Current Healthcare Issues

CONVENIENT, SECURE PARKING AT INDIANAPOLIS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Based on the annual rate survey from a recent issue of the Medical Liability Monitor, Indiana's medical malpractice rates remain competitive and lower than in many states across the country.

The ISMA leadership, on behalf of all members, extends heartfelt sympathy to the family and friends of Otis R. Bowen, M.D., who passed away May 4 at age 95. Affectionately called "Doc Bowen" by many, the former governor served as a Bremen family physician for 25 years.

A recent federal case represents the latest legal action against a physician for involvement in importing, purchasing, administering and billing of foreign pharmaceuticals and medical devices not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The Medical Licensing Board of Indiana (MLB) at a March 28 meeting imposed several restrictions on the license of pain physician William Hedrick, M.D., of Fort Wayne. As a result of this and other recent cases, the legislature is now considering new rules for controlled substance prescribing that will impact Indiana physicians.

Beginning in August, medical device manufacturers, pharmaceutical companies and group purchasing organizations (GPOs) will be required to track and report all payments and transfers of value to physicians and teaching hospitals. Known as the Sunshine Act, the rule is now called the National Physician Payment Transparency Program (Open Payments).

New group and multi-year discount options for the 2014 dues year were announced in the April 15 issue of ISMA Reports. You can now qualify for up to 30 percent off the cost of your ISMA membership. If you have unanswered questions about the group and multi-year options, the ISMA has some answers for you. Visit the ISMA website for a Frequently Asked Questions document.

A new mobile app, coming to you free from the ISMA, will allow you to discuss a patient referral with a colleague using your smartphone or tablet device. Called DocbookMD, this HIPAA-secure application can be downloaded in four steps and comes with directories for both Indiana physicians and pharmacies. Phone and fax numbers will be at your fingertips.

Indiana physicians have reported to the ISMA that they are experiencing problems with getting their patients' controlled substance prescriptions filled at pharmacies here. Specifically, the pharmacies are requiring patient information such as diagnosis codes, treatment history, treatment duration, payment method and treatment plans - before they will fill the prescription order.

If you are a primary care physician who treats Medicaid patients, you could be eligible for a pay increase, as part of the Affordable Care Act. State Medicaid programs are required to pay for select primary care services and vaccine administration at rates equal to Medicare for 2013 and 2014.

A total of 95 felony charges were filed April 19 against four doctors, three physician assistants, one nurse and one office manager of an Indiana family practice. Charges all relate to dealing and assisting with, or conspiracy to commit, dealing a controlled substance or narcotic. Everyone was arrested or has an arrest warrant pending.

During convention this fall, your help is needed to serve on one of four reference committees, giving you the chance to influence ISMA policy on the ground floor.

If you have not reviewed the recently released County Health Rankings report, you might be surprised at how your county fares in health outcomes and measurements. The annual report, released by the University of Wisconsin's Population Health Institute and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, provides data that can help you improve the health of citizens in your community.

Health officials are concerned about Indiana's high rates of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and are encouraging you to screen adolescent patients. Compared to the rest of the nation, the state ranks particularly high in cases of gonorrhea and chlamydia.

Does it make sense to cancel your group health plan if you are one of the approximately 50 percent of small businesses that still provides one? Should you let your employees get their insurance, and possible subsidies, on the public exchange or maintain the status quo?

Any time is a good time to make sure you have resources available for patients who may require special help, especially if you receive federal payment such as Medicare and Medicaid. This means you must make and pay for accommodations for your patients who are hearing impaired or who have limited English proficiency (LEP).

By asking one simple question, you may be able to stop the abuse of a patient. Members of the ISMA Family Violence Committee urge you to screen patients for domestic violence by routinely asking, "At any time has a partner hit, kicked or otherwise hurt or frightened you?" But now, certain health plans under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), will be required to reimburse you for domestic violence screening.

The ISMA has an important announcement about how you can save money on your next membership renewal. Like all ISMA actions, these new discount options are offered to you as a result of a resolution adopted by the House of Delegates.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will implement ordering/referring provider edits May 1. The change will require physicians who refer or order services for Medicare patients to be enrolled in Medicare.

Make sure you are up to date on the latest pain management practices to avoid scrutiny from state and federal agents by attending "Responsible Pain Management Prescribing: Strategies for everyday practice," on May 10. And following the close of this year's session, the ISMA's Director of Government Relations, Michael Rinebold, will update you on newly passed legislation in a live webinar, the "2013 Indiana Legislative Wrap-up," on May 15.

Spring is typically the time in odd-numbered years when medical and osteopathic physicians across Indiana renew their medical licenses. However, medical license renewal time is being permanently changed to Oct. 31. Controlled substance registration (CSR) renewals are also being moved to fall, giving you extra months on your 2013 license.

With the approach of 2014 and full implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), small businesses like physician practices need to understand the mandates and all the options available to them.

The March 8 Federal Register contained a notice about a new version of the federal I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification form that employers must start using by May 7.

Merrillville plastic surgeon, Nicholas Retson, M.D., helps change the lives of hundreds of children in other countries by correcting cleft lips and cleft palates. With the support of the ISMA's Medical Mission Scholarship, Dr. Retson just completed his 36th medical mission trip in February. This time, he traveled to Jinotega, Nicaragua.

In Bloomington, the patient-centered medical home* began taking on a new look two years ago. That's when Centerstone, the nation's largest community mental health center, offering care in Tennessee and 17 Indiana locations, won a federal grant to pilot a behavioral health home model. Community mental health centers in Indianapolis and Greenwood also received grants.

As we conclude renewal season, the ISMA thanks you for your continued membership. Your dues dollars support many activities the ISMA leadership and staff undertake to improve health care delivery in our state. Here's just a sampling of what the ISMA has been up to lately - on your behalf.

ISMA Reports in previous issues told you about the Medicaid pay hike that is coming for calendar years 2013 and 2014, as required by the Affordable Care Act. It's still on its way and will be retroactive to Jan. 1 of this year. The increase will be for "qualified services paid on a fee-for-service basis" as well as for those providers reimbursed by managed care entities.

If you deliver services in a rural hospital or clinic, or a critical access hospital, you may find a new toolkit helpful in the quest to achieve stage 2 meaningful use of an electronic health record.

Make sure you plan for the Medicare fee-for-service pay reduction of 2 percent for claims with dates of service or discharge on or after April 1. The cut will affect both Medicare Part A and Part B, as well as contractual payments to Medicare Advantage Plans.

I'm sure I should have certain processes in place in my practice - just in case an emergency arises - so, could you offer some suggestions?

Physicians across the state sighed with relief in January when the Indiana Supreme Court issued its long-awaited ruling on the Plank vs. Community Hospitals of Indiana case. The court ruled Plank waited too long to raise his legal challenge to the constitutionality of the medical malpractice damages cap.

Once a month, members of the Medical Licensing Board (MLB) of Indiana meet with a mission: to protect patients. However, that process involves hearing complaints against physicians.

The ISMA is advising members to familiarize themselves with laws pertaining to controlled substances. As evidenced by recent actions, the Office of the Indiana Attorney General (OIAG) is focusing significant attention on physician prescribing practices for controlled substances.

The ISMA annual convention Sept. 20-22 at the JW Marriott in Indianapolis, offers opportunities you don't want to miss, such as introducing or recommending proposals that set policy for the association. Start preparing now; here's how.

Several physician practices have contacted the ISMA about letters they received from Anthem through their contractor EquiClaim. The communication appears to target physicians identified as "billing E/M codes with modifier 25 significantly more often than other physicians within the same specialty."

Eleven Indiana medical students joined hundreds of their colleagues from around the nation to participate in the AMA's Medical Student Advocacy Day in Washington, D.C., Feb. 10-11. During the event, students learned how to foster relationships with legislators through political involvement and were briefed on legislative issues currently before Congress.

In January, the ISMA and others told you about a Medicaid pay hike for primary care physicians, mandated for two years by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Where's the pay raise? Still on its way.

This year's ISMA annual convention Sept. 20-22 provides you the chance to honor a colleague or layperson who has worked hard to improve the health and well-being of local residents. Now is the time to submit a nomination for one of these awards.

Six leading health care information technology (HIT) companies announced March 4 an agreement to move toward shared, seamless access to health care data. They have formed a new CommonWell Health Alliance they say represents a major step toward a national health information exchange.

Since 1933, March 30 has been set aside to honor physicians throughout the country who carry on the quiet work of healing every day. However in 1990, the observance became official with approval of the U.S. Senate and the House of Representatives.

Two Indiana physicians were recently suspended by the Medical Licensing Board (MLB) of Indiana. And scrutiny is increasing on the issue of treating chronic pain. If you have questions about opioids or concerns about controlled substance prescribing, the ISMA has help at your fingertips.

With the spotlight on preventing hospital readmissions, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) completed a project that clearly demonstrates the value of community-based approaches to improve care transitions. The result in the Evansville area, including Vincennes, was a 14.74 percent reduction in 30-day rehospitalizations, using a process that can be duplicated in your community.

Meetings with congressmen, messages from policy experts and networking with physician advocates from across the U.S. were all part of the 2013 National Advocacy Conference (NAC) of the AMA in mid-February. Indiana physicians were well represented and your concerns were presented and discussed.

