At-Large Member Positions Open on the Council

CPME's Nominating Committee is seeking applications for four at-large and one postsecondary educator positions on the council. CPME will hold a closed ballot election to fill the position at its October 2021 meeting.

APMA-Led Coalition Calls on CMS to Reduce Burden of MAO Medical Records Requests

APMA organized a broad coalition of medical specialty societies to urge CMS to address the substantial burdens imposed upon practitioners by Medicare Advantage Organizations (MAOs) related to medical record requests.

If applicable, please take the short surveys to ensure podiatrists are well represented. Participants will receive survey results.

APMA Coding Consultant Jeffrey D. Lehrman, DPM, has created a brief webinar on what to do in 2021 to avoid a penalty in 2023.

APMA encourages members to take MGMA’s 2021 Provider Compensation and Production Survey.

APMA Educational Foundation Names PICA Distinguished Scholar Award Recipients 

One student from each of the nine colleges of podiatric medicine was selected for the prestigious $5,000 award.

HHS has delayed Provider Relief Fund (PRF) Reporting, but recipients of PRF payments exceeding $10,000 in aggregate must register in the PRF Reporting Portal. There is currently no portal registration deadline.

Register to view the recording from last week's live APMA Coding Seminar at NYSPMA’s 2021 Clinical Conference and take an assessment test to earn up to 6.5 CECH (DPMs) or 6.5 CME (podiatric medical assistants).

As previously reported, APMA wrote a letter to the National Governors Association recommending that states authorize podiatric physicians to prescribe and administer the COVID-19 vaccine. Over the past month, APMA has worked with its state components societies to reach out to state policymakers.

APMA Comments to CMS on NCD for Autologous Blood-Derived Products for Chronic Non-Healing Wounds

APMA recommended deleting the language in the NCD stating autologous PRP is non-covered when used for the treatment of “chronic, non-healing, cutaneous wounds.”

Coding Updates: Postoperative Global Period Changes for Two Codes, New CRC Tools

Effective January 1, postoperative global periods for CPT® 28820 (Amputation toe, MPJ) and CPT® 28825 (Amputation toe, IPJ) have changed to zero days.

Stay up-to-the-minute on research; learn how to get alerted to new JAPMA content.

The Coding Resource Center (CRC) will undergo a security upgrade on Thursday, January 14, at 12 p.m. ET. After the upgrade is complete, you will use your APMA user ID and password (i.e., your APMA.org log-in info) to access the site.

APMA is pleased to announce the Call for Oral/Poster Abstracts for the APMA 2021 Annual Scientific Meeting (The National) in Denver, July 29–August 1.

HHS is requiring providers who received more than $10,000 in combined monies from any PRF distribution to report via the portal.

The end of 2020 was a busy time for member advocacy! APMA submitted comments to HHS, CMS, and OASH.

Congress and the administration have heard from medical practices nationwide about the substantial impact of COVID-19 on their businesses. Read more about the impact of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, as well as COVID-relief legislation passed as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021, that may have an impact for our member physicians.

APMA’s DME Workgroup coordinator Paul Kesselman, DPM, presented during the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) Public Meeting on December 21 to support APMA’s request.

Citing a 26.3-percent improper payment rate for durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies (DMEPOS), the contractor for CMS that issues Comparative Billing Reports (CBRs) announced a new CBR for “Orthoses Referring Providers.”

CMS has posted MIPS 2021 eligibility, APMA has launched its 2021 MIPS Resource Page, and is offering many webinars about the 2021 PY.

On December 21, APMA will participate in CMS’s Virtual Public Meetings for new public request for revisions to the Healthcare Common Procedure Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS).

HHS updated its Provider Relief Fund (PRF) FAQs again, offering guidance for providers whose total payments from the distributions under this fund exceed the 2 percent of total patient revenue for the tax year submitted.

Small-Group Health Plan Update

We look forward to delivering an outstanding benefit of your membership in APMA and your state organization.

APMA supports HHS’ underlying goals of the proposed rule but raises several warning flags in its comment letter.

E/M Changes Improve Outlook for Podiatrists

CMS released the CY 2021 MPFS Final Rule on December 1. APMA is pleased to confirm that the changes to office/other outpatient E/M coding APMA advocated for will indeed take effect in 2021.

