve has empowered over 10,000 physicians in their employment agreements leading to national recognition with various state and national physician societies. Kyle has been featured on a variety of physician focus media sources including ZdoggMD, White Coat Investor, Physician Side Gigs, Physician Moms Group, Beyond Medicine, The Physician Philosopher, and others. Kyle is married to an Ophthalmologist and has 3 children and a dog. Register Today!




Cybersecurity: Locking the Back Door Webinar December 14, 2022 @ 7:30AM (EST)
In this webinar, STI will introduce you to Cybersecurity Trends that are affecting the Healthcare industry. The cybersecurity landscape keeps evolving as bad characters continue to get more creative. Over the last year, they have come up with new attack vectors and adjusted their tactics to circumvent ways that had been implemented to prevent them in the past.

STI’s Director of Technical Services, Al Toper, is an Air Force veteran with over 40 years in the technology field. Please join him as he shows you these new attack vectors and things you can do to help prevent you from being the next victim. Register Today


Spoil the No Surprises Act Webinar
MSSNY is hosting a webinar on the upcoming No Surprises Act (NSA effective 1/01/2023), and our experts are here to give YOU the information you need to be at ease. In collaboration with CMS, we will provide you with detailed specifics to spoil any surprises.

Edyne Zephirin from CMS will be presenting the webinar on November 30th @ 7:30 am specific to the No Surprises Act.  Please register today to save your spot and share it with your colleagues.


In Need of a New Winter Wardrobe?
MSSNY members receive a 15% discount on full-priced Brooks Brothers merchandise at stores, by phone, and online. Login to your MSSNY account for details on how to save!


MSSNY Advocacy Update Podcast: Post-Election Re-cap & Physician Grassroots Efforts Still Needed in 2022
Listen to MSSNY’s November 18 podcast as Senior Vice-President & Chief Legislative Counsel Moe Auster discusses the election results and what to expect.



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 2022 Ad RateSheet, please click here.


Concierge Practice for Sale  Boca Raton Florida
FOR SALE: Established Independent Concierge Internal Medicine Practice in Boca Raton, Florida. Stable turnkey operation in a pleasant work environment. Ideal for someone with the desire to transition to a better approach to medical practice. Financing available.
Contact planahead2023@gmail.com.


Rheumatology Practice Sublet – Great Neck, NY
Sublet opportunity available at an established medical office in Great Neck, NY. Prime location near LIJ, Northshore University and St. Francis Hospitals. Fully equipped office with onsite parking and proximity to mass transit. Contact 516-972-2986/susanrita1@msn.com for more info.


Medical Office for Share in Medical Park with Free Big Parking Lot in Westchester County
Medical office for sublet in Medical Park with free big parking lot, located at West Harrison, border of White Plains in Westchester County. Office includes a big waiting room with a kitchen, doctors office, exam room, and reception area. All rooms are available for whole days of Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, Thursday (Thursday full day on every 1st and 3rd week and Thursday morning on every 2nd and 4th week each month, or we can discuss more options). Monthly rent $600 for once a week usage, $1100 for twice a week usage, $1500 for three-day a week usage. Newly renovated and fully furnished. Text May if you are interested 646-338-4803



Rendr – Transforming Healthcare – Leadership Opportunity: Associate Chief Medical Office, SVP of Population Health, Bilingual English and Chinese (Mandarin or Cantonese) preferred
Job Position: Associate Chief Medical Office, SVP of Population Health in this role, you will lead and provide a wide range of support through population health, quality measures, practice transformation, Rendr360 department, House Calls, and other projects. Please send resumes careers@rendrcare.com. We are offering leadership opportunities to Physicians who are interested in providing high-quality clinical care to our patients in the diverse communities that we serve. As a rapidly growing network, we provide a supportive environment for our physicians to practice medicine under the guidance of dedicated medical leadership. www.rendrcare.com.

MSSNY Pulse: November 4, 2022

Message from MSSNY President Parag Mehta, MD:
Let’s All Make Our Voices Heard on Tuesday, November 8

Colleagues:
Early voting leading to Election Day on November 8 is already underway. New Yorkers will elect a Governor, an Attorney General, a Comptroller, a US Senator, 26 US Representatives, and 213 NY state legislators. As US citizens, it is our right—and our duty—to vote. Let’s all make our voice heard on Tuesday.

While physicians may have different personal political perspectives and parties they regularly support, there are issues—including ensuring your patients maintain their access to physician-led health care—that unite physicians across these party lines. MSSNYPAC’s legislator scorecard  is a valuable tool for New York physicians that contains the voting and co-sponsorship records of each state legislator on issues important to New York physicians, their patients, and our health care system. This year, the scorecard encompasses seven bills supported by MSSNY and four bills opposed by MSSNY.

And take a look at MSSNYPAC’s 20 county-specific versions of its scorecard, representing the most populous counties in the state, to see how the legislators that represent your county are voting on issues important to you and your patients.

And most importantly, remember to vote by Tuesday, November 8.

Parag Mehta, MD
MSSNY President


Anesthesia Use Disparities Could Negatively Affect Black Maternal Health
A recent survey analyzing 9.5 million hospital deliveries between 2007 and 2018 found that Black women have less access to anesthesia, a hazardous consequence in pregnancy and childbirth, one of the most painful and oft life-threatening medical operations. A new study reviewed the records of nearly 57,000 adults who had surgery between 2016 and 2021 and found that people of color were 29% less likely to receive regional anesthesia than white patients. Black women have a 53% higher risk of dying in the hospital during childbirth than white women. Learn more about this growing crisis in America.

Anesthesia Use Disparities Could Negatively Affect Black Maternal Health (Chen, Axios, 11/1).


MLMIC Ad


Google Launches AI to Read Medical Images
Radiology is one area of promise for Artificial Intelligence. Medical imaging data makes up 90% of all healthcare data, with billions of images scanned annually. Now, Google is launching tools meant to make medical images more interoperable and help organizations develop artificial intelligence and machine learning models around them. Medical teams have already begun using the suite of digital tools. Hackensack Meridian Health in New Jersey is using it to de-identify images to build AI algorithms capable of predicting metastasis in patients with prostate cancer. The hope is that AI systems can analyze data that are not visible to the human eye but also make diagnosis faster.

Google Launches AI to Read Medical Images (Pifer, Healthcare Drive, 10/2).


New York State Department of Health Issues Poster to Raise Awareness About Proper Antibiotics Use in Recognition of U.S. Antibiotic Awareness Week
U.S. Antibiotic Awareness Week is November 18-24 and the New York State Department of Health is reminding New Yorkers that the overuse and misuse of antibiotics are key factors leading to antibiotic resistance.

As part of the effort to raise awareness about antibiotic misuse, in 2019, New York State Department of Health hosted a Children’s Art Contest where elementary students in 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade were asked to use their artistic creativity to illustrate the story of Andy-Biotic, the Superbug Superhero, whose mission is to promote appropriate use of antibiotics.

The artwork submitted by then-5th grade artist Elina, from Gasport, N.Y., is now being featured in an awareness campaign that underscores how important it is for all of us to use antibiotics correctly. As the slogan says, “Keep Andy-Biotic Strong…don’t use antibiotics wrong!”

Posters replicating this artwork are being offered at no cost to schools, pediatricians, primary care providers, urgent care and dental clinics and other health care settings, for display during the annual observance of U.S. Antibiotic Awareness Week and to spread awareness about wise use of antibiotics. Order your posters here.

Be sure to check out the new U.S. Antibiotic Awareness Week Toolkit and other resources from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for more information on antibiotic resistance and what you can do to protect antibiotics’ effectiveness.



MSCE 2022 Annual Meeting A Great Success!
The Medical Society of Erie County held their Annual Meeting and Installation of Officers at the Lancaster Country Club on Monday, October 17th.

2023 Erie County Medical Society Leadership
President: John Fudyma, MD, MPH
Past President: Stanley Pietrak, MD
President-Elect: Stacey Watt, MD
Vice President: Iris Danziger, MD
Treasurer: Michael Terranova, MD
Secretary: Michael Merrill, MD

Erie County is looking forward to continuing to advance and enhance healthcare in the region and to improve working conditions for physicians. Thank you for your service in medicine during these unprecedented times!

2023 MSCE Officers Back Row: John Fudyma, MD, MPH – President; Stanley Pietrak, MD – Past President, Stacey Watt, MD – President-Elect; Michael Merrill, MD – Secretary Front Row: Iris Danziger, MD – Vice President; Robert Armstrong, MD – Immediate Past President; Michael Terranova, MD – Treasurer; Aimana ElBahtity, Esq. -Executive Director


New CDC Guidance on Prescribing Opioids
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued new guidance for clinicians on how and when to prescribe opioids for pain. This new guidance revamps the agency’s 2016 recommendations which some doctors and patients have criticized for promoting a culture of austerity around opioids. The American Medical Association’s Substance Use and Pain Care Task Force had for six years asked the CDC to reconsider its 2016 guideline which “has harmed patients with chronic pain, cancer, sickle cell disease, and those in hospice.”  The AMA also said that the 2016 policies also failed patients who are stable on long-term opioid therapy, and it has denied care to post-surgical patients and those with an opioid use disorder.  The new guidelines emphasize that opioids should not be the go-to treatment in many cases, pointing to evidence that other treatments and approaches are often comparable for improving pain and function. However, the recommendations make clear the guidance should not replace clinical judgment and that clinicians can work with patients who are in pain, even if that means continuing them on opioids. The Medical Society of the State of New York is a member of the AMA’s Substance Use and Pain Care Task Force, and supported the AMA’s quest to revise the guidance.



CMS Payment Rule Finalizes Steep Medicare Physician Cuts for 2023 – Congress Must Act!
With CMS finalizing this week the 2023 Medicare fee schedule CY 2023 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule| CMS that will produce a cumulative 8.5% cut for physician payments starting January 1, 2023, physicians are again urged to contact their Respective Congressional representative and Senators Schumer and Gillibrand (Stop Cuts to Medicare Payments (p2a.co) to urge that they act to prevent this staggering cut.

Please let them know that any cut, let alone the cut of this magnitude, is intolerable as many physician practices attempt to recover from the pandemic can barely keep their doors open to continue delivering patient care and employing staff.

The cuts are based upon a variety of provisions that will expire at the end of 2022. Late last year, MSSNY worked together with the AMA and state and specialty societies across the country to successfully persuade Congress to delay a “perfect storm” of Medicare payment cuts totaling 10% that, if permitted to be implemented, would have severely impeded patient access to care.

MSSNY is again working with the federation of medicine as part of a group effort to prevent the cut.  Before the end of the year, we are asking Congress to:

  • Extend the Congressionally enacted 3% temporary increase in the Medicare physician fee schedule
  • Provide relief for an additional 1.5% budget neutrality cut that is planned for 2023
  • End the statutory annual freeze and provide an inflation-based update for the coming year
  • Waive the 4% PAYGO sequester necessitated by passage of legislation unrelated to Medicare

“The rate cuts would create immediate financial instability in the Medicare physician payment system and threaten patient access to Medicare-participating physicians” stated AMA President Dr. Jack Resneck “The AMA will continue working with Congress to prevent this harmful outcome.”

Please let your legislators know that their constituents – your patients – will suffer from access issues if this cut is not prevented by the end of the year.  Again, you can send a letter to your members of Congress from here: Stop Cuts to Medicare Payments (p2a.co).

We will follow with more information regarding key aspects of the 2023 Payment rule.


Spam VS Phishing: How to Spot the Difference
With the increased use of electronic communication, it is important to know the difference between spam and phishing. Both should be deleted when spotted and not opened!

Spam
Spam emails are unsolicited and irrelevant commercial emails, sent online to a bulk number of recipients. Oftentimes spam messages are from a company trying to sell you something. While these emails can be a nuisance, they are not considered malicious.

Examples of Spam:

  • Advertising (retailers, dating sites, online pharmacies, gambling)
  • Get rich quick schemes (You’ve Won!)
  • Hoax virus warnings
  • Chain emails

Phishing
Phishing is a malicious attempt to obtain sensitive information by disguising as a trustworthy website, person, or company. Requests for personal information such as a password, credit card, bank account number, Social Security Number, etc. are examples of information attackers in a phishing campaign might seek.

Examples of Phishing:

  • Request personal information
  • Direct users to open a link or unexpected attachment
  • Verify account information and/or password
  • Convey a sense of urgency

If you have questions about this or an insurance concern, contact MSSNY’s Director of Physician Payment and Practice, Heather Lopez, at 518.465.8085 X332 | hlopez@mssny.org.



Connect with the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services and National Government Services on November 8
Join Heather Lopez, MSSNY’s Director of Physician Payment & Practice, an expert in practice management, billing, and reimbursement on Tuesday, November 8, 2022, at 6 pm for the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services and National Government Services’ open agenda meeting. Members are encouraged to participate and open a direct communication line with policymakers that otherwise can be difficult to reach.


Less Stress, More Success: Overcoming and Preventing Healthcare Burnout with Dr. Geier
The coronavirus has not only created the biggest health crisis of our generation, but it has destroyed the stability within healthcare. Healthcare professionals are now battling many of the same issues Dr. Geier experienced during an episode of burnout early in his career. Through Dr. Geier’s story and the stories of others who have overcome tremendous obstacles, he inspires audiences to use burnout, COVID-19 and other adversities to emerge stronger and better than ever. Register now.



Credentialing and Maintenance Options Presented by STI Computers & MSSNY
Provider credentialing is a regulated process of assessing the qualifications of specific types of providers. This procedure requires providers such as doctors, and other allied healthcare professionals to show they have the proper education, training, and licenses to care for patients.

Did you know that:

  • Over 54% of denials are related to provider credentialing
  • It is now a State and Federal law to maintain and update your insurance demographics or risk penalties, fines and having your participation status revoked
  • Billing a provider under the wrong NPI during enrollment is a compliance violation punishable through Fraud and Abuse with treble damages
  • Insurance revalidation is no longer just Medicare
  • Exclusions and Sanctions is a monthly process, and includes all employees, not just providers

Join our program which will advise you of regulatory changes.  Become more knowledgeable of what you can and cannot do through an enrollment on-boarding.  Learn options to keep you in the clear and focus your time on what you do best, being a doctor and not a secretary. Register Today.


Medical Matters:  What’s Your Diagnosis? Psychological First Aid Interactive CME Webinar November 16, 7:30 AM
Psychological first aid is essential for physicians and other healthcare professionals in a myriad of situations.  Learn more about psychological first aid by registering now for the next Medical Matters webinar: What’s Your Diagnosis? Psychological First Aid.  This program will involve more interaction from participants in the form of a case study that you will answer questions to diagnose. Find out if you’re fully versed on psychological first aid on November 16th at 7:30am.  You can also click here to view the flyer for this webinar.  Faculty will be Craig Katz, MD, 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


Caring for Patients in Today’s Opioid Landscape, November 17, 3-5 PM
In 2021, overdose deaths in the United States reached a record high. At the same time, restrictions on prescription opioids strand many patients without adequate care. For policymakers and providers, ensuring quality patient care and reducing harm requires navigating an evolving landscape of restrictions and best practices. The New York State Department of Health Commissioner’s Grand Round will convene subject-matter experts to discuss New York State’s response to the opioid crisis and harm reduction strategies; the importance of using a health equity lens in the treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD); and guidance for treating chronic pain with opioids.

Learning Outcome

As a result of this educational activity, the learner will have increased and enhanced their knowledge and competence on equitably treating chronic pain and/or substance use disorder amidst the opioid landscape in New York State.

Objectives

By the end of the webcast, viewers will be able to:

  • Describe trends in overdose deaths in New York.
  • Describe the epidemiology of opioid use disorder and other substance use disorders among Black people.
  • Identify best practices for treating pain using opioids.
  • Recognize the ways that pain treatment is inequitable.

Register Today


Salary Data and Contract Review: What You Need to Know with Resolve CEO Kyle Claussen Tuesday, December 6, @ 12 pm
Resolve has empowered over 10,000 physicians in their employment agreements leading to national recognition with various state and national physician societies. Kyle Claussen is the CEO of Resolve and a partner in the law firm of MorganTheeler, LLP. He received his undergraduate degree from North Dakota State University, his law degree from the University of La Verne College of Law, and his LL.M. in Taxation from Boston University. He is a member of the American Health Lawyers Association and is one of the leading experts in physician employment agreements. Kyle has been featured on a variety of physician focus media sources including ZdoggMD, White Coat Investor, Physician Side Gigs, Physician Moms Group, Beyond Medicine, The Physician Philosopher, and others. Register Today!


MSSNY Job Board
Members have access to the MSSNY Job Board. Whether you are looking for the next step in your career or looking for your next hire, we have you covered!



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 2022 Ad RateSheet, please click here.


Concierge Practice for Sale  Boca Raton Florida
FOR SALE: Established Independent Concierge Internal Medicine Practice in Boca Raton, Florida. Stable turnkey operation in a pleasant work environment. Ideal for someone with the desire to transition to a better approach to medical practice. Financing available.
Contact planahead2023@gmail.com.


Rheumatology Practice Sublet – Great Neck, NY
Sublet opportunity available at an established medical office in Great Neck, NY. Prime location near LIJ, Northshore University and St. Francis Hospitals. Fully equipped office with onsite parking and proximity to mass transit. Contact 516-972-2986/susanrita1@msn.com for more info.


Medical Office for Share in Medical Park with Free Big Parking Lot in Westchester County
Medical office for sublet in Medical Park with free big parking lot, located at West Harrison, border of White Plains in Westchester County. Office includes a big waiting room with a kitchen, doctors office, exam room, and reception area. All rooms are available for whole days of Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, Thursday (Thursday full day on every 1st and 3rd week and Thursday morning on every 2nd and 4th week each month, or we can discuss more options). Monthly rent $600 for once a week usage, $1100 for twice a week usage, $1500 for three-day a week usage. Newly renovated and fully furnished. Text May if you are interested 646-338-4803



Rendr – Transforming Healthcare – Leadership Opportunity: Associate Chief Medical Office, SVP of Population Health, Bilingual English and Chinese (Mandarin or Cantonese) preferred
Job Position: Associate Chief Medical Office, SVP of Population Health in this role, you will lead and provide a wide range of support through population health, quality measures, practice transformation, Rendr360 department, House Calls, and other projects. Please send resumes careers@rendrcare.com. We are offering leadership opportunities to Physicians who are interested in providing high-quality clinical care to our patients in the diverse communities that we serve. As a rapidly growing network, we provide a supportive environment for our physicians to practice medicine under the guidance of dedicated medical leadership. www.rendrcare.com.

MSSNY Pulse: October 28, 2022

Message from MSSNY President Parag Mehta, MD:
The Power of Trust

Colleagues:
Trust is the most powerful force underlying the success of every organization.

“When people trust each other, they can make decisions quickly and take risks knowing that it’s okay to fail,” says Nicole Umana, global agile innovation human intelligence office at Mars, Inc.

“You need an environment in which you believe you are trusted to in order to explore new ideas and opportunities, and in which individual contributions will be recognized. This promotes creative thinking and collaboration, as well as open innovation across the value chain,” says Louis Barbosa, chief operations officer for TMI group.