As we head toward the Friday, March 1, federal budget sequester deadline, it is likely that an agreement will not be reached to avoid $85 billion in cuts. This means you will see a 2 percent reduction in Medicare payments beginning April 1.

Thanks to increased adoption of electronic health records (EHR) spurred by meaningful use, more than half of Indiana physicians are now e-prescribing, a 19 percent increase from 2011. In fact, last December, 1.86 million e-prescriptions were electronically routed.

Eleven Indiana medical students joined hundreds of their colleagues from around the nation to participate in the AMA's Medical Student Advocacy Day in Washington, D.C., Feb. 10-11. During the event, students learned how to foster relationships with legislators through political involvement and were briefed on legislative issues currently before Congress.

While influenza continues to be at its peak, now is the time to pre-book your vaccine orders for the 2013-2014 flu season.

Much of the ISMA's legislative efforts are directed by its policies that are formed by resolutions, authored by members. If you have an issue that the ISMA should consider, now is the time to prepare your proposal for the House of Delegates annual meeting Sept. 20-22.

As the newly appointed commissioner of the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH), William VanNess II, M.D., remains patient focused. A solo practitioner for 24 years, a past president of the ISMA and former CEO of Community Hospital Anderson, he believes his experiences will help him guide the ISDH.

Physicians who see Medicare patients will see a 2 percent reduction in their payments beginning April 1 - unless Congress prevents the across-the-board federal budget cuts before the sequester takes effect March 1.

Longstanding privacy and security requirements of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) have been subject to numerous changes under the HITECH Act. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services published Jan. 25 yet another final rule under the HITECH Act to enhance patient privacy protections, give individuals new rights to their health information and strengthen the government's ability to enforce the law.

You've likely heard about new codes for transitional care management (TCM) services that became effective Jan. 1, 2013. If you've had questions about the required elements, the documentation needed and more, the ISMA now has a tool to help answer those questions.

The Indiana Department of Insurance announced 2013 rates for the Patient's Compensation Fund (PCF) surcharge would reflect a 2.5 percent increase for physicians and a 5.8 percent increase for hospitals. The new rates are effective for coverage beginning April 1.

If you are working toward Medical Director Certification, you may be interested in a scholarship offered by the Indiana Health Care Policy Institute (IHCPI).

After a year delay, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has issued a final rule aimed at increasing transparency between physicians and drug and device manufacturers. The measure now implements all of the Physician Payment Sunshine Act, a provision of the Affordable Care Act.

Perhaps you've used resources in the past from the website of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), part of the National Institutes of Health. But NIDA has advised that the site now has new and updated materials in its portfolio.

In 2010, nearly 50 percent of dispensed controlled substances in Indiana were opioids, and that concerns state officials. In December, the ISMA hosted a statewide live webcast that focused on best practices in opioid prescribing. Now, the seminar is available to you online.

Preparing for ICD-10 may be as simple as taking the first claim of each day and coding it in both ICD-9 and ICD-10. Even though implementation is not until Oct. 1, 2014, now is the time to become familiar with the new code set.

The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) reported that hospitalizations among seniors have sharply increased due to influenza-like illness. About 50 percent of those hospitalized have been persons age 65 and older.

If you are participating in the Medicare electronic health record (EHR) incentive program and completed your 2012 reporting period by Dec. 31, 2012, you have a fast-approaching deadline. Physicians and eligible professionals have until Feb. 28 to complete the attestation process for meaningful use in order to receive an incentive payment for calendar year 2012.

Now is a good time to check the accessibility of your medical office to patients in wheelchairs and review your process for communicating with the hearing impaired. New scrutiny is coming, prompted by the 22nd anniversary of passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

The Indiana Newborn Screening Tracking & Education Program (INSTEP) has a new web-based application that can provide needed information about your young patients faster. By registering to use the online program, you can search for records on any child in your practice and view and print screening results in real time rather than faxing requests.

What tips can you offer regarding non-compliant patients?

Sandy (Distler) Miller, CCS-P, recently joined the ISMA staff as director of Practice Management. A certified coder, Miller previously served on the ISMA staff in the Practice Management Department from 2006 through 2009.

As employers, physicians are required by state and federal law to post certain notices in their medical offices. The National Labor Relations Board requires these signs to be posted in conspicuous places and measure no smaller than 11 X 17 inches.

The ISMA's Physician of the Day program offers you the chance to discuss important issues with state legislators while providing minor medical care to lawmakers and their staffs.

Health care delivery in Indiana has entered an era of significant change, evidenced by growing numbers of accountable care organizations (ACOs) and entities. If you're not part of an ACO, or have not yet felt their influence, it's likely you will soon.

On Jan. 15, 2013, the Indiana Supreme Court issued its long-awaited ruling in the case of Plank vs. Community Hospitals of Indiana. The unanimous court ruled that Plank waited too long to raise his legal challenge to the constitutionality of the medical malpractice damages cap. The Indiana Supreme Court left open the possibility for other medical malpractice plaintiffs to timely seek an evidentiary hearing on constitutionality of the malpractice damages cap. So, this decision is a testament to the need for ISMA's continued efforts in these cases.

Indiana is among 47 states experiencing widespread influenza activity. At presstime, the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) reported 25 deaths, including two under age 18. Of those deaths, nine were vaccinated, and 19 of those patients also suffered underlying chronic health conditions.

While implementation of the ICD-10 code set isn't until Oct. 1, 2014, now is the time to initiate important conversations with your clearinghouses and billing services about their readiness.

The ISMA alerted you late last year to the Economic Census, which you are required by law to complete. Now, nearly 4 million businesses - including physician practices - have received forms for this 2012 Economic Census, the U.S. Government's official five-year measure of American business and the economy.

More than 200 local, state and national public health and faith-based organizations, including the ISMA, have formed the Tobacco Free Indiana coalition to help your patients with smoking cessation and prevent death and disease caused by tobacco products. This group was previously called the Indiana Campaign for Smokefree Air.

If you were unable to file for a Medicare ePrescribing hardship exemption by the original deadline, you now have until Jan. 31 to avoid the 1.5 percent payment penalty in 2013. Eligible professionals who participated in the Medicare Electronic Health Record (EHR) Incentive Program in 2012 need to complete attestation for the 2012 program year. The deadline is Feb. 28, 2013.

The pendulum on pain control seems to be starting to swing back. If you've been in practice for 15 years or more, you know what this means. The movement telling physicians all pain is avoidable and "deserves" treatment with small, medium or high doses of opioids - whatever it takes - appears to be on the wane.

The House of Representatives passed HR 8, the American Taxpayer Relief Act, sparing Medicare physicians a pay cut of nearly 30 percent. Previously approved by the Senate, the package contained other health provisions that may be of interest to you.

The ISMA has lost a longtime, dedicated and very special employee. Dana Wallace died Saturday, Dec. 15, at his home in Indianapolis after a long battle with cancer. He will be greatly missed by his many ISMA friends and colleagues.

If you write prescriptions for controlled substances, the Indiana Scheduled Prescription Electronic Collection and Tracking (INSPECT) program can be a useful tool for you.

Member resolutions to the 2012 House of Delegates made priorities clear for the ISMA. Now physician leaders and staff are prepared to take your issues to the 2013 General Assembly.

The American Taxpayer Relief Act, passed on New Year's Day, averts the 26.5 percent pay cut for Medicare physicians for the remainder of 2013. However, hospital and other providers will see cuts in their Medicare pay.

The Affordable Care Act grants "qualified" primary care physicians in Indiana and the nation a two-year pay boost for their care of Medicaid patients. The law offers federal dollars to fund additional pay that is "not less than the Medicare rates" for 2013 and 2014 and designates family medicine, general internal medicine, pediatric medicine and their subspecialties to receive the increase.

You may be missing opportunities that can help you improve patient care and reduce health care costs if you are not participating in a health information exchange (HIE). An HIE allows you to securely store and transmit data electronically to another physician office, hospital or lab using an electronic health records (EHR) system.

The next Medicare coalition meeting is set for Jan. 18 and, as announced previously, these meetings will now be conducted via conference call with the Medicare administrative carrier, Wisconsin Physician Services (WPS).

Based on new Gallup data, physicians are in better health than other employed adults, including nurses. That means, overall physicians are setting a good example for their patients. Nearly 2,000 physicians and 7,000 nurses were interviewed from Jan. 2, 2011, to Aug. 31, 2012.

Health information technology (HIT) vendor athenahealth, which offers discounts to ISMA-member practices, was awarded three first-place 2012 rankings for its products. The kudos came from KLAS, a research firm that represents the provider voice and acts as a catalyst for improving vendor performance.

Indiana's new Medicare administrative contractor, Wisconsin Physician Services (WPS), announced a change for 2013 at the last coalition meeting. Beginning next year, WPS representatives will participate in Medicare coalition meetings via conference call.

The concluding part of our series on the patient-centered medical home (PCMH) offers some insights from colleagues and early results from pilot PCMH projects here and nationally.

Physicians at all stages of their careers - full-time, semi-retired and retired - take time to give back to their communities throughout the year. During this season of good will and giving, ISMA Reports traditionally takes time to recognize the contributions our members make to their towns and cities all across Indiana. These role models make us all proud.

Indiana's new Medicare administrative contractor, Wisconsin Physician Services (WPS), announced a change for 2013 at the last coalition meeting. Beginning next year, WPS representatives will participate in Medicare coalition meetings via conference call.