The 20th Annual CAC-PIAC Meeting will be held virtually this Saturday, December 5. This one-day event will focus on updates from policy experts in the private and public health insurance sectors, and provide attendees the opportunity to learn from each other while discussing local concerns.

Share these affordable insulin prescription purchase options with your patients today.

The Gout Education Society will host a live roundtable webinar on the link between gout and renal health on Friday, November 20 at 5:30 p.m. ET.

Victory! TRICARE Regulations Updated to Allow DPMs to Refer for PT/OT Services

Final rule allows DPMs to refer TRICARE patients to PT/OT and speech pathology.

Deadline Extended to December 15: Take the -25 and -59 Modifier Issues Member Survey

As part of the ongoing work of the -25 and -59 modifier workgroups, APMA has created a member survey to help identify which payers are engaging in which denial patterns.

Procedure status "B" assigned to the CPT® code that accounts for extra provisions to ensure patient and provider safety during a public health emergency.

APMA Comments on CMS and NQF Proposed Rules

APMA recently submitted comments to CMS and the National Quality Forum (NQF), addressing CMS’ proposed Medicare Coverage of Innovative Technology (MCIT) pathway and best practices for EHR data quality.

APMA, Coalition Urge Congress to Prevent Medicare Payment Cuts

APMA, with its MD/DO coalition partners, is advocating to urge Congress to stop physician payment cuts. In response to these efforts, bipartisan legislation was introduced last week.

21st Century Cures Act and Information Blocking—What You Need to Know

APMA has created a resource page to help providers understand the changes coming with two final rules with provisions of the 21st Century Cures Act, and what compliance concerns might arise.

CY2021 MPFS and Budget Neutrality

APMA has created a fact sheet addressing members’ and state components’ concerns over the proposed decrease to the conversion factor for the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) and its impact on your reimbursement.

The Center for Lower Extremity Ambulatory Research (CLEAR) is recruiting diabetic participants for two online survey-based studies on physical activity and the diabetic foot.

PPP Updates on Changes in Ownership, Full Forgiveness for Smaller Loans

There is now more guidance for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) changes in ownership and full forgiveness requirements for businesses.

The portal for applications for Phase 3 of the General Distribution from the CARES Act Provider Relief Fund (PRF) is open. Hurry! The deadline to apply is November 6!

Every year, a new ICD-10-CM code set is released and takes effect October 1. This year, there are 490 total additions, 58 deletions, and 47 revisions. Many of the new codes are pertinent to most podiatric practices.

HHS updated its timeline for clinicians who received more than $10,000 in Provider Relief Fund general and targeted distributions.

Stay On Top of Shifting COVID-19 Compliance Deadlines With New Resource Page

APMA created www.apma.org/COVID19Deadlines, where you can check for updated deadlines and get a direct link to the corresponding programs.

Recent -25 Modifier Denials and Reimbursement Reductions

As a reminder, the 25 modifier is used when a significant, separately identifiable E/M service by the same physician occurs on the same day of the procedure or other service.

APMA Advocates for the Profession at NCSL Virtual Meeting

APMA’s Center for Professional Advocacy will participate in the NCSL's virtual meeting, Base Camp, to help state legislators better understand DPMs' education and training, and the value the profession provides to patients and the health-care system.

Residents on Front Lines of COVID-19 Health Crisis

Read an excerpt from the forthcoming APMA News interview with two Massachusetts residents deployed to care for COVID-19 patients.

APMA thanks participants in this year’s Virtual Team APMA Run/Walk. See the winners in each event category!

The IRS recently released Notice 2020-32 stating that if a PPP recipient uses those PPP funds toward expenses that would otherwise be deductible, those expenses will no longer be deductible.

If you enjoyed the Ask the Experts sessions last week, don't miss these upcoming coding education opportunities!

APMA submitted comments to the CMS Office of Burden Reduction and Health Informatics on July 29 requesting further regulatory burden relief.

The Small Business Association opened the PPP Forgiveness Platform and began accepting lender submissions on August 10. Check with your lender for details.

Access 2019 MIPS Performance Feedback and Final Score, Request Targeted Review

CMS has released 2019 MIPS performance feedback and final scores. View yours and/or request a targeted review by October 5 on the Quality Payment Program website.

HHS has reopened the Phase 1 General Distribution Application portal. Medicare providers who missed the opportunity to apply before may apply August 10–28. Remember to apply for the Medicaid/CHIP Provider Relief Fund tranche by August 28.