The key components of trust are reliability and dependability, open and honest communications, and having ethical values and consistency in purpose and priorities.

Tips for building—or rebuilding—trust:

  • Understand your members/patients/customers
  • Provide best quality products, programs, and services
  • Lean into purpose to deliver a positive impact
  • Innovate to win trust and win trust to innovate
  • Be transparent
  • Engage with integrity and empathy

When trust is broken, it is critical to figure out the reason—a breach of authenticity, a failure of logic, perhaps a lack of empathy—and then respond accordingly.

Building trust requires planning, resources, measurable metrics, a willingness to correct course when something goes wrong, and a sustained commitment.

Like innovation, trust blossoms when companies prioritize it, develop strategies to build it, track metrics that can show them when and where to change course, and then consistently apply those learnings not just over days and weeks but also over years and decades. Trust, then, is the currency of innovation. Companies that invest in trust are in a very real sense also investing in innovation.

Source: Research Report | Trust: The Currency of Innovation sponsored by Master Card

In closing, I wish my colleagues a Happy Internal Medicine Day! And, finally, a happy and safe Halloween to all on Monday.

Parag Mehta, MD
MSSNY President


Medscape Female Physician Compensation Report 2022: Trying to Narrow the Gender Gap
Female physician compensation rose 8.9 percent in the last year, reaching an average of $282,000 a year, according to data from Medscape. Though compensation rose faster for female physicians than male physicians this year, the wage gap still sits at 32 percent, favoring male physicians. 48 percent of female physicians feel underpaid, while 40 percent of male physicians feel underpaid, according to the report. The Medscape Report details the pay disparity among the genders, their specialties, and some of the possible reasons.

Medscape Female Physician Compensation Report 2022: Trying to Narrow the Gender Gap (McKenna, Medscape, 10/14).



What to Know About the Pay-Yourself-First Budgeting Method and How It Can Help Set Up Your Finances For Life
The pay-yourself-first budget includes a line item at the very top of the list for what may be your most important spending category: you! A pay-yourself-first budget (sometimes referred to as a reverse budget) prioritizes goal-based saving categories like retirement and investments before tackling short-term expenses like your utility bills or groceries first. In this Fortune article the author weighs the pros and cons of this lifestyle and how to determine if it is right for you.

What to know about the pay-yourself-first budgeting method and how it can help set up your finances for life (Pino, Fortune, 10/14).


NYS CEI Newsletter is Committed to Delivering You Information on HIV
The NYS Clinical Education Initiative (CEI) newsletter seeks to provide NYS healthcare providers with accurate, progressive, and trustworthy health information and resources to enhance their capacity to deliver high-quality healthcare services and improve patient outcomes. CEI is committed to providing information on HIV, HCV, STIs, drug user health, and emerging health issues.  CEI makes available a wide range of live, online, and on-demand training, tools, and resources to build provider capacity and actively distributes NYS AI Clinical Guidelines (see www.hivguidelines.org). The CEI newsletter is sent to NYS state & local health departments, community-based organizations, family health centers, hospitals, physicians, and other healthcare professionals’ private practice and to the CEI member listserv. We encourage you to share with your contacts too!

Subscribe to CEI newsletter CEI Newsletter October 25, 2022 Issue



Urgent Plea from NYSDOH: Polio Letter to Physicians and Polio Publication Request Form
This is an urgent plea from the New York State Department of Health: as the most trusted source of medical guidance for your patients and their families, we need your help to make sure that any child who is not vaccinated or up to date with polio immunizations gets all the recommended doses immediately. This is particularly urgent for providers and patients in Rockland, Orange, and Sullivan Counties, where poliovirus has been detected in wastewater repeatedly. Polio Letter to Providers

The New York State Department of Health offers limited quantities of free educational materials to New York State residents and organizations. All orders must include a street address. Bulk orders will not be delivered to post office boxes.


Urge Governor Hochul to Sign Managed Care Reform Bills into Law
Physicians are again urged to contact Governor Hochul to ask her to sign into law several bills supported by MSSNY and numerous patient advocacy organizations (NY Legislature Passes Legislation with Important Patient Protections – Aimed Alliance) to address hassles patients and their physicians are experiencing with health insurers.

Ensuring Qualified Reviewers. A.879/S.8113, would ensure that those who make “medical necessity” determinations on behalf of a health insurance company are appropriately qualified to make those decisions.

In a recent MSSNY survey, 42% of the respondents indicated they frequently have experienced denials from health insurers by reviewers other than a physician practicing in the same specialty, and 77% of the respondents indicated they at least sometimes did

Please contact Governor Hochul to urge her to sign this bill into law.

Co-Pay Accumulators. A.1741-A/S.5299-A, would prohibit a health plan from imposing a policy that forbids a payment from a third party to count towards the patient’s deductible or maximum out-of-pocket cost-sharing limit. This practice can be especially challenging for patients that have health insurance plans with high deductibles or high copayment requirements. Send a letter to Governor Hochul urging her to sign this bill into law.

Step Therapy  A.3276/ S.5909, would ban insurance companies from applying “fail first” or step therapy protocols to treatments prescribed for patients with mental health conditions.  This would help to ensure that patients can receive needed medications without unnecessary and time-consuming pre-authorization burdens, Send a letter to Governor Hochul urging her to sign this important bill into law.



National Government Services: Raising Awareness About Care Management
According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), six in ten adults in the U.S. have a chronic disease and four in ten adults have two or more.

As your Medicare Contractor for Jurisdiction 6 and Jurisdiction K, National Government Services is raising awareness of the benefits of care management services for Medicare beneficiaries with chronic conditions.

NGS has a series of webinars scheduled that offer our provider community information about available care management services, and guidance for proper billing of these services. We encourage you to join to learn about these important benefits. You may attend as many sessions as you would like. Click on the title and complete the registration form.

*NOTE: All webinars are held in Eastern Time

  • Tuesday, November 15, 2022, 2:00- 2:30 p.m.
    Care Management: Cognitive Assessment Services typically start with a 50-minute face-to-face visit that includes a detailed history and patient exam. Use information you gather from the exam to create a written care plan.
  • Thursday, November 17, 2022 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
    Care Management: Principal Care Management Services Services covered for patients with one (PCM) or multiple (two or more) (CCM) chronic conditions expected to last at least 12 months or until death of patient.
  • Thursday, November 17, 2022 2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.
    Care Management: Advanced Care Planning Covered voluntary service enabling Medicare patients to make important decisions dictating control over type of care received.


Less Stress, More Success: Overcoming and Preventing Healthcare Burnout with Dr. Geier
The coronavirus has not only created the biggest health crisis of our generation, but it has destroyed the stability within healthcare. Healthcare professionals are now battling many of the same issues Dr. Geier experienced during an episode of burnout early in his career. Through Dr. Geier’s story and the stories of others who have overcome tremendous obstacles, he inspires audiences to use burnout, COVID-19 and other adversities to emerge stronger and better than ever.

Register Today



Credentialing and Maintenance Options Presented by STI Computers & MSSNY
Provider credentialing is a regulated process of assessing the qualifications of specific types of providers. This procedure requires providers such as doctors, and other allied healthcare professionals to show they have the proper education, training, and licenses to care for patients.  Register Today

Did you know that:

  • Over 54% of denials are related to provider credentialing
  • It is now a State and Federal law to maintain and update your insurance demographics or risk penalties, fines and having your participation status revoked
  • Billing a provider under the wrong NPI during enrollment is a compliance violation punishable through Fraud and Abuse with treble damages
  • Insurance revalidation is no longer just Medicare
  • Exclusions and Sanctions is a monthly process, and includes all employees, not just providers

This program that will advise you of regulatory changes and become more knowledgeable about what you can and cannot do through an enrollment on-boarding.  Learn options to keep you in the clear and focus your time on what you do best: being a doctor and not a secretary. Register Today


Medical Matters: What’s Your Diagnosis? Phychological First Aid Interactive CME webinar
November 16, 2022 @ 7:30am – Registration now open
The COVID pandemic has had a devastating effect on mental health.  Learn more about psychological first aid by registering now for the next Medical Matters webinar: What’s Your Diagnosis? Psychological First Aid.  This program will involve more interaction from participants in the form of case studies that you will answer questions to diagnose.  Find out if you’re fully versed on psychological first aid on November 16th at 7:30am.  Faculty will be Craig Katz, MD, vice chair of MSSNY’s Emergency Preparedness and Disaster/Terrorism Response Committee. View the flyer.

Educational Objectives:

  • Describe the basic tenets of psychological first aid (PFA)
  • Identify resources to assist patients during and after trauma
  • Examine the effects the COVID pandemic has had on mental health
  • Describe a scenario and review questions and answers



Salary Data and Contract Review: What You Need to Know with Resolve CEO Kyle Claussen Tuesday, December 6, @ 12 pm
Resolve has empowered over 10,000 physicians in their employment agreements leading to national recognition with various state and national physician societies. Kyle Claussen is the CEO of Resolve and a partner in the law firm of MorganTheeler, LLP. He received his undergraduate degree from North Dakota State University, his law degree from the University of La Verne College of Law, and his LL.M. in Taxation from Boston University. He is a member of the American Health Lawyers Association and is one of the leading experts in physician employment agreements. Kyle has been featured on a variety of physician focus media sources including ZdoggMD, White Coat Investor, Physician Side Gigs, Physician Moms Group, Beyond Medicine, The Physician Philosopher, and others. Register Today!


STI Computer Services – Practice Management, Medical Billing, Electronic Medical Records, Revenue Cycle Management Services
STI Computer Services specializes in the development, sales, installation, and support of computer systems for medical practices. STI is the author of the ChartMaker Go Medical Suite, a modular set of software for Billing, Scheduling, Practice Management, and Electronic Medical Records. The system has been installed in over 3,000 medical practices since 1979. ChartMaker is available in client/server, cloud-based, or Revenue Cycle Management options. STI also provides credentialing and enrollment, coding, chart auditing, hardware, installation, training (both on-site and web-based), Dragon Medical One Voice Recognition systems, electronic faxing, VOIP telephone systems, and hardware managed services.

For more information, call Matt Ross: at 1-800-487-9135 extension 1169 or email.


Obituary

CARRIER, Robert H.; Estero FL.  Died December 27, 2021, age 90.  Monroe County Medical Society
DAMASZEK, Marek; Merrick NY.  Died May 14, 2021, age 93.  Medical Society County of Kings
DEVERA, Oscar Andrew; Baldwin NY.  Died December 25, 2019, age 94.  Nassau County Medical Society
ESMAN, Aaron H.; New York NY.  Died March 01, 2022, age 97.  New York County Medical Society
FINKEL, Martin; Teaneck NJ.  Died October 11, 2022, age 92.  New York County Medical Society
FORMATO, Mary La Rotonda; New York NY.  Died February 09, 2021, age 96.  New York County Medical Society
GAMBINO, S. Raymond; Los Angeles CA.  Died January 01, 2022, age 95.  New York County Medical Society
GUNSBERGER, Maurice; Melville NY.  Died November 17, 2021, age 87.  Nassau County Medical Society
JELINEK, Josef Emil; New York NY.  Died January 23, 2022, age 93.  New York County Medical Society
LEONARD, Bernard P.; Port Washington NY.  Died June 01, 2020, age 95.  Nassau County Medical Society
LYNN, Richard Marvin; Miami FL.  Died January 05, 2020, age 96.  Medical Society County of Chautauqua
MCCABE, John Francis; Rochester NY.  Died October 14, 2022, age 100.  Monroe County Medical Society
MILLER, Ruth Avers; Valley Stream NY.  Died July 20, 2022, age 100.  Nassau County Medical Society
PIMENTEL, Pablo Luis; Port Washington NY.  Died October 05, 2021, age 97.  New York County Medical Society
PLAINE, Leonard I.; New York NY.  Died January 02, 2022, age 89.  New York County Medical Society
PRINSELL, Gustave G.; Houghton NY.  Died July 13, 2022, age 100.  Medical Society County of Allegany
RAMSDELL, John Alan; White Plains NY.  Died February 09, 2021, age 93.  Medical Society County of Westchester

SALMAN, Dallal Marcelle; Died September 27, 2022, age 105.  Medical Society County of Queens

SANDLER, I. Alberto; Troy NY.  Died January 14, 2019, age 84.  Medical Society County of Rensselaer

SCHWARTZ, Ammiel D.; Croton on Hudson NY.  Died December 25, 2021, age 93.  Putnam County Medical Society

SOM, Peter M.; New York NY.  Died September 19, 2022, age 81.  New York County Medical Society

STOBNICKE, Paul Peter; Syracuse NY.  Died June 05, 2022, age 97.  Onondaga County Medical Society

STUBENBORD, William T.; Essex CT.  Died September 18, 2022, age 86.  New York County Medical Society

TAYLOR, Frederic Foote; Greenwood Vlg CO.  Died January 25, 2022, age 94.  Jefferson County Medical Society

TESTA, N. Noel; New York NY.  Died June 29, 2022, age 81.  New York County Medical Society

TOURLITSAS, John C.; New York NY.  Died March 08, 2022, age 95.  Medical Society County of Kings

TSAMPARLIS, George N.; Port Chester NY.  Died December 26, 2020, age 97.  Bronx County Medical Society

WEINSTEIN, Henry C.; Larchmont NY.  Died May 17, 2022, age 87.  New York County Medical Society

WEISS, Jerome; New York NY.  Died January 01, 2021, age 101.  New York County Medical Society



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 2022 Ad RateSheet, please click here.


Concierge Practice for Sale  Boca Raton Florida
FOR SALE: Established Independent Concierge Internal Medicine Practice in Boca Raton, Florida. Stable turnkey operation in a pleasant work environment. Ideal for someone with the desire to transition to a better approach to medical practice. Financing available.
Contact planahead2023@gmail.com.


Rheumatology Practice Sublet – Great Neck, NY
Sublet opportunity available at an established medical office in Great Neck, NY. Prime location near LIJ, Northshore University and St. Francis Hospitals. Fully equipped office with onsite parking and proximity to mass transit. Contact 516-972-2986/susanrita1@msn.com for more info.


Medical Office for Share in Medical Park with Free Big Parking Lot in Westchester County
Medical office for sublet in Medical Park with free big parking lot, located at West Harrison, border of White Plains in Westchester County. Office includes a big waiting room with a kitchen, doctors office, exam room, and reception area. All rooms are available for whole days of Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, Thursday (Thursday full day on every 1st and 3rd week and Thursday morning on every 2nd and 4th week each month, or we can discuss more options). Monthly rent $600 for once a week usage, $1100 for twice a week usage, $1500 for three-day a week usage. Newly renovated and fully furnished. Text May if you are interested 646-338-4803



Rendr – Transforming Healthcare – Leadership Opportunity: Associate Chief Medical Office, SVP of Population Health, Bilingual English and Chinese (Mandarin or Cantonese) preferred
Job Position: Associate Chief Medical Office, SVP of Population Health in this role, you will lead and provide a wide range of support through population health, quality measures, practice transformation, Rendr360 department, House Calls, and other projects. Please send resumes careers@rendrcare.com. We are offering leadership opportunities to Physicians who are interested in providing high-quality clinical care to our patients in the diverse communities that we serve. As a rapidly growing network, we provide a supportive environment for our physicians to practice medicine under the guidance of dedicated medical leadership. www.rendrcare.com.

MSSNY Pulse: October 21, 2022

Message from MSSNY President Parag Mehta, MD:
Keep Your Finger on the Pulse of New York Medicine

Colleagues:
MSSNY Pulse App: Keep your finger on the pulse of New York medicine and get the latest news on demand with our new MSSNY Pulse app. When you download the app, you’ll be able to read MSSNY Pulse on your phone and filter, save, bookmark, forward it to social media and contact us all in one place. Use the QR code below or download here: Pulse Google Play Pulse App Store.

Advocacy and Voting: I encourage you to get involved in advocacy. Elections are right around the corner and it’s more essential now than ever to cast your ballot.
Every election is determined by the people who show up. —Political Analyst Larry J. Sabato

MSSNY’s highest priority is a veto of the Wrongful Death Bill. Please urge Governor to Veto Wrongful Death Liability Expansion.
Our political leaders will know our priorities only if we tell them again and again and if those priorities begin to show up in the polls. —Columnist Peggy Noonan

Please go to vote.org to confirm that you are registered to vote and encourage colleagues, friends, and family to register to vote. Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world: indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has. —Cultural Anthropologist Margaret Mead

Happy Diwali: As I prepare to celebrate Diwali next week, I hope the festival of lights brings your way bright sparkles of peace, contentment, joy, and happiness.

When Diwali or Deepawali—known as the “festival of lights”—is celebrated on Monday, October 24, it will bring the promise of a better tomorrow. The holiday is celebrated by Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs worldwide. Observed by more than a billion people across faiths, the five-day festival of lights includes prayer, feasts, and fireworks and is a time to celebrate light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. Regardless of the events or religion surrounding it, Diwali brings with it happy tidings and a promise of a better tomorrow. People celebrate by lighting lamps in their homes and hosting parties for family and friends to celebrate happiness, good times, and good fortune.

Parag Mehta, MD
MSSNY President


3 Things Physician Practices Should Do to Prepare for a Potential Railroad Strike
A nationwide railroad strike might be on the horizon. Railroad workers rejected new labor agreements last week, inspiring fear that they could begin striking in mid-November. There are three key considerations that healthcare providers should take note of while they anticipate the possibility of a railroad strike.

  • Have proactive conversations with suppliers
  • Identify alternatives for products
  • Leverage data to form next steps

A strike could have a damaging impact on the healthcare supply chain, creating shortages of drugs and medical equipment needed to provide care. Learn more about how to prepare for this possibility.

3 things providers should do to prepare for a potential railroad strike (Adams, Medcity, 10/14).


MLMIC Ad


Need Help Planning a Flu Clinic?
Flu vaccination clinics are a great way to vaccinate your patients and families quickly and efficiently before the start of the flu season. They can occur during regular or extended office hours and begin as soon as the vaccine is received. This year, co-administration of the COVID-19 vaccine is also an important consideration. The American Academy of Pediatrics recently created a toolkit that will help guide your practice to having a successful flu vaccine clinic.


Lifelong Learning: A Look in the Review Mirror and a Peek Ahead Webinar on Tuesday, October 25
On October 25 at 7:00 pm, MSSNY’s IMG and Ethnic Medical Association Sections will host Harvard Medical School Professor Sanjiv Chopra, M.D., MACP, FRCP London. Please join us for stories about major discoveries in the last few decades, and predictions about the stories emerging that will change medicine in a revolutionary way—leading to enhanced wellness and longevity. Register now.

This webinar is part of the David B.L. Meza, III, MD Lecture series and is proudly sponsored by the Medical, Educational & Scientific Foundation of New York, with a grant from the Empire State Medical, Scientific & Educational Foundation.


Sellers Insurance for MSSNY Members


We Need Your Input on the New MSSNY Website
Have you taken our website survey yet? We are building a brand new MSSNY website and want it to meet your needs.

Your input is critical. Our goal is to create a website that helps you to easily find the information that you—and your physician colleagues throughout New York State—are looking for.

