APMA has the resources you need to help you through every step of your career. With detailed information about MIPS and recent coding trends along with compliance guidelines and practice marketing materials, APMA has you covered whether you are just getting started in practice, preparing for retirement, or anywhere in between.
Today's podiatrist has the necessary education and training to treat all conditions of the foot and ankle and plays a key role in keeping America healthy and mobile while helping combat diabetes and other chronic diseases.
Your feet are excellent barometers for your overall health. Healthy feet keep you moving and active. They are quite literally your foundation. In this section, learn more about APMA Seal-approved and accepted products, proper foot care, common foot and ankle conditions, and how your podiatrist can help keep you and your feet healthy.
APMA is the only organization lobbying for podiatrists and their patients on Capitol Hill. As the voice of podiatric medicine to your legislators and regulators, APMA is active on a variety of critical issues affecting podiatry and the entire health-care system.
APMA submitted comments to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) to express concerns regarding a proposed rule prohibiting creditors from using medical debt to determine credit eligibility.
Have you voted in the 2024 APMA Member Referendum? The 2024 House of Delegates adopted Budgetary Action Item 2-24, which enjoyed broad support from the assembled delegations. It created an updated definition of podiatric medicine and surgery, which would be put forth to the membership as a referendum.
If you believe there is an error in the calculation of your MIPS payment adjustment factor(s), you can request a targeted review through October 11, at 8 p.m. EDT.
On opening day of The National, APMA’s Center for Professional Advocacy (CPA), in conjunction with the DC Podiatric Medical Association (DCPMA) welcomed staff from the DC City Council’s Heath Committee.
Whether you’re planning to apply for the fellowship this year or just looking to learn more, you are invited to join us for an information session and Q&A on August 29 at 8 p.m. EDT.
APMA is pleased to announce the opening of the APMA/TDI Public Health Fellowship application process for the 2025–26 academic year!
Whether your experience with artificial intelligence (AI) is limited to your interactions with Siri or you’re reviewing predictive analytics for your practice while your smart car drives you to the surgery center, odds are you have questions about AI and how it may come into play in the practice of medicine. Don’t miss Sunday’s breakfast symposium at The National, which will cover AI and the ethical implications that may arise from its use.
On Sunday, August 11, attendees at The National will have access to the gold standard in coding education at the Harry Goldsmith, DPM, Memorial Coding Seminar. The seminar is named in memory of the late Dr. Goldsmith, a former APMA health policy consultant and coding expert who made immeasurable contributions to coding education.
The Podiatry Student Quiz Bowl returned to The National on Saturday, August 10, with fourth-year students from the nine accredited colleges of podiatric medicine competing for bragging rights, prizes, and the coveted Quiz Bowl trophy! Rambod Aznaveleh took home the win ...
APMA is pleased to announce the winners of the APMA 2024 Annual Scientific Meeting Abstract Competition.
The latest research driving advanced foot and ankle care is all at The National! Attend the Oral Abstracts session Saturday, August 10, for eight oral abstracts presentations on a variety of topics. Then hit the Poster Abstracts Symposium to peruse the 121 posters and enjoy an opportunity to speak with the authors, who will be on hand to answer your questions.
On Saturday, August 10, a panel of expert physicians and surgeons will come together at The National to review cases and engage in a stimulating conversation about how they would approach a given scenario. The discussion promises to be both lively and practical. “I love stuff that people can take home on Monday and use,” said APMA Treasurer and panel moderator Patrick DeHeer, DPM.
The 14th Annual Team APMA 5K Fun Run will take place on Saturday, August 10, at 6 a.m. at The National. If you have not yet registered, do so by visiting the APMA booth (#411). Don’t like to get up early or want to participate from off site? Register to “sleep in” for the 5K.
APMA is launching a series of listening sessions for members to share input, questions, and concerns with the APMA Board of Trustees and staff leadership. The first of these listening sessions takes place at The National in Washington, DC, on Friday, August 9, at 5:30 p.m.!