CY 2021 MPFS Proposed Rule APMA Notes Key Proposals

CMS released its CY 2021 Physician Fee Schedule Proposed (MPFS) Rule, which includes proposed changes to the Quality Payment Program (QPP) for 2021 on Monday, August 3. APMA is reviewing the rule and plans to comment.

Students, friends, and family took part in APMA’s Student Advocacy Week this year, generating 11,626 letters to Congress and posts to social media on multiple issues facing the profession.

APMA -59 Modifier Workgroup Plans Strategy 

Your APMA Health Policy and Practice Committee’s -59 Modifier Workgroup held its first conference call in July 15 to develop education and advocacy strategy. The workgroup was formed during last month’s Health Policy and Practice Committee Meeting.

APMA/TDI Public Health Fellowship: Call for Applicants

APMA is pleased to announce it is now accepting applications for the APMA/TDI Public Health Fellowship, 2021–22 academic year. Learn more and apply by September 25.

In light of states reopening regardless of the ongoing public health emergency status, CMS expects to resume audits on August 3, as related to its program integrity efforts.

APMA Congratulates GPMA on Advocacy Win

APMA extends its congratulations to the Georgia Podiatric Medical Association (GPMA) on its legislative victory to modernize the state scope-of-practice law. Georgia House Bill 932 allows podiatrists to form professional corporations with MDs and DOs and removes antiquated language.

Following an initiative led by Maryland and DC region CAC Representative David Freedman, DPM, Novitas has updated its procedure file to allow payment to all podiatrists for three codes for which it previously denied payment.

Looking for a way to be more involved with APMA? Submit your name for consideration to serve on an APMA committee!

Congratulations to the Class of 2020 APMA/TDI Public Health Fellow, Brandon Brooks, DPM, MPH! Dr. Brooks has officially joined the ranks of APMA/TDI alumni through a virtual ceremony held by The Dartmouth Institute on Friday, June 12.

Congress recently passed new flexibilities for recipients receiving funds via the Paycheck Protection Program.

Last week, APMA submitted a letter to Department of Health and Human Services’ Secretary Alex Azar regarding the inability of our members who are acknowledged as eligible recipients for funds from the HHS Provider Relief Fund, but through some oversight on the backend, did not receive any monies from the first distribution.

The Step into Podiatry website has had more than 136,000 pageviews since its launch in January, and during the COVID-19 public health crisis, the site has hosted several webinars to help potential applicants connect with current students and admissions administrators.

In recent weeks, our country has been reminded that we have much work to do to overcome racism and hate. The American Podiatric Medical Association—its leaders, staff, and members—unequivocally condemns all acts of racism and violence.

The US Small Business Administration (SBA), in partnership with the Department of the Treasury, issued an interim final rule (IFR) with comment period last week, addressing loan forgiveness requirements for the Paycheck Protection Program. This new rule is effective immediately.

The Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association (JAPMA) website got a facelift! You are required to reset your password to access the journal now that the new site is live.

APMA is working closely with the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) on its established COVID-19 registry, www.aad.org/covidregistry. APMA encourages its members to report cases of lesions on the feet associated with COVID-19 through this HIPAA-compliant, IRB-approved registry because it could have strategic benefits for our profession.

Did you know there is a simple way for you to help reinforce APMA’s initiatives? Visit www.apma.org/eAdvocacy and voice your support for APMA's legislative priorities.

APMA met with CMS on November 12 to discuss ongoing frustrations with the revised release and review process for LCDs and LCAs, and the roles of CAC representatives under the 21st Century Cures Act.

If you missed it live on April 25, you can now purchase a recording of the four-hour Virtual Coding Seminar. Topics covered include upcoming E/M coding changes, telemedicine coding, and ICD-10 updates.

APMA, with Hart Health Strategies, has two new webinars addressing the Payroll Protection Program (PPP) and Medicare Provider Relief Funds. And you'll find new Provider Relief Funds resources at www.apma.org/covid19.

Did you miss the Virtual Coding Seminar on April 25? A recording will be available for purchase soon with access to all related materials. If you attended the live event, you should have received an email on Friday with information on how to access the recording and how to submit your seminar evaluation to receive your educational credit.

The APMA Board of Trustees recently voted to endorse a website devoted to care for the diabetic foot in the context of COVID-19.