To help us make the new website the best it can be, please take our MSSNY website survey before October 15. It will take less than two minutes of your time.


PrEP Can Prevent HIV
PrEP Aware Week begins Monday, October 24th. Every health care provider, health care facility, local health department, community-based organization, social service agency, school or individual concerned about HIV is being asked to join us in working together so that people of all races, ethnicities, sexual orientations, gender identities and abilities are aware of PrEP. Check out the PrEP Aware Week website, https://campaigns.health.ny.gov/PrepResources for materials available for download, including a social media toolkit, the PrEP Aware Week graphic and Email signature.


Val Renewal Banner


DOH Extends Deadline for Completing Cultural Competence CME Required for Medicaid Managed Care Network Participation Until November 1
The New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) has extended the deadline for physicians and other network providers of Medicaid Managed Care plans to complete cultural competency CME required in the state’s Medicaid Managed Care contract until November 1, 2022.

Specifically, the Model contract section 15.10(c,) states that a plan must “ensure the cultural competence of its provider network by requiring Participating Providers to certify, on an annual basis, completion of State-approved cultural competence training curriculum, including training on the use of interpreters, for all Participating Providers’ staff who have regular and substantial contact with Enrollees.”

NYSDOH has indicated that this requirement can be met through coursework offered by the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Office of Minority Health, Think Cultural Health. The training is online, free and offers several provider specific programs: Education – Think Cultural Health (hhs.gov), including courses specifically for physicians.  According to NYS DOH, only 1 of the 3 courses needs to be completed to meet the requirement.

Because MSSNY has heard from some physicians otherwise required to complete the coursework who were unaware of the requirement, we have asked NYSDOH to consider a further extension of time to complete the required coursework


MSSNY and Several Other Physician Associations Support Updated Litigation Challenging Flawed Implementation of the No Surprises Act
The Physicians Advocacy Institute (PAI) announced this week that it had filed an amicus brief supporting the Texas Medical Association (TMA)’s lawsuit challenging portions of the HHS final rule implementing the No Surprises Act’s independent dispute resolution (IDR) process. Fourteen state medical associations including MSSNY and 16 medical specialty associations joined the brief.

The brief supports TMA’s Sept. 2022 filing in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas alleging federal regulators’ final rule violates the No Surprises Act by giving preference to the qualifying payment amount (QPA) during an IDR for a surprise medical bill, which unfairly favors insurers. This flawed approach was struck down by the Eastern District of Texas earlier this year before federal regulators adopted a revised regulation that appears to have sidestepped the Court’s decision in the final rule. If allowed to stand, there is great concern that federal regulators’ approach will encourage even more health care consolidation and give insurers an unfair advantage contracting with physicians. This will further constrict already narrow, insurer-built networks of health care providers, raising serious concerns about patients’ ability to access affordable, quality specialty care.



Reminder: Please Urge Governor Hochul to Veto Drastic Liability Expansion Bill
Physicians are again urged to go to MSSNY’s Grassroots Action site to contact Governor Hochul to veto harmful legislation (A.6770/S.74-A) that would drastically increase liability insurance costs by expanding damages that are awardable in wrongful death actions.  Actuarial studies show that New York’s already grossly excessive liability premiums would need to be increased by 40%, which could drive more physicians out of New York State and significantly exacerbate New York’s access to care problems.

Recently, the New York Post issued an editorial urging Governor Hochul to veto the Wrongful Death damages expansion bill, which included a quote from MSSNY President Dr. Parag Mehta and other industries impacted by this bill): NY Post: Moreover, recently, the following op-eds from MSSNY/County Medical Society Leaders appeared in papers across the State:

  • Gannett/USA Today op-ed today from the leadership of Westchester County Medical Society Journal News/Lohud:
  • Syracuse Post-Standard op-ed from the leadership of the Onondaga County Medical Society Syracuse.com

The Lawsuit Reform Alliance of New York has also placed ads on Twitter in various papers across the State calling upon Governor Hochul to veto this bill, including in the Albany Times-Union, Buffalo News, Long Island Newsday and the New York Daily News


Reminder: MSSNYPAC Releases Legislator Scorecard
With the elections just a few weeks away, physicians are reminded to review MSSNYPAC’s legislator scorecard. The scorecard is a valuable tool for physicians that contains the voting and co-sponsorship records of each state legislator on issues important to New York physicians, their patients, and our health care system. This year, the scorecard encompasses seven bills supported by MSSNY and four bills opposed by MSSNY.

MSSNYPAC has also released specialized, county by county versions of its scorecard. This way, you will be able to see how the legislators that represent your county are voting on issues important to you and your patients. There are currently 20 county scorecards available. To request a scorecard from a county not listed, please contact mssnypac@mssny.org or call 518-465-8085.


CPH Banner


Please Contact Your Members of Congress to Prevent Steep Cuts for 2023
Physicians are again urged to contact their Respective Congressional representative and Senators Schumer and Gillibrand (Stop Cuts to Medicare Payments (p2a.co) to urge that they act to prevent an 8.5% cut to their Medicare payments in 2023.

Late last year, MSSNY worked together with the AMA and state and specialty societies across the country to successfully persuade Congress to delay a “perfect storm” of Medicare payment cuts totaling 10% that, if permitted to be implemented, would have severely impeded patient access to care.  However, these provisions expire at the end of 2022.

MSSNY is again working with the federation of medicine as part of a group effort to prevent the cut.  Before the end of the year, we are asking Congress to:

  • Extend the Congressionally enacted 3% temporary increase in the Medicare physician fee schedule
  • Provide relief for an additional 1.5% budget neutrality cut that is planned for 2023
  • End the statutory annual freeze and provide an inflation-based update for the coming year
  • Waive the 4% PAYGO sequester necessitated by passage of legislation unrelated to Medicare

If these changes were not going cause enough damage to community physician practices, MSSNY is raising the alarm to CMS regarding a provision in the 2023 Medicare payment rule that would further reduce Medicare payments to New York physicians by decreasing the regional adjustments to Medicare payments arising from New York’s excessively high rents costs and liability insurance costs. MSSNY has been working with the AMA and the Physicians’ Advocacy Institute to ensure that this concern is reflected in their comments to CMS about the Medicare payment rule. MSSNY will also be submitting its own comments to CMS protesting these proposed cuts.

Again, you can send a letter to your members of Congress from here: Stop Cuts to Medicare Payments (p2a.co)


MSSNY in the News
Interview with MSSNY President Dr. Mehta on statewide radio program regarding scope of practice issues and steps needed to address NY’s physician shortage; Evolving medical responsibilities amid doctor shortage – The Capitol Pressroom

NY Post editorial urging Governor Hochul to veto the Wrongful Death damages expansion bill (including a quote of Dr. Mehta): NY Post: Hochul needs to block NY Legislature’s ‘everybody sue’ lunacy

Gannett/USA Today op-ed today from leaders of Westchester County Medical Society (Dr. Bruce Molinelli, Dr. Dan Gold and Dr. Tom Lee) urging a veto: Journal News/LoHud: Pending liability legislation will jeopardize New York’s strained health care system

Syracuse Post-Standard op-ed from Onondaga County Medical Society leaders Medical society leaders: NY’s new liability law threatens access to care (Your Letters) – syracuse.com


Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Partners with Amerigroup to Host Provider Educational Webinars
Access all provider webinars for Highmark BCBSWNY using one convenient link: Highmark BCBSWNY 2022 provider webinars. Enjoy informative webinars designed specifically for network providers, coders, billers, and office staff. A variety of helpful and educational topics relating to coding and documentation, claims and billing issues, member care, HEDIS®/Quality Assurance Reporting Requirements (QARR) quality measures, and more are available.


 


Does Your Office Struggle with E/M Downcoding?
Health plans are increasingly implementing E/M downcoding programs that inappropriately reduce payment for claims billed. The AMA has created the following educational resource to support physician practices in navigating payer E/M downcoding programs, sample template downcoding dispute letters, and a Physician survey to help the AMA track downcoding and support practices issues.


Diabetes Education and Support: Keys to Living Well on Wednesday, November 2, 2022, 9:00 am – 10:00 am ET
Please register and join Public Health Live! Webcast on November 2nd at 9:00 a.m. Two featured self-management programs include Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support, a clinical intervention, and the Diabetes Self-Management Program, a peer support program.


MSSNY Advocacy Update Podcast: Tools to Help Physicians Evaluate Legislators Running for Re-Election
Listen to MSSNY’s October 21 podcast as Senior Vice-President & Chief Legislative Counsel Moe Auster discusses tools to help physicians evaluate legislators running for re-election.


Need More Student Loan Relief?
MSSNY, together with SoFi, is bringing members and their families an opportunity to learn about student loan debt and refinancing. Members and family members receive a $400 welcome bonus when refinancing student or Parent PLUS loans. If you have questions about SoFi student loan refinancing, please visit SoFi.com/MSSNY or contact customer service by calling 855.456.7634 or emailing ask@sofi.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 2022 Ad RateSheet, please click here.


Concierge Practice for Sale  Boca Raton Florida
FOR SALE: Established Independent Concierge Internal Medicine Practice in Boca Raton, Florida. Stable turnkey operation in a pleasant work environment. Ideal for someone with the desire to transition to a better approach to medical practice. Financing available.
Contact planahead2023@gmail.com.


Hollywood Beach, FL 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath Condo Direct Ocean View
One of a kind two-bedroom two bath condo directly on Hollywood Beach and boardwalk.  Terrace overlooking the ocean is cruise ship-like, with unobstructed views of the ocean and intercostal. Penthouse unit without neighbors above or adjacent. Features white 24-inch tile floors, two bedrooms with queen beds, two marble tiled bathrooms, central air conditioning and building just upgraded. Edgewaters Beach Towers, 400 North Surf Rd., Hollywood Beach. $779,000. Call 917-861-8273 / CenedeseLuis@gmail.com


30 Central Park South Office for Lease or Sale 
Prime ground floor office, two  AAAHC accredited operatories plus four exam rooms lab, large reception and secretarial areas and two full bathrooms. Four rooms with external windows. Will help with building to suit. Lease $16500/month with option to buy $3.3mil. Contact CenedeseLuis@gmail.com  or 917-861-8273


Rheumatology Practice Sublet – Great Neck, NY
Sublet opportunity available at an established medical office in Great Neck, NY. Prime location near LIJ, Northshore University and St. Francis Hospitals. Fully equipped office with onsite parking and proximity to mass transit. Contact 516-972-2986/susanrita1@msny.com for more info.


Medical Office with Ample Patient Parking + 1 Family For Sale in the Most Desired Area of Hollis Hills. Priced to Sell!
One of a kind medical office investment opportunity and growth in the most desirable areas of Hollis Hills! This property is an S1 zoning that allows a medical practice, located within proximity of LIJ and Manhasset hospital, Lake Success Pro Health Medical offices with ample patient parking and much more, this unique property features a residential space split level style with 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths living room, dining room with a wood burning fireplace, kitchen, oversized sunroom/den, 1 car garage and laundry room.

The Lower level has a separate entrance, 4 exam rooms, a doctor’s private office, filling rooms and endless closet storage.
Conveniently located near schools, worship houses, transportation, GCP, LIE, Cross Island & Clearview Expressway, restaurants, shopping centers and much more! To inquire, please call Claudia (917-554-4158) or Bella at (718-344-2153).


Recruiting for Full or Part time (20 hours per week Chief of Medical Services).  Salary is Negotiable.
Oversees and directs the planning, implementation, and supervision of health and medical services for residents at the NYS Veterans Home at St Albans. Develops, implements, and evaluates medical treatment standards and procedures; and provides technical and operational guidance and direction to medical and health care staff. Serves as a medical consultant and liaison; and develops recommendations for medical assessments, treatments, and care. Implements and monitors contract agreements and the provision of contracted medical and health related services. Participates in program audits and reviews. Supervises the credentialing and privileging process to ensure that medical staff possess appropriate credentials and maintain appropriate levels of continuing education; and participates in the development of recruitment programs and hiring and selection processes. Provides clinical and administrative supervision and guidance to physicians and other health care professionals.  Possession of a license and current registration to practice medicine in New York State and six years of post-licensure medical practice experience, two years of which must have been in an administrative or supervisory capacity. Must be fully COVID 19 vaccinated.

Send CV to: RecruitmentStAlbans@nysvets.org


Office Space To Share / Financial District NYC.
LOCATION:
111 John St., Ste 1460, NYC 10038 (between Cliff & Pearl St.)
A block away from the South Street Seaport. Easy access to office Central hub for all subway lines (A, C, 2, 3, 4, 5, J, Z, E), a quick walk from NJ path train.

Beautifully renovated, 1,300 sq ft. modern space. Available Monday, Wednesday, Friday and weekends.

Private rooms with pocket doors. Access to building 24/7, security/door man in the lobby, very safe. Daily rate $450. Contact (917) 514-1299 text/call.


Medical Office for Share in Medical Park with Free Big Parking Lot in Westchester County
Medical office for sublet in Medical Park with free big parking lot, located at West Harrison, border of White Plains in Westchester County. Office includes a big waiting room with a kitchen, doctors office, exam room, and reception area. All rooms are available for whole days of Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, Thursday (Thursday full day on every 1st and 3rd week and Thursday morning on every 2nd and 4th week each month, or we can discuss more options). Monthly rent $600 for once a week usage, $1100 for twice a week usage, $1500 for three-day a week usage. Newly renovated and fully furnished. Text May if you are interested 646-338-4803


Board Certified Internal or Family Medicine Physician
Join our caring team and our mission to provide the highest standard of healthcare to each of our patients. Medical office in Eastern Nassau County looking a for a hard-working, responsible Physician to join our team.

Responsibilities include care for, diagnosing and managing patients.

Please send Curriculum Vitae to drg2555@yahoo.com.



Rendr – Transforming Healthcare – Leadership Opportunity: Associate Chief Medical Office, SVP of Population Health, Bilingual English and Chinese (Mandarin or Cantonese) preferred
Job Position: Associate Chief Medical Office, SVP of Population Health in this role, you will lead and provide a wide range of support through population health, quality measures, practice transformation, Rendr360 department, House Calls, and other projects. Please send resumes careers@rendrcare.com. We are offering leadership opportunities to Physicians who are interested in providing high-quality clinical care to our patients in the diverse communities that we serve. As a rapidly growing network, we provide a supportive environment for our physicians to practice medicine under the guidance of dedicated medical leadership. www.rendrcare.com.

MSSNY Pulse: October 14, 2022

Message from MSSNY President Parag Mehta, MD:
Life Long Learning: A Look in the Rear View Mirror and a Peek Ahead

Colleagues:

I am excited to announce a one-hour webinar on October 25 entitled Life Long Learning: A Look in the Rear View Mirror and a Peek Ahead, presented by esteemed Harvard Medical School Professor Dr. Sanjiv Chopra, MD, MACP. The webinar is part of our David B.L. Meza, III, MD Lecture Series.

Dr Chopra’s outstanding presentation will include stories of some major discoveries in the last few decades and predictions about the major stories emerging that will change medicine in a revolutionary way—leading to enhanced wellness and longevity.

In addition to his role as Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School, Dr. Chopra is Editor-in-Chief of the Gastroenterology and Hepatology section at UpToDate and the Marshall Wolf Distinguished Clinician Educator at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School.

The David B.L. Meza, III, MD Lecture series is proudly sponsored by the Medical, Educational & Scientific Foundation of New York with a grant from the Empire State Medical, Scientific & Educational Foundation and hosted by MSSNY’s IMG and Ethnic Medical Association Sections.

This is a presentation you don’t want to miss. Join Dr. Chopra on October 25 at 7 pm. Register now.

Parag Mehta, MD
MSSNY President


Setting Career Goals When You Feel Overwhelmed
Setting goals in times of uncertainty and burnout can feel pointless, but it isn’t. Deciding on a goal is generally something we want to be a rational and evidence-based exercise, combining a careful consideration of possibilities, resources, and obstacles with just the right amount of stretch. Research shows that to engage our motivational systems and direct our brain’s energy to the right actions, humans need to have a clear sense of where we are, where we’re going, and whether we’re closing the gap between the two at the correct rate. Without goals, we make bad choices and miss opportunities to act. But just as important, we can’t feel effective, which many psychologists believe is humans’ most powerful source of life satisfaction and well-being. Read more on managing yourself and your goals through stressful times.

Setting Career Goals When You Feel Overwhelmed (Grant, HBR, 9/30)


MLMIC Ad


Female Physicians More Likely to Be Called by First Names in EMR Patient Portal Messaging, Researchers Say
Female physicians were more likely to be called by their first names in electronic medical record (EMR) patient portal messaging, researchers found. In adjusted analyses, female physicians were more than twice as likely as their male counterparts to be addressed by their first name in messages from patients. The study findings were published in a research letter in JAMA Network Open. The research letter notes that being addressed informally by other medical professionals or patients can demonstrate a lack of respect. Leadership and individual efforts should address potential unconscious bias and initiate guidelines, practice changes, and direct patient education to prevent this from happening.

Patient Use of Physicians’ First (Given) Name in Direct Patient Electronic Messaging (Harvey, Butterfield, Ochoa, JAMA, 10/5)


New Federal Policy on Medicare Payments for Biosimilars Coverage in Medicare
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued details about recent changes to Medicare Part B payments for qualifying biosimilar medications used to treat conditions such as diabetes, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, among others. The changes arise from implementation of one of the new Medicare provisions included in the Inflation Reduction Act, which passed in August 2022. The new policy aims to increase access to biosimilars and ultimately reduce the costs of prescription drugs for patients, while increasing competition among drug manufacturers.

The new Medicare policy is a temporary increase in the add-on payment to physicians for qualifying biosimilars whose average sales price (ASP) is not more than the price of the associated reference biological product. The provision is designed to encourage the creation and utilization of biosimilars to compete with original biologic products and incentivize innovation for less costly access to these important therapies in the United States.

By law, Medicare Part B generally pays 106% of ASP (ASP plus 6%) for separately payable drugs and biologicals distributed in physician offices, hospital outpatient departments, and ambulatory surgical centers, with some exceptions. ASP is calculated based on manufacturers’ sales to all U.S. purchasers minus rebates from manufacturers, discounts, and price concessions, with certain exceptions. Drug manufacturers report ASP data to CMS quarterly.

Biosimilars are manufactured from living cells, are “highly similar” to an original biologic therapy and very effective for many patients. Additionally, Biological products may be produced through biotechnology in a living system, such as a microorganism, plant cell, or animal cell, and represent the fastest growing segment of the pharmaceutical industry.

Like many states, New York passed a state law in 2017 that permits pharmacists to substitute an FDA-approved biosimilar for an original biologic therapy, provided there is notice to the prescribing physician within five days of the substitution. It was renewed by the state legislature during the 2022 legislative session.



New York State of Health Announces 2023 Insurance Coverage Options: Consumers Can View Plans Now, Enrollment Starts November 16, 2022
This week the New York State of Health, the state’s health insurance Exchange, announced health and dental insurance plans being offered for the upcoming 2023 Open Enrollment Period. New Yorkers shopping for Qualified Health Plans can compare plans now so that they’re prepared for the 2023 Open Enrollment Period, which runs from November 16, 2022, to January 31, 2023.

