July 2015 Download PDF Here SCMA NEWS July ICD-10 training opportunities for staff and physicians Summer Sonoma Medicine now available in print and online Submit your nominations for 2015 SCMA awards Twelve new physicians begin residency training in Santa Rosa Applicants Featured member benefit: Home and auto insurance discounts TOP CMA STORIES CMA and DOJ reach short-term solution to CURES upgrade problem CMS rule reduces Meaningful Use burdens; CMA advocates for more change California State Auditor releases report outlining flaws with Medi-Cal program Physicians receiving notice from CHPI encouraged to verify data accuracy by July 31 PRACTICE RESOURCES CLASSIFIEDS ABOUT SCMA SCMA NEWS July ICD-10 training opportunities for staff and physicians 1. SCMA hosts ICD-10 training July 13 & 14 STILL TIME TO REGISTER: a few spots left! Learn to code for ICD-10-Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) and prepare for the ICD-10 Proficiency Assessment. Conducted over two days, July 13 & 14 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., attendees will receive 16 hours of intensive general ICD-10 code set training along with hands-on coding exercises focused on ICD-10 format and structure, guidelines, and coding tips. Pricing varies: $399 for SCMA-CMA members (a $200 savings), $499 for CA-MGMA members, and $599 for nonmembers. To register, call CMA at 800-786-4262 or view info and register online (Sonoma, Marin, and Mendocino-Lake counties). Click here to download informational flier. 2. CMA offers online physician ICD-10 documentation training Earn 3 CMEs online for ICD-10 Documentation Training for Physicians. These 3-hour courses are offered by medical specialty and teach ICD-10-CM documentation requirements for physicians to maintain reimbursement once the ICD-10 transition occurs. To register, call CMA at 800-786-4262 or view info and register online. Click here to download informational flier. Summer Sonoma Medicine now available in print and online Just published! Summer Sonoma Medicine features articles on the spine: treating low back pain, lumbar spinal stenosis, and malingering in patients with chronic pain. Departments include an interview with SCMA president Mary Maddux-González, MD; Hearts of Sonoma County Guidelines; a mystery dermatology case; a Yo Yo Ma concert review, featured poem, two book reviews (Shrinks: The Untold Story of Psychiatry and Better Than Medicines), a profile of the SCMA Alliance and Foundation, and photos from the SCMA Wine & Cheese Reception. The print edition has been mailed to subscribers; view the PDF online here and the text-only version of articles here. Call Susan Gumucio at 525-0102 to order additional print copies for you or your office. Submit your nominations for 2015 SCMA awards SCMA is seeking nominations for its Outstanding Contribution and Recognition of Achievement awards, to be presented at the Annual Awards Dinner on Dec. 2, 2015. Nominations are needed by Aug. 21 for the four awards listed below: Outstanding Contribution to the Community. Presented to an SCMA member whose work has benefited the community. Outstanding Contribution to Local Medicine. Presented to an SCMA member who has improved local medical care. Outstanding Contribution to SCMA. Presented to an SCMA member who has served SCMA beyond the call of duty. Recognition of Achievement. Presented to a nonphysician who has helped advance local medicine. For a list of past award recipients and a nomination form, click here. Nominations can be submitted to SCMA by fax, email or regular mail. Twelve new physicians begin residency training in Santa Rosa Twelve of the nation's top medical school graduates were selected from 700 applicants to enter the Santa Rosa Family Medicine Residency in July. This year, more than 1,100 graduates of U.S. medical schools applied to programs in family medicine, half of which applied to Sutter Health's Santa Rosa program. The new residents, scheduled to graduate in 2018, have already established impressive records in academic achievement and community service. The roster includes Drs. Jacqueline Abdalla, Kimberly Clinite, Anastasia Coutinho, Kayla Flores Tindall, Afsoon Foorohar, Dwiju Kumar, Kendall Madden, Guillermo Padilla, Jessica Rhodes, Laura Vega, Stacie Vilendrer, and Maya Zawedling. The residency program has been the largest single source of family physicians to Sonoma County for 75+ years. Residency graduates comprise nearly half of the family physicians practicing in Sonoma County. They fill private practices; community clinics; large medical groups such as Sutter Medical Group of the Redwoods, The Permanente Medical Group, local community health centers, and Sonoma County Health Services; and leadership positions throughout the medical community. Applicants Lindsey Hibbard, MD, Pediatrics*, 3900 Lakeville Hwy., Petaluma 94954, UC Davis 2007 David Huang, MD, Psychiatry*, 3900 Lakeville Hwy., Petaluma 94954, Univ Texas 2001 Danielle Mellace, DO, Internal Medicine, 3900 Lakeville Hwy., Petaluma 94954, Western Univ 2009 Parisa Navi, MD, Pediatrics*, 401 Bicentennial Way, Santa Rosa 95403, Tehran Univ 2001 Lisa Velasquez, MD, Family Medicine*, 3900 Lakeville Hwy., Petaluma 94954, UC San Francisco 1999 * board certified Featured member benefit: Home and auto insurance discounts CMA members receive 8 percent off auto insurance from Mercury Insurance. For more details, call Mercury Insurance Group at 888-637-2431 or visit www.mercuryinsurance.com/cma TOP CMA STORIES CMA and DOJ reach short-term solution to CURES upgrade problem In response to concerns raised by the California