With Congress approving an additional $310 billion last week for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), the Small Business Administration (SBA) resumed the program on Monday, April 27. APMA, with Hart Health Strategies, recorded another webinar to help members understand the program and recent updates.

The CARES Act Provider Relief Fund Payment Attestation Portal is now open. Providers who received a payment from the initial $30 billion general distribution must sign an attestation confirming receipt of the funds and agree to the terms and conditions within 30 days of payment.

APMA highlights the work our members are doing, not only to keep patients out of the overburdened hospitals, but also to care for patients on the frontlines.

CMS has re-opened the 2019 extreme and uncontrollable circumstances application.

APMA previously announced an economic relief plan for its members impacted by COVID-19. In light of new legislation enacted by the federal government, as well as members' demonstrated needs and the input of our state components, APMA is adjusting its response.

If you were unable to join last week’s webinar, “How Your Practice Can Survive COVID-19,” which addressed the various financial resources and loans available to small businesses, it is now posted for you to watch at your convenience.

During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, there are four non-face-to-face service types podiatrists can provide to most patients. A provider’s ability to employ these services may differ based on the patient’s insurance and state licensure.

Last week, the US Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division (WHD) published more guidance on the new FMLA benefits under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA), which went into effect on April 1.

Last week, APMA submitted comments to both CMS and the Department of Labor (DOL). In both comments, APMA explicitly asked for additional regulatory relief, given the national public health crisis (www.apma.org/commentletters).

CMS released its “Frequently Asked Questions on Medicare Provider Enrollment Relief related to COVID-19” on March 22, which includes the toll-free hotlines available to provide expedited enrollment and answer questions about COVID-19 enrollment requirements.

In consideration of the current COVID-19 pandemic, APMA has made the decision to cancel The Coding Seminar, scheduled for March 28 in Dallas.

APMA Comments on CMS’ Advance Notice on Medicare Part C

APMA submitted its comments to CMS on March 6 in response to CMS’ Advance Notice of Methodological Changes for Calendar Year (CY) 2021 for Medicare Advantage (MA) Capitation Rates and Part C and Part D Payment Policies.

APMA Responds to CMS Request for Feedback on CMS

APMA once again informed CMS that over the past several years, state law has been amended to clearly permit podiatric physicians and surgeons to supervise physician assistants (PAs), and more.

WPS Wound Care LCD Victory

APMA is thrilled to announce a recent victory with a formal reconsideration request to Wisconsin Physicians’ Services (WPS) to correct its problematic Wound Care Local Coverage Determination (LCD).

Calling all WPS Member States!

If you are a member practicing in Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, or Nebraska, be on the lookout for an action alert from your state component!

Are the costs of health insurance draining your wallet? APMA has a brand new, member-exclusive benefit designed for you. APMA’s health insurance solutions can help cut your practice’s health-care costs by a whopping 15 to 30 percent, and there are options available for practices of any size.

Hurry! Register online for the must-attend meeting for every podiatrist now through July 3.

CMS Responds to APMA’s Concerns on LCD, CAC Process Changes, TSD Requirements

APMA met with CMS on June 6 to voice concerns about changes to Local Coverage Determination (LCD) and Carrier Advisory Committee (CAC) processes. APMA also continued to lobby for administrative simplification of the Medicare Therapeutic Shoes for Patients with Diabetes (TSDs) program, as it aligns with CMS' Patients over Paperwork and provider burden reduction initiatives.

The US Department of Defense (DoD) released a proposed rule on April 8 allowing podiatrists to prescribe physical therapy or occupational therapy (OT/PT) services under the TRICARE program.

On Sunday, March 17, David G. Edwards, DPM, was installed as APMA president by Mark F. Rogers, DPM. Dr. Edwards stated that his vision for the coming year is tied to the pioneering spirit of our country that is embodied in the profession.

CMS Releases FAQ, Additional Resources on 2019 MIPS Medicare Payment Adjustment

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has posted a new Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) resource to the Quality Payment Program (QPP) Resource Library to answer questions and provide additional resources on 2019 payment adjustments.

Coding Alert—Dispensing Bilateral DME Items

The coding guidance that exists when dispensing bilateral DME items is changing, effective March 1, 2019. This change applies to ankle-foot orthoses, knee-ankle-foot orthoses, lower limb prostheses, surgical dressings, orthopedic footwear, and therapeutic shoes for persons with diabetes.