Throughout the COVID-19 public health emergency, the NY State of Health has been a critical resource, providing over 6.7 million New Yorkers with comprehensive, affordable health insurance coverage. Today, one in every three New Yorkers is enrolled in health coverage through the Marketplace. Enrollment has increased across all marketplace programs since April 2021, when the state began implementing the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) tax credit and Essential Plan (EP) enhancements.

The press release noted that the program will continue to automatically extend public program coverage for the duration of the federal emergency, but Qualified Health Plan coverage must be renewed for 2023. Moreover, as a result of federal legislation enacted in August, significantly expanded federal tax credits will remain available to New Yorkers who enroll in Qualified Health Plans (QHP) in 2023, with an average of $1,450 to lower the cost of monthly premiums. NY State of Health officials further noted that the majority who receive premium tax credits—more than 60 percent of QHP enrollees—are not expected to see premium cost increases in 2023 and may find better cost and coverage options if they shop for a new plan.

For more information regarding this announcement : NY State of Health Announces 2023 Health and Dental Insurance Options | NY State of Health

To review and compare plans: https://nystateofhealth.ny.gov/individual?lang=en#formInstantQuotes

To view lists of plans by county: https://info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov/2023plans

MSSNY will continue to track and update members about future NY State of Health program and policy changes.


MSSNY in the News


Sellers Insurance for MSSNY Members


Physician Payment and Practice Conducts 37 New Consults in September
Physician Payment and Practice had 37 new consults with MSSNY members in September. 18 Have been resolved with 19 still outstanding.


Have You Found Yourself Frustrated with Claim Issues with United?
Specifically, when appealing and getting multiple responses from United about updates to a particular claim? When an office appeals or sends in the requested information to United, such as medical records or additional information, DO NOT send another copy of the 1500 claim form. If another copy is sent, it will create a new claim which will cause duplication of the original claim—causing confusion. A 1500 claim form should be re-submitted only if there is an actual change in coding or procedures.


Val Renewal Banner


Lifelong Learning: A Look in the Review Mirror and a Peek Ahead One-Hour Webinar on October 25
On October 25 at 7:00 pm, MSSNY’s IMG and Ethnic Medical Association Sections will host Harvard Medical School Professor Sanjiv Chopra, M.D., MACP, FRCP London. Please join us and learn stories of some major discoveries in the last few decades and predictions about the major stories emerging that will change medicine in a revolutionary way—leading to enhanced wellness and longevity. Register now.

The webinar is part of the David B.L. Meza, III, MD Lecture series and is proudly sponsored by the Medical, Educational & Scientific Foundation of New York with a grant from the Empire State Medical, Scientific & Educational Foundation.


Influenza 2022-2023: Focusing on When the Flu is Not the Flu
Annual flu season is upon us, and based on flu season in Australia, concerns about a potential “twindemic” have arisen.  Learn more about causes for this concern and best practices on recognizing flu and other viral infections by registering for Influenza 2022-2023: Focusing on When the Flu is not the Flu on October 19th at 7:30 am.  William Valenti, MD chair of the MSSNY Infectious Diseases Committee, will serve as faculty for this webinar.  Register now.  View the flyer for this webinar here.

Additional information or assistance with registration may be obtained by contacting Melissa Hoffman at mhoffman@mssny.org.


ClearClix Banner Ad


Planning For the Future Can be Hard
Altfest Personal Wealth Management is the preferred wealth management provider for members. For over 35 years, Altfest has managed comprehensive financial and investment plans for physicians and their families. Your benefits include a complimentary consultation with an Altfest advisor. Educational content, videos, and guides on timely financial topics. Invitations to educational events and webinars. Contact here or call (212) 406-0850 and ask for Jesse Frehling



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 2022 Ad RateSheet, please click here.


Concierge Practice for Sale  Boca Raton Florida
FOR SALE: Established Independent Concierge Internal Medicine Practice in Boca Raton, Florida. Stable turnkey operation in a pleasant work environment. Ideal for someone with the desire to transition to a better approach to medical practice. Financing available.
Contact planahead2023@gmail.com.


Hollywood Beach, FL 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath Condo Direct Ocean View
One of a kind two-bedroom two bath condo directly on Hollywood Beach and boardwalk.  Terrace overlooking the ocean is cruise ship-like, with unobstructed views of the ocean and intercostal. Penthouse unit without neighbors above or adjacent. Features white 24-inch tile floors, two bedrooms with queen beds, two marble tiled bathrooms, central air conditioning and building just upgraded. Edgewaters Beach Towers, 400 North Surf Rd., Hollywood Beach. $779,000. Call 917-861-8273 / CenedeseLuis@gmail.com


30 Central Park South Office for Lease or Sale 
Prime ground floor office, two  AAAHC accredited operatories plus four exam rooms lab, large reception and secretarial areas and two full bathrooms. Four rooms with external windows. Will help with building to suit. Lease $16500/month with option to buy $3.3mil. Contact CenedeseLuis@gmail.com  or 917-861-8273


Rheumatology Practice Sublet – Great Neck, NY
Sublet opportunity available at an established medical office in Great Neck, NY. Prime location near LIJ, Northshore University and St. Francis Hospitals. Fully equipped office with onsite parking and proximity to mass transit. Contact 516-972-2986/susanrita1@msny.com for more info.


Medical Office with Ample Patient Parking + 1 Family For Sale in the Most Desired Area of Hollis Hills. Priced to Sell!
One of a kind medical office investment opportunity and growth in the most desirable areas of Hollis Hills! This property is an S1 zoning that allows a medical practice, located within proximity of LIJ and Manhasset hospital, Lake Success Pro Health Medical offices with ample patient parking and much more, this unique property features a residential space split level style with 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths living room, dining room with a wood burning fireplace, kitchen, oversized sunroom/den, 1 car garage and laundry room.

The Lower level has a separate entrance, 4 exam rooms, a doctor’s private office, filling rooms and endless closet storage.
Conveniently located near schools, worship houses, transportation, GCP, LIE, Cross Island & Clearview Expressway, restaurants, shopping centers and much more! To inquire, please call Claudia (917-554-4158) or Bella at (718-344-2153).


Recruiting for Full or Part time (20 hours per week Chief of Medical Services).  Salary is Negotiable.
Oversees and directs the planning, implementation, and supervision of health and medical services for residents at the NYS Veterans Home at St Albans. Develops, implements, and evaluates medical treatment standards and procedures; and provides technical and operational guidance and direction to medical and health care staff. Serves as a medical consultant and liaison; and develops recommendations for medical assessments, treatments, and care. Implements and monitors contract agreements and the provision of contracted medical and health related services. Participates in program audits and reviews. Supervises the credentialing and privileging process to ensure that medical staff possess appropriate credentials and maintain appropriate levels of continuing education; and participates in the development of recruitment programs and hiring and selection processes. Provides clinical and administrative supervision and guidance to physicians and other health care professionals.  Possession of a license and current registration to practice medicine in New York State and six years of post-licensure medical practice experience, two years of which must have been in an administrative or supervisory capacity. Must be fully COVID 19 vaccinated.

Send CV to: RecruitmentStAlbans@nysvets.org


Office Space To Share / Financial District NYC.
LOCATION:
111 John St., Ste 1460, NYC 10038 (between Cliff & Pearl St.)
A block away from the South Street Seaport. Easy access to office Central hub for all subway lines (A, C, 2, 3, 4, 5, J, Z, E), a quick walk from NJ path train.

Beautifully renovated, 1,300 sq ft. modern space. Available Monday, Wednesday, Friday and weekends.

Private rooms with pocket doors. Access to building 24/7, security/door man in the lobby, very safe. Daily rate $450. Contact (917) 514-1299 text/call.


Medical Office for Share in Medical Park with Free Big Parking Lot in Westchester County
Medical office for sublet in Medical Park with free big parking lot, located at West Harrison, border of White Plains in Westchester County. Office includes a big waiting room with a kitchen, doctors office, exam room, and reception area. All rooms are available for whole days of Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, Thursday (Thursday full day on every 1st and 3rd week and Thursday morning on every 2nd and 4th week each month, or we can discuss more options). Monthly rent $600 for once a week usage, $1100 for twice a week usage, $1500 for three-day a week usage. Newly renovated and fully furnished. Text May if you are interested 646-338-4803


Board Certified Internal or Family Medicine Physician
Join our caring team and our mission to provide the highest standard of healthcare to each of our patients. Medical office in Eastern Nassau County looking a for a hard-working, responsible Physician to join our team.

Responsibilities include care for, diagnosing and managing patients.

Please send Curriculum Vitae to drg2555@yahoo.com.



Rendr – Transforming Healthcare – Leadership Opportunity: Associate Chief Medical Office, SVP of Population Health, Bilingual English and Chinese (Mandarin or Cantonese) preferred
Job Position: Associate Chief Medical Office, SVP of Population Health in this role, you will lead and provide a wide range of support through population health, quality measures, practice transformation, Rendr360 department, House Calls, and other projects. Please send resumes careers@rendrcare.com. We are offering leadership opportunities to Physicians who are interested in providing high-quality clinical care to our patients in the diverse communities that we serve. As a rapidly growing network, we provide a supportive environment for our physicians to practice medicine under the guidance of dedicated medical leadership. www.rendrcare.com.

MSSNY Pulse: September 30, 2022

Message from MSSNY President Parag Mehta, MD:
In a Gentle Way, You Can Shake the World

Colleagues:
In a gentle way, you can shake the world is one of my favorite quotes from Mahatma Gandhi.

I enjoyed my inspiring trip to Gandhi Ashram during my recent visit to India. Gandhi was a great leader, a compassionate human, and an exemplary visionary. He touched millions of hearts and achieved incredible success by following certain principles. Gandhiji was born on October 2nd; Gandhi Jayanti is also celebrated as the International Day of Non-Violence. Let us learn a few of his teachings.

Non-Violence:
Non-violence is the greatest force at the disposal of mankind. It is mightier than the mightiest weapon of destruction. Anger is the enemy of non-violence, and pride is a monster that swallows it up.

Truth and Honesty:
Being honest could generate trust and confidence in the minds of people. Truth alone triumphs. Speak the truth even if you are in the minority. Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.

Forgiveness:
An eye for an eye will make the whole world blind. The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong.

Perseverance:
A river cuts through the mountains, not because of its strength but because of its perseverance.

Mindfulness: 
Mindfulness is a process of being aware and non-judgmental. You must be the change you wish to see in the world.

As Ghandi said, “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.”

Women in Medicine
As Women in Medicine Month comes to a close today, I want to again recognize and thank all MSSNY’s exemplary women leaders, including Dr. Linda Clark, Dr. Lisa Eng, Dr. Janine Fogarty, Dr. Melissa Grageda, and Dr. Jocelyn Young.

Dr. Jocelyn Young

Dr. Lisa Eng

Dr. Melissa Grageda

Parag Mehta, MD
MSSNY President


NYS Sees Increase in Medical Exemptions for School Age Children
According to a published report this week in POLITICO-NY, New York State has seen an increase in the number of medical exemptions issued to school-age children from vaccination requirements.   This followed the NYS Legislature 2019 law that removed religious exemptions from the law.  Medical exemptions are now the only type of exemption allowed for children from the school-based immunizations requirements and are issued by physicians.  According to POLITICO, the medical exemptions were issued for students in religious and private schools.   Physicians are reminded that medical exemptions must follow the recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) available in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention publication, Guide to Vaccine Contraindications and Precautions. This guide can be found at the following website: http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/recs/vac-admin/contraindications.htm.  The New York State medical exemption form must be completed and attested to by the physician: https://www.health.ny.gov/forms/doh-5077.pdf .

Falsely certifying a medical exemption form could result in a review of licensure for the physician by the New York State’s Office of Professional Medical Conduct (OPMC).   The Medical Society of the State of New York, which led the coalition of medical groups in 2019 in securing that medical exemptions were the only exemptions allowed for school-based immunizations, strongly encourages physicians to follow the CDC guidance when issuing a medical exemption.


MLMIC Ad


Changes in Burnout and Satisfaction with Work-Life Integration in Physicians Over the First 2 Years of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Physicians’ emotional exhaustion and depersonalization scores were worse in 2021 than in 2020, according to a study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings on Sept. 13. The 2021 surveyed 2,440 U.S. physicians about work-life integration, burnout, depression, and professional fulfillment.

The pandemic’s longevity has “taxed healthcare delivery systems to their limits,” according to the study’s authors. Its chronic nature has “depleted healthcare workers’ emotional reserves,” and political skepticism toward vaccines and science has taken a toll on patient-provider relationships.

Five takeaways: 

  • 62.8 percent of physicians experienced at least one manifestation of burnout in 2021, compared to 38.2 percent in 2020.
  • Physicians’ mean emotional exhaustion was 38.6 percent higher in 2021 than in 2020.
  • Physicians’ mean depersonalization was 60.7 percent higher in 2021 than in 2020.
  • Burnout for physicians was 25 percent more prevalent in 2021 than in 2020.
  • Satisfaction with work-life integration declined from 2020 to 2021, but depression scores showed little difference — indicating distress is work-related, according to the study’s authors.

Changes in Burnout and Satisfaction With Work-Life Integration in Physicians Over the First 2 Years of the COVID-19 Pandemic (Shanafelt, Mayo, 9/13).


Latest Information on Poliovirus in New York State
The latest update regarding Poliovirus in New York State contains updated guidance on enhanced surveillance for non-paralytic polio (non-specific viral symptoms or meningitis) in New York State. This advisory includes updated recommendations for adult polio vaccination based on updated CDC recommendations as of September 22, 2022.



We Need Your Input on New MSSNY Website
Have you taken our website survey yet? We are building a brand new MSSNY website and want it to meet your needs.

Your input is critical. Our goal is to create a website that helps you to easily find the information that you—and your physician colleagues throughout New York State—are looking for.

To help us make the new website the best it can be, please take our MSSNY website survey before October 15. It will take less than two minutes of your time.


Join Us on October 9, 2022, and Learn How to Ace your Residency Interview
Our newest seminar series hosted by MSSNY’s IMG and Ethnic Medical Association Sections continues Sunday, October 9 at 9:30 am. Please join us to learn how to ace your next interview for your residency application. Leaders in the medical field will teach you how to ensure your statement stands out. Register now.


Sellers Insurance for MSSNY Members


Efforts Continue to Urge Governor Hochul to Veto Bill That Will Prompt Drastic Liability Rate Hikes
This week, an ad from the Lawsuit Reform Alliance of New York ran in amNY urging Governor Hochul to veto an drastic piece of legislation that could drive up liability insurance costs by nearly 40%.  The bill would greatly expand the types of damages in wrongful death actions.

In numerous op-eds across the State, including Medical society leaders: NY’s new liability law threatens access to care (Your Letters) – syracuse.com, the medical community has warned that premium increases approaching this level will harm patient access to care, given the already grossly excessive liability insurance costs facing physicians in New York.  Therefore, physicians are urged to continue to contact Governor Hochul to urge that the bill be vetoed. Urge Governor to Veto Wrongful Death Liability Expansion (p2a.co).

Since the impact of the bill goes far beyond healthcare, MSSNY has been working with a number of varied groups to urge a veto, including groups representing hospitals, businesses, insurers and municipalities.  The ad also previously ran in the Buffalo News and Daily News.


Val Renewal Banner


Please Urge Congress to Prevent Steep Medicare Cuts for 2023
Physicians are urged to contact their respective Congressional representative and Senators Schumer and Gillibrand (Stop Medicare Cuts (p2a.co) to urge that they act to prevent an 8.5% cut to their Medicare payments proposed by CMS for 2023.

This week, MSSNY joined the AMA and 120 other state and specialty societies in a letter to Congressional leaders to prevent the cut. It notes that: “According to an AMA analysis of Medicare Trustees data, Medicare physician payment has been reduced 20% adjusted for inflation from 2001–2021. The Medicare physician payment system lacks an adequate annual physician payment update, unlike those that apply to other Medicare provider payments. Physicians are the only Medicare provider not receiving an inflationary update in 2023.”

Specifically, the letter asks Congress to:

  • Extend the Congressionally enacted 3% temporary increase in the Medicare physician fee schedule scheduled to expire at the end of 2022.
  • Provide relief for an additional 1.5% budget neutrality cut that is planned for 2023
  • End the statutory annual freeze and provide an inflation-based update for the coming year
  • Waive the 4% PAYGO sequester necessitated by passage of legislation unrelated to Medicare

If these changes were not going cause enough damage to community physician practices, MSSNY is raising the alarm to CMS regarding a provision in the 2023 Medicare payment rule that would further reduce Medicare payments to New York physicians by decreasing the regional adjustments to Medicare payments arising from New York’s excessively high rents costs and liability insurance costs.  MSSNY has been working with the AMA and the Physicians’ Advocacy Institute to ensure that this concern was reflected in the comments these groups submitted to CMS about the Medicare payment rule.  MSSNY also submitted its own comments to CMS protesting these proposed cuts and shared the letter with several members of New York’s Congressional delegation.

Again, you can send a letter to your members of Congress from here: Stop Medicare Cuts (p2a.co)


Healthcare Worker Bonus Program Application Portal Opens Again October 1
For the month of October, physician practices eligible to participate in the New York State Healthcare Worker Bonus Program will be able to submit requests for bonuses for their eligible employees who worked during Vesting Period 1 (October 1, 2021 -March 31, 2022) and Vesting Period 2 (April 1, 2022-September 30, 2022).

Please consult the frequently updated FAQ Frequently Asked Questions (ny.gov) from the New York State Department of Health for important information to assist physicians in navigating this important program.  MSSNY has been working closely with county medical society physician leaders and staff across the State to answer questions from physicians and their staffs regarding the State’s Health care worker bonus program enacted in the State Budget earlier this year.

As a reminder, only physician practices with at least 20% Medicaid patient population are eligible to submit for the bonuses on behalf of eligible employees (listed in the FAQ). The “20% Medicaid” threshold includes patients enrolled in Medicaid fee for service, Medicaid Managed Care and where Medicaid is secondary, but not other state funded insurance plans.   It is important to note that those that are eligible to participate are also required to participate.

There is a defined formula in the statute for the bonus level for the eligible employees, based upon the number of average hours worked during a 6-month vesting period.

  1. 20-30 hours = $500 bonus/vesting period
  2. 30-35 hours = $1,000 bonus/vesting period
  3. 35 hours or more = $1,500 bonus/vesting period

An eligible employee may not receive a bonus for more than 2 vesting periods, with a maximum bonus of $3,000 cumulatively.

With regard to medical residents and fellows, the updated FAQ also clarifies that the “the Qualified Employer that employed the Resident during vesting period 1 is responsible for claiming and paying the bonus”, even if the resident changed positions after the end of Vesting Period 1.

Again, please consult the frequently updated FAQ Frequently Asked Questions (ny.gov) from the New York State Department of Health for important information to assist physicians in navigating this important program.


Rx Banner


MSSNY Fights for Dense Breast Screening Coverage
MSSNY members and our Director of Physician Payment and Practice, Heather Lopez, met with the Deputy Chief Medical Officer for the Centers of Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Dr. Shari Ling and her team to discuss the reevaluation of national coverage determination (NCD) regarding the non-coverage of screening breast ultrasounds for women with dense breasts.