The recently released Indiana Medical Errors Report provides good news for your hospitalized patients. Medical errors around the state decreased in 2011. A total number of 100 adverse events, down from 107 in 2010, were reported by 291 health care facilities.

Your ISMA membership is key to saving money. And one place where you can save is on your medical professional liability insurance premium. Now ISMA members receive a 5 percent premium credit from ProAssurance, the ISMA's endorsed carrier.

An epidemic of pain medication abuse exists in Indiana and the nation. Every physician has a role to play in stemming the tide of this epidemic to save lives.

The ISMA proudly welcomes 111 new members who joined during the fall months.

The ISMA filed a motion Nov. 15 to appear as an amicus party in the case of Matthews v. Lupton. This case represents a second pending constitutionality challenge to the medical malpractice damages cap; the ISMA has been fighting the Plank v. Community Hospital case for more than three years.

The ISMA's Physician of the Day program offers you the chance to discuss important issues with state legislators while providing minor medical careto lawmakers and their staffs.

Three years ago, members of the Monroe Owen County Medical Society (MOCMS) decided to put their concerns about childhood obesity into action.

You don't want to miss the ISMA's Dec. 7 live webcast, "Responsible Pain Management Prescribing." Hurry! You have just a few days to register. This CME activity will help you learn how to appropriately treat chronic pain patients when prescribing controlled substances and avoid legal scrutiny for your actions. You will also discover how you can be alerted to patients who misuse or divert opioids.

Few would disagree that health care delivery in the U.S. needs to change. Most estimates show medical care is nearing 20 percent of GDP. More importantly, it's already more expensive than average Americans can afford. But doctors aren't happy either.

The Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) offers free online resources to help you with electronic health technology requirements.

The ISMA is one of three sponsors of the exhibit, "You Are There 1939: Healing Bodies, Changing Minds." In 1939, African-American physician Dr. Middleton invited the community to his Indianapolis office to see the latest in electrocardiographic technology. He became one of the city's leading cardiologists.

More than 200 ISMA members learned about tools to protect their assets during a free live webcast Nov. 8. "Asset Protection Strategies for Indiana Physicians," sponsored jointly by the ISMA and Indianapolis law firm Krieg DeVault, covered several options that physicians may want to consider.

At the request of the U.S. Census Bureau, ISMA Reports advises you to be on the alert for your copy of the federal government's 2012 Economic Census form. Your response to this questionnaire is required by law, and the form is to be returned by Feb. 12, 2013.

Poisoning is now the leading cause of death from injuries in the U.S., and nearly nine out of 10 poisoning deaths are caused by misuse or abuse of prescription drugs like opioid analgesic pain relievers. People outside, as well as inside, the health care profession are pointing fingers at physicians as the cause of the "pill mill epidemic." In a proactive move, the ISMA has scheduled a nationally recognized speaker to help educate physicians in Indiana. Stop now and put "Responsible Pain Management Prescribing" on your calendar for Friday, Dec. 7, 8 a.m. EST until noon.

Volunteers are needed during the 2013 Indiana General Assembly in January and March for a day of service from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. EST. You must be comfortable performing basic CPR.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is offering you more time if you missed the June 30 deadline to file for a Medicare e-prescribing hardship and avoid a 1.5 percent penalty in 2013. Please note that this is for the 2013 e-prescribing payment adjustment only. Hardship exemption requests for the 2014 payment adjustment will be accepted during a separate time period later in 2013.

A variety of reasons can cause physicians to move to terminate a patient relationship - from persistent noncompliance and repeated failure to keep appointments to delinquent account status, or even combative or threatening behavior.

Nationally, adoption of the patient-centered medical home (PCMH) has reached a "tipping point," according to some analysts. Other states are moving faster, but odds are the pace in Indiana will pick up. And whether you're in primary or specialty care, you'll need to understand why and how the PCMH, an idea around since the 1960s, is now proliferating and changing medical practice.

Over the years, Merrillville plastic surgeon Nicholas Retson, M.D., has taken 35 medical mission trips to developing countries, including India and others in Central and South America. In February, he will join a team of nurses, pediatricians, anesthesiologists, surgeons, volunteers and translators for a trip to Jinotega, Nicaragua. The team is part of the Healing, Health & Hope organization.

With no change at the White House, provisions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) will begin to move forward quickly. Krieg DeVault attorney Tom Neal expects "a slew of regulations by the end of the year." One part of the ACA moving quickly is the concept of health insurance exchanges. By Nov. 16, states must provide a letter of intent to the federal government, indicating intentions to plan their own state-based exchanges.

Each year at this time, the ISMA provides information about your dues payment that you will need for tax filing purposes. Part of your AMA and ISMA dues, that portion used for lobbying, is not tax-deductible. Please note that 24 percent of your ISMA dues and 55 percent of your AMA dues are non-deductible for the 2013 dues year.

Delegates from your district who attended the ISMA annual convention in September agreed to take action on many of the 61 resolutions presented by you, the members. Those resolutions set an agenda for ISMA leaders and staff who will work all year to accomplish the goals you set. Now do your part by maintaining your membership. Follow up on the dues statement recently mailed to you. Renew today to keep the ISMA strong and able to complete your agenda.

Indiana physicians haven't faced unlimited liability in medical malpractice cases since 1975. But the Plank case, now pending in the courts, could end our cap on damages - making it important to protect your personal assets. A simple one-hour webcast can show you how.

Earlier this year, The Physicians Foundation, a nonprofit organization, set out to conduct the largest survey of medical practitioners ever undertaken in the U.S. to examine the morale, career plans and practice metrics of today's doctors. Results are in and they paint a less than rosy picture.

The ISMA, AMA and more than 100 state and specialty medical societies advised Congressional leaders in a letter last month about the principles and core elements needed to successfully transition to a high performing Medicare program. The message discussed repeal of the flawed Medicare physician payment model, calling the sustainable growth rate (SGR) formula "an enormous impediment to successful health care delivery."

The ISMA Commission on Sports Medicine presented Evansville orthopaedic surgeon Andrew Todd Saltzman, M.D., the Team Physician of the Year Award during the Indiana Athletic Trainers Association banquet Oct. 27 in Indianapolis.

The new 5 percent premium credit offered to ISMA members with medical professional liability insurance through ProAssurance can provide you with substantial savings - depending on your specialty.* In many cases, the cost of your ISMA member dues is covered by this credit.

If you look forward to a day when commercial insurers pay all your claims accurately the first time, you may be encouraged by a couple reports. The AMA's National Health Insurer Report Card indicated error rates for private health insurers on paid medical claims dropped from 19.3 percent in 2011 to 9.5 percent in 2012. And the Indiana Department of Insurance (IDOI) Complaint Index, using last year's data, shows two of the state's largest insurers had significant drops in number of complaints filed.

Indiana law requires everyone who suspects child abuse to report it either to police or to the Indiana Department of Child Services Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at (800) 800-5556. If you don't, you could be subject to a Class B misdemeanor - a penalty resulting in a jail term of up to 180 days and a fine of up to $1,000. You also could be found liable for medical malpractice. Even worse, a child could die.

With school sports underway, you may be seeing an increase in concussion evaluations for student athletes. As of July 1, Indiana law now requires players to be pulled from an athletic activity if a head injury or concussion is suspected. They cannot return to play unless they are evaluated and cleared by a health care provider.

Saving money is important; however, choosing medical professional liability insurance based solely on price is never a good idea. You get the best of both worlds with ProAssurance - strong, dependable coverage and a 5 percent premium credit for ISMA members.

Exercise caution when using copy-and-paste with your EHR, and additional material will now be required for "high dollar" Medicare claims from now on.

Every physician and patient in Indiana needs legislators who understand the complex issues of health care. People we elect and send to our Statehouse enact laws that ultimately affect what happens in medical offices every day. But making sure physician friendly legislators are elected, retained and informed requires resources -and that's where YOU and IMPAC come in.

The Medical Licensing Board of Indiana (MLB) recently disciplined physicians who did not properly prescribe weight-reduction medications. The ISMA legal staff reminds you state law prohibits physicians from prescribing any amphetamine, sympathomimetic amine drug or a schedule II controlled substance for weight reduction or control.

The date is set! Oct. 1, 2014, is the implementation date for ICD-10. The Indiana Health Coverage Programs (IHCP) continues to prepare for ICD-10 and hopes you're preparing, too. The IHCP wants to ensure you have the resources you need, so let them know how your plans are going.

The deadline to submit your application for the ISMA's Medical Mission scholarship is just a few days away. The annual stipend of up to $3,000 is offered to an ISMA member planning to provide medical care to people in other countries from now through 2013.

During the ISMA's annual convention, three state legislators were honored for their efforts to pass the state's first smoking ban. Sen. Beverly Gard, R-Greenfield; Rep. Charlie Brown, D-Gary; and Rep. Eric Turner, R-Marion, accepted the Legislator of the Year Award Sept. 15 during the ISMA convention.

New to convention this year, the IMPAC Lounge scored a "homerun," in the words of one convention-goer. IMPAC is the ISMA's political action committee, and the lounge was open to IMPAC members or ISMA members who joined IMPAC during convention weekend. The space offered refreshments, election information and opportunities to meet candidates of both political parties from around Indiana.

Maybe you would not describe yourself as politically active or involved. But chances are you would describe yourself as concerned about your patients, your profession, and the health and well-being of people in your community. That's exactly why the ISMA Fall Legislative Dinners offer you a perfect opportunity.