Since last November, APMA has been working with our Novitas Carrier Advisory Committee (CAC) representatives to clarify problematic language in Novitas’ Mycotic Nail Debridement Local Coverage Determination (LCD). As a result of the work of APMA and the CAC representatives, Novitas has changed the language, releasing a new LCD with an effective date of August 16, 2018. Under this new LCD, if the patient qualifies under “mycotic nail debridement” and debridement is performed without concomitant pharmacologic therapy, mycologic confirmation is expected.

President Trump has signed the John S. McCain III, Daniel K. Akaka, and Samuel R. Johnson VA Maintaining Internal Systems and Strengthening Integrated Outside Networks Act of 2018, or MISSION Act.

Wisconsin to Allow Podiatrists to Supervise Physician Assistants

APMA congratulates the Wisconsin Podiatric Medical Association (WPMA) on its recent legislative success.

Many awards were presented at the APMA House of Delegates meeting in Washington, DC.

APMA is deeply saddened by the passing on February 7 of Harry Goldsmith, DPM, after a battle with cancer. Dr. Goldsmith was a noted coding expert and a consultant to the APMA Health Policy and Practice department. His vast knowledge of coding was instrumental in the development and evolution of the APMA Coding Resource Center, and he supported APMA’s RUC and CPT initiatives, committee activities, and other efforts.

Critical deadlines for MIPS Performance Year 2017, as well as the Medicare EHR Incentive Program 2018 adjustments are approaching.

Attention Young Physicians: Don’t Miss This Advocacy Overview Designed Just for You

APMA is offering a special advocacy opportunity designed specifically for young physicians: the CEO Briefing. Space is limited, so you’re encouraged to register early.

Two new rules published November 2, 2017, by CMS will affect podiatrists' payments in 2018 and 2020.

Share Feedback on Proposed Bylaws Changes

APMA's Bylaws and Procedures Committee has drafted proposed changes to the bylaws, which would be considered by the 2018 House of Delegates and enacted by procedures modifications at the 2019 House of Delegates meeting. APMA is seeking feedback from members on these proposed changes. Feedback is due November 30, 2017.

APMA is saddened to announce that Past President Jerry D. Brant, DPM, passed away September 17 after a battle with pancreatic cancer.

VA Provider Equity Act Passes in House

The VA Provider Equity Act (HR 1058) was passed unanimously in the House on July 24. The APMA-crafted legislation aims to resolve ongoing recruitment and retention issues for podiatrists employed by the Veterans Health Administration (VA).

APMA Executive Director and CEO James R. Christina, DPM, explains how to avoid a MIPS penalty.

John Evans, DPM, was honored with the Award of Excellence on Sunday, March 19. Dr. Evans was nominated by Crystal Holmes, DPM, president of the Michigan Podiatric Medical Association.

Ira Kraus, DPM, was installed as the president of APMA on Sunday, March 19, by APMA Past President Michael J. King, DPM.

2017 State Advocacy Forum Registration Open, YP Scholarships

Have you registered for the 2017 State Advocacy Forum, May 12–13 in Salt Lake City? APMA will award three scholarships to young physicians to attend!

Going to the 2017 NYSPMA Clinical Conference this week and/or weekend? Stop by APMA’s booth, #1515!

APMA MACRA Comment Letter

APMA submitted comments to CMS on December 19 regarding the finalized rule for the Medicare Quality Payment Programs, the Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) and Advanced Alternative Payment Model (APMs).

APMA’s Center for Professional Advocacy Sponsors Scope of Practice Advocacy Initiatives

APMA’s Center for Professional Advocacy (CPA) sponsored a Scope of Practice Advocacy Summit on December 5 for state component leaders in states that have been unable to update their scope of practice laws to include the ankle and its governing and related structures.

2017 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Released

CMS has released the final CY 2017 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule. APMA will review the information during this weekend's 16th Annual Joint CAC-PIAC Meeting.

This morning, CMS announced the final rule implementing the Merit-Based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) and Advanced Alternative Payment Model (APM) provisions in MACRA, which are collectively known as the Quality Payment Program.

New FAQs on Final 1557 Notice Requirements Now Available

In response to a number of questions and feedback from members, APMA has created an FAQ page, with a printable PDF version, for the final section 1557 notification. View the document today to prepare your office for the October 16 compliance deadline.