During a plenary lecture at The National, Rachel Albright, DPM, MPH, and Adam Fleischer, DPM, MPH, will explore the topic of falls prevention, a major focus of public health efforts and an expensive problem for America’s health-care system.
It’s an exciting time to work in pain management, according to Shravani Durbhakula, MD, MPH, MBA, one of the speakers at the breakfast symposium on painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy at The National. With new data coming out regularly and new technologies and treatment modalities growing in use, patients who once were forced to turn to opioids have a wealth of new—and better—options.
On Friday, August 9, attendees at The National will take a deep dive into surgical offloading for limb preservation in high-risk patients with diabetes with Colin Mizuo, DPM, and Jacob Wynes, DPM, MS. Drs. Mizuo and Wynes, along with moderator John Steinberg, DPM, will examine some underutilized approaches, as well as how to balance your surgical plan with an individual patient’s needs and expectations.
The 2024 Annual Scientific Meeting (The National) kicked off Thursday, August 8, with outstanding education, a high-energy opening session, and the opening of our jam-packed Exhibit Hall. Nearly 1,000 podiatrists, exhibitors, sponsors, and guests were on hand in Washington, DC, to enjoy the premier foot and ankle meeting.
APMA is meeting with CMS on August 6 to discuss ongoing concerns related to the development of the Non-Pressure Ulcer Episode-Based Cost Measure.
APMA is happy to announce a new Coding Webinar Series beginning in September.
This summit is just one part of APMA’s overall work to support podiatric physicians like you in your professional development.
Support a young physician leader in your state with a nomination to participate in the APMA Emerging Leaders Program (ELP)! The application cycle for the second iteration of this leadership intensive program is now open.
The MPFS proposed rule includes proposed policies for the Quality Payment Program (QPP). APMA staff is reviewing the 2,000-plus page proposal.
APMA wants to ensure that its members were not inappropriately attributed a MIPS cost measure for 2023.
CMS has announced that the 2023 MIPS Final Score Preview is now available to all authorized representatives of practices, virtual groups, and Alternative Payment Model (APM) Entities that can sign into the Quality Payment Program (QPP) website to preview the MIPS final scores for the 2023 performance period.
On June 28, APMA communicated directly to CMS its ongoing concerns related to the development of the Non-Pressure Ulcer Episode-Based Cost Measure.
The Clinician Practice Information (CPI) Survey, a partner survey to the Physician Information Survey (PPI) will soon be underway, and APMA members are encouraged to engage in this effort.
Effective April 1, HCPCS J1020, J1030, and J1040 have been deleted from the HCPCS code set, which is managed by CMS. A new code has replaced these deleted codes.
APMA is saddened to report that William F. Munsey, DPM, past president, has passed away. He was elected president of APMA in 1979. He was the recipient of many honors and awards culminating in the APMA Distinguished Service Citation in 2009. Dr. Munsey will be deeply missed by a grateful profession.
APMA members can now earn CECH for the 2024 Spring Coding Seminar on demand, featuring APMA coding expert Jeffrey Lehrman, DPM, CPC. Originally recorded on April 27 as a part of the APMA 2024 Coding and Clinical Education Seminar, the on-demand version offers four continuing education contact hours.
UPDATE: As of June 25, AMA has voluntarily removed the offensive and inaccurate post thanks to APMA's efforts. APMA extends its gratitude to every organization and individual within the podiatry community who took the time to issue a statement or contact AMA. Together, our small profession can achieve great things!
The APMA Educational Foundation is excited to announce the 2024 Travel Scholarship Video Contest, open to students and residents! Ten winners will receive a $500 travel scholarship to attend the APMA 2024 Annual Scientific Meeting (The National).
Updated information from the recent annual meetings of the Health Policy and Coding Committees.
At the end of last week, APMA submitted comments to all seven Part B Medicare Administrative Contractors in conjunction with APMA’s Contractor Advisory Committee (CAC) representatives to address concerns with draft Local Coverage Determinations (LCDs) and Local Coverage Articles (LCA) related to use of skin substitute products (also referred to as Cellular and/or Tissue Based Products, or CTPs) used for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) and Venous Leg Ulcers (VLU).