Your delegates came to Indianapolis for the ISMA's annual convention and met the challenge of considering 61 resolutions. Tom Vidic, M.D., now the immediate past president, told the assembly, "All this camaraderie is refreshing and rejuvenating." When was the last time you felt rejuvenated? Are you more like the one in two internists in a recent survey who responded they felt burned out and dissatisfied?

With or without a Medicaid expansion, Indiana will see substantial increases in the cost of its Medicaid program. Milliman Inc, the state's actuary, provided the Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) new estimates about the enrollment and financial impact of the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

Health care reform will usher in a new era in providing benefits to employees of medical practices, clinics and hospitals. As we continue to look for ways to control costs and optimize employee benefit dollars, we will increasingly seek the best strategies and opportunities in this changing landscape.

Elkhart ophthalmologist Richard C. Boling, M.D., and executive director of the Indiana Academy of Ophthalmology, Kim Williams, were presented with the Physician Community Service Award and Patient Health Advocate Award during the 163rd annual convention.

One medical professional liability insurer supports the work of the ISMA and offers you a host of benefits. It's true: ProAssurance now gives ISMA members a 5 percent premium credit. But once insured by the company, you'll also enjoy other benefits.

Shefali Purohit of Terre Haute became the new president of the Indiana State Medical Association Alliance (ISMA-A) during the ISMA-A and ISMA conventions.

Health care reform will usher in a new era for medical practices, clinics and hospitals that provide benefits to their employees. As you look for ways to control costs and optimize spending on employee benefits, you will increasingly look for the best strategies and opportunities to take advantage of the changing benefits landscape. The ISMA Insurance Agency stands ready to help with new ideas.

The Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS) needs you to serve on local Child Fatality Review Teams. Under a new state law, the DCS must establish 18 regional teams that include physicians.

The Indiana Attorney General's Office (IAGO) has invited the ISMA to participate in a newly formed Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention Task Force. The invitation came specifically to the ISMA's Government Relations Director Mike Rinebold, formerly with the Indiana Medical Licensing Board.

Roberta Hibbard, M.D., often receives calls from physicians across the state seeking her expertise about suspicious child injuries. She is happy to help her colleagues make decisions that can save lives. However, Dr. Hibbard noted that in one study almost 30 percent of physicians did not report child abuse when they suspected it. In response, she is chairing the Oct. 26 conference, Indiana's Multi-Disciplinary Response to Child Maltreatment, to help you formulate strategies to improve reporting and identifying child abuse and neglect in Indiana.

As children go back to school, now is a good time to remind parents they can view and print their child's immunization records through MyVaxIndiana. The new web program, launched in July, is a part of the Children and Hoosier's Immunization Registry Program (CHIRP).

When a patient complains, what steps should physicians follow to address the complaints?

If you are planning an overseas mission trip, the ISMA might be able to help. The annual Medical Mission Scholarship, created in 2001, provides up to $3,000 to help defray the cost of providing medical care to people in other countries.

If you followed the rules for Stage 1 meaningful use of electronic health records (EHRs) this year, last year - or plan to begin next year - to earn incentive dollars, get started now learning about Stage 2. The 672 pages released Aug. 23 will heighten worries about cost and about privacy/confidentiality, but you'll like the increased flexibility Stage 2 rules offer with timelines.

The ISMA's Medical Student Society (MSS) has received the AMA's Medical Student Section School of the Year Award. Each spring, medical schools around the nation apply for the award giving the winner a $500 grant for its activities. All campuses represented in the AMA-MSS Assembly are eligible to apply.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data show that nearly three out of four drug overdoses are caused by opioid pain relievers. States and the federal government have taken notice of this disturbing increase in deaths. And so have our members.

We inadvertently omitted two resolutions from the list of resolutions published in the Aug. 20 newsletter. Find the complete list of resolutions at the ISMA Convention page.

Health Care Excel (HCE), the Medicare Quality Improvement Organization (QIO) for Indiana, wants to partner with you to improve the delivery of health care to Medicare beneficiaries. Working with the organization, you can receive technical assistance, staff education, and help with interpreting and reporting data with an electronic health record (EHR) - and more - at no charge to you.

Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius has announced that Oct. 1, 2014, will be the implementation date for the ICD-10 code set. The new rule will be published in the Sept. 5 Federal Register.

Indiana Health Coverage Programs (IHCP) has announced a change, effective Oct. 1, involving a special provider type enrollment for physicians NOT enrolled in Medicaid but who write prescriptions, order supplies or refer Medicaid patients. After the effective date, Medicaid will no longer pay for these services from a non-Medicaid provider.

Since Indiana's new smoking law went into effect July 1, some members have asked the ISMA to clarify provisions of the law and explain how it affects medical offices and employees. Here are answers to some of those questions that may help you comply.

As the trial lawyers have warned, if Plank ultimately prevails in Plank vs. Community Hospital, for the first time since 1975 Indiana physicians could face unlimited liability in medical malpractice cases and need to think about asset protection. Now read a warning that went to doctors' defense attorneys.

Your ISMA membership is key to saving money. And one place where you can save is on your medical professional liability insurance premium. Now ISMA members receive a 5 percent premium credit from ProAssurance, the ISMA's endorsed carrier.

If you've never had a discussion with your local legislator about your patients, your practice and professional issues, this era of health care reform presents the perfect time. And the ISMA is offering you a "no excuses" opportunity to stay close to home, enjoy a free meal with colleagues and interact with state lawmakers from your part of Indiana.

Delegates you send to the ISMA convention spend your dues dollars. Take time now to ensure your delegates vote for the resolutions that reflect your concerns and merit spending your organization's limited resources to achieve.

The future will require you to communicate more, coordinate care more effectively and report more often and thoroughly on quality measures. If you're prepared for what's coming - that's great. If not, seize an opportunity the ISMA is presenting to improve your likelihood of success in today's evolving environment.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data show that nearly three out of four drug overdoses are caused by opioid pain relievers. States and the federal government have taken notice of this disturbing increase in deaths. And so have Indiana physicians. If not, find out how you can benefit by securing coverage from the ISMA-endorsed carrier. Call the company's Indianapolis office at (800) 284-7424 for a quote or to have your questions answered.

Whether you attend convention or not, these resources will help you listen, comment and connect with fellow physicians.

Vaccination rates in the state are improving, except for one vaccine, noted the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH). Too many Indiana children are not being vaccinated against rotavirus. In fact, the state lags behind the national average in immunizing for the disease.

While the bad news may be having to learn a whole new code set, ICD-10-CM, the good news is you have more time to prepare for the transition date, now proposed for Oct. 1, 2014.

ISMA members who purchase medical liability insurance from ProAssurance now receive a 5 percent premium credit. Are you among them?

The publish date of this issue of ISMA Reports, Aug. 20,is also the "go live" date for the switch to a new Medicare administrative contractor (MAC) for Indiana Part B, Jurisdiction 8 (J8). Wisconsin Physicians Service or WPS will now process all your Medicare claims, rather than National Government Services (NGS).

Starting July 1, ISMA members who renew or purchase medical professional liability insurance from ProAssurance enjoy a 5 percent premium credit. Member insureds whose policies renewed before July 1 will enjoy the credit at their next policy renewal date.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports one in every 33 babies is born with a birth defect. To improve public health, the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) collects data on birth defects through the Indiana Birth Defects and Problems Registry (IBDPR).

No one can help legislators understand patient care and the concerns of physicians like YOU can. By sharing stories about your daily challenges and explaining to lawmakers how proposed legislation might impact your patients and your practice, you offer a public service.

Officials at the Social Security Administration (SSA) have clarified that the online disability forms you may be receiving from some patients are HIPAA compliant and urge you to accept them.

"Something for everyone" may be one way to characterize the June 28 U.S. Supreme Court opinion challenging health reform legislation. However, none of these constituencies is happy.

August 20 is fast approaching. That's when Indiana Medicare Part B will transition from National Government Services (NGS) to a new administrative contractor, WPS.

Check out these convention updates

The Indiana Health Coverage Programs (IHCP) wants to be prepared to offer resources and assistance to practices as the push to adopt ICD-10 advances. Hopefully, your practice is using this time to prepare and educate staff.

Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) are increasing in the state and half are smaller physician-driven organizations serving fewer than 10,000 beneficiaries. Recently, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced 89 new ACOs in the nation; three are in Indiana.

The new 5 percent premium credit offered to ISMA members with medical professional liability insurance through ProAssurance can provide you with substantial savings-depending on your specialty. In many cases, the cost of your ISMA member dues are covered by this credit.

St. Vincent Health Chief Medical Informatics Officer Alan Snell, M.D., a long-time ISMA member, was among 82 technology "trailblazers" honored at the White House last month for accelerating health information technology (HIT) progress to Indiana. That progress, funded by stimulus dollars from the HITECH Act, holds promise to benefit you and your patients in any part of our state.

Physicians' opinions about last month's Supreme Court ruling on the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) are as diverse as that of the country's population. Some agree, some disagree - but most all have some concerns. And there's wide agreement that health care delivery in the U.S. is on the verge of sweeping change - no matter the actions in Washington, D.C. ISMA Reports gathered a sampling of opinions from your physician colleagues around the state to share with readers.

When you need help controlling a patient's pain or managing symptoms, when you lack the time to appropriately educate the family, answer questions and discuss options, a palliative care referral can provide the relief everyone needs.