Medical Association (CMA), the Department of Justice (DOJ) has agreed to a short-term solution to prevent thousands of Controlled Substance Utilization Review and Evaluation System (CURES) prescribers and dispensers from losing access with the anticipated launch of CURES 2.0. DOJ has committed to keeping the current version of CURES accessible for users until January 2016, and will test the new version in a real world setting with a small group before phasing in more users over the next few months. Click here for more information. CMS rule reduces Meaningful Use burdens; CMA advocates for more change Click here for story. California State Auditor releases report outlining flaws with Medi-Cal program Click here for report summary and a link to the full report. Physicians receiving notice from CHPI encouraged to verify data accuracy by July 31 The California Healthcare Performance Initiative System (CHPI) recently notified physicians of their "quality rating." Physicians who wish to verify the accuracy of the data used to calculate their scores and identify and report any errors must do so by July 31, 2015. Click here for additional details. CMA newsletter available biweekly CMA publishes the biweekly e-newsletter, CMA Alert, to keep its members up-to-date on critical issues affecting the practice of medicine in California. To view the current issue, click here. PRACTICE RESOURCES Webinars, ICD-10 transition Click here to access archived webinars offered at no cost to SCMA/CMA members and staff. Nonmember cost is $99. For more information, contact CMA's Member Help Center, 800-786-4262 or memberservice@cmanet.org. Is your office working on ICD-10 compliance? Click here to see a number of members-only resources, including CMA's ICD-10 Transition Guide for Physicians. Download flier for info about ICD-10 training July 13 & 14, hosted by SCMA. CMA Practice Resources (CPR) is a free monthly e-bulletin from the California Medical Association's practice management experts that focuses on critical payor and healthcare industry changes and how they directly impact the business of a physician practice. Each issue includes tips on reimbursement and contracting-related issues, along with information on the latest practice management news. To view the current issue, click here. CLASSIFIEDS Share beautiful medical suite in Novato Share on Wednesday and Thursday only. ALL YOURS other weekdays and Saturday! Lovely reception area, furnished patient rooms, plenty of parking, and utilities included. Call 415-897-9800. SCMA members get free classifieds! SCMA members can place free classified ads in News Briefs or Sonoma Medicine. Cost for nonmember physicians and the general public is $1 per word. To place a classified ad, contact Susan Gumucio at susan@scma.org or 707-525-0102. ABOUT SCMA The Sonoma County Medical Association, a 501(c)(6) nonprofit association, supports local physicians and their efforts to enhance the health of the community. Founded in 1858, SCMA is affiliated with the California Medical Association and the American Medical Association. © 2015 SCMA, 2901 Cleveland Ave. #202, Santa Rosa, CA 95403 July 9, 2015 SCMA News Briefs SCMA News Briefs 0 0 Comment Read More »
June 2015 Download PDF Here SCMA NEWS Upcoming ICD-10 training opportunities iPad presented at June 10 wine & cheese reception Dr. Regina Sullivan is new SCMA president-elect Get your 2015 Sonoma County Physician Directory Nominations needed for SCMA awards Call for nominations to CMA councils and committees by June 22 "Mastering the Art of Disclosing an Unexpected Outcome" Applicants Featured member benefit: ICD-10 training PEOPLE Top stories from CMA ALERT PRACTICE RESOURCES CLASSIFIEDS ABOUT SCMA SCMA NEWS Upcoming ICD-10 training opportunities SCMA hosts ICD-10 training July 13 & 14 Learn to code for ICD-10-Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) and prepare for the ICD-10 Proficiency Assessment. Conducted over two days, July 13 & 14 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., attendees will receive 16 hours of intensive general ICD-10 code set training along with hands-on coding exercises focused on ICD-10 format and structure, guidelines, and coding tips. Pricing varies: $399 for SCMA-CMA members (a $200 savings), $499 for CA-MGMA members, and $599 for nonmembers. To register, call CMA at 800-786-4262 or view info and register online (Sonoma, Marin, and Mendocino-Lake counties). Click here to download informational flier. CMA offers online physician ICD-10 documentation training Earn 3 CMEs online for ICD-10 Documentation Training for Physicians. These 3-hour courses are offered by medical specialty and teach ICD-10-CM documentation requirements for physicians to maintain reimbursement once the ICD-10 transition occurs. To register, call CMA at 800-786-4262 or view info and register online. iPad presented at June 10 wine & cheese reception The 15th annual Wine & Cheese Reception at Dutton-Goldfield Winery June 10 honored outgoing SCMA president Dr. Rob Nied for his years of service to the medical community. Dr. Mary Maddux-Gonzalez, who becomes 2015-16 president July 1, accepted the gavel. From a drawing of more than 360 qualifying "Passport to Points" raffle tickets, Dr. Jeff Sugarman was declared winner of the iPad prize. SCMA members earned points/raffle tickets for activities supporting a healthier community and SCMA and CMA activities, including volunteering on community boards and committees; visiting or communicating with local legislators; voting in SCMA's election, and participating in the CMA delegation, among other activities. Photos