Accessing Lectures from The National 2016

You can now view many of the lectures from The National 2016.

Visit the APMA Coding Resource Center now and experience the site's first major redesign since its 2009 launch.

Online library of lectures on topics especially for residents. Free for members. Subscription required.

Members, take advantage of our resources!

CMS Releases 2017 MPFS Proposed Rule

CMS released the CY 2017 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) proposed rule last week. APMA is currently in process of evaluating the rule’s impact on our members.

APMA is pleased to announce that Dyane Tower, DPM, will join the APMA staff as the new director of Clinical Affairs in early October.

EIDM SO, Individual Practitioners, Must Recertify by June 30

EIDM users must recertify their accounts annually. This year, the EIDM Security Official (SO) or Individual Practitioner must recertify by Thursday, June 30.

APMA Coding Committee Convenes This Week

The APMA Coding Committee will meet on Friday, June 3, to discuss hot topics in coding, including ICD-10, X modifiers, global day post-op evaluations, and CPT updates.

Humana and Cigna Coverage Policies Corrected

APMA is pleased to report two recent reimbursement victories with Humana and Cigna.

The APMA Coding Resource Center (CRC) is the single best foot and ankle coding tool available, customized to meet your needs as a foot and ankle specialist. Look for new design and better loading speeds this summer.

APMA is evaluating the proposed rule from CMS on physician payment reform.

APMA Working to Protect Members from X-Ray Reimbursement Reduction

Recently, a number of APMA members have expressed concerns to APMA on the possible reduction in reimbursement they might face, under the Medicare film/cassette imaging service payment reduction provision in the 2016 Consolidated Appropriations Act.

APMA Takes Action on Student Recruitment Concerns

Strong concerns about student recruitment—specifically, a low applicant pool—were raised at the APMA House of Delegates meeting in March.

Paul Kinberg, DPM, was honored with the Award of Excellence on Sunday, March 20. Dr. Kinberg was nominated by Leslie Campbell, DPM. The award is presented to members in good standing in recognition of outstanding national accomplishments in scientific, professional, or civic endeavors. Nominees must have demonstrated outstanding service to APMA.

APMA President Phillip. E. Ward, DPM, presented APMA Past President Joseph Caporusso, DPM, with the Distinguished Service Citation on Saturday at the 96th Annual APMA House of Delegates in Washington, DC.

On Sunday, March 20, R. Daniel Davis, DPM, was installed as president of APMA by Marc Lederman, DPM. Dr. Davis addressed the house, outlining APMA’s accomplishments and his goals for the coming year. He promised his high energy and passion for podiatry as the cornerstone of his presidency.

For those podiatrists looking for more in-depth learning than a standard lecture when they attend a foot and ankle conference, The National offers three hands-on workshops.

Deadline to Register with Specialty Registry February 29

Registry reporting remains a significant aspect of the CMS EHR Incentive Program and Physician Quality Reporting System (PQRS), and will continue to be into the future with the Merit-based Incentive Payment System. In order to meet meaningful use requirements (Objective 10 Measure 3) eligible professionals must submit their intent or connect to a specialty registry by today, February 29.

APMA Director of Young Physicians’ Programs Nichol Salvo, DPM, testified on behalf of APMA before the US House Veterans Affairs Committee, Subcommittee on Health, last week. Her focus was on how disparity within the VA hinders recruitment and retention of podiatrists.

Americans may be ready to resume walking, running, and other outdoor sports this spring, but are their feet?

The 95th APMA House of Delegates (HOD) meeting convened yesterday in Washington, DC.

On Sunday, Phillip E. Ward, DPM, was installed as president by his daughter Meredith Ward, DPM. Dr. Ward addressed the House of Delegates and shared his goals for his presidency.

On March 19 leaders in the US House of Representatives and the US Senate released bipartisan, bicameral legislation to replace the broken Medicare Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) formula with an improved payment system that rewards quality, efficiency, and innovation. The bipartisan, bicameral bill seeks to end the cycle of annual ‘doc fix’ crises that have created uncertainty for millions of Medicare providers and beneficiaries for more than a decade and also create a system that promotes higher quality care for America’s seniors.