You can now empower your patients to manage their child's care by allowing them direct access to immunization records using a new web application within the Children and Hoosier's Immunization Registry Program (CHIRP).

Electronic health records and electronic communications have associated risks.Tips for managing those risks.

During the last legislative session, the ISMA was successful in working with legislators to pass several important bills affecting you and your patients. The ISMA tracked more than 100 of the approximately 800 bills introduced in the 2012 General Assembly, but only 150 bills were signed into law. Here is a review of some of the significant new laws set to take effect July 1.

If you plan to attend the ISMA's annual convention Sept. 14-16, you will want to make hotel reservations soon.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has released the 2013 proposed physician fee schedule rules. They will also be published in the Federal Register July 30.

If you're an AMA member, you're invited to offer your thoughts on the organization's new five-year plan.

Your resolutions can institute change by becoming part of the ISMA's legislative efforts or policy. However, you have only until Monday, July 16, at 4:30 p.m. to submit your proposals for the 2012 House of Delegates, which meets Sept. 14-16 at the JW Marriott in Indianapolis.

Indiana law requires you to provide written disclosure of ownership in a health care facility to your patients before referring them to that facility. You must obtain the patient's signature as written acknowledgment of the notice and keep copies of the signed notice. The only exception would be in emergency situations.

As of July 1, ISMA members who renew or purchase medical professional liability insurance from ProAssurance receive a 5 percent premium credit. Member insureds whose policies renewed before July 1 will enjoy the credit at their next policy renewal date.

Early results are coming and they're encouraging. Electronic technology is blocking the sale of pseudoephedrine to meth-making criminals daily in Indiana.

The annual requirement to identify and report unclaimed property to the state is here again. The time to act is now.

If successful, a program being tested in Indiana may not only save you time but curb prescription drug abuse as well. Under a grant from the federal government, Indiana and Ohio became the only states in the nation chosen to participate in a 30-day pilot program, which began this month

The Indiana Health Coverage Programs (IHCP) announced in a June bulletin that you will no longer be charged a fee for revalidation of your IHCP enrollment. If you previously paid for revalidation, the program will refund the amount you paid.

During the last legislative session, the ISMA was successful in working with legislators to pass several important bills affecting you and your patients. The ISMA tracked more than 100 of the approximately 800 bills introduced in the 2012 General Assembly, but only 150 bills were signed into law. Here is a review of some of the significant new laws set to take effect July 1.

As an ISMA member, you automatically begin earning a 5 percent premium credit from ProAssurance, ISMA's endorsed liability insurance carrier, at your next policy renewal date.

Last March, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) delayed enforcement of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Version 5010 for the second time due to concerns that the industry was still experiencing significant implementation problems. Starting July 1, CMS will begin enforcement.

This summer, the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) Division of Trauma and Injury Prevention will hold regional meetings to hear your ideas, along with other stakeholders, about creating a system to help those who suffer traumatic injuries.

Since 2010, the number of Indiana physicians and other providers who are e-prescribing has increased 114 percent. Nationally, the number of all e-prescribing physicians increased from 36 percent in 2010 to 58 percent in 2011.

Protecting patients and the future of the profession requires ongoing dialogue with elected officials about the needs of medicine. One of the most effective means of supporting good candidates and policies is through the ISMA's Indiana Medical Political Action Committee (IMPAC).

You now have more time to enroll in Medicare, thanks to a new change by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Effective May 14, CMS allows 60 days in advance of the effective date.

Atlantic Health Partners can help you improve your immunization rates by offering the lowest vaccine prices - as a benefit of your ISMA membership.

Your ISMA membership qualifies you for exclusive savings on medical professional liability insurance from ProAssurance. Beginning July 1, ISMA members will receive a credit at policy renewal from our endorsed liability insurer.

The ISMA is helping smooth the transition to the new Medicare administrative contractor (MAC), Wisconsin Physician Services (WPS), coming Aug. 20. After that date, National Government Services (NGS) will no longer handle your Medicare claims; WPS will be responsible for all claims communication, appeals, audits - and more.

When it comes to selecting, implementing and using electronic health record systems, you may have plenty of questions, or maybe you aren't even sure what questions you should ask. But you can find the information you need, plus resources, tips and more at a Regional Extension Center (REC) - and Indiana has two of them.

You're a physician, resident or medical student so, of course, you know a great deal about helping patients. But you likely don't quite know enough when it comes to legal matters - and specifically, understanding an employment contract.

Organized medicine tells CMS the current proposal would make it difficult for physicians to successfully participate in the EHR incentive program.

Medicaid primary care physicians would see reimbursement increase over the next two years under a rule proposed May 9 by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

Ever long for a concise checklist to help you with risk management as you move toward meaningful use of your electronic health record (EHR)? Are you trying to decide between office-based and Internet-based EHR options?

Health officials are concerned about an increase in tetanus in our state. Recently, three cases - one fatal - were reported to the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH).

What suggestions do you have for operating a patient portal and ensuring confidentiality of patient information?

This fall, you have the chance to personally meet your state legislators and discuss important issues. In seven regional meetings, the ISMA will help you advocate on behalf of patients and learn about issues all in one evening.

The ISMA is pleased to announce that rates for its group health insurance plan with Anthem will increase only 4.6 percent for policies renewing July 1. This is the lowest medical rate increase since 1998.

If an issue concerns you, put it into a resolution and submit it to the ISMA by Monday, July 16. You also have until June 15 to nominate a deserving colleague or layperson for an award.

Resolutions passed 10 years ago by the 2002 ISMA House of Delegates will expire in November, unless you decide they should continue as ISMA policy. You can reintroduce any of these resolutions by submitting a 2012 resolution before the Monday, July 16, deadline.

Wisconsin Physician Services (WPS), the newly announced Medicare administrative contractor (MAC) taking over for National Government Services (NGS) Aug. 20, is sending you a letter. With the communication will be the required Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) 588 form, along with instructions.

If you want help connecting with potential employers from across the nation, mark your calendar for June 15 and plan to be in Chicago.

The AMA offers two free online educational sessions that can help you make decisions about payment bundling, pay-for-performance, risk pools, capitation and other budget-based reimbursements.

The Indiana State Department of Health is developing a new Web tool that will give individuals direct access to immunization records within the Children and Hoosier's Immunization Registry Program (CHIRP). The tool is still in the development stages and ISDH officials would like your feedback.

Indiana Health Coverage Programs (IHCP) wants to alert you about a new round of surveys for Medicaid providers, which began May 8, to gauge readiness for ICD-10-CM.

The ISMA was at the Indiana Supreme Court May 3 for oral arguments in the case of Plank vs. Community Hospital. For more than two years, the ISMA has been involved in this case challenging the constitutionality of the medical malpractice damages cap.

Time is running out to prevent a 1.5 percent reduction in your Medicare Part B payments, scheduled to begin Jan. 1, 2013. You have until June 30 to either report on at least 10 electronic scripts, known as e-scripts, or file a hardship exemption.

Data from the National Health Interview Survey from January to June 2011 revealed one in three persons is in a family experiencing some financial burdens because of medical care. That comes as a new multi-year project by the ABIM Foundation offers you opportunities to learn, teach or mentor on core principles of cost-conscious care delivery.

Want to see changes in your profession? Consider serving on a reference committee during ISMA's annual convention Sept. 15 at the JW Marriott in downtown Indianapolis.

If programs in your community have resulted in improving the health of residents, consider applying for the Roadmaps to Health Prize.

This fall, you have two opportunities to help shape ISMA policy and direct legislative efforts.

A campus networking event April 19 for women house-staff and practicing physicians addressed "The $16,819 Pay Gap for Newly Trained Physicians" and offered a chance for women physicians and faculty to share their experiences with residents and fellows.

Many local pharmacies - including Walgreens through its Take Care Health Services - are advertising spring sports physicals at bargain rates. Without the signature of a physician with an unlimited license to practice medicine, however, the physical will not be valid for Indiana high school students.

Plan to have someone from your practice attend the Medicare Coalition meeting May 11 to hear a presentation from Wisconsin Physician Services (WPS). That's the new MAC for Indiana and Michigan preparing to take over in August from National Government Services (NGS). Time will also be allotted for a question-and-answer session.

Issues like peer review, safety, credentialing, bylaws, your right to independent judgment and the like may not be problematic for you - right now. But if difficult situations arise causing you and your colleagues to look for help, do you know where to find it?

Thank you to ISMA members who agreed to share their knowledge of the Plank malpractice case in an Internet survey. In recent issues, ISMA Reports has been informing you about this case that is challenging Indiana's cap on malpractice awards.

The third annual report, released by University of Wisconsin's Population Health Institute and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, grades the overall health in more than 3,000 counties nationwide by using a standard formula to measure how healthy people are and how long they live.

Your practice can receive the lowest prices and best terms on Sanofi's Fluzone if you act to join Atlantic Health Partners and place an order by April 30.

A huge report is being compiled - with feedback from more than 650,000 physicians - and you're invited to contribute.

An ongoing collaboration since January has benefitted dermatology practices, yet serves as an example of how the ISMA regularly works with specialty societies on behalf of physicians.

The ISMA has learned that oral arguments will be heard May 3 in the case of Plank vs. Community Hospital.