from the reception will be published in the summer issue of Sonoma Medicine and soon posted on the SCMA website Dr. Regina Sullivan is new SCMA president-elect The SCMA election results are in, and Dr. Regina Sullivan, a Santa Rosa OB-GYN, has been confirmed as 2015-16 SCMA president-elect. She will become president in July 2016. The current president-elect, Dr. Mary Maddux-Gonzalez, will serve as president from July 2015 through June 2016. Others elected to the SCMA board of directors include Drs. Peter Sybert (treasurer), Rachel Mayorga (North County district), and Stephen Steady (Petaluma). Three members of the CMA delegation confirmed in the election include Drs. Regina Sullivan (delegate), Tricia May (delegate) and Leonard Klay (alternate delegate). A complete list of new SCMA officers and board members will be posted at www.scma.org in July. Get your 2015 Sonoma County Physician Directory The 2015 Sonoma County Physician Directory is now available for sale. This indispensable reference book gives contact and specialty information for most doctors currently practicing in Sonoma County, along with detailed photographic listings for SCMA members. It also includes a useful compendium of medical resources. The familiar spiral-bound book is widely used by local medical offices. Each SCMA member receives one free copy of the directory. Extra copies cost $30 for SCMA members or $40 for nonmember physicians, health care facilities, and the general public. To order by phone with a credit card, contact Rachel Pandolfi at 707-525-4375 or rachel@scma.org. You can also download the order form and fax it to Rachel at 525-4328 or mail it to SCMA, 2901 Cleveland Ave. #202, Santa Rosa, CA 95403. Nominations needed for SCMA awards SCMA is seeking nominations for its Outstanding Contribution and Recognition of Achievement awards, to be presented at the Annual Awards Dinner on Dec. 2, 2015. Nominations are needed by Aug. 21 for the four awards listed below: Outstanding Contribution to the Community. Presented to an SCMA member whose work has benefited the community. Outstanding Contribution to Local Medicine. Presented to an SCMA member who has improved local medical care. Outstanding Contribution to SCMA. Presented to an SCMA member who has served SCMA beyond the call of duty. Recognition of Achievement. Presented to a nonphysician who has helped advance local medicine. For a list of past award recipients and a nomination form, click here. Nominations can be submitted to SCMA by fax, email or regular mail. Call for nominations to CMA councils and committees by June 22 CMA's Nominations Committee is currently accepting nominations for 2016 councils and subcommittees including: Council on Science and Public Health; Medical Services; Ethical, Legal and Judicial Affairs; Health Professions and Quality of Care; Membership, Governance and Bylaws; and Council on Legislation. Subcommittees include Medicare, Medi-Cal, Workers' Compensation, Health Information Technology, Professional Liability, and Continuing Medical Education. Click here for informational flier. For assistance with your application or nomination, please contact Rachel Pandolfi at rachel@scma.org or 707-525-4375. "Mastering the Art of Disclosing an Unexpected Outcome" MIEC (Medical Insurance Exchange of California) has created an interactive workshop that examines the elements of providing a timely and effective disclosure when an unexpected outcome occurs. The workshop will be held on Wednesday evening, July 22 at the Hilltop 1892 in Novato. Scheduled from 5:30-9 p.m., the program includes dinner. Cost is free to SCMA and MMS members, and $45 for all others. Save the date! Click for registration form. Applicants Sarah Chan, MD, Diagnostic Radiology*, 401 Bicentennial Way, Santa Rosa, 95403, Univ Wisconsin 2003 Scott Glickman, DO, Neurological Surgery*, 4690 Hoen Ave., Santa Rosa, 95405, Midwestern Univ 2002 Uyen Ly, MD, Family Medicine*, 401 Bicentennial Way, Santa Rosa, 95403, Univ Washington 2000 * = board certified Featured member benefit: ICD-10 training The California Medical Association has partnered with the largest and most respected coding organization, AAPC, to provide CMA members with a complete suite of ICD-10 solutions at steeply discounted rates. Learn about on-site classes in Santa Rosa here, other on-site classes in California here, and online courses for physicians here. PEOPLE Representing solo and small group practice physicians in CMA's Tenth District (which includes Sonoma, Marin, and counties north to the Oregon border) Richard Powers, MD, has been elected to CMA's Solo and Small Group Practice Forum. The Forum's next meeting will be at the 2015 House of Delegates session scheduled for Friday, Oct. 16 through Sunday, Oct. 18 at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim. Top stories from CMA ALERT CMA Alert is a biweekly newsletter for members of the California Medical Association. TOP STORY from June 15 issue: Vaccination bill clears Assembly Health Committee after nearly five hours of discussion, testimony Senate Bill 277, which would bar parents from skipping school vaccination requirements due to personal philosophies, passed its first test in the state Assembly last Tuesday. Policymakers in the Assembly Health Committee approved the bill on a 12-6 vote. READ MORE Also in this issue: Thousands rally at state Capitol to support fully funding Medi-Cal President's Message: A critical year for health care Senate passes bills to regulate e-cigarettes, raise smoking age CMS releases 2013 physician payment data to private sector Anthem Special