HR 1221/S 626, The Helping Ensure Life- and Limb-Saving Access to Podiatric Physicians (HELLPP) Act, was introduced to the 114th Congress on March 4 by US Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Charles Schumer (D-NY) in the Senate and US Reps. Renee Ellmers (R-NC) and Diana DeGette (D-CO) in the House. The bipartisan HELLPP Act includes multiple comprehensive reforms that will enable podiatric physicians to continue to save lives, limbs, and health-care dollars. The net result of implementing these common-sense provisions would be significant improvements to patient access to quality foot and ankle care and tremendous savings for the Medicaid and Medicare programs.

Medicare Alternative Payment Models: ACOs and Bundled Payments

APMA recently submitted a comment letter to CMS on the policies outlined in the Medicare Shared Savings Program (MSSP) Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) proposed rule. Concerns expressed include podiatric physician participation in ACOs and Medicare beneficiaries’ right to receive care outside of an ACO.

CPME has approved new residency positions and a new residency program.

DME MACs Delay Implementation of PCD LCD

DME Medicare Administrative Contractors (MAC) published a notice stating that all four jurisdictions would be delaying implementation of recently finalized local coverage determinations (LCD) for pneumatic compression devices (PCDs). The scheduled effective date was November 1. DME MACs have not published a future effective date. These LCDs would have prevented podiatric physicians from prescribing PCDs regardless of the scope of practice in their respective states. The current LCD and related policy article will remain in effect.

Kyle Bruce, DPM, is APMA's newest public health fellow. Applications for the 2015&#*8211;2016 fellowship are due November 7.

APMA Submits Comments on the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule for CY 2015 Proposed Rule

APMA submitted a comment letter to CMS on its proposed rule for the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) for CY 2015 on August 29. Under the MPFS proposed rule, podiatrists on average should expect to see no change to their estimated total allowed charges in 2015.

APMA Continues Lobbying for VA Parity

APMA has aggressively lobbied Congress to resolve the ongoing pay disparity faced by podiatrists employed by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Now, we need our members to take the torch and continue to advocate while Congress is on recess.

CMS Proposed Rule on Meaningful Use Reporting in 2014

CMS and the Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) released a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) on May 20 that would allow providers participating in the EHR Incentive Programs (meaningful use) to use the 2011 Edition of certified electronic health record technology (CEHRT) for calendar and fiscal year 2014.

Several key initiatives were addressed at the 94th House of Delegates.

APMA Executive Director and CEO Glenn B. Gastwirth, DPM, announced that he will extend his commitment to APMA by a year. In December 2013, Dr. Gastwirth announced plans to retire in May 2015.

APMA Executive Director and CEO Glenn B. Gastwirth, DPM, presented his Executive Director's Award to Merz North America during the 2014 APMA House of Delegates meeting.

Compromise SGR Overhaul Bill: An Opportunity for Podiatric Medicine

HELLPP Act language that was included in Senate Medicare SGR reform bill was dropped in the compromise bill, but there is still opportunity for podiatric medicine in other legislation.

APMA Meets with CMS Regarding Sunshine Act Reporting Exemption

APMA and the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons met with representatives of the CMS Center for Program Integrity and Office of Legislation, and Congressman Danny Davis (D-IL) last Tuesday about the Physician Payment Sunshine Act (PPSA) in the congressman’s office.

New APMA Medicare Provider and DMEPOS Supplier Revalidation Resource

APMA’s Health Policy and Practice department introduces a new resource for Medicare provider and DMEPOS supplier revalidation.

A new proposed rule from the Department of Defense would allow podiatrists to prescribe and dispense durable medical equipment (DME). This is a regulation APMA has sought to change for more than five years.

Matthew G. Garoufalis, DPM shares his thoughts on what APMA members can do to help address the podiatric residency shortage.

Town-Hall Meeting Considers Future of HOD

The House of Delegates heard from a task force that has been considering the future of the house and potential changes to the governing body of the association and its meetings.

APMA Meets with NHSC, Discusses Underserved Patient Care

APMA recently held a productive meeting with the National Health Service Corps (NHSC) within the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).

APMA is pleased to announce the winners of the 2012 APMA Annual Scientific Meeting Abstract Competition. First place winners receive $1000, second place winners receive $500, and third-place winners receive $250.

The Society for Vascular Surgery has approved membership for podiatrists in the same category as other physicians who are not vascular surgeons.