"An event like this really touches your soul," said ISMA Treasurer Deepak Azad, M.D. With the next breath, he added, "I wish we would have done more disaster planning." That's a message repeated by ISMA leaders, past and present, who faced the tornado's wrath March 2 and observed the need for routine practice drills and improved communication

The ISMA received updated information about the Medicare Electronic Prescribing (eRx) Incentive Program and the 2012 eRx payment adjustment. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) advised the AMA that it has been working to make certain a physician's hardship case is adequately reviewed. CMS wants physicians to know their issues are being examined.

The ISMA, the Indiana Immunization Coalition and four other organizations, have partnered to learn more about immunization practices in the state. The information will be used to develop educational activities, and create future initiatives and services for Indiana residents.

CMS has announced the timeline for Medicare carrier transition and HHS announced a delay in ICD-10 compliance.

Samuel Thompson, M.D., traveled to Ethiopia in February where he taught general surgery students about urology and provided clinical care. It was his third trip to Africa, but his first one with support of the ISMA's Medical Mission Scholarship.

The tornado disaster remains fresh in our minds and presents a perfect time to ensure your community is ready when disaster strikes. Just in time, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) has a framework and tools to get you started.

The U.S. Supreme Court began hearing oral arguments about the two-year old health care law as this issue went to press. But the Indiana Supreme Court sits poised to hear oral arguments of its own in Plank vs. Community Hospital.

Don't slow your efforts at compliance with the HIPAA Version 5010 format, but the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced March 15 that it will delay enforcement actions for another 90 days.

If every practicing physician in the country had the chance to participate in a landmark effort, would you want to take part as well? If so, make sure the ISMA has your email address.

Q. What should I keep in mind - from a risk management perspective - as I adopt an electronic health record system?

Gov. Mitch Daniels recently signed into law a statewide smoking ban making this a good time for you to screen patients for tobacco use and encourage them to quit smoking. Both Medicare and Medicaid will reimburse you for tobacco cessation counseling.

If you are a primary care physician, the National Health Service Corps (NHSC) offers you the opportunity to pay off your medical student loans by serving communities in need. But don't wait! You have only until May 15 to apply.

About one-third of more than 2 million military deployed since Sept. 11, 2001, return home with post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other mental health conditions. Only 53 percent seek care from a physician, according to a Rand study, but a program is now linking Indiana service members and physicians.

Concerned about obesity in Indiana, the ISMA Alliance (ISMA-A) has begun a statewide campaign that can help you teach patients, both children and adults, the importance of a healthy lifestyle. The initiative uses two simple graphics.

If you have patients who are non-compliant because they can't afford their prescriptions, you can help by alerting them to these sources for low and no cost medications.

You need data to make decisions on patient care, and part of the recently proposed federal rules for Stage 2 meaningful use involve speeding that information to you electronically - no matter where you or your patient happen to be.

If you know a colleague or layperson who volunteers admirably in your community, consider nominating that person for one of three awards presented annually during ISMA's convention.If you have been reading Legislative News, you're aware of bills the ISMA supported, opposed or monitored. ISMA's legislative agenda is driven by its policy. Resolutions introduced by ISMA members at the House of Delegates shape that policy.

If you thought Stage 1 rules for achieving meaningful use of electronic health records (EHRs) were too tough or had too many objectives, you can help craft rules for Stage 2. For 60 days following publication of proposed Stage 2 rules in the March 7 Federal Register, your feedback is welcomed by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

Even if you've already contacted the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services about an exemption, make another contact. They're now willing to listen.Many physicians have reported to the AMA that they have received the 2012 Medicare e-prescribing penalty in error. Subsequently, the AMA secured a commitment from CMS to hear cases one more time.

Three recent child abuse cases in LaGrange County and Merrillville have put the spotlight on physicians' duty to identify and report abuse.

Having issues with Blue Card claims? Try phoning for help

The ISMA extends appreciation to all Indiana physicians for your continued commitment - for alleviating suffering, advancing medicine

In March or April, you'll be invited via your email to take part in a huge survey - more than 650,000 physicians - compiling data for a "state of the union" report about the medical profession. You'll get to provide feedback about your own community and about the needs of patients in your area.

Unfortunately, if you don't routinely look out for your legal and financial interests you risk catastrophe. The good news is, help is available. Be proactive in your practice and run it like the business that it is - and the ISMA has a host of member bene

Atlantic Health Partners has obtained even better prices from flu vaccine manufacturers, which includes Sanofi's High-Dose and Intradermal Fluzone, available now through March. But you must pre-book for the 2012-13 flu season by March 31 to take advantage

Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced a delay for the ICD-10-CM implementation date with a timeline that is now "unspecified." That may buy more time for you to prepare, and the best advice is to continue full speed to comp

Last month, a new state rule became effective requiring county health departments to offer free vaccines only to those children who are uninsured or on Medicaid. The rule was created to put the state in compliance with Centers for Disease Control and Prev

Even though officials at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services are delaying the ICD-10 compliance deadline, Indiana continues to move forward on implementation.

Unfortunately, if you don't routinely look out for your legal and financial interests you risk catastrophe. The good news is, help is available. Be proactive in your practice and run it like the business that it is - and the ISMA has a host of member bene

Like you, patients say they want ease of claims and lack of hassles when dealing with health insurance companies, according to a study and report from Insure.com.

These resources are available from the AMA and others.

Medicare physicians will not see a 27.4 percent cut to their pay right now, but few are celebrating. Most are disappointed that Congress chose to pass another short-term patch to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) formula - this time for 10 months - rather

The Affordable Care Act includes significant changes to the Stark Law that may affect your practice. The AMA has an online toolkit to help you understand the law.They have also partnered with the AARP to create a brochure to help you better explain to you

About one in five of your elderly patients has likely experienced financial exploitation or been targeted by someone trying to defraud them of their hard-earned savings, according to national reports.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently confirmed a new Medicare administrative contractor (MAC) for Indiana and Michigan, Jurisdiction 8 (J8). In the end, the government agency upheld its original September decision: National Governme

Something big is happening among physicians - all across the nation. You'll want to take part because the results will be a "state of the union" report on the medical profession in America. Resolve now to make sure that report includes your opinions and f

At press time, the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) has reported 13 cases of measles in both children and adults in Hamilton and Boone counties.

You promised to "first do no harm" when you became a physician. To help you keep that promise, the AMA has been studying errors in the outpatient setting for 10 years, seeking ways to support all physicians and improve patient safety - outside the hospita

If you sign death certificates, make sure you are registered to use the Indiana Death Registry System (IDRS). Last July, state law required all death certificates to be electronically signed and submitted to the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH).

Recent reports of alleged child sexual abuse at Penn State and Syracuse University, in addition to several incidents in Indiana, provide a good reminder of your duty to report child abuse. Indiana law requires everyone who suspects child abuse to report i

If you believe you have been under-reimbursed on past worker's compensation claims, you may still have time to pursue them. The ISMA's amicus curiae (friend of the court) brief helped convince the Indiana Supreme Court to rule against insurer challenges t

The Indiana Health Coverage Programs has launched efforts to track our state's readiness for ICD-10 implementation. A series of readiness surveys will help discover issues and barriers to compliance and also identify groups at risk for failing to meet the

A growing balance in the Patient's Compensation Fund (PCF), despite recent payouts, has translated to reduced rates for you. After the latest payout from the fund in January, the remaining balance is healthy at $182,782,282.41.

The ISMA and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) remind physicians and practices participating in the Medicare Electronic Health Record (EHR) Incentive Program of key deadlines. You can still complete some activities in 2012 to receive an i

Two trend reports from the AMA's Policy Research Perspective series illustrate the price Americans pay for our broken medical liability system.The first trend report analyzes indemnity and expense payments, claim disposition and policy limits based on a s

Q. Can you suggest how to proceed when we encounter patients with conditions for which a third-party payer refuses approval or payment for care?

The weekend before the big game, Jan. 28-29, Indy's Super Cure rolled out at the IU Simon Cancer Center, an initiative between the 2012 Indianapolis Super Bowl Host Committee and the Komen Tissue Bank at IU Simon Cancer Center.

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) has released four of 11 online training videos to help you comply with federal laws and regulations. The free videos will cover health care fraud and abuse laws, basic health care compliance and what to do when a comp

If you receive federal assistance like Medicare and Medicaid, you must under the federal Civil Rights Act provide foreign language interpreters for patients with limited English proficiency. Hearing impaired patients fall under the Americans with Disabili

Various federal and state agencies require employers, including physicians' offices, to post certain notices within their workplace. Several factors, such as the number of employees, determine which posters are necessary for a particular business.

Payroll tax extension legislation signed into law Dec. 23, 2011, delayed the 27.4 percent Medicare pay cut due to the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) formula for two months. The measure also included an extension of the floor on the work geographic practice

If you participate in the Vaccines for Children program, you may want to make sure your doses of diluent match the doses of vaccine. Officials at the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) are receiving requests from physicians for additional doses of

Atlantic Health Partners has announced a new program with TransactRx that enables physicians to provide vaccines to most Medicare Part D patients. Atlantic already offers you the lowest prices on Sanofi and Merck vaccines.