Investigations Unit may be recouping beyond statutory timeframe What is commercial risk adjustment? Don't miss CME Essentials in August! New Paid Family Leave benefits form required July 1 Medi-Cal to delay payments for two weeks in June Upcoming ICD-10-CM Code Set Boot Camps PRACTICE RESOURCES Is your office working on ICD-10 compliance? Click here to see a number of members-only resources, including CMA's ICD-10 Transition Guide for Physicians. Download flier for info about ICD-10 training July 13 & 14, hosted by SCMA. CLASSIFIEDS Share beautiful medical suite in Novato Share on Wednesday and Thursday only. ALL YOURS other weekdays and Saturday! Lovely reception area, furnished patient rooms, plenty of parking, and utilities included. Call 415-897-9800. SCMA members get free classifieds! SCMA members can place free classified ads in News Briefs or Sonoma Medicine. Cost for nonmember physicians and the general public is $1 per word. To place a classified ad, contact Susan Gumucio at susan@scma.org or 707-525-0102. About SCMA The Sonoma County Medical Association, a 501(c)(6) nonprofit association, supports local physicians and their efforts to enhance the health of the community. Founded in 1858, SCMA is affiliated with the California Medical Association and the American Medical Association. © 2015 SCMA, 2901 Cleveland Ave. #202, Santa Rosa, CA 95403 June 1, 2015 General, SCMA News Briefs SCMA New Briefs 0 0 Comment Read More »
May 2015 Download PDF Here SCMA NEWS Garden Tour May 15 & 16 features Sebastopol gardens Wine & cheese reception at Dutton-Goldfield Winery June 10 "Passport" iPad to be awarded at wine & cheese reception Dr. Regina Sullivan nominated as SCMA president-elect SCMA hosting ICD-10 training July 13 & 14 "Mastering the Art of Disclosing an Unexpected Outcome" Applicants Featured member benefit: Workers' Compensation PEOPLE Top stories from CMA ALERT PRACTICE RESOURCES Wednesdays at Hospice House ICD-10 transition CPR: CMA Practice Resources CLASSIFIEDS ABOUT SCMA SCMA NEWS Garden Tour May 15 & 16 features Sebastopol gardens Tickets are now on sale for "Gardens of Greater Sebastopol: Natural Beauties," SCMA Alliance Foundation's signature event, the 24th annual fundraising Garden Tour on Friday and Saturday, May 15 and 16. Ticket price: $50. For more information about the tour and ordering tickets, please visit www.scmaa.org, download flier, or feel free to call Janet Shane at 707-578-4537. Wine & cheese reception at Dutton-Goldfield Winery June 10 The annual SCMA Wine & Cheese Reception will be held at the Dutton-Goldfield Winery in Sebastopol on Wednesday evening, June 10. All Sonoma County physicians and their spouse or guest are invited to attend. The reception, now in its 15th year, has become increasingly popular because of its relaxed, collegial atmosphere. Please join your colleagues for informal conversation and a sampling of fine wines with our hosts Dan Goldfield and Dr. Loie Sauer. There's no charge for SCMA members and their spouse or guest. The charge for nonmembers is $55 per person. To RSVP, contact Rachel Pandolfi at 707-525-4375 or rachel@scma.org. Visit www.duttongoldfield.com for directions and information about their wines. Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase the wines being poured. Download flier for more details. "Passport" iPad to be awarded at wine & cheese reception We've been tallying scores! An iPad will be awarded at the June 10 wine & cheese reception to the physician with the highest score for participation in this year's Passport challenge. There's still time to earn points for activities supporting a healthier community and SCMA activities, including: volunteering on community boards and committees; visiting or communicating with local legislators; voting in SCMA's election (ballots being sent in May); or attending the wine & cheese reception June 10. If you've earned points in these or other categories, let us know! The purpose of PASSPORT TO PARTICIPATION is to encourage physician collegiality and the advancement of community health. The program acknowledges Sonoma County physicians' active engagement with SCMA, CMA and community activities by awarding points in these categories. The iPad prize, to be presented at the June 10 wine & cheese reception, is a token of our recognition for your exemplary involvement. Click here for more information: you may already be a winner! Dr. Regina Sullivan nominated as SCMA president-elect Dr. Regina Sullivan, a Santa Rosa OB-GYN, has been nominated as 2015-16 SCMA president-elect following Dr. Mary Maddux-Gonzalez. Dr. Sullivan heads the list of nominees on this year's SCMA election ballot, which will be mailed to all members in mid-May and is due back by May 31. Others nominated to the SCMA board of directors include Drs. Peter Sybert (treasurer), Rachel Mayorga (North County district), Stephen Steady (Petaluma), and three nominees for the CMA delegation: Drs. Regina Sullivan (delegate), Tricia May (alternate delegate) and Leonard Klay (alternate delegate). SCMA members will receive ballots by postal mail. For more information, contact Cynthia Melody at cmelody@scma.org or 525-4375. SCMA hosting ICD-10 training July 13 & 14 Learn to code for ICD-10-Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) and prepare for the ICD-10 Proficiency Assessment. Conducted over two days, July 13 & 14 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., attendees will receive 16 hours of intensive general ICD-10 code set training along with hands-on coding exercises focused on ICD-10 format and structure, guidelines, and coding tips. Pricing