Currently, this is a non-covered service by Medicare. The best practices based on the guidelines set forth by multiple organizations/associations are that when a woman is diagnosed with dense breasts based on mammography, supplemental screening, most commonly with breast ultrasound, is recommended in addition to annual mammograms.

Based on the meeting, we are very optimistic that steps will be taken to provide women across the country with the appropriate coverage, particularly regarding breast health. MSSNY would like to thank our members, Dr. D’Alessio, Dr. Eng, and a couple of other ProHealth Physicians, for being a part of the meeting and providing critical information and valuable feedback.


Lifelong Learning: A Look from the Rear View Mirror and a Peek Ahead
Save the Date! On October 25 at 7 pm, please join Harvard Medical School Professor of Medicine Dr Sanjiv Chopra for a one-hour webinar entitled Lifelong Learning: A Look from the Rear View Mirror and a Peek Ahead.

Additional details will be provided next week.



What Are FDA-Approved “Biosimilar” Therapies & What Physicians Need to Know When Treating Patients with These New Therapies
Patients living with chronic or complex diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, diabetes, Crohn’s disease, and others, have benefited in recent years from innovative biological medicines, commonly known as “Biosimilars”, which are manufactured from living cells and highly effective for many patients. Biosimilars are biological medicines approved by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) as “highly similar” to an original biologic therapy.

Like many states, New York enacted a law that permits a pharmacist to substitute an FDA-approved biosimilar for an original biologic therapy, provided there is notice to the prescribing physician within five days of the substitution. The state legislature renewed the law during the 2022 legislative session. To help physicians better understand what Biosimilars are, how the law works and what it means for patients, MSSNY is hosting a webinar on Wednesday, October 5, 2022 at 7:30am via Zoom. The webinar will feature health policy experts who will share information on this important issue and answer physicians’ questions about the potential impact on their patients. Register Here!


Influenza 2022-2023: Focusing on When the Flu is not the Flu
Annual flu season is upon us and based on flu season in Australia concerns about a potential “twindemic” have arisen.  Learn more about causes for this concern and best practices on recognizing flu and other viral infections by registering for Influenza 2022-2023: Focusing on When the Flu is not the Flu on October 19th at 7:30 am.  William Valenti, MD chair of the MSSNY Infectious Diseases Committee, will serve as faculty for this webinar.  Register now  View the flyer for this webinar here.

Additional information or assistance with registration may be obtained by contacting Melissa Hoffman at mhoffman@mssny.org.


STI COMPUTER SERVICES – Practice Management, Medical Billing, Electronic Medical Records, Revenue Cycle Management Services
STI Computer Services specializes in the development, sales, installation, and support of computer systems for medical practices. STI is the author of the ChartMaker Go Medical Suite, a modular set of software for Billing, Scheduling, Practice Management, and Electronic Medical Records. The system has been installed in over 3,000 medical practices since 1979. ChartMaker is available in client/server, cloud-based, or Revenue Cycle Management options. STI also provides credentialing and enrollment, coding, chart auditing, hardware, installation, training (both on-site and web-based), Dragon Medical One Voice Recognition systems, electronic faxing, VOIP telephone systems, and hardware managed services.

For more information, call Matt Ross: 1-800-487-9135 extension 1169 or by email at mross@sticomputer.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 2022 Ad RateSheet, please click here.


Concierge Practice for Sale  Boca Raton Florida
FOR SALE: Established Independent Concierge Internal Medicine Practice in Boca Raton, Florida. Stable turnkey operation in a pleasant work environment. Ideal for someone with the desire to transition to a better approach to medical practice. Financing available.
Contact planahead2023@gmail.com.


Hollywood Beach, FL 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath Condo Direct Ocean View
One of a kind two-bedroom two bath condo directly on Hollywood Beach and boardwalk.  Terrace overlooking the ocean is cruise ship-like, with unobstructed views of the ocean and intercostal. Penthouse unit without neighbors above or adjacent. Features white 24-inch tile floors, two bedrooms with queen beds, two marble tiled bathrooms, central air conditioning and building just upgraded. Edgewaters Beach Towers, 400 North Surf Rd., Hollywood Beach. $779,000. Call 917-861-8273 / CenedeseLuis@gmail.com


30 Central Park South Office for Lease or Sale 
Prime ground floor office, two  AAAHC accredited operatories plus four exam rooms lab, large reception and secretarial areas and two full bathrooms. Four rooms with external windows. Will help with building to suit. Lease $16500/month with option to buy $3.3mil. Contact CenedeseLuis@gmail.com  or 917-861-8273


Rheumatology Practice Sublet – Great Neck, NY
Sublet opportunity available at an established medical office in Great Neck, NY. Prime location near LIJ, Northshore University and St. Francis Hospitals. Fully equipped office with onsite parking and proximity to mass transit. Contact 516-972-2986/susanrita1@msny.com for more info.


Medical Office with Ample Patient Parking + 1 Family For Sale in the Most Desired Area of Hollis Hills. Priced to Sell!
One of a kind medical office investment opportunity and growth in the most desirable areas of Hollis Hills! This property is an S1 zoning that allows a medical practice, located within proximity of LIJ and Manhasset hospital, Lake Success Pro Health Medical offices with ample patient parking and much more, this unique property features a residential space split level style with 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths living room, dining room with a wood burning fireplace, kitchen, oversized sunroom/den, 1 car garage and laundry room.

The Lower level has a separate entrance, 4 exam rooms, a doctor’s private office, filling rooms and endless closet storage.
Conveniently located near schools, worship houses, transportation, GCP, LIE, Cross Island & Clearview Expressway, restaurants, shopping centers and much more! To inquire, please call Claudia (917-554-4158) or Bella at (718-344-2153).


Recruiting for Full or Part time (20 hours per week Chief of Medical Services).  Salary is negotiable.
Oversees and directs the planning, implementation, and supervision of health and medical services for residents at the NYS Veterans Home at St Albans. Develops, implements, and evaluates medical treatment standards and procedures; and provides technical and operational guidance and direction to medical and health care staff. Serves as a medical consultant and liaison; and develops recommendations for medical assessments, treatments, and care. Implements and monitors contract agreements and the provision of contracted medical and health related services. Participates in program audits and reviews. Supervises the credentialing and privileging process to ensure that medical staff possess appropriate credentials and maintain appropriate levels of continuing education; and participates in the development of recruitment programs and hiring and selection processes. Provides clinical and administrative supervision and guidance to physicians and other health care professionals.  Possession of a license and current registration to practice medicine in New York State and six years of post-licensure medical practice experience, two years of which must have been in an administrative or supervisory capacity. Must be fully COVID 19 vaccinated.

Send CV to: RecruitmentStAlbans@nysvets.org


Office Space To Share / Financial District NYC.
LOCATION:
111 John St., Ste 1460, NYC 10038 (between Cliff & Pearl St.)
A block away from the South Street Seaport. Easy access to office Central hub for all subway lines (A, C, 2, 3, 4, 5, J, Z, E), a quick walk from NJ path train.

Beautifully renovated, 1,300 sq ft. modern space. Available Monday, Wednesday, Friday and weekends.

Private rooms with pocket doors. Access to building 24/7, security/door man in the lobby, very safe. Daily rate $450. Contact (917) 514-1299 text/call.


Medical Office for Share in Medical Park with Free Big Parking Lot in Westchester County
Medical office for sublet in Medical Park with free big parking lot, located at West Harrison, border of White Plains in Westchester County. Office includes a big waiting room with a kitchen, doctors office, exam room, and reception area. All rooms are available for whole days of Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, Thursday (Thursday full day on every 1st and 3rd week and Thursday morning on every 2nd and 4th week each month, or we can discuss more options). Monthly rent $600 for once a week usage, $1100 for twice a week usage, $1500 for three-day a week usage. Newly renovated and fully furnished. Text May if you are interested 646-338-4803


Board Certified Internal or Family Medicine Physician
Join our caring team and our mission to provide the highest standard of healthcare to each of our patients. Medical office in Eastern Nassau County looking a for a hard-working, responsible Physician to join our team.

Responsibilities include care for, diagnosing and managing patients.

Please send Curriculum Vitae to drg2555@yahoo.com.



Rendr – Transforming Healthcare – Leadership Opportunity: Associate Chief Medical Office, SVP of Population Health, Bilingual English and Chinese (Mandarin or Cantonese) preferred
Job Position: Associate Chief Medical Office, SVP of Population Health in this role, you will lead and provide a wide range of support through population health, quality measures, practice transformation, Rendr360 department, House Calls, and other projects. Please send resumes careers@rendrcare.com. We are offering leadership opportunities to Physicians who are interested in providing high-quality clinical care to our patients in the diverse communities that we serve. As a rapidly growing network, we provide a supportive environment for our physicians to practice medicine under the guidance of dedicated medical leadership. www.rendrcare.com.

MSSNY Pulse: September 23, 2022

Message from MSSNY President Parag Mehta, MD:
MSSNY Celebrates Women in Medicine

Colleagues:
During Women in Medicine month in September each year, we celebrate and recognize all the women physicians, residents, and medical students who inspire those around them every day and work to make health care more equitable.

I’d like to honor and thank MSSNY’s thousands of superb women members who work tirelessly to care for New York’s patients—and direct a special spotlight on MSSNY Past President Dr Bonnie Litvack and MSSNY Vice Speaker Dr Maria Basile, who work to make MSSNY a better organization for their colleagues. We also benefit from the time, effort, and leadership of the many women physicians who lead our county medical societies.

MSSNY Vice Speaker Dr Maria Basile

MSSNY Past President Dr Bonnie Litvack

​MSSNY is also fortunate to benefit from the skilled leadership of many women on our staff, including Pat Clancy, Laurie Mayer, Julie Vecchione, Valerie Cammiso,  Zina Cary, Heather Lopez, Brenda Van Nest, Sandra Bennett, Caroline Hunt, and Fran Nunez.  Additionally, we are grateful to the many women county executives, including Lucia Acosta-Castillejo, Christa Castelli, Lorraine M. Clement, Shirley Cosgriff, Aimana Elbahtity, Jeanne Hummel, Kim Jones, Joselin Lajara, Brenda Lynch, Cheryl Malone, Janine Miller, Julie Panna, Annette Rickey, Dr. Myrna Angiolinna Sanchez, Stavroula Savelidis, and Amelia M. Soto.

MSSNY’s Women Physicians Committee addresses women physician’s issues and concerns, including women’s health issues, work/life balance, pay disparities, sexual harassment, representation in leadership roles, and family-friendly employment policies. Please encourage your women colleagues to join and get more involved in MSSNY. Our organization represents physicians across the state, and we are always looking for the best and the brightest women physicians to lead the organization into the future.

Parag Mehta, MD
MSSNY President


Health Advisory: Increase in Severe Respiratory Illnesses Associated with Rhinoviruses and/or Enteroviruses
Health Update from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Severe Respiratory Illnesses Associated with Rhinoviruses and/or Enteroviruses. An increase in pediatric hospitalizations in patients with severe respiratory illness who also tested positive for rhinovirus (RV) and/or enterovirus (EV) has been reported in several regions of the US; healthcare facilities in New York State and New York City are seeing such pediatric hospitalizations.

  • RVs and EVs can have clinically similar presentations and are indistinguishable from one another on multiplex assays often used in clinical settings.
  • Upon further typing, some specimens have been positive for enterovirus D68 (EV-D68). Concurrently, pediatric acute respiratory illness sentinel surveillance sites are reporting a higher proportion of EV-D68 positivity in children who are RV/EV positive compared to previous years.
  • Although it primarily causes acute respiratory illness, EV-D68 has been associated with acute flaccid myelitis (AFM), a rare but serious neurologic complication involving limb weakness. AFM and paralytic polio can have similar clinical presentations; specimens tested at Wadsworth Center for pathogens that can cause AFM will also be tested for poliovirus.
  • Historically, a rise in AFM cases is typically seen about a month after EV-D68-associated respiratory disease is detected in a geographic area.


MLMIC Ad


STI Computer Services Announces Strategic Alliance with the Medical Society of the State of New York to Offer Members the ChartMaker® Revenue Cycle Optimization Service, an enhanced Revenue Cycle Management (RCM) Program
STI Computer Services announced a strategic alliance this week with the Medical Society of the State of New York (MSSNY) to offer MSSNY members the STI Revenue Cycle Optimization Program for Medical Practices. Revenue Cycle Optimization (RCO) is an enhanced form of Revenue Cycle Management (RCM) that includes more than just assistance in electronic billing, posting, handling insurance denials, and collecting fees.

STI RCO also includes personal assistance for EMR Software implementation and training, MIPS Assistance, training, and other consultative services required by medical practices to maintain federal compliancy, but not readily available from one source as a complete and affordable package. The alliance also provides discounted prices for MSSNY members on the Revenue Cycle Optimization Program, Insurance Credentialing, and Computer Equipment Managed Services.

The objective is to increase physician owners’ profits by increasing collections, reducing costs, and managing the complete revenue cycle. Practices are different, and one standard Revenue Cycle Management program will not work for everyone, so the programs are customizable.

For more information, call Matt Ross: 1-800-487-9135 extension 1169 or by email at mross@sticomputer.com.


Join Us on October 9, 2022, and Learn How to Ace Your Residency Interview
Our newest seminar series hosted by MSSNY’s IMG and Ethnic Medical Association Sections continues Sunday, October 9 at 9:30 am. Please join us to learn how to ace your next interview for your residency application. Leaders in the medical field will teach you how to ensure your statement stands out. Register now.



Media Relations 101 for Medical Professionals on October 5, 2022 –10:00 AM
Onondaga County Medical Society Executive Director Julie Panna has over 20 years of strategic communications and media experience. She will discuss tips on preparing for and successfully delivering your message during television interviews. This webinar is geared toward physicians and medical society staff. The session will provide an overview of tips on addressing public policy issues during a media interview.

Please RSVP to oncms@oncms.org by September 25th, and you will receive confirmation of registration and the zoom link.


Save the Date for Joint Section Virtual Programming Saturday, October 1, 2022 – 10:00 AM
The Residents/Fellows Section, the Young Physicians Section, and the Medical Students Section will host a virtual information session on Saturday, October 1.

We look forward to having you join us!
Learn more To register

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with krohrer@mssny.org


Sellers Insurance for MSSNY Members


Join the Young Physicians/Residents Social Meet Up Tonight!


Monroe County Medical Society Celebrates 201st Anniversary Gala
On Friday, September 16, 2022, the Monroe County Medical Society celebrated its 201st Anniversary Gala at the Locust Hill Country Club in Pittsford, NY after a 2-year hiatus. With over 200 guests in attendance, members enjoyed a cocktail hour with colleagues and friends, a delicious sit-down dinner with delectable desserts, followed by dancing.

Annually, the Monroe County Medical Society (MCMS) presents its distinguished Edward Mott Moore Award to both a physician and a layperson whose lives reflect the qualities exemplified by Dr. Edward Mott Moore as a physician, teacher, investigator, leader and contributor to the community. This is the highest honor bestowed by MCMS, in recognition of outstanding and dedicated service to the medical profession and the community.

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, we devoted time to recognize the recipients of the annual Edward Mott Moore Award from 2020 to 2022. We also recognized and honored those MCMS members celebrating their 50th, 25th and 10th year anniversaries of practicing medicine.

The evening had several speakers including Dr. Parag Mehta, MSSNY President, who gave an engaging presentation on “How to Change the World”. Dr. Mehta guided all on creating a brighter future through advocacy, learning, empathy, gratitude, forgiveness, mindfulness, equity and improving social determinants of health. This presentation was very well-received with multiple attendees commenting on how inspiring it was.

Congressman Joe Morelle, of the 25th District of NY, also joined the celebration and presented the MCMS with a Congressional award. Finally, Dr. John Lombardo, Chief Medical Officer, MLMIC Insurance touched on “Medical Professional Liability Updates and Current Threats to the Practice of Medicineincluding the importance of opposing the Grieving Families Act: Senate Bill S74A.

This bill is an extreme, drastic overhaul of current law. If enacted, it would:

  • expand without limitation the universe of individuals who may recover damages under wrongful death actions to include the undefined term “Close Family Members”
  • create a new category of non-economic damages for grief and anguish and allow recovering individuals to obtain damages for their own “disorders caused by such grief or anguish”
  • nearly double the statute of limitations for wrongful death actions from 2 years to 3.5 years

Dr Susan Danahy Receiving 2021-2022 President Service Award

Dr. Mathew Devine, New MCMS President Accepting His Gavel


Val Renewal Banner


Discover Life in the Field!
You are cordially invited to attend the upcoming Doctors Without Borders Recruitment New York Info Sessions in Brooklyn and Harlem. Join their efforts to assist people whose survival is threatened by violence, neglect, or catastrophe.

Information Session: September 27, 6:00pm-7:30pm. Harlem, NY 180 W 135th St New York, NY 10030 Register Here

A Field Recruiter will be on hand to discuss requirements and the recruitment process, and a Doctors Without Borders aid worker from the local area will share their stories of life in the fieldLearn more about working for MSF.

Doctors Without Borders provides emergency medical aid to people in crisis in more than 60 countries worldwide. Learn more


AMA, AHA Support Lawsuit to Challenge Flawed Revised Surprise Bill Rule
In response to the Texas Medical Association filing a new suit against the federal government alleging that the revised surprise bill dispute resolution regulation suffers from defects similar to the regulation they attempted to implement last year, the AMA and AHA issued the following statement supporting the action:

“Hospitals and doctors strongly believe that no patient should fear receiving a surprise medical bill and that patients should be kept out of the middle of any billing disputes between providers and commercial health insurance companies. The AHA and AMA fully support the lawsuit just filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, which challenges the government’s August 2022 final rule regarding the No Surprises Act’s independent dispute resolution process. We intend to make our voice heard in this case by filing an amicus brief that explains how the final rule departs from Congressional intent just as the September 2021 interim final rule did. The Texas court previously held that the interim final rule impermissibly rewrote clear statutory terms by placing a thumb on the scale in favor of commercial insurers. The final rule suffers from the same problems. As was the case with the previous suit, the AHA and AMA want to see the law’s core patient protections move forward and seek only to bring the regulations in line with the law. We look forward to supporting the Texas Medical Association’s efforts to restore the balanced, patient-friendly approach that Congress passed and the AHA and AMA supported.”


Rx Banner


Tell Congress to Stop the Cuts
Stop us if you’ve heard this before – physicians are facing another round of Medicare payment cuts by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Unless Congress acts by the end of the year, physician Medicare payments are planned to be cut by 8.42 percent in 2023 which would severely impede patient access to care due to the forced closure of physician practices and put further strain on those that remained open during the pandemic.
Tell Congress to protect America’s Medicare patients and stop the cuts!

These scheduled cuts will come in three forms:

  • Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. CMS has proposed a 4.42% cut for all physician services in 2023 to offset payment policy improvements in office and facility-based visits.
  • No inflationary update.  Physicians are the only providers whose Medicare payments do not automatically receive an annual inflationary update; during this time of record inflation on the heels of a highly disruptive pandemic, this statutory flaw amplifies the impact of proposed payment cuts.
  • PAYGO. Congressional Pay-As-You-Go (PAGO) rules have been triggered requiring an automatic 4% cut as a result of new federal spending having nothing to do with physicians. These cuts will kick in in 2023 unless waived by Congress.