The number of men and women who have experienced violence by an intimate partner is startling, as revealed by the recently released National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey 2010 Summary Report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

The Indiana Department of Insurance (IDOI) reduced your Patient's Compensation Fund (PCF) surcharge by 10.2 percent for this year. IDOI officials consulted the ISMA during the actuarial analysis process, in meetings to discuss and obtain input.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced a list of 32 organizations in 18 states to serve as Pioneer Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) in partnership with Medicare. Among those named is Franciscan Alliance in Indianapolis and Centr

Five resolutions passed by the ISMA House of Delegates last September, asked for AMA action. In November, the ISMA AMA delegation took those resolutions to the AMA House of Delegates interim meeting.

The Indiana Department of Insurance (IDOI) has notified the ISMA that the surcharge physicians pay on medical malpractice insurance for the Patient's Compensation Fund (PCF) is going down this year - by 10.2 percent.

Disruptions and distractions will mark the 2012 General Assembly, but they won't keep the ISMA from pursuing legislative priorities you set for us. Last session, the ISMA was successful in securing bills important to members on the death registry and Medi

Physicians got a brief reprieve from a 27 percent Medicare pay cut late in December when the U.S. House of Representatives reached agreement with the Senate on a two-month extension of important policies set to expire Jan. 1.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid (CMS) has delayed a rule requiring biological device, drug or medical manufacturers to report all gifts or amenities given to you.

The subject of ISMA Resolution 10-68, a rule regarding expedited partner therapy for chlamydia and gonorrhea, has now become part of the Indiana Register, effective Oct. 28.

This year, like always, you will be focused on keeping your patients healthy. The ISMA's focus will be advocating for your well-being, and that includes partnering to keep your practice healthy. Through recessions and depressions - for more than 160 years

If your practice is in an under-represented area, encourage high school and college students to apply for a summer program that encourages careers in cancer research. Applications are now being accepted for the annual IU Simon Cancer Center's Summer Resea

With the close of another year, ISMA Reports pauses to recognize members who serve in their communities to improve the lives of people in different ways. Here are two examples of physicians who reflect the giving spirit of Indiana physicians.

Be sure to screen patients for a history of varicella and vaccinate those who are still susceptible. Sporadic outbreaks of chickenpox are being reported throughout the state, including in schools and day care centers, according to the Indiana State Depart

In the newest Indiana Medical Error Report, the total number of errors in hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, abortion clinics and birthing centers grew by 13: 107 reported in 2010 and 94 in 2009.

Indiana's two Regional Extension Centers (RECs) have gained commitments from more than 2,000 of the state's primary care physicians and other providers to adopt electronic health records (EHRs) in a meaningful way. But most are just getting started, and i

One spokesman said it all for medical staff members attending the Nov. 11 ISMA Medicaid Coalition meeting. "We want you to feel the pain and frustration we have with Medicaid," the practice staffer said.

Understanding what drives patient satisfaction can give you a competitive advantage. Satisfied patients are more likely to come back and provide positive word of mouth.

Do you use a post office box or lock box address as your billing provider address for payments? Under Version 5010 starting Jan. 1, if you submit claims electronically, you will be required to use only a street address or physical location as the billing

Immunization rates among Indiana's teens are up thanks to new requirements and funding from the state's tobacco tax. The changes also put the state in line with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations.

You can enhance physician presence at the Statehouse by simply volunteering as the Physician of the Day during the Indiana General Assembly.

During the past two months, many of your colleagues seized the opportunity to meet with legislators by attending one of the ISMA's six regional legislative dinners, held in Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Mishawaka, Schererville, Newburgh and Jeffersonville.

The U.S. House of Representatives has now passed H.R. 674, which will remove the three percent withholding provision originally created under the Tax Increase Prevention and Reconciliation Act of 2005. The Senate passed the legislation a week earlier.

Indiana's request to opt out of the federal government's new rules for health insurers was denied. The state requested a waiver of the requirement that insurance companies use 80 percent of premiums on medical care or health care quality improvement.

If you've ever puzzled about whether a code would be "disallowed" and wanted answers after hours when no one is around, you'll want to know about Clear Claim ConnectionT.

If you complete transactions electronically - such as submit claims or check eligibility - you may have a little more time to comply with Version 5010 transaction standards.

In February, Indianapolis urologist Samuel Thompson, M.D., will travel to Soddo, Wolaita, Ethiopia, for a two-week medical mission trip. This is his third mission to Africa with World Medical Mission. He served two previous missions in Kenya.

The AMA Council on Medical Service is developing two reports for the 2012 AMA Annual Meeting on Medicaid and Medicare financing reform. The two reports, adopted by the AMA House of Delegates at the 2011 Interim Meeting, outline current AMA policy and long

Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), each state must implement a health insurance exchange by 2013. If not, the federal government will create one for them.

The ISMA Commission on Sports Medicine presented Sanford Kunkel, M.D., and James Moriarity, M.D., the 2011 Team Physician Award during the Indiana Athletic Trainers Association banquet in Indianapolis last month.

The AMA compiled a brief analysis of the 1,235-page final rule, with a focus on key points raised in an AMA letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

Beginning Jan. 1, 2012, a new reporting provision for biological device, drug or medical manufacturers goes into effect, but it may impact you. Under the Physician Payment Sunshine Act, gifts or amenities* given to you by manufacturers must be reported to

The AMA has developed three new educational activities that may give you fresh ideas on ways to discuss healthy lifestyles with your patients. As a bonus, the resources offer continuing medical education credits.

As a member benefit, the ISMA offers you coding assistance to help you get the maximum reimbursement involving Medicare and Medicaid. However, recent calls to the Coding Hotline reveal some practices are using outdated coding books.

In the last 10 years, we unfortunately have not been able to show that our efforts to decrease patient harm from adverse events have been successful. Therefore, the search for new strategies continues.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is requiring the state's Medicare carrier, National Government Services (NGS), to conduct an annual recertification of all current Medicare online system users.

In recognition of "Heal that Claim"T month, the AMA offers new tools to help you cut costs and speed payments through the use of electronic claim transactions. The AMA encourages electronic claims because they can provide financial savings for both physic

I am concerned about liability exposure regarding pain management; can you offer any suggestions to reduce my risk with these patients?

During these fall months, you are probably urging patients to get a flu shot, but are you taking your own advice?

Indiana Health Coverage Programs (IHCP) asked the ISMA to alert you about a survey, which starts Nov. 8, to gauge readiness for ICD-10 implementation.

Recently, at least three health systems across the country have reported stolen laptop computers or mistakenly posting unsecured data on the Internet. As a result, data on hundreds of thousands of patients were put at risk for identity theft

Medicare physicians are halfway to at least some relief. The U.S. House of Representatives voted Oct. 27 to pass H.R. 674, legislation that would remove the three percent withholding provision created under the Tax Increase Prevention and Reconciliation A

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released in the Oct. 20 Federal Register the final rules on accountable care organizations (ACOs), as part of the Affordable Care Act.

Tom Lux has joined the ISMA Membership Development Department as field representative for central and southern Indiana.

After a new law took effect July 1 restricting how pathology services can be billed in Indiana, the ISMA began seeking clarification for physician practices. As communicated previously, the new law has left many offices confused as to how it applies to th

As usual this time of year, the ISMA has information about your dues payment that you will need for tax filing purposes. Part of your AMA and ISMA dues payment, the portion used for lobbying, is not tax-deductible.

Mike Rinebold, director of the ISMA Government Relations Department, Past President and AMPAC Board of Directors member Vidya Kora, M.D., and Past President Ronald Downs, M.D., chair of IMPAC, visited Indiana's two senators and five of the state's nine co

You're just about out of time to avoid 2012 Medicare fee adjustments for failing to participate in the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Electronic Prescribing (eRx) Incentive Program. However, you do have time to claim a hardship waiver.

The federal government has released final rules for the Medicaid Recovery Audit Contractor (RAC) Program, a waste-cutting initiative created by the Affordable Care Act. The program, based on the existing Medicare RAC program, is projected to save $2.1 bil

What's the status of health insurance exchanges in Indiana and their impact on you and your patients? Stay tuned. The ISMA participates in the 40-member Indiana Health Exchange Work Group that is setting guiding principles for how any exchange will be gov

Your delegates to last month's convention approved ISMA action or study on 49 resolutions during the coming year - on issues like affordable immunizations, coverage for dietary referrals and clarification of the new pathology billing law. To keep the ISMA

Recently, four ISMA colleagues advocated for your patients by testifying in a legislative study committee.

As part of the National Quality Strategy, Health Care Excel (HCE), the Medicare Quality Improvement Organization (QIO) for Indiana, wants to partner with you to improve the delivery of health care to Medicare beneficiaries. See how you can receive technic

For more than a decade, members of the ISMA Family Violence Committee have encouraged you to display domestic violence resource cards in your patient restrooms. The small business-sized cards list phone numbers for shelters and other support agencies, and

All Indiana physicians - but especially those in our state's eastern counties - will be pleased to know about a new function of the Indiana Scheduled Prescription Electronic Collections and Tracking (INSPECT) program.

Actions of the House of Delegates each year revolve around the recommendations of the reference committees. Members donate their time - some repeatedly over the years - and conscientiously study and debate the issues to reach consensus on each topic.To al

A strong foundation. Unity. Cooperation. These are essential elements for success when individuals come together for a common purpose. Achieving shared goals means learning first how to work in unison - or perhaps BEAT in unison.

"These are troubling times for medicine, but united we will be heard," Thomas Vidic, M.D., the newly inaugurated ISMA president, told the House of Delegates at the 162nd Annual Convention.