varies: $399 for SCMA-CMA members (a $200 savings), $499 for CA-MGMA members, and $599 for non-members. To register, call CMA at 800-786-4262 or view info and register online (Sonoma, Marin, and Mendocino-Lake counties). Click here to download informational flier. "Mastering the Art of Disclosing an Unexpected Outcome" MIEC (Medical Insurance Exchange of California) has created an interactive workshop that examines the elements of providing a timely and effective disclosure when an unexpected outcome occurs. The workshop will be held on Wednesday evening, July 22 at the Hilltop 1892 in Novato. Scheduled from 5:30-9 p.m., the program includes dinner. Cost is free to SCMA and MMS members, and $45 for all others. Save the date! Click for registration form. Applicants Susan Amaturo, MD, Dermatology*, 990 Sonoma Ave. #2, Santa Rosa 95403, UC San Francisco 1985 Ilona Baron, MD, Obstetrics & Gynecology*, 401 Bicentennial Way, Santa Rosa 95403, Temple Univ 1984 Tamara Jeraj Dolenc, MD, Psychiatry*, Psychosomatic Medicine*, 401 Bicentennial Way, Santa Rosa 95403, Univ Ljubljana 1995 Robert Koch, MD, Orthopaedic Surgery*, 401 Bicentennial Way, Santa Rosa 95403, McGill Univ 1994 Sara LaFleur, MD, Anesthesiology*, 401 Bicentennial Way, Santa Rosa 95403, Tufts Univ 2005 Alice Tse, MD, Family Medicine*, 401 Bicentennial Way, Santa Rosa 95403, Mt. Sinai Sch Med 1992 * = board certified Featured member benefit: Workers' Compensation With workers' compensation insurance rates in California continuing to move upward, there's never been a better time to shop the sponsored workers' compensation plans offered through Mercer as a California Medical Association (CMA) member benefit. Don't just sit back and accept higher rates: call Mercer to see if you can get a better deal through the CMA. Working with Mercer as the program administrator, CMA sponsors best-in-class insurance plans at competitive premiums. By becoming involved with the sponsored plans you will receive valuable protection for your practice and employees. Take control of your workers' compensation costs. Call 800-842-3761 now for your free, no-obligation quote, or visit www.CountyCMAMemberInsurance.com for more information and to download an application or premium indication form. PEOPLE Eric Lin, MD named chief of Kaiser department Kaiser Permanente Santa Rosa Medical Center announced the appointment of Eric Lin, MD to the position of Chief of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery. Dr. Lin joined Kaiser Permanente Fresno Medical Center in 1999 and transferred to Santa Rosa where he's been senior physician in the Department of Plastic Surgery since 2004. He is also courtesy staff at Sutter and Palm Drive hospitals as well as HealthSouth SurgiCenter. Dr. Lin is a graduate of UCLA Medical School and postgraduate of University of Washington. Top stories from CMA ALERT CMA Alert is a biweekly newsletter for members of the California Medical Association. TOP STORY from May 4 issue: Vaccine bill gains more supporters, soars through Senate Judiciary Committee The Senate Judiciary Committee has approved a bill requiring most school children to be vaccinated as a condition of enrollment. In its third hearing in the state legislature, Senate Bill 277 (Pan/Allen) was once again the center of attention, attracting hundreds of people to the state Capitol to hear the discussion in the Senate Judiciary Committee. READ MORE Also in this issue: Bill calling for higher tobacco tax blows through Senate Health Committee Second bill to increase Medi-Cal rates advances through first committee CMA urges physicians to thank Congress for SGR vote CMA files amicus brief in health care provider whistleblower case Leadership Academy opening session to feature Congressional leaders describing how SGR reform finally passed Open Payments database now available for physician review NEPO to host Building Healthy Communities Summit Sept. 18-20 San Francisco approves historic ordinance to ban tobacco use in county, city ballparks Board of Pharmacy approves regulations allowing pharmacists to furnish naloxone ICD-10 training seminars: more dates and locations added Institute for Medical Quality announces correctional medicine facility accreditations PRACTICE RESOURCES Wednesdays at Hospice House The monthly education series continues in May with "Death On Our Own Terms." The recent situation involving a 29-year-old terminal cancer patient who moved to Oregon in order to die on her own terms, highlights the value of ongoing discussions about options that palliative and hospice care offer in the face of suffering. The presentations are provided free of charge to the community by Hospice Services of St. Joseph Health. No reservations are required. For more details, visit www.SonomaCountyHospice.org or contact Denise Burke at denise.burke@stjoe.org. May 13 (7 to 9 p.m.) at Hospice of Petaluma, presented by Dr. Gary Johanson, medical director for Memorial Hospice. May 20 (5 to 7 p.m.) at Memorial Hospice in Santa Rosa, presented by Dr. Steve Hadland, hospice physician at Hospice of Petaluma. ICD-10 transition Is your office working on ICD-10 compliance? Click here to see a number of members-only resources, including CMA's ICD-10 Transition Guide for Physicians. Download flier for info about ICD-10 training July 13 & 14, hosted by SCMA. CPR: CMA Practice Resources CPR is a free monthly e-bulletin from CMA's practice management experts that focuses on critical payor and health care industry changes and how they directly impact the business of a physician practice. Each issue includes tips on reimbursement and