Physicians simply cannot afford to operate under the current payment system. Congress must reform the Medicare physician payment system to make it simpler, more reflective of real-world physician practice costs and more predictable for both physicians and CMS before it’s too late!

Recently, Representatives Ami Bera, MD (D-CA) and Larry Bucshon, MD (R-IN) introduced H.R. 8800 the “Supporting Medicare Providers Act” to help address the flawed payment system and provide relief from the devastating cuts.

This is a great first step, but with only a handful of legislative days left it is critical that Congress act to pass it or any other legislation that will prevent these devastating cuts from going into effect. Please take a moment and contact your Senators and Representative to tell them to cancel the cuts!


The Center Square – 09/16/22
Ad campaign launched on New York’s wrongful death lawsuits reform bill
(MSSNY President Dr. Parag Mehta quoted)


Syracuse Post Standard – 09/16/22
Medical society leaders: NY’s new liability law threatens access to care (Your Letters)
(Joint letter from Onondaga County Medical Society President Robert Dracker, MD, MHA, MBA, CPI; President-elect Digant Nanavati, MD; Vice President Lynn Cleary, MD; Past President David Page, MD; and Treasurer Michael Sheehan, MD)


MSSNY Announces New Podcast on Polio
On September 9th, Governor Kathy Hochul declared a State Disaster Emergency in response to a case of paralytic polio discovered in Rockland County on July 21, 2022.  Subsequent wastewater testing has discovered polio in five counties in New York State.  To learn more about polio, be sure to check out MSSNY’s newest podcast: Polio 2022: A Discussion with Dr. William Valenti.


MSSNY Advocacy Update Podcast: Grassroots Needed on the Myriad of Healthcare Bills to be Considered by Governor Hochul.

Listen to MSSNY’s September 23rd podcast as Senior Vice-President & Chief Legislative Counsel Moe Auster discusses upcoming healthcare bills to be considered by Governor Hochul.


MSSNY & CMS Discuss Changes to Coverages
MSSNY members and our Director of Physician Payment and Practice, Heather Lopez, met with the Deputy Chief Medical Officer for the Centers of Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), Dr. Shari Ling, and her team to discuss the reevaluation of national coverage determination (NCD) regarding the non-coverage of screening breast ultrasounds for women with dense breasts.

Currently, this is a non-covered service by Medicare. The best practices based on the guidelines set forth by multiple organizations/associations are that when a woman is diagnosed with dense breasts based on mammography, supplemental screening, most commonly with breast ultrasound, is recommended in addition to annual mammograms.

Based on the meeting, we are very optimistic that the following steps will move in the right direction for women across the country with the appropriate coverage, particularly regarding breast health. MSSNY thanks our members, Dr. D’Alessio, Dr. Eng, and a few ProHealth Physicians for participating in the meeting and providing critical information and valuable feedback.


Workers’ Comp Board’s New Fact Sheet Available for Health Care Providers
As you are aware, the mandatory use of the CMS-1500 form and accompanying medical narrative went into effect on July 1, 2022. As mentioned in a GovDelivery dated July 8, 2022, health care providers must use either the medical report template or alternately, must include the following in the medical narrative attachment, either at the top of or prominently displayed on, the medical narrative that accompanies the CMS-1500 form:

  • injured worker’s temporary impairment percentage,
  • work status, and
  • the causal relationship of the injury

To serve as an additional reference for health care providers, the Workers’ Compensation Board (Board) has created a fact sheet called Treating Workers’ Comp Patients: Three Musts for Medical Reports, which outlines this requirement in further detail and provides additional information and resources.


New Webinar on Biosimilar Medications
Want to learn more about “Biosimilar” medications & the potential impact for patients battling chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes & more? Join MSSNY for an educational webinar on Wednesday, October 5th at 7:30am! Click to register! Additional information or assistance with registration may be obtained by contacting Melissa Hoffman at mhoffman@mssny.org.


Discounted Long-Term Care Insurance
Members and their spouses can now obtain a 5% discount on long-term care insurance from Mutual of Omaha, through Charles J. Sellers & Co.  Mutual of Omaha’s MutualCare Custom Solution policy allows you to get the care you need in the setting that’s right for you, whether that’s at home or in a care facility, while helping to protect the assets you’ve worked so hard for.  Contact Sellers & Co. at 800-333-5440 or insurance@sellersinsurance.com for more information and a customized proposal.



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 2022 Ad RateSheet, please click here.


Concierge Practice for Sale  Boca Raton Florida
FOR SALE: Established Independent Concierge Internal Medicine Practice in Boca Raton, Florida. Stable turnkey operation in a pleasant work environment. Ideal for someone with the desire to transition to a better approach to medical practice. Financing available.
Contact planahead2023@gmail.com.


Hollywood Beach, FL 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath Condo Direct Ocean View
One of a kind two-bedroom two bath condo directly on Hollywood Beach and boardwalk.  Terrace overlooking the ocean is cruise ship-like, with unobstructed views of the ocean and intercostal. Penthouse unit without neighbors above or adjacent. Features white 24-inch tile floors, two bedrooms with queen beds, two marble tiled bathrooms, central air conditioning and building just upgraded. Edgewaters Beach Towers, 400 North Surf Rd., Hollywood Beach. $779,000. Call 917-861-8273 / CenedeseLuis@gmail.com


30 Central Park South Office for Lease or Sale 
Prime ground floor office, two  AAAHC accredited operatories plus four exam rooms lab, large reception and secretarial areas and two full bathrooms. Four rooms with external windows. Will help with building to suit. Lease $16500/month with option to buy $3.3mil. Contact CenedeseLuis@gmail.com  or 917-861-8273


Rheumatology Practice Sublet – Great Neck, NY
Sublet opportunity available at an established medical office in Great Neck, NY. Prime location near LIJ, Northshore University and St. Francis Hospitals. Fully equipped office with onsite parking and proximity to mass transit. Contact 516-972-2986/susanrita1@msny.com for more info.


Medical Office with Ample Patient Parking + 1 Family For Sale in the Most Desired Area of Hollis Hills. Priced to Sell!
One of a kind medical office investment opportunity and growth in the most desirable areas of Hollis Hills! This property is an S1 zoning that allows a medical practice, located within proximity of LIJ and Manhasset hospital, Lake Success Pro Health Medical offices with ample patient parking and much more, this unique property features a residential space split level style with 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths living room, dining room with a wood burning fireplace, kitchen, oversized sunroom/den, 1 car garage and laundry room.

The Lower level has a separate entrance, 4 exam rooms, a doctor’s private office, filling rooms and endless closet storage.
Conveniently located near schools, worship houses, transportation, GCP, LIE, Cross Island & Clearview Expressway, restaurants, shopping centers and much more! To inquire, please call Claudia (917-554-4158) or Bella at (718-344-2153).


Recruiting for Full or Part time (20 hours per week Chief of Medical Services).  Salary is negotiable.
Oversees and directs the planning, implementation, and supervision of health and medical services for residents at the NYS Veterans Home at St Albans. Develops, implements, and evaluates medical treatment standards and procedures; and provides technical and operational guidance and direction to medical and health care staff. Serves as a medical consultant and liaison; and develops recommendations for medical assessments, treatments, and care. Implements and monitors contract agreements and the provision of contracted medical and health related services. Participates in program audits and reviews. Supervises the credentialing and privileging process to ensure that medical staff possess appropriate credentials and maintain appropriate levels of continuing education; and participates in the development of recruitment programs and hiring and selection processes. Provides clinical and administrative supervision and guidance to physicians and other health care professionals.  Possession of a license and current registration to practice medicine in New York State and six years of post-licensure medical practice experience, two years of which must have been in an administrative or supervisory capacity. Must be fully COVID 19 vaccinated.

Send CV to: RecruitmentStAlbans@nysvets.org


Office Space To Share / Financial District NYC.
LOCATION:
111 John St., Ste 1460, NYC 10038 (between Cliff & Pearl St.)
A block away from the South Street Seaport. Easy access to office Central hub for all subway lines (A, C, 2, 3, 4, 5, J, Z, E), a quick walk from NJ path train.

Beautifully renovated, 1,300 sq ft. modern space. Available Monday, Wednesday, Friday and weekends.

Private rooms with pocket doors. Access to building 24/7, security/door man in the lobby, very safe. Daily rate $450. Contact (917) 514-1299 text/call.


Medical Office for Share in Medical Park with Free Big Parking Lot in Westchester County
Medical office for sublet in Medical Park with free big parking lot, located at West Harrison, border of White Plains in Westchester County. Office includes a big waiting room with a kitchen, doctors office, exam room, and reception area. All rooms are available for whole days of Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, Thursday (Thursday full day on every 1st and 3rd week and Thursday morning on every 2nd and 4th week each month, or we can discuss more options). Monthly rent $600 for once a week usage, $1100 for twice a week usage, $1500 for three-day a week usage. Newly renovated and fully furnished. Text May if you are interested 646-338-4803


Board Certified Internal or Family Medicine Physician
Join our caring team and our mission to provide the highest standard of healthcare to each of our patients. Medical office in Eastern Nassau County looking a for a hard-working, responsible Physician to join our team.

Responsibilities include care for, diagnosing and managing patients.

Please send Curriculum Vitae to drg2555@yahoo.com.



Rendr – Transforming Healthcare – Leadership Opportunity: Associate Chief Medical Office, SVP of Population Health, Bilingual English and Chinese (Mandarin or Cantonese) preferred
Job Position: Associate Chief Medical Office, SVP of Population Health in this role, you will lead and provide a wide range of support through population health, quality measures, practice transformation, Rendr360 department, House Calls, and other projects. Please send resumes careers@rendrcare.com. We are offering leadership opportunities to Physicians who are interested in providing high-quality clinical care to our patients in the diverse communities that we serve. As a rapidly growing network, we provide a supportive environment for our physicians to practice medicine under the guidance of dedicated medical leadership. www.rendrcare.com.

MSSNY Pulse: September 16, 2022

Message from MSSNY President Parag Mehta, MD:
Tomorrow is National Physician Suicide Awareness Day: Create Hope Through Action

Colleagues:
September 17 is National Physician Suicide Awareness Day (NPSADay), an opportunity to create hope through action. As physicians, we work every day to keep our patients well so they can lead happy and healthy lives. But we must remember to care for ourselves—and our physician colleagues—as well. We can signal to people experiencing suicidal thoughts that there is hope and that we care and want to support them. Remember to reach out, connect, inspire hope, and offer help.

NPSADay is a reminder and a call to action to be available to talk – and to act – so physicians’ struggles don’t become mental health emergencies. MSSNY is proud to take action to prevent physician suicide by sharing resources to help improve physician wellbeing, including suicide prevention resources, tips for starting important conversations about mental health, a crisis management plan, and more. MSSNY’s Peer-to-Peer Program provides physicians, residents, and medical students the opportunity to talk with a peer about their life stressors.

Today, help us recognize #NPSADay by visiting NPSADay.org and learn how you can take action. We must shift the current practice landscape to better support a culture of well-being and come together to take the necessary actions to reduce burnout, safeguard job satisfaction, remove barriers to seeking mental health services and destigmatize seeking these services. There are six actions to help reduce physician burnout and ensure physicians’ struggles don’t become mental health emergencies.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.

For more info on physician mental health, read part two of the Physician’s Foundation’s 2022 Survey of America’s Physicians: Understanding the State of Physicians’ Wellbeing and Assessing Solutions to Address It.

Wellness Corner. Positivity increases our ability to think creatively, to progress in our careers, to cope with challenges, and to work with other people. It can reduce absenteeism and staff turnover, and lead to more satisfied and productive teams. In short, it’s an essential ingredient for success.

Parag Mehta, MD
MSSNY President


New York State Suicide Prevention Conference September 20-22, 2022
Social connection is the experience of feeling close to and a sense of belonging with others. A large volume of research with diverse populations and age groups shows that social connectedness is one of the most important factors in determining not only our mental health, but also our physical health. This three-day, virtual conference will bring together internationally recognized experts to summarize the latest prevention science and explain why we should all be more focused on supporting social connection across the lifespan—from early childhood and adolescence through our working and older-age years. Participants will be able to take ideas showcased in the conference back to their diverse communities and begin or build on existing work aimed at supporting healthy social connections.

Register Today


MLMIC Ad


MSSNY Recoups Potential Losses and Influences Change in UHC Policy
The following testimony was submitted by MSSNY Member Ross Zeltser, MD, FAAD, FACMS of the Hudson Dermatology group:

“I strongly commend Heather K. Lopez, MSSNY’s Director of Physician Payment & Practice. We first reached out to her earlier this year, asking for help with unfair reimbursement practices by UHC. She replied within minutes and used her connections at UHC to help us recover several thousand dollars and, more importantly, compel UHC to reverse the unjust and unjustified policy. A similar scenario played out more recently with Aetna. It is difficult to imagine a more responsive, proactive, and, most importantly, effective advocate than Heather. Having the benefit of access to Heather would more than pay for the yearly dues! In the strongest possible terms, I urge all NY physicians to join MSSNY.”


MSSNY YPS/Residents Social Meet Up – Friday, September 23, 2022 @ 7:00 pm
MSSNY YPS and Residents are invited to a social meet up on September 23rd at 7 PM at Cooper Bluff Waterfront Bar in Oyster Bay, NY. Don’t miss this opportunity to meet, mingle and make contacts. View full flyer here. To RSVP, contact Kathy Rohrer at:  krohrer@mssny.org 516-488-6100 x 396.



How Student Loan Forgiveness Could Affect Your Credit Score
If you are one of the 43 million Americans eligible to have a portion of your student loan forgiven, your credit score might take a temporary hit. Credit scores are calculated by a “credit mix,” which are the different types of loans a user has, from revolving debt like credit cards, to installment debt like student loans, car loans, and mortgages. Lenders like to see various credit types and eliminating one from your profile could negatively impact your score. The user’s credit mix affects only 10% of a FICO score, which can cause a slight dip that may immediately affect a significant purchase like a house or car.

Others may see an immediate benefit from deducting their student loan debt. That’s because eliminating debt could significantly decrease your total debt balance, which accounts for 30% of your FICO score. A smaller debt balance can lead to a higher credit score, but FICO scores calculate a user’s total credit utilization and the user’s total amount of revolving credit and exclude installment debt like student loans. The US Department of Education student loan cancellation applications will release more information in October. It could take up to six weeks for forgiveness to occur. Plan accordingly.

Why Student Loan Forgiveness Could Hurt Your Credit Score (Hansen, Money, 9/9).


How to Use Digital Health Data to Improve Outcome
Digital health is becoming more accessible thanks to electronic health records, personal fitness apps, gadgets, and home genome test kits. The amount of health information generated by digital tools is rapidly growing. When used correctly, these tools will improve the quality of health care. With the right combination of systems in place to detect and analyze the data, physicians will be able to have more data to make a decision that is best for their patient’s health.

The author uses examples of how physicians outside the United States currently use digital health tools to communicate and diagnose patients while offering suggestions on how the development of digital measures will allow physicians to more accurately and effectively assess and improve their performance.

How to Use Digital Health Data to Improve Outcome (Glaser, HBR. (9/12).


Sellers Insurance for MSSNY Members


DEA Warning: Scammers Impersonating DEA Agents
In March 2021 The Drug Enforcement Administration issued a warning to the public of a widespread fraud scheme in which telephone scammers impersonate DEA agents in an attempt to extort money or steal personal identifiable information. MSSNY has recently been alerted that this scam is still circulating among physicians.

Remember, DEA personnel will never contact members of the public or medical practitioners by telephone to demand money or any other form of payment. They will never request personal or sensitive information over the phone and will only notify people of a legitimate investigation or legal action in person or by official letter. In fact, no legitimate federal law enforcement officer will demand cash or gift cards from a member of the public. For more information, view the public service announcement on these scams or check out this DEA Warning: Scammers Impersonating DEA Agents.


MSSNYPAC Releases End of Session Report & Legislator Scorecard
With the summer primaries behind us and just seven weeks until the midterm elections in November, MSSNYPAC has released its end of session report and its legislator scorecard.

The end of session report describes, in detail, the results of this year’s legislative session. This includes information on public health wins that will benefit the lives of physicians and their patients, as well as concerning legislation that passed against MSSNY efforts. The report also details the $220 billon state budget for fiscal year 2022-2023, which produced several significant victories for organized medicine. You can view the end of session report here.

The scorecard is a valuable tool for physicians that contains the voting and co-sponsorship records of each state legislator on issues important to New York physicians, their patients, and our health care system. This year, the scorecard encompasses seven bills supported by MSSNY and four bills opposed by MSSNY.

Bills supported by MSSNY:
A879/S8113 – Requires Same Specialty Peer Review by Health Plans
A1741-A/S5299-A – Limits Health Insurer “Copay Accumulators”
A3276/S5909 – Limits Mental Health Step Therapy
A9687-B/S9079-B – Protects Physicians Who Provide Reproductive Health Care
A10502/S9113-A – Expands Red Flags & Background Checks for Firearm Purchases
A6256/S5055 – Telehealth Payment Parity
A9908-A/S8299 – Reduces Prior Authorization Hassles through “Gold Cards”

Bills opposed by MSSNY:
A6770/S74-A – Wrongful Death Expansion
A3470C/S2521C – Facility Fee Disclosure
A273/S4640 – Mandatory Opioid Prescribing Alternatives
A6008-E/S9449 – Mental Health Counselors Diagnosis

MSSNYPAC has also released specialized, county by county versions of its scorecard. This way, you will be able to see how the legislators that represent your county are voting on issues important to you and your patients. There are currently 20 county scorecards available. To request a scorecard from a county not listed, please contact mssnypac@mssny.org or call 518-465-8085.


Val Renewal Banner


US House Passes Legislation to Reduce Medicare Advantage Claim Hassles
With the US House of Representatives passing legislation this week – the Improving Seniors’ Access to Timely Care Act (HR 3173) – we now need the US Senate to follow suit. Please urge Senators Schumer and Gillibrand to pass this legislation before the end of the year.

This bipartisan legislation would require Medicare Advantage plans to adopt transparent prior authorization programs that adhere to evidence-based medical guidelines and hold plans accountable for making timely prior authorization determinations and providing rationales for denials.

As noted by the AMA, physicians complete an average of 41 prior authorizations per week. This unnecessary burden amounts to roughly 13 hours weekly that physicians and their staff must spend on administrative work instead of seeing and treating patients. If an insurance plan covers a treatment that would benefit a patient, physicians should not have to waste time ensuring access to it.

Please contact your Senators today and urge them to pass this important legislation.


Lawsuit Reform Alliance of NY Announces Campaign to Protect New York from Disastrous Lawsuit Expansion Bill
As physicians continue to press Governor Hochul to veto legislation that would strike a huge blow to New York’s health care safety net, the Lawsuit Reform Alliance of New York released a new ad campaign, “Not One More Cost Hike”, to educate elected officials, local business owners, families, and voters of the costly consequences of A.6770/S.74-A. As written, the bill will radically expand the types of damages recoverable in wrongful death lawsuits – sending insurance premiums skyrocketing.