The ISMA presented two central Indiana legislators with the Legislator of the Year Award for their support on health care issues. The annual award is presented to a legislator, or legislators, who helped the ISMA advocate for patients during the past legi

In 2008, more than 60,000 physicians were employed by hospitals, approximately twice the number employed in 2001. If you are considering hospital employment, the AMA has developed two new resources that may help you.

In the past, you may have been unable to attend the ISMA's Medicine Day at the Statehouse, a physician/lawmaker gathering held annually at the start of the General Assembly session. But this year, the ISMA is maximizing convenience by enhancing that tradi

The Physician Data Restriction Program (PDRP) from the AMA gives you the power to decide who can access and use your prescribing data. The choice is yours - free - whether you are an AMA member or not.

If you have an electronic health records (EHR) system, consider including the ISMA's post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) screening form in your database.

Sometimes doing things because you've "always done it that way" can be costly. Using ISMA and AMA resources to double check or verify a code, even for a diagnosis or procedure you've coded for a long time, can result in a discovery - and a windfall for yo

Nationwide, more of your colleagues are discovering that tablet computers are useful tools in patient care. In a 2010 report by Physicians Practice, nearly 18 percent of 1,400 physicians surveyed said they used tablets. Another study by UBM Medica found t

September is Women in Medicine Month, but in every month the ISMA recognizes the contributions and successes of female physicians, especially those in Indiana.

Answers for Action: What should I keep in mind when delegating tasks to my office staff?

Only a few weeks remain to apply for the ISMA's Medical Mission Scholarship. The stipend of up to $3,000 can help you defray costs of trips taken after Sept. 1, 2011, and any time during 2012.

Whether or not you attend ISMA's House of Delegates meeting Sept. 16-18, your opinions on the issues are valued and can still be heard.

The ISMA uses its resources, your dues dollars, to offer financial support to our state's only medical school and to its students, making sure they know about our 162-year-old organization. That represents an investment in the future of both our professio

Managed Health Services (MHS), which serves Hoosier Healthwise and the Healthy Indiana Plan, offers you a new resource to help patients with special needs children.

Sometimes doing things because you've "always done it that way" can be costly. Using ISMA and AMA resources to double check or verify a code, even for a diagnosis or procedure you've coded for a long time, can result in a discovery - and a windfall for yo

All providers and suppliers who enrolled in the Medicare program prior to March 25, 2011, must revalidate their enrollment because of new risk-screening criteria required by the Affordable Care Act. (Providers/suppliers enrolled on or after March 25, 2011

Children and adults previously locked out of the health insurance market because of cancer, heart disease, diabetes, HIV/AIDS or some other pre-existing condition have a new option. They can now seek insurance through the U.S. Department of Health and Hum

Fred Frick, M.D., Medical Consultant for the ISMA Physician Assistance Program discusses the National Institute on Drug Abuse website and how it could benefit you and your practice.

Don't forget to order your House of Delegates handbook. You can choose either a binder with all the materials for pick up at the Friday or Saturday sessions, or you may order a flash drive to be sent to you.

September dawns, another year winds down and a familiar task awaits physicians. Again, we must unite to halt a Medicare rate cut, this time nearly 30 percent, looming for Jan. 1, 2012. Last year, a 25 percent reimbursement cut was halted in the final hour

The delegates your district sends to the annual ISMA convention in September will elect new officers for the coming year - as well as new members to our AMA delegation. Three delegate and three alternate delegate positions are available.

Have you ever searched your desk or office for the ISMA Membership Directory when seeking a referral for your patient? Those days of hunting for the bound book are over. Now the ISMA's membership roster is available at your fingertips.

Last year, Ailleen Stiller, M.D., was chosen to receive ISMA's Medical Mission Scholarship, which helped her provide medical care to people in Guatemala. If you are planning a medical mission trip, consider applying for the 2012 scholarship. Each year, th

If you are attending ISMA's convention in September, share your thoughts and interact with your colleagues by simply using your smartphone.

Before, during and after the 162nd convention, share your opinions about the 53 proposed resolutions, help set a new agenda for the ISMA and move resolutions to action. All that can happen if you attend in person - or not.

Were you among the practices scrambling at the end of 2010 to identify unclaimed property and report it under protection of the amnesty program? While that one-time amnesty program is gone, the annual requirement to identify and report unclaimed property

The ISMA represented members at a recent provider forum to share physician concerns and offer suggestions about proposed rules for accountable care organizations (ACOs).

Child abuse in the state is sharply increasing. In fact, the number of reported cases has risen more than 30 percent since 2006, according to Prevent Child Abuse Indiana (PCAIN). The law requires everyone-including physicians, nurses, teachers, grandparen

The state announced that the Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP), which offers full health benefits including mental health and prescription coverage, will enroll up to 8,000 childless adults beginning Aug. 1.

Indiana will launch a new five-year plan aimed at improving the health of the state's residents. The plan was developed by a statewide committee led by Deborah McMahan, M.D., health officer for the Fort Wayne-Allen County Department of Health.

If you live in one of our state's border counties, you may hold a license to practice medicine in Kentucky, Ohio, Michigan or Illinois - as well as Indiana. Obtaining another license likely meant you completed applications and provided documents in a redu

Facing increased pressure to lower the cost of health care, hospitals will not be reimbursed for readmissions that occur within 30 days of a discharge for the same condition starting in 2012.

Achieve meaningful use with an electronic health record (EHR) system and you really can earn a payback for your technology investment. Just ask ISMA member Lisa Holtsclaw, D.O., of Fort Wayne.

The ISMA announces a new preferred vendor partnership with Allscripts to bring you member discounts and additional training for electronic health record (EHR) implementation and usage. For ISMA members, Allscripts has agreed to apply an 11 percent minimum

In south-central Indiana, 107 providers have contracted with the Tri-State Regional Extension Center (REC) to receive assistance with electronic health records (EHR) adoption and achievement of meaningful use. If you are not yet moving in that direction,

The Indiana Health Information Exchange (IHIE) announced it will connect with the Indiana State Department's (ISDH) Children and Hoosiers Immunization Registry Program (CHIRP). The partnership provides IHIE's 1,700 physicians additional data that will hel

If you have not resolved a disputed claim or a claim passes 90 days without payment, you can file a complaint with the insurance department - thanks to efforts of the ISMA.

A recent study of health information exchanges (HIEs) revealed physicians and hospitals are slow to electronically exchange patient information.

Q: As a result of the new health care law, I am evaluating electronic health record (EHR) systems. What do I need to consider from a risk management perspective?

As of July 1, physicians applying for a new medical license must pay for and complete a national criminal background check. The application must be received by the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency before scheduling the background check or the process

The Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) has announced that it will delay the recently published guidelines on the use of publicly funded vaccine for fully insured individuals until Jan. 1, 2012.

Commercial health insurers have an average claims processing error rate of 19.3 percent, an increase of two percent compared to last year, according to the AMA's fourth annual National Health Insurer Report Card.

Three Indiana physician practices making progress toward meaningful use of their electronic health records (EHRs) offer you tips, discuss their experiences.

Physicians have been contacting the ISMA about a new law effective July 1 that restricts how pathology services can be billed in Indiana.

Last September, your delegates to the ISMA House of Delegates voted to take Resolution 10-04 to the AMA House of Delegates. The resolution seeks support for legislation or regulation to require clear labeling of food with genetically engineered ingredient

During the last legislative session, more than 1,000 bills were introduced but only 230 were signed into law. Many of them will take effect July 1.

You should have received an email notice from the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency about your license/residency permit renewal and also your Controlled Substance Registration (CSR) renewal.Failure to act by June 30 will result in a gap in licensure a

If you see young patients, make sure you are registered to use the Indiana Birth Defects and Problems Registry (IBDPR). By law, you are required to report all children 3 years old and younger with at least one birth defect to the IBDPR. Also, you must rep

If you participate in the states Vaccine for Children (VFC) program, watch the expiration dates on your vaccines.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has issued a proposed rule that makes significant changes to the upcoming e-prescribing penalty by adding more exemption categories. These additional exemptions may prevent unfair penalties for failing to

As an ISMA member, you are eligible to run for an elected office and gain valuable experience as a leader in our 8,000-member organization. However, please advise the ISMA staff of your intentions to run as soon as possible.

A newly released report indicates health insurers are paying you in a timelier manner. The sixth annual PayerView Rankings shows payers have made incremental progress in reimbursing physicians -- about one day faster. Furthermore, they are denying 5 perce

House Speaker John Wernert, M.D., and Vice Speaker Heidi Dunniway, M.D., personally invite you to become involved in the ISMA by volunteering to serve on a reference committee. The committees will meet during the ISMAs annual convention Sept. 16-18.

Many community physicians are referring patients with adequate health insurance to local health departments for vaccinations that are intended only for residents who are without insurance or who are under-insured and unable to pay for the immunizations. M

If youre in the Indianapolis area and you order or supply durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics or supplies (DMEPOS) to Medicare patients, National Government Services (NGS) needs your help to fight Medicare fraud.

Michael Fain, D.O., opened Indian Creek Family Health Center in Brookville a decade ago, and began using an electronic health record (EHR) system on day one. But when the opportunity came to recoup some of that investment, he didnt hesitate. The practice

Closing a practice involves more than closing the door. Indianas Discontinuance of Practice Rule provides definitive guidelines in such cases, especially regarding your patients and their health records.