contracting-related issues along with information on the latest practice management news. Read the current issue here. Titles include: United Healthcare automatically opts physicians into Core narrow network product CHDP group providers must re-attest by April 17 to receive ACA primary rate increase Physicians warned of identity theft tax scam ICD-10 training seminar dates and locations announced Practice check-up: How scheduling strategies can reduce disruptions and long patient wait times Reminder: July ICD-10 end-to-end testing forms due in April Share your feedback by taking this brief electronic payment survey Meet your CMA Affinity Partner: Union Bank The Coding Corner: Hypertension in ICD-10 CLASSIFIEDS Share beautiful medical suite in Novato Share on Wednesday and Thursday only. ALL YOURS other weekdays and Saturday! Lovely reception area, furnished patient rooms, plenty of parking, and utilities included. Call 415-897-9800. SCMA members get free classifieds! SCMA members can place free classified ads in News Briefs or Sonoma Medicine. Cost for nonmember physicians and the general public is $1 per word. To place a classified ad, contact Susan Gumucio at susan@scma.org or 707-525-0102. ABOUT SCMA The Sonoma County Medical Association, a 501(c)(6) nonprofit association, supports local physicians and their efforts to enhance the health of the community. Founded in 1858, SCMA is affiliated with the California Medical Association and the American Medical Association. © 2015 SCMA, 2901 Cleveland Ave. #202, Santa Rosa, CA 95403 May 12, 2015 SCMA News Briefs SCMA News Briefs 0 0 Comment Read More »
April 2015 Download PDF Here IT'S FINALLY OVER: THE MEDICARE SGR IS DEAD! SCMA NEWS SCMA wine & cheese reception at Dutton-Goldfield Winery June 10 24th Garden Tour kicks off Dr. Regina Sullivan nominated as SCMA President-Elect SCMA hosting ICD-10 training July 13 & 14 MIEC seminar: "Mastering the Art of Disclosing an Unexpected Outcome" Sonoma Medicine publishes spring issue Win an iPad through SCMA's "Passport to Participation" Applicants LOCAL NEWS CMA ALERT PRACTICE RESOURCES Wednesdays at Hospice House ICD-10 transition 2015 PQRS and Value-Based Modifier Getting Started Guide CPR: CMA Practice Resources CMEs CME April 25: HIV/AIDS review CME May 1: Innovation 2015, San Mateo CLASSIFIEDS ABOUT SCMA IT'S FINALLY OVER: THE MEDICARE SGR IS DEAD! After a decade of battling, the U.S. Senate, on April 14 in a whopping vote of 92-8, passed HR 2, the monumental, bipartisan Medicare SGR Payment Reform and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Reauthorization Act-both senators Feinstein and Boxer voted in the affirmative. Two weeks ago, the U.S. House of Representatives adopted the legislation in a landslide vote of 392-37. A 21% cut to physicians' Medicare payments was set to take place on April 15. Instead, HR 2 provides positive annual payment updates of 0.5% starting July 1 and lasting through 2019. Claims that were held for the first half of April will be processed and paid at rates that were in place before the 21% cut was scheduled to take effect. MMS and CMA extend a sincere thank you to all member physicians for the extraordinary campaign this last decade to end the SGR. Member physicians kept up the fight these last two years to hold Congress' feet to the fire to develop a comprehensive bill to reform Medicare physician payments. The unity within organized medicine finally put this over the finish line. Moreover, 52 out of 54 members of the California congressional delegation voted to support physicians-a direct result of long-term MMS and CMA advocacy. Following is a brief summary of the major provisions of HR 2: Repeals the SGR. Provides 0.5% increases in Medicare each year for four years. Offers physicians payment options. In 2019, physicians can choose to participate in one of two payment track options: (1) A Fee-for-Service Track that simplifies and consolidates the existing quality reporting programs, reinstates large bonuses up to 9%, and reduces current penalties; or (2) The Alternative Payment Model Track, which provides 5% bonus payments and allows physicians to develop the new models, such as primary care/specialty medical homes. Involves physicians in defining quality. Provides $125 million in funding to help small practice physicians transition to the alternative models or quality reporting programs. Reinstates bundled payments for the 10- and 90-day global surgical services. Provides total cost of care data to help physicians better manage their practices. Mandates interoperability of EHR systems. MMS-CMA physician member dues dollars made this happen. Combine this huge SGR win with the victories on Proposition 46, GPCI, arresting the Medi-Cal cuts for three years, stopping scope of practice expansions . . . and the message could not be any clearer: Non-member physicians have received significant value from member dues! If you are not already a member, please join your fellow physicians who have contributed to these victories by becoming an MMS-CMA member. Click here to join now. SCMA NEWS SCMA wine & cheese reception at Dutton-Goldfield Winery June 10 The annual SCMA Wine & Cheese Reception will be held at the Dutton-Goldfield Winery in Sebastopol on Wednesday evening, June 10. All Sonoma County physicians and their spouse or guest are invited to attend. The reception, now in its 15th year, has become increasingly popular because of its relaxed, collegial atmosphere. Please join your colleagues for informal conversation and a sampling of fine wines with our hosts Dan Goldfield and Dr. Loie Sauer. There's no charge for SCMA members and their spouse or guest. The charge for nonmembers is $55 per person. To RSVP, contact Rachel Pandolfi at 707-525-4375 or rachel@scma.org. Visit duttongoldfield.com for directions and information about their wines. Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase the wines being poured. Download flier for more details. 24th Garden Tour kicks off Tickets are now on sale for "Gardens of Greater Sebastopol: Natural Beauties," SCMA Alliance Foundation's signature event, the 24th annual fundraising Garden Tour on Friday and Saturday, May 15 and 16. $45 early-bird pricing through April 30. Regular price: $50. For more information about ordering tickets and a description of sponsorship opportunities still available (which include complimentary tickets), please visit www.scmaa.org, download flier, or feel free to call Janet Shane at 707-578-4537. Dr. Regina Sullivan nominated as SCMA President-Elect SCMA's president, Dr. Rob Nied, and the incoming president, Dr. Mary Maddux-Gonzalez, announce that Dr. Regina Sullivan, a Santa Rosa OB-GYN, has been nominated as SCMA President-Elect. Others nominated to the SCMA Board of Directors are Drs. Peter Sybert (treasurer), Rachel Mayorga (North County district), Stephen Steady (Petaluma), and three nominees for the CMA delegation: Drs. Regina Sullivan (delegate), Tricia May (alternate delegate) and Leonard Klay (alternate delegate). SCMA members will receive ballots by postal mail in May. For more information, contact Cynthia Melody at cmelody@scma.org or 525-4375. SCMA hosting ICD-10 training July 13 & 14 Learn to code for ICD-10-Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) and prepare for the ICD-10 Proficiency Assessment. Conducted over two days, July 13 & 14 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., attendees will receive 16 hours of intensive general ICD-10 code set training along with hands-on coding exercises focused on ICD-10 format and structure, guidelines, and coding tips. Pricing varies: $399 for SCMA-CMA members (a $200 savings), $499 for CA-MGMA members, and $599 for non-members. To register, call CMA at 800-786-4262 or view info and register online (Sonoma, Marin, and Mendocino-Lake counties). Click here to download informational flier. MIEC seminar: "Mastering the Art of Disclosing an Unexpected Outcome" MIEC (Medical Insurance Exchange of California) has created an interactive workshop for Sonoma and Marin physicians. The workshop examines the elements of providing a timely and effective disclosure when an unexpected outcome occurs. The workshop will be held on Wednesday evening, July 22 at the Hilltop 1892 in Novato. Scheduled from 5:30-9 p.m., the event includes dinner. Cost is free to SCMA and MMS members, and $45 for nonmembers. Save the date! Watch for registration information to follow. Sonoma Medicine publishes spring issue The spring issue of Sonoma Medicine features articles on birth: long-term effects of cesarean section, home birth, birth centers in Sonoma County, weight loss and pregnancy, and the Smoke-Free Babies program. Departments look at buprenorphine for pain, trained medical interpreters, helping Haitian amputees, and more. View the PDF or text-only versions online. To order a print copy or subscribe, call Susan at 707-525-0102. Win an iPad through SCMA's "Passport to Participation" To encourage physician collegiality and the advancement of community health, PASSPORT TO PARTICIPATION acknowledges Sonoma County physicians' active engagement with SCMA, CMA and community activities by awarding points for participation. In addition to recognition for exemplary involvement, an iPad will be awarded to the winner at the end of the fiscal year. Click here to learn more. Applicants Salvador Federico Calaf, MD, Nephrology*, 2301 Circadian Way #A, Santa Rosa 95407, Univ Texas 2004 Eric Cheung, MD, Nephrology*, 2301 Circadian Way #A, Santa Rosa 95407, Univ Southern California 2002 Jason Pope, MD, Pain Medicine*, Anesthesiology*, 392 Tesconi Ct., Santa Rosa 95401, Indiana Univ 2004 * = board certified LOCAL NEWS Memorial Hospital earns national award Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital has earned the 2015 Women's Choice Award as one of America's Best Breast Centers, acknowledging its dedication to providing exceptional patient care and treatment. See the full list of awarded breast centers here. CMA ALERT CMA Alert is a biweekly newsletter for members of the California Medical Association. TOP STORY: CMA joins vaccine advocates to launch "I Heart Immunity" campaign in support of SB 277. The California Medical Association (CMA), American Academy of Pediatrics, California, California Immunization Coalition, Vaccinate California and Health Officers Association of California have joined forces to launch the "I Heart Immunity" campaign in an ongoing effort to promote the importance of vaccines and Senate Bill 277 (Pan/Allen). (Read more) Also in this issue: Supreme Court limits avenues providers can use to sue states over Medicaid funding CMA submits letter to CMS requesting assessment of Medi-Cal rates California has one of the lowest acceptance rates for new Medi-Cal patients DHCS releases concept paper on Medicaid Waiver Western Health Care Leadership Academy speakers include author of "Emperor of All Maladies," subject of Ken Burns documentary CMA updates physician guide to getting started with PQRS April is National Donate Life Month; physicians encouraged to talk to patients about the importance of organ donation ACIP updates HPV vaccine recommendations ICD-10 training seminar dates and locations announced CDPH mounts television ad campaign highlighting the dangers of vaping New study finds thousands may be eligible for health insurance in California under DACA IMQ offers two types of peer review to assist medical staffs PRACTICE RESOURCES Wednesdays at Hospice House The monthly education series continues in May with "Death On Our Own Terms." The recent situation involving a 29-year-old terminal cancer patient who moved to Oregon in order to die on her own terms, highlights the value of ongoing discussions about options that palliative and hospice care offer in the face of suffering. The presentations are provided free of charge to the community by Hospice Services of St. Joseph Health. No reservations are required. For more details, visit www.SonomaCountyHospice.org or contact Denise Burke at denise.burke@stjoe.org. May 13 (7 to 9 p.m.) at Hospice of Petaluma, presented by Dr. Gary Johanson, medical director for Memorial Hospice. May 20 (5 to 7 p.m.) at Memorial Hospice in Santa Rosa, presented by Dr. Steve Hadland, hospice physician at Hospice of Petaluma. ICD-10 transition Is your office working on ICD-10 compliance? Click here to see a number of members-only resources, including CMA's ICD-10 Transition Guide for Physicians. Download flier for info about ICD-10 training July 13 & 14, hosted by SCMA. 2015 PQRS and Value-Based Modifier Getting Started Guide The Medicare Physician Quality Reporting System (PQRS) is a reporting program that has used a combination of incentive payments and payment reductions to promote reporting of quality information by eligible professionals. How does this impact you? PQRS is mandated by federal legislation. The program, which started in 2009, provided an incentive payment up through 2014 to practices with eligible professionals (EPs) who satisfactorily reported data on quality measures for covered Physician Schedule (PFS) services furnished to Medicare Part B fee-for-service (FFS) beneficiaries. The guide is free to CMA members at www.cmanet.org in the Resource Library and Store in the Professional Resources pull-down menu. CPR: CMA Practice Resources CPR is a free monthly e-bulletin from CMA's practice management experts that focuses on critical payor and health care industry changes and how they directly impact the business of a physician practice. Each issue includes tips on reimbursement and contracting-related issues along with information on the latest practice management news. Read the current issue here. Titles include: United Healthcare automatically opts physicians into Core narrow network product CHDP group providers must re-attest by April 17 to receive ACA primary rate increase Physicians warned of identity theft tax scam ICD-10 training seminar dates and locations announced Practice check-up: How scheduling strategies can reduce disruptions and long patient wait times Reminder: July ICD-10 end-to-end testing forms due in April Share your feedback by taking this brief electronic payment survey Meet your CMA Affinity Partner: Union Bank The Coding Corner: Hypertension in ICD-10 CMEs CME April 25: HIV/AIDS review CME April 25: HIV/AIDS Review The 22nd Annual HIV/AIDS Review, an educational CME seminar and luncheon for physicians, mid-levels and pharmacists who provide care to people with HIV/AIDS will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2015, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., at the Finley Community Center, Santa Rosa. This year's program will include: an HIV and HCV Update; HIV Prevention; Substance Use and Harm Reduction; Interdisciplinary Case Management; and Medication Errors in HIV Care. Speakers include: Kirsten Balano, PharmD; Drs. Marshall Kubota, Ele Lozares-Lewis and Danny Toub; and Meghan Murphy, MSW. For more information, call The North Coast Area AIDS Education & Training Center at 707-303-8904. CME May 1: Innovation 2015, San Mateo "The Digital Doctor: Hope, Hype and Harm at the Dawn of Medicine's Computer Age" and "The Future of Health & Medicine: Where Can Technology Take Us?" will be featured at the Innovation Symposium 2015 on May 1 in San Mateo. Physicians, CFOs, COOs, nurses, HR executives, and pharmacists are invited. CMEs will be available. Download flier or register online today. CLASSIFIEDS Pediatric physicians The Permanente Medical Group, Inc. is currently seeking BC/BE Outpatient Pediatric Physicians to join our team in San Rafael, CA. This is an excellent opportunity to practice with one of the nation's top health care organizations where you can develop a rewarding and lasting career. To learn more about these opportunities, please contact Judy Padilla at 800-777-4912 or Judy.G.Padilla@kp.org. We are an EOE/AA/M/F/D/V Employer and VEVRAA Federal Contractor. Shared medical suite available Lovely reception area, patient rooms and furnished office. Beautiful Novato location, plenty of parking, utilities included. Please inquire at 415-897-9800. SCMA members get free classifieds! SCMA members can place free classified ads in News Briefs or Sonoma Medicine. Cost for nonmember physicians and the general public is $1 per word. To place a classified ad, contact Susan Gumucio at susan@scma.org or 707-525-0102. ABOUT SCMA The Sonoma County Medical Association, a 501(c)(6) nonprofit association, supports local physicians and their efforts to enhance the health of the community. Founded in 1858, SCMA is affiliated with the California Medical Association and the American Medical Association. © 2015 SCMA, 2901 Cleveland Ave. #202, Santa Rosa, CA 95403 April 24, 2015 SCMA News Briefs SCMA News Breifs 0 0 Comment Read More »