The first ad of the campaign ran in the New York Daily News on Thursday, September 15, 2022.

More information can be found at www.NotOneMoreCostHike.org

An analysis from Milliman, Inc. finds that if A.6770/S.74-A is enacted, insurance costs could increase by more than $2 billion. For medical professional liability insurance, costs are projected to spike a staggering 45%!

As part of a press release Local governments: wrongful death expansion will hike costs (nystateofpolitics.com) announcing the campaign, MSSNY President Dr. Parag Mehta stated:

“New York’s physicians have been fighting on the frontlines of the COVID, Monkeypox and now polio pandemics. This wrongful death bill passed by the State Legislature presents a new crisis for these physician heroes as it imposes new costs in malpractice insurance. This bill will be devastating for patients, as it undermines the financial survival of their primary care doctors, pediatricians, OBGYNS, any specialty doctor they see as well as emergency physicians – particularly those in underserved and diverse communities who are already financially challenged. New York physicians already pay among the highest liability costs in the country. They can’t afford to watch this bill increase those costs by more than 40%, putting the integrity of our healthcare system at risk and chasing many physicians out of the state.”

The press release also included quotes from the New York State Conference of Mayors and the New York State Business Council, highlighting the staggeringly adverse impact this bill would have on municipal services and on our business community.


Altfest_eNews-Banner


Letter to the Editor from President Parag Mehta, MD in Crain’s New York
Crain’s New York today published a letter to the editor from MSSNY President Parag Mehta, MD entitled “Patients prefer—and deserve—to be treated by the best and most highly trained physicians.”

“We agree with the concern expressed in “Study finds that nearly half of New Yorkers’ primary care providers are not physicians” (Aug. 31) that a shortage of primary care physicians in New York has resulted in an increased number of patients having a nurse practitioner or physician assistant as their primary care provider.

“Patients should make decisions with a highly qualified physician who has rigorous training—including four years of medical school and three to seven years of residency and fellowship training—compared to a non-physician without that level of expertise. The future of health care is team-based care—and physicians should be the leader of that team…Read More


New Resources from AMA STEPS Forward®: Toolkits, Podcasts, Webinars and More

Simplified Outpatient E/M Documentation and Coding View Toolkit
AMA STEPS Forward® Podcast: Improve Patient Care With Collaborative Care Team Models Listen Here: (Apple Podcasts | Spotify)
Webinar: Demonstrating the Value of Virtual Care September 23, 2022, 11:00 am ET

 

Register Now
Webinar:

Private Practice Simple SolutionsRecruitment

September 22, 2022, 11:00 am ET

 

Register Now
Webinar:

Private Practice Simple Solutions: Team Documentation

Session 1: Available Now

Session 2: October 18, 2022, 11:00 am ET

 

Register Now

 

Private Practice Playbook Video

 

Playbook


CPH Banner


New Webinars on Veterans as Patients, Vaccines for Adults and Children, and Treating Patients with Biosimilars

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

September 20th at 6:00pm

1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 credits™
Vaccines for Adults and Children Register Now

September 21st at 7:30am

1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 credits™
What Physicians Need to Know When Treating Patients With FDA-Approved “Biosimilar Register Now

October 5, 2022 at 7:30am

 

Additional information or assistance with registration may be obtained by contacting Melissa Hoffman at mhoffman@mssny.org.


MSSNY Job Board
Members have access to the MSSNY Job Board. Whether you are looking for the next step in your career or looking for your next hire, we have you covered!




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 2022 Ad RateSheet, please click here.


Concierge Practice for Sale  Boca Raton Florida
FOR SALE: Established Independent Concierge Internal Medicine Practice in Boca Raton, Florida. Stable turnkey operation in a pleasant work environment. Ideal for someone with the desire to transition to a better approach to medical practice. Financing available.
Contact planahead2023@gmail.com.


Hollywood Beach, FL 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath Condo Direct Ocean View
One of a kind two-bedroom two bath condo directly on Hollywood Beach and boardwalk.  Terrace overlooking the ocean is cruise ship-like, with unobstructed views of the ocean and intercostal. Penthouse unit without neighbors above or adjacent. Features white 24-inch tile floors, two bedrooms with queen beds, two marble tiled bathrooms, central air conditioning and building just upgraded. Edgewaters Beach Towers, 400 North Surf Rd., Hollywood Beach. $779,000. Call 917-861-8273 / CenedeseLuis@gmail.com


30 Central Park South Office for Lease or Sale 
Prime ground floor office, two  AAAHC accredited operatories plus four exam rooms lab, large reception and secretarial areas and two full bathrooms. Four rooms with external windows. Will help with building to suit. Lease $16500/month with option to buy $3.3mil. Contact CenedeseLuis@gmail.com  or 917-861-8273


Rheumatology Practice Sublet – Great Neck, NY
Sublet opportunity available at an established medical office in Great Neck, NY. Prime location near LIJ, Northshore University and St. Francis Hospitals. Fully equipped office with onsite parking and proximity to mass transit. Contact 516-972-2986/susanrita1@msny.com for more info.


Medical Office with Ample Patient Parking + 1 Family For Sale in the Most Desired Area of Hollis Hills. Priced to Sell!
One of a kind medical office investment opportunity and growth in the most desirable areas of Hollis Hills! This property is an S1 zoning that allows a medical practice, located within proximity of LIJ and Manhasset hospital, Lake Success Pro Health Medical offices with ample patient parking and much more, this unique property features a residential space split level style with 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths living room, dining room with a wood burning fireplace, kitchen, oversized sunroom/den, 1 car garage and laundry room.

The Lower level has a separate entrance, 4 exam rooms, a doctor’s private office, filling rooms and endless closet storage.
Conveniently located near schools, worship houses, transportation, GCP, LIE, Cross Island & Clearview Expressway, restaurants, shopping centers and much more! To inquire, please call Claudia (917-554-4158) or Bella at (718-344-2153).


Recruiting for Full or Part time (20 hours per week Chief of Medical Services).  Salary is negotiable.
Oversees and directs the planning, implementation, and supervision of health and medical services for residents at the NYS Veterans Home at St Albans. Develops, implements, and evaluates medical treatment standards and procedures; and provides technical and operational guidance and direction to medical and health care staff. Serves as a medical consultant and liaison; and develops recommendations for medical assessments, treatments, and care. Implements and monitors contract agreements and the provision of contracted medical and health related services. Participates in program audits and reviews. Supervises the credentialing and privileging process to ensure that medical staff possess appropriate credentials and maintain appropriate levels of continuing education; and participates in the development of recruitment programs and hiring and selection processes. Provides clinical and administrative supervision and guidance to physicians and other health care professionals.  Possession of a license and current registration to practice medicine in New York State and six years of post-licensure medical practice experience, two years of which must have been in an administrative or supervisory capacity. Must be fully COVID 19 vaccinated.

Send CV to: RecruitmentStAlbans@nysvets.org


Office Space To Share / Financial District NYC.
LOCATION:
111 John St., Ste 1460, NYC 10038 (between Cliff & Pearl St.)
A block away from the South Street Seaport. Easy access to office Central hub for all subway lines (A, C, 2, 3, 4, 5, J, Z, E), a quick walk from NJ path train.

Beautifully renovated, 1,300 sq ft. modern space. Available Monday, Wednesday, Friday and weekends.

Private rooms with pocket doors. Access to building 24/7, security/door man in the lobby, very safe. Daily rate $450. Contact (917) 514-1299 text/call.


Medical Office for Share in Medical Park with Free Big Parking Lot in Westchester County
Medical office for sublet in Medical Park with free big parking lot, located at West Harrison, border of White Plains in Westchester County. Office includes a big waiting room with a kitchen, doctors office, exam room, and reception area. All rooms are available for whole days of Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, Thursday (Thursday full day on every 1st and 3rd week and Thursday morning on every 2nd and 4th week each month, or we can discuss more options). Monthly rent $600 for once a week usage, $1100 for twice a week usage, $1500 for three-day a week usage. Newly renovated and fully furnished. Text May if you are interested 646-338-4803


Board Certified Internal or Family Medicine Physician
Join our caring team and our mission to provide the highest standard of healthcare to each of our patients. Medical office in Eastern Nassau County looking a for a hard-working, responsible Physician to join our team.

Responsibilities include care for, diagnosing and managing patients.

Please send Curriculum Vitae to drg2555@yahoo.com.



Rendr – Transforming Healthcare – Leadership Opportunity: Associate Chief Medical Office, SVP of Population Health, Bilingual English and Chinese (Mandarin or Cantonese) preferred
Job Position: Associate Chief Medical Office, SVP of Population Health in this role, you will lead and provide a wide range of support through population health, quality measures, practice transformation, Rendr360 department, House Calls, and other projects. Please send resumes careers@rendrcare.com. We are offering leadership opportunities to Physicians who are interested in providing high-quality clinical care to our patients in the diverse communities that we serve. As a rapidly growing network, we provide a supportive environment for our physicians to practice medicine under the guidance of dedicated medical leadership. www.rendrcare.com.

MSSNY Pulse: September 9, 2022

Message from MSSNY President Parag Mehta, MD:
MSSNY Division of Communications Activities: Effective Two-Way Communication is Open, Ongoing, Relevant

Colleagues:
MSSNY is here for all of us—the proud physicians of New York state. In our ongoing mission to provide members with the information and tools we all need to thrive both professionally and personally in an ever-changing practice environment, we have introduced new efforts to get you the news that matters to you.  MSSNY has arranged webinars on current topics with appropriate entities ranging from COVID and Monkeypox to the Healthcare worker bonus program.

We represent, respond to, and communicate your interests with the media. We provide tools and speaking points vital to you, ranging from wrongful death bills, Medicare cuts, and Monkeypox as a health care emergency and many more. I want to highlight some of the MSSNY communication division’s recent efforts and activities, including media coverage in Buffalo News, Crain’s, Gothamist, Medpage Today, LoHud, Medscape, Newsday, Times Union, Spectrum News Albany (Capital Tonight), WRGB-TV CBS 6 Albany and more!

We have recently redesigned and rebranded our MSSNY Pulse newsletter and launched a MSSNY Pulse app. Look for MSSNY Pulse in the App Store or Google Play. In addition, the development of our new MSSNY website is well underway, and we look forward to introducing it to our members and the public soon.

I invite each MSSNY member to be part of our team; we want to establish connections all around the state. Effective two-way communication requires an open dialogue. Please follow and engage with us on our social media channels, which have a total of more than 6,000 followers: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn and email me your thoughts and suggestions at MSSNYpresident@mssny.org.

Julie Vecchione, VP, Communications Roseann Raia, Manager, Communications Matthew Brown, Digital Marketing Project Specialist

National Suicide Prevention Month: Call 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. There are an average of 123 suicides each day and 44000 suicide in a year in USA. It’s the tenth leading cause of death in America — second leading for ages 25-34, and third leading for ages 15-24. To create awareness and strengthen the fight against suicide, the entire month of September is Suicide Prevention Month.

With an increased number of people reporting worsening mental health in recent years, people must be aware of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline) telephone program.

Suicidal thoughts can plague anyone regardless of age, gender, or social status. Commonly linked to depression, there is no foolproof indicator of suicidal tendencies. Many people can cover up their suicidal thoughts very well.

People experiencing a suicidal, substance use, and/or mental health crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress can call, chat or text 988, and speak to trained crisis counselors. The national hotline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The previous National Suicide Prevention Lifeline phone number (1-800-273-8255) will continue to be operational, and route calls to 988 indefinitely.

Remembering the Victims of 9/11 and the Queen. Today, we mourn the death of Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away yesterday after a reign of 70 years and 214 days, the longest of any British monarch and the longest recorded of any female head of state. And on Sunday, September 11, we will remember the nearly 3,000 people lost in the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

Wellness Corner. “Beyond work and love, I would add two other ingredients that give meaning to life. First, to fulfill whatever talents we are born with. However, blessed we are by fate with different abilities and strengths, we should try to develop them to the fullest, rather than allow them to atrophy and decay. We all know individuals who did not fulfill the promise they showed in childhood. Many of them became haunted by the image of what they might have become. Instead of blaming fate, I think we should accept ourselves as we are and try to fulfill whatever dreams are within our capability. Second, we should try to leave the world a better place than when we entered it. As individuals, we can make a difference, whether it is to probe the secrets of Nature, to clean up the environment and work for peace and social justice, or to nurture the inquisitive, vibrant spirit of the young by being a mentor and a guide.” – Michio Kaku

Parag Mehta, MD
MSSNY President


What Physicians Need to Know About the Healthcare Worker Bonus Program
MSSNY has been working closely with county society executives across the State to answer questions from physicians and their staffs regarding the State’s Health care worker bonus program enacted in the State Budget earlier this year.

Following lots of e-mail discussions with DOH staff, and reviewing the frequently updated DOH FAQs Frequently Asked Questions (ny.gov) for changing information, here is a “Top 10” of what physicians need to know about this program:

  • Physician practices with at least 20% Medicaid patient population are eligible to submit for the bonuses on behalf of eligible employees (listed in the FAQ).
  • 20% Medicaid includes patients enrolled in Medicaid fee for service, Medicaid Managed Care and where Medicaid is secondary.
  • Based upon an e-mail from DOH, the 20% does not include non-Medicaid Child Health Plus, the Essential Plan or Medicare (or other public-supported coverage)
  • The state has not defined what period of time should include the 20%.  I think they have left up to the various providers to justify through documentation over some period of time (i.e., 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, etc.)
  • If you can’t complete the documentation for vesting period 1 (employees from 10/1/21 – 3/31/22), for which the submission deadline is today, September 2, you will have another chance to submit for eligible employees in October for Vesting Period 1, in addition to employees for Vesting Period 2 (employees from 4/1/22 – 9/30/22)
  • There are 3 additional employee 6-month vesting periods (5 total) running through March 31, 2024
  • There is a defined formula in the statute for the bonus level for the eligible employees, based upon the number of average hours worked during a 6-month vesting period.
    1. 20-30 hours = $500 bonus/vesting period
    2. 30-35 hours = $1,000 bonus/vesting period
    3. 35 hours or more = $1,500 bonus/vesting period
  • An eligible employee may not receive a bonus for more than 2 vesting periods, with a maximum bonus of $3,000 cumulatively
  • With very limited exceptions, an eligible employee cannot have earned more than $62,500 for a particular vesting period
  • Medical residents and fellows are eligible to receive the bonuses.   With some limited exceptions, they remain eligible even if they shifted facilities during a particular vesting period.

For more information, folks may want to watch this informative webinar from the Monroe County Medical Society, with participating from MSSNY staff, to answer questions regarding the program from physicians and their staffs. Passcode Required – Zoom, passcode – Q2wTV*7S

You also may want to review this DOH power point from earlier this week for more information: HWB Program Townhall Series (ny.gov)

Physicians may also want to consult the frequently updated state FAQ Frequently Asked Questions (ny.gov)


MLMIC Ad


AMA Report: Disturbing Trends on Overdose Deaths Requires Specific Actions, All-Hands Approach
This week the American Medical Association (AMA) released its Overdose Epidemic Report for 2022. While the report highlights the great strides taken over the past decade to reduce the nation’s opioid abuse epidemic, including positive actions taken by physicians across multiple areas within their control, it paints a sobering reminder of the worsening epidemic. While physicians and other health care professionals have reduced opioid prescribing in New York by 49.5% since 2012, in line with the national average of nearly 50%, that cannot reverse the trend of drug-related overdose deaths. In fact, for the first time, in 2021, drug-related overdose deaths exceeded 100,000.

The AMA calls for an all hands campaign to include Policymakers, health insurance plans, national pharmacy chains, and other stakeholders to change their focus to remove barriers such as prior authorization to evidence-based care. States should require health insurance companies and other payers to make non-opioid pain care alternatives more accessible and affordable. Medical and other health care professional licensing boards help patients with pain by reviewing and rescinding arbitrary restrictions on opioid therapy as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended. Read the full report to learn more about how you can make a difference in this crisis.


Are You Afraid to Identify as a Leader?
Self-identity matters: research has shown that seeing yourself as a leader is the first step toward becoming one, and reluctance to identify as a leader can keep capable people from taking on leadership responsibilities. Prior research has shown that reputational concerns significantly deter people from proactively pursuing their goals at work. To explore this question, the author conducted a series of studies with more than 1,700 participants, including full-time employees, MBA students, and U.S. Airforce cadets. One finding was consistent: the more people worried about the reputational risks of being a leader, the less likely they were to identify as one. The three most prominent were:

  • Fear of seeming domineering
  • Fear of seeming different
  • Fear of seeming unqualified

Learn more about the fears holding you back from becoming a leader in the office and at MSSNY.

Are You Afraid to Identify as a Leader? (HBR, 9/5, Cunningham).


Sellers Insurance for MSSNY Members


Americans, No Matter the State They Live In, Die Younger Than People in Many Other Countries
Despite spending more on health care than any other nation, the United States has a lower average life expectancy and higher avoidable mortality rate than most middle to high-income countries. The authors compare individual states and the District of Columbia to peer countries on these two health system measures. They found that regardless of where Americans live, they are more likely to die earlier from preventable causes than people in many other countries.

The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) defines avoidable mortality as deaths before age 75 from conditions that are either preventable through effective public health and primary prevention (before the onset of disease) or treatable when detected early and adequate care is received. Examples include deaths from diabetes, certain infections, breast and colon cancer, appendicitis, and renal failure. The author suggests ways the United States can improve our mortality rate by adopting new healthcare policies similar to those used worldwide.

Americans, No Matter the State They Live In, Die Younger Than People in Many Other Countries (CWF, 8/11, Radley).


We are Updating our Records and Hope that You Will Too
MSSNY is updating our website and user experiences this coming winter. At this time, we are asking users to please log in to their profiles and ensure that as much information is up to date to ensure that you are ready to experience our new virtual home.



Save the Date for Joint Section Virtual Programming Saturday, October 1, 2022 – 10:00 AM
The Residents/Fellows Section, the Young Physicians Section, and the Medical Students Section will host a virtual information session on Saturday, October 1.

We look forward to having you join us!

Register to learn more

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with krohrer@mssny.org


Join Onondaga County Medical Society’s Media Relations 101 for Medical Professionals on October 5, 2022 –10:00 AM
Onondaga County Medical Society Executive Director Julie Panna has over 20 years of strategic communications and media experience. She will discuss tips on preparing for and successfully delivering your message during television interviews. This webinar is geared toward physicians and medical society staff. The session will provide an overview of tips on addressing public policy issues during a media interview.

Please RSVP to oncms@oncms.org by September 25th, and you will receive confirmation of registration and the zoom link.


Val Renewal Banner


View MSSNYPAC’s Legislator Scorecard!
Which Senators and Assemblymembers are making the right choices to protect health care access in your communities?

With the summer primaries behind us and just eight weeks until the midterm elections in November, MSSNYPAC has released its scorecard for the 2022 legislative session. The scorecard is a valuable tool for physicians that contains the voting and co-sponsorship records of each state legislator on issues important to New York physicians, their patients, and our health care system. This year, the scorecard encompasses seven bills supported by MSSNY and four bills opposed by MSSNY.