CPT® 11305–Shaving of epidermal or dermal lesion, single lesion, scalp, neck, hands, feet, genitalia; lesion diameter 0.5 cm or less
May was Mental Health Awareness Month. In recognition of that observance, APMA wishes to extend our thoughts and support to the podiatric community, especially those who may be struggling. APMA strongly supports physicians who have the courage to seek treatment for mental health conditions or addiction.
APMA is excited to offer its resident members the opportunity to complete their annual didactic instruction requirements as outlined in CPME 320 through the APMA Online Learning Center. The "Resident Essentials" learning path includes six courses which match required topics on which residents must receive training once per year.
The APMA Center for Professional Advocacy (CPA) is thrilled to announce that registration is now open for the next installment in our Mini Summit Series, “Negotiating Contracts.” This smaller, more focused offering was born out of the CPA and its committee members, after hearing feedback from the virtual forum attendees in 2022. It will take place via Zoom on July 16, 8–9:30 p.m. EDT. Registration closes on July 12.
On May 29, APMA submitted comments to CMS in response to the institution’s request for information (RFI), “Medicare Program; Request for Information on Medicare Advantage Data; CMS–4207–NC.”
CMS added nine items to the Required Prior Authorization List of Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics and Supplies, a list of items that require prior authorization as a condition of payment.
Following advocacy by APMA and others, Congress has decreased the 2024 physician pay cut by about half.
Thanks to APMA and others' advocacy on your behalf, CMS is now allowing providers impacted by the Change Healthcare cyberattack to apply for a hardship exception from MIPS participation in 2024!
On May 6, APMA and Contractor Advisory Committee (CAC) representatives from Palmetto Jurisdiction states met with Palmetto GBA to discuss recent changes to their Local Coverage Article (LCA) related to at-risk foot care.
APMA's Center for Professional Advocacy (CPA) invites state component leaders to apply for 2025 grants via the CPA Financial Assistance Grant and Innovation Grant programs. The deadline for both applications is September 15.
Register now for APMA's webinar, “MIPS PY 2024: Townhall & Open Q&A," taking place on May 7.
Over the past couple of weeks, APMA has been coordinating with our Contractor Advisory Committee (CAC) representatives to address challenges brought about by proposed skin substitutes/ cellular and/or tissue-based products (CTPs) for Diabetic Foot Ulcers (DFU) and Venous Leg Ulcers (VLU) Local Coverage Determinations (LCDs) released in April.
The CAC Engagement Coalition has arranged a face-to-face meeting with CMS on May 17 to express its ongoing frustrations and concerns regarding the current implementation of local coverage policies.
On April 19, APMA leadership met with Acumen, LLC to discuss our ongoing and significant concerns with the non-pressure ulcer cost measure under development, previously shared with Acumen via comment letter.
On Tuesday, April 16, APMA and NYSPMA met with NGS to address their concerns about policy changes to allow reimbursement for Registered Nurses performing at-risk foot care under the supervision of a physician.
APMA’s April Foot Health Awareness Month campaign is now live! This public education campaign is designed to educate the public, particularly younger consumers, about the importance of understanding their foot type, gait, and any underlying conditions before they purchase expensive shoes or orthotics.
APMA is pleased to announce that we have joined forces with Alira Health, a global advisory and clinical research firm to help advance the APMA Registry.
Paul K. Kesselman, DPM, chair of APMA’s DME Advisory Group and DME Subcommittee, recently attended Medtrade 2024, an essential meeting of the medical equipment industry. He also regularly represents APMA at DME Council meetings.
APMA President Lawrence Santi, DPM, and Senior Medical Director Dyane Tower, DPM, MPH, MS, CAE, participated in a recent Clinician Expert Workgroup meeting with Acumen, LLC, a third-party entity contracted by CMS to develop episode-based cost measures for potential use in the Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS).
APMA provides members with important reminders and updates about MIPS 2023 and 2024 performance year submissions.
The Foot and Ankle Health (FAH) Section of the American Public Health Association (APHA) put together an exciting week of activities for members!
New findings published in JAMA suggest that, for individuals with kidney failure on dialysis, receiving foot and ankle care by podiatrists before the onset of diabetic foot ulcers may be associated with improved outcomes.
Delegates from across the country gathered this weekend for the 2024 House of Delegates meeting. The assembled leaders discussed, debated, and voted upon issues ranging from unification of certifying boards to supervision of physician extenders.
Last week, Palmetto removed “NPP” from the list of providers who can serve as the active provider of a qualifying condition which is designated with an asterisk in their Local Coverage Article.
APMA has created a new resource page to assist members who have been impacted by the ransomware cyberattack on Change Healthcare, which took place on February 21.
Although APMA is supportive of a potential episode-based cost measure related to podiatric practice, APMA would like to have more clarity and understanding of this cost measure before it is considered any further for use in the cost performance category of MIPS.
APMA is thrilled that following advocacy by APMA, AMA, and other stakeholders, in response to the Change Healthcare cyberattack, CMS has reopened the 2023 MIPS Extreme and Uncontrollable Circumstances (EUC) Exception Application, to provide relief to MIPS-eligible clinicians impacted by the Change Healthcare cyberattack.
APMA will contest policies that allow RNs to provide nail care under the supervision of physicians or other practitioners to protect podiatrists and the safety of their patients.
If you have had a recent site visit issue(s), access the site inspection tracking form as soon as possible so that the DME Jurisdictional Councils can share some recent examples with CMS.
Last week, the APMA Center for Professional Advocacy (CPA) held its second Mini Summit, “Licensing Board Consolidation: Pros and Cons.”
The highly successful Fall 2023 Virtual Coding Seminar is now available for purchase on-demand! Viewers are treated to in-depth information related to foot- and ankle-specific topics.
As part of APMA’s ongoing commitment to the Empowered Community pillar of the organization’s strategic plan, your association is kicking off a research initiative this month surrounding access to APMA membership.
CMS is conducting field testing for the Non-Pressure Ulcers episode-based cost measure and your input is needed by March 14!
In the wake of the announcement by James R. Christina, DPM, APMA executive director and CEO, that he will retire March 31, APMA has launched a nationwide search for its next chief executive. Are you a visionary leader with a passion for advancing medicine in America? APMA is seeking a dynamic and innovative CEO to lead our esteemed organization into the future. Join us in shaping the future of podiatric medicine and making a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of millions of Americans. If you are ready to take on this exciting opportunity, we invite you to apply today!
Registration is now open for the APMA 2024 Coding and Clinical Education Seminar, April 27 and 28.
APMA is excited to announce the addition of several new courses to the APMA Online Learning Center, many of which are free and exclusively available to APMA members.
For the past several years, the Center for Professional Advocacy at APMA has collaborated closely with the Mississippi Podiatric Medical Association to modernize the state’s scope of practice to permit podiatric physicians to treat the ankle. Most recently, the CPA submitted a letter to the Mississippi State Legislature supporting MsPMA and refuting a letter from the AMA.
APMA met with CMS again on February 6 to revisit its policy on the surgical treatment of nails that establishes use parameters for CPT®11730 and 11732.
Learn about an exciting new APMA member benefit that will optimize the financial operations of your business.
Blueprints in your EHR, specifically designed for podiatry and the way you practice, can provide podiatric clinical workflows, content, and guides for an enhanced EHR experience for today’s podiatrist.
APMA is proud to recognize the recipients of the APMA student membership scholarship to the American Diabetes Association (ADA).
APMA recommended removing Measure #219: Functional Status Change for Patients with Lower Leg, Foot or Ankle Impairment from the Podiatry Specialty Measure Set for 2025.
APMA is looking for members to share their stories and perspectives on our social media channels for Black History Month and Women's History Month.
How do your professional goals stack up? Check out a breakdown of members' professional goals for the upcoming year.
APMA submitted comments to HHS last week, responding to HHS’ proposed rule, “Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, HHS Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2025; Updating Section 1332 Waiver Public Notice Procedures; Medicaid; Consumer Operated and Oriented Plan (CO-OP) Program; and Basic Health Program.”
On January 8, APMA submitted comments to the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) in response to the draft evidence review and draft recommendation statement regarding falls prevention in community-dwelling older adults.
Start the new year on the right foot with APMA and Talar Medical. We are excited to announce that Talar Medical is APMA’s chosen preferred group purchasing organization (GPO), bringing new value to your practice. Talar Medical brings together more than 4,000 podiatric physicians and surgeons and more than 30 of the top vendors in the field to deliver exceptional savings for podiatric practices.
On January 5, APMA submitted comments to CMS Policy and Technical Changes to the Medicare Advantage and Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit Programs Proposed Rule, and in particular to respond to the proposed rule referenced above addressing supplemental benefits for the chronically ill and prior authorization.
APMA and DCPMA are advocating for DPMs regarding a proposal before the DC Council Committee on Health that if approved could have a significant impact on podiatric physicians and patients in the District.
The APMA Center for Professional Advocacy (CPA) is delighted to announce that it is awarding six state components 2024 Innovation Grants, as well as awarding two states 2024 Financial Assistance Grants.
Last month, APMA submitted comments to the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) and CMS, in response to the proposed rule, “21st Century Cures Act: Establishment of Disincentives for Health Care Providers That Have Committed Information Blocking Proposed Rule.”
In December 2023, Sarah Abshier, DPM, APMA’s CPT alternate advisor, was appointed to serve a four-year term representing the Health Care Professional Advisory Committee (HCPAC) on the CPT Editorial Panel.
APMA is deeply saddened to share that Past President Terence Albright, DPM, passed away at the end of December. He was the 2005 recipient of the APMA Distinguished Service Citation, APMA's highest honor.
Following comments from APMA (submitted in conjunction with AAD) and testimony from Palmetto state CAC representatives, Palmetto has modified the restrictions it proposed in its Proposed Surgical Treatment of Nails Policies, which take effect January 21, 2024.
APMA Executive Director and CEO James R. Christina, DPM, has announced that he will retire on March 31, 2024. Dr. Christina has been executive director since 2015, and previously served as director of Scientific Affairs for a decade.
Do you want data that can help you negotiate a higher salary in your next job or benchmark your own performance? APMA is delighted to continue its yearly partnership with MGMA, offering valuable data to our members.
Last week, APMA submitted comments providing feedback on the current Healthy People 2030 objectives set by the US Department of Health and Human Services Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion.
APMA previously shared that effective January 1, 2024, ready-to-wear, gradient compression garments will be covered for the treatment of lymphedema, including in the absence of an open ulcer.
APMA Executive Director and CEO, James R. Christina, DPM, has an important update for members about APMA headquarters.
On November 16, Paul Kesselman, DPM, Health Policy and Practice Committee member and chair of APMA’s DME Workgroup, presented remarks representing the American Podiatric Medical Association during the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Diabetes Mellitus Interagency Coordination Committee (DMICC) meeting.
APMA recently submitted comments to the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) under the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), in response to its proposed rule, “Discrimination on the Basis of Disability in Health and Human Service Programs or Activities.”
Following APMA advocacy, CMS rescinded the regulations regarding appropriate use criteria for advanced diagnostic imaging in the 2024 Physician Fee Schedule Final?Rule.
The 23rd Annual CAC-PIAC Representatives Meeting was held in Alexandria, VA, on Friday, November 10. More than 50 volunteer member leaders from across the country gathered for education and collaboration.
As an APMA member, you have access to several complimentary CECH courses through the APMA Online Learning Center. Check out these recent additions.
APMA is pleased to once again offer its educational webinar series covering changes to the Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) for the upcoming 2024 performance year.
Following advocacy by APMA and others, effective January 1, 2024, ready-to-wear, gradient compression garments will be covered for the treatment of lymphedema in the absence of an open ulcer.
CMS released the CY 2024 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) Final Rule on November 2. APMA is currently reviewing the rule and will provide full analysis, as necessary.
APMA has heard from several members that for the 2022 performance year, they received a score for the MIPS cost category. Specifically, members were scored on the Diabetes episode-based cost measure, which in some cases negatively impacted their overall performance for 2022, which could reduce their Medicare payments in 2024.
Did the renewal packet from your insurance carrier bring bad news this fall? Find out now whether your practice could save with APMA Health-Care Solutions.
Members who receive such a recoupment for patients who were under a long-term nursing facility stay (Place of Service 32) using Place of Service 31 are encouraged to contact their administrative defense coverage carrier immediately.
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Podiatric Medicine is scheduled for a preaccreditation site visit December 11–14. The preaccreditation decision will take place at the spring 2024 CPME meeting. Third-party comments concerning the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Podiatric Medicine are due by November 15.
The Call for Speakers for the APMA 2024 Annual Scientific Meeting (The National), August 8–11, in Washington, DC, is now open! Learn more and submit your proposal to be a part of the can’t-miss event for every podiatrist.
To ensure that our CAC and PIAC representatives have the fullest picture of the issues facing our membership today, we are asking all APMA members to complete this survey by November 1.
On October 13, APMA supported its Palmetto Jurisdiction Contractor Advisory Committee (CAC) representatives and joined with the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AADA) in submitting comments to Palmetto that raised concerns with proposed Local Coverage Determination (LCD): Surgical Treatment of Nails (DL39258) and proposed Local Coverage Article (LCA): Surgical Treatment of Nails (DA59028).
Registration is now open for The 2023 Fall Virtual Coding Seminar, December 2, 10 a.m.–to 3 p.m. EST. APMA’s coding expert, Jeffrey Lehrman, DPM, CPC, will present. All podiatry professionals are welcome to attend and eligible to earn up to 4.0 credit hours.
Collaborating with TEG allows APMA members access to services that extend beyond what APMA’s Center for Professional Advocacy (CPA) can provide, such as opportunities for litigation.
Following advocacy by APMA and many others, Novitas, First Coast, and CGS Part B MACs announced on September 28 that their previously finalized new skin substitute policies “will not become effective on October 1.”
APMA is excited to announce that there will be a Fall Virtual Coding Seminar. This virtual course will be held on the APMA Online Learning Center on December 2, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. ET.
Please use the APMA’s eAdvocacy website and send our pre-written message about this issue to your legislators to raise their awareness and request support for passage of corrected language in the MATE Act.
Providers must use the new code set for services provided on or after October 1. Register now for APMA's December 14 webinar covering podiatry-relevant coding changes. APMA Coding Resource Center (CRC) subscribers can view a full list of podiatry-relevant changes now on the CRC home page.
If you participated in the Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) in 2022, you can review your performance feedback, including your MIPS final score and payment adjustment factor(s), on the Quality Payment Program website.
The AMA is undertaking a new national study, supported by 173 health-care organizations, to collect representative data on physician practice expenses. APMA, through our participation in the RUC, is also participating in the survey.
APMA has created a new webinar series titled Coding Refreshers. This series currently has six coding topics the viewer may already have encountered but now has the opportunity to review.
It is Falls Prevention Awareness Week! Join APMA in its efforts to increase awareness surrounding falls, the importance of falls prevention, and the role doctors of podiatric medicine play in this important public health effort.
MACs state that the delay to the effective date is due to a large system update.
APMA submitted comments in response to CMS’ Medicare and Medicaid Programs: CY 2024 Payment Policies under the Physician Fee Schedule and Other Changes to Part B Payment, etc., on September 11.
2023 Young Physician Advocate Scholarship winner, Joseph Coppola, DPM, of Medford, MA, encourages you to get involved in advocacy. Watch his video now!
APMA is searching for a charismatic DPM of Hispanic/Latinx heritage to participate in an impactful video to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.
Last week, APMA submitted comments to CMS in response to its proposed rules related to the Home Health Prospective Payment System (HHPPS) and Transitional Coverage for Emerging Technologies (TCET).
Do you see patients in a nursing facility? If so, it is important to include the correct place of service on claim forms.
CMS has issued a new ABN form that is effective immediately.
APMA