Urge Governor Hochul to Sign Managed Care Reform Bills into Law
Physicians are again urged to contact Governor Hochul to ask her to sign into law a several bills supported by MSSNY and numerous patient advocacy organizations (NY Legislature Passes Legislation with Important Patient Protections – Aimed Alliance) to address hassles patients and their physicians are experiencing with health insurers.

The first bill, A.879/S.8113, would ensure that those who make “medical necessity” determinations on behalf of a health insurance company are appropriately qualified to make those decisions. Please contact Governor Hochul to urge her to sign this bill into law.

This bill would ensure that a health plan may not deny a request for needed patient care unless the reviewing physician is adequately qualified to review the treatment requested or provided, by requiring that such reviewing physician be board-certified or board eligible in the same or similar specialty as the physician who typically recommends the treatment or manage the condition that is under review.  It would also require that such physician have a New York license to practice medicine and provide much-needed, additional protections to ensure that these patients will have coverage for the care they are expecting and entitled to receive.

To learn more about this issue, please read a recent op-ed coauthored by MSSNY members and Long Island oncologists Dr. David Eagle and Dr. Jeff Vacirca, which recently ran in Newsday.   In a recent MSSNY survey, 42% of the respondents indicated they frequently have experienced denials from health insurers by reviewers other than a physician practicing in the same specialty, and 77% of the respondents indicated they at least sometimes did.

A second bill, A.1741-A/S.5299-A, would prohibit a health plan from imposing a policy that forbids a payment from a third party to count towards the patient’s deductible or maximum out-of-pocket cost-sharing limit. This practice can be especially challenging for patients that have health insurance plans with high deductibles or high copayment requirements. Please take a moment to send a letter to Governor Hochul urging her to sign this bill into law.

A third bill, A.3276/ S.5909, would ban insurance companies from applying “fail first” or step therapy protocols to treatments prescribed for patients with mental health conditions.  This would help to ensure that patients can receive needed medications without unnecessary and time-consuming pre-authorization burdens, Please take a moment to send a letter to Governor Hochul urging her to sign this important bill into law.


ClearClix Banner Ad


Please Help to Prevent Drastic Increases in Your Liability Premiums!
Physicians are continued to be urged to contact Governor Hochul Reject Expansion of Liability (p2a.co) to request that she veto legislation (S.74-A, Hoylman/A.6770, Weinstein) that could cause drastic increases in physician medical liability premiums by significantly expanding the types of damages awardable in a wrongful death action. The bill was passed over the strenuous opposition of numerous and varied groups, including MSSNY, specialty societies, hospital associations, FQHCs, the Business Council of New York, medical liability and property & casualty insurers, The New York State Association of Counties, and the New York Conference of Mayors.

Specifically, the legislation would increase the already expansive damages awardable in such actions to include compensation for grief or anguish, the loss of love and companionship, loss of services and support, and the loss of nurture and guidance. One actuarial study has suggested that this bill has the potential to increase New York’s already outrageously high medical liability premiums by nearly 40%.

Through numerous forums, MSSNY has argued that legislation like this should only be considered in the context of a comprehensive effort to address New York’s excessive liability costs.  An op-ed from MSSNY President was printed in the Albany Times-Union, and a similar op-ed appeared in the Buffalo News by Erie County Medical Society President Dr. Robert Armstrong.  Dr. Mehta’ also had a letter to the editor published in Long Island Newsday and provided comments on articles on this issue on CBS6-Albany-TV and in Crains Health Pulse.

MSSNY has also been coordinating its efforts with other groups adversely impacted by this bill, with various op-eds by the Business Council of New York, and the NYS Conference of Mayors.

Again, please contact Governor Hochul here: Reject Expansion of Liability (p2a.co) to make sure that we #DontChasePhysiciansOutofNY

Bills Supported by MSSNY:
A879/S8113 – Requires Same Specialty Peer Review by Health Plans
A1741-A/S5299-A – Limits Health Insurer “Copay Accumulators”
A3276/S5909 – Limits Mental Health Step Therapy
A9687-B/S9079-B – Protects Physicians Who Provide Reproductive Health Care
A10502/S9113-A – Expands Red Flags & Background Checks for Firearm Purchases
A6256/S5055 – Telehealth Payment Parity
A9908-A/S8299 – Reduces Prior Authorization Hassles through “Gold Cards”

Bills Opposed by MSSNY:
A6770/S74-A – Wrongful Death Expansion
A3470C/S2521C – Facility Fee Disclosure
A273/S4640 – Mandatory Opioid Prescribing Alternatives
A6008-E/S9449 – Mental Health Counselors Diagnosis

MSSNYPAC has also released specialized, county by county versions of its scorecard. This way, you will be able to see how the legislators that represent your county are voting on issues important to physicians and your patients. There are currently 20 county scorecards available. To request a scorecard from a county not listed, please contact mssnypac@mssny.org or call 518-465-8085.


Wrongful Death Expansion
MSSNY President Dr. Mehta spoke with Crain’s Health Pulse on how Expansion of wrongful-death damages could inflate insurance costs, stating that actuarial estimates show the measure could lead to a 40% increase in malpractice premiums for private physicians and a 45% increase for hospitals.



The Importance of Vaccines
Dr. Mehta was quoted in a USA Today/LoHud article about the importance of vaccines and stated, “We must preserve community immunity to protect society − especially our most vulnerable newborns, pregnant women, the immune-compromised, and those with cancer…Vaccination can mean the difference between life and death.”


MSSNY Recoups Potential Losses and Changes Policy
The following testimony was submitted by MSSNY Member Ross Zeltser, MD, FAAD, FACMS of the Hudson Dermatology group.

“I strongly commend Heather K. Lopez- BSc., MSihm – MSSNY’s Director of Physician Payment & Practice. We first reached out to her earlier this year, asking for help with unfair reimbursement practices by UHC. She replied within minutes and used her connections at UHC to help us recover several thousand dollars and, more importantly, compel UHC to reverse the unjust and unjustified policy.”

A similar scenario played out more recently with Aetna. It is difficult to imagine a more responsive, proactive, and, most importantly, effective advocate than Heather. If anything, having the benefit of access to Heather would more than pay for the yearly dues! In the strongest possible terms, I urge all NY physicians to join MSSNY.


United Healthcare’s MODIFIER 25 is Delaying Payments
It has recently been brought to MSSNY’s attention that you will receive an edit back when submitting your electronic claims to United via MODIFIER 25. This edit will hold the claim for five days, and then it will begin processing.

The sole purpose of MODIFIER 25 is to identify another CPT code on the claim that is separate and distinct from the E/M code. Two weeks ago, in a national call, MSSNY’s Heather Lopez raised concerns over this topic and how this is ultimately a delay in payment. Heather implored them to take this back for reconsideration and proposed a “smart edit” that would not hold the claim up for five additional days but rather be information. For your reference, an article on modifier 25 from Physicians Practice.

If you have questions about this or any other insurance concern, contact MSSNY’s Director of Physician Payment and Practice, Heather Lopez, at 518.465.8085 X332 | hlopez@mssny.org


Connect with the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services and National Government Services on September 13, 2022
Join Heather Lopez, MSSNY’s Director of Physician Payment & Practice, an expert in practice management, billing, and reimbursement the Tuesday, September 13, 2022, at 6 pm for the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services and National Government Services’ open agenda meeting.  Members are encouraged to participate and open a direct communication line with policymakers that otherwise can be difficult to reach. Heather is an expert in practice management, billing, and reimbursement.


MSSNY Hosting Forum on What Physicians Need to Know When Treating Patients With FDA-Approved “Biosimilar” Therapies
Patients living with chronic or complex diseases have benefited in recent years from innovative biological medicines, commonly known as “Biosimilars”, which are manufactured from living cells and highly effective for many patients. Biosimilars are biological medicines approved by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) as “highly similar” to an original biologic therapy.

Like many states, New York enacted a law that permits a pharmacist to substitute an FDA-approved biosimilar for an original biologic therapy, provided there is notice to the prescribing physician within five days of the substitution. The state legislature renewed the law during the 2002 legislative session. To help physicians better understand what Biosimilars are, how the law works and what it means for patients, MSSNY is hosting a webinar on Wednesday, October 5, 2022 at 7:30am via Zoom. The webinar will feature health policy experts who will share information on this important issue and answer physicians’ questions about the potential impact on their patients.

Who: Hosted by the Medical Society of the State of New York (MSSNY)
What: Educational Webinar on “Biosimilar” Therapies for Patients
When: Wednesday, October 5, 2022 at 7:30am.
Where: Via Zoom. Click to register!
Registration now open September 21st @ 7:30am
Medical Matters CME Webinar

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. 


Veterans Matters CME Webinar Sponsored by Nassau County Medical Society and the Medical Society of the State of New York on September 20 at 6 pm
It is estimated that nearly 50% of veterans prefer to receive healthcare outside of the VA system.  Additionally, a significant number of physicians are not fully prepared to treat veteran patients.  Learn more about treating veteran patients by registering for Military Culture: Everything Physicians Need to Know About Veterans as Patients on September 20th at 6:00 pm. Yung Chan, former Army medic and current medical student will serve as faculty for this webinar.

Register now

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 may be obtained by contacting Stavroula Savelidis at stavroula@nassaucountymedicalsociety.org or Melissa Hoffman at mhoffman@mssny.org.

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. 


Vaccines for Adults and Children Webinar on September 21st at 7:30am
The COVID pandemic has resulted in missed vaccinations for both children and adults. Learn more about this decline, recommendations for vaccines and boosters and effective vaccine messaging by registering for Vaccines for Adults and Children on September 21st at 7:30am.  William Valenti, MD chair of MSSNY Infectious Diseases Committee will serve as faculty for this webinar.

Register now

Educational Objectives are:

  • Examine the decline in childhood and adult vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic
  • Outline childhood and adult vaccine and booster recommendations
  • Relate effective vaccine messaging priorities for pediatric, adolescent, and adult patients

Additional information or assistance with registration may be obtained by contacting Melissa Hoffman at mhoffman@mssny.org.

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.


In Need of a New Fall Wardrobe?
MSSNY members receive a 15% discount on full-priced Brooks Brothers merchandise at stores, by phone, and online. Login to your MSSNY account for details on how to save!


Obituaries
ARAGON, Zacarias; West Hempstead, NY.  Died April 19, 2022, age 93.  Nassau County Medical Society
BERMAN, David; New York, NY.  Died August 14, 2022, age 92.  Medical Society County of Queens
CARBAJAL, Pilar Gloria; New York, NY.  Died July 03, 2022, age 90.  New York County Medical Society
DOUGHERTY, Ronald John; Liverpool, NY.  Died May 10, 2021, age 88.  Onondaga County Medical Society
GACEK, Richard Raymond; Worcester, MA.  Died January 01, 2022, age 91.  Onondaga County Medical Society
GAZZO, Frank Joseph; Buffalo, NY.  Died February 07, 2022, age 92.  Erie County Medical Society
HO, Frederick Shiu Fai; Martinsburg, WV.  Died February 16, 2022, age 94.  Onondaga County Medical Society
JAJOO, Krishana Kumar; New Hyde Park, NY.  Died February 01, 2021, age 80.  Nassau County Medical Society
KAHN, Alvin Ira; Valley Stream, NY.  Died February 08, 2022, age 93.  Medical Society County of Kings
KARLAN, Robert David; Great Neck, NY.  Died November 24, 2021, age 85.  Medical Society County of Queens
KLEIN, Harvey; New York, NY.  Died August 12, 2020, age 82.  New York County Medical Society
KOSHY, Indira J.; Jamesville, NY.  Died April 03, 2022, age 84.  Onondaga County Medical Society
KRISZTINICZ, Irene Levay; Buffalo, NY.  Died February 16, 2022, age 88.  Erie County Medical Society
KRITCHMAN, Marilyn M. S.; Lake Worth, FL.  Died May 01, 2022, age 94.  Medical Society County of Queens
LAUTERSTEIN, Joseph; Rock Hill, NY.  Died April 15, 2022, age 87.  Medical Society County of Sullivan
LAYUG, Rumoldo C.; Yonkers, NY.  Died July 13, 2022, age 83.  Medical Society County of Westchester
PARKER, Frederick B. Jr.; Syracuse, NY.  Died December 05, 2020, age 84.  Onondaga County Medical Society
RASKIN, Elliott George; Staten Island, NY.  Died January 03, 2020, age 90.  Richmond County Medical Society
RUBINOWITZ, Herbert S.; New York, NY.  Died August 22, 2021, age 86.  New York County Medical Society
SCHWARTZ, Howard Stanley; Bronx, NY.  Died February 29, 2020, age 88.  Bronx County Medical Society
SEIDNER, Richard F.; Liverpool, NY.  Died February 10, 2022, age 83.  Onondaga County Medical Society
SHOOBE, Marcus L.; Myrtle Beach, SC.  Died May 17, 2022, age 89.  Medical Society County of Albany
SINGER, Morton; Merrick, NY.  Died February 13, 2022, age 99.  Nassau County Medical Society
SISLER, Hampson Albert; New York, NY.  Died May 25, 2020, age 87.  New York County Medical Society
STEVENS, Aaron B.; Fort Myers, FL.  Died January 13, 2022, age 94.  Medical Society County of Washington
TERK, Byron Harvey; Boca Raton, FL.  Died July 01, 2021, age 93.  Nassau County Medical Society
TROISI, Joseph Gerard; Bridgeport, CT.  Died October 15, 2021, age 100.  Medical Society County of Kings



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 2022 Ad RateSheet, please click here.


Concierge Practice for Sale  Boca Raton Florida
FOR SALE: Established Independent Concierge Internal Medicine Practice in Boca Raton, Florida. Stable turnkey operation in a pleasant work environment. Ideal for someone with the desire to transition to a better approach to medical practice. Financing available.
Contact planahead2023@gmail.com.


Hollywood Beach, FL 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath Condo Direct Ocean View
One of a kind two-bedroom two bath condo directly on Hollywood Beach and boardwalk.  Terrace overlooking the ocean is cruise ship-like, with unobstructed views of the ocean and intercostal. Penthouse unit without neighbors above or adjacent. Features white 24-inch tile floors, two bedrooms with queen beds, two marble tiled bathrooms, central air conditioning and building just upgraded. Edgewaters Beach Towers, 400 North Surf Rd., Hollywood Beach. $779,000. Call 917-861-8273 / CenedeseLuis@gmail.com


30 Central Park South Office for Lease or Sale 
Prime ground floor office, two  AAAHC accredited operatories plus four exam rooms lab, large reception and secretarial areas and two full bathrooms. Four rooms with external windows. Will help with building to suit. Lease $16500/month with option to buy $3.3mil. Contact CenedeseLuis@gmail.com  or 917-861-8273


Rheumatology Practice Sublet – Great Neck, NY
Sublet opportunity available at an established medical office in Great Neck, NY. Prime location near LIJ, Northshore University and St. Francis Hospitals. Fully equipped office with onsite parking and proximity to mass transit. Contact 516-972-2986/susanrita1@msny.com for more info.


Medical Office with Ample Patient Parking + 1 Family For Sale in the Most Desired Area of Hollis Hills. Priced to Sell!
One of a kind medical office investment opportunity and growth in the most desirable areas of Hollis Hills! This property is an S1 zoning that allows a medical practice, located within proximity of LIJ and Manhasset hospital, Lake Success Pro Health Medical offices with ample patient parking and much more, this unique property features a residential space split level style with 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths living room, dining room with a wood burning fireplace, kitchen, oversized sunroom/den, 1 car garage and laundry room.

The Lower level has a separate entrance, 4 exam rooms, a doctor’s private office, filling rooms and endless closet storage.
Conveniently located near schools, worship houses, transportation, GCP, LIE, Cross Island & Clearview Expressway, restaurants, shopping centers and much more! To inquire, please call Claudia (917-554-4158) or Bella at (718-344-2153).


Recruiting for Full or Part time (20 hours per week Chief of Medical Services).  Salary is negotiable.
Oversees and directs the planning, implementation, and supervision of health and medical services for residents at the NYS Veterans Home at St Albans. Develops, implements, and evaluates medical treatment standards and procedures; and provides technical and operational guidance and direction to medical and health care staff. Serves as a medical consultant and liaison; and develops recommendations for medical assessments, treatments, and care. Implements and monitors contract agreements and the provision of contracted medical and health related services. Participates in program audits and reviews. Supervises the credentialing and privileging process to ensure that medical staff possess appropriate credentials and maintain appropriate levels of continuing education; and participates in the development of recruitment programs and hiring and selection processes. Provides clinical and administrative supervision and guidance to physicians and other health care professionals.  Possession of a license and current registration to practice medicine in New York State and six years of post-licensure medical practice experience, two years of which must have been in an administrative or supervisory capacity. Must be fully COVID 19 vaccinated.

Send CV to: RecruitmentStAlbans@nysvets.org


Office Space To Share / Financial District NYC.
LOCATION:
111 John St., Ste 1460, NYC 10038 (between Cliff & Pearl St.)
A block away from the South Street Seaport. Easy access to office Central hub for all subway lines (A, C, 2, 3, 4, 5, J, Z, E), a quick walk from NJ path train.

Beautifully renovated, 1,300 sq ft. modern space. Available Monday, Wednesday, Friday and weekends.

Private rooms with pocket doors. Access to building 24/7, security/door man in the lobby, very safe. Daily rate $450. Contact (917) 514-1299 text/call.


Medical Office for Share in Medical Park with Free Big Parking Lot in Westchester County
Medical office for sublet in Medical Park with free big parking lot, located at West Harrison, border of White Plains in Westchester County. Office includes a big waiting room with a kitchen, doctors office, exam room, and reception area. All rooms are available for whole days of Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, Thursday (Thursday full day on every 1st and 3rd week and Thursday morning on every 2nd and 4th week each month, or we can discuss more options). Monthly rent $600 for once a week usage, $1100 for twice a week usage, $1500 for three-day a week usage. Newly renovated and fully furnished. Text May if you are interested 646-338-4803


Board Certified Internal or Family Medicine Physician
Join our caring team and our mission to provide the highest standard of healthcare to each of our patients. Medical office in Eastern Nassau County looking a for a hard-working, responsible Physician to join our team.

Responsibilities include care for, diagnosing and managing patients.

Please send Curriculum Vitae to drg2555@yahoo.com.



Rendr – Transforming Healthcare – Leadership Opportunity: Associate Chief Medical Office, SVP of Population Health, Bilingual English and Chinese (Mandarin or Cantonese) preferred
Job Position: Associate Chief Medical Office, SVP of Population Health in this role, you will lead and provide a wide range of support through population health, quality measures, practice transformation, Rendr360 department, House Calls, and other projects. Please send resumes careers@rendrcare.com. We are offering leadership opportunities to Physicians who are interested in providing high-quality clinical care to our patients in the diverse communities that we serve. As a rapidly growing network, we provide a supportive environment for our physicians to practice medicine under the guidance of dedicated medical leadership. www.rendrcare.com.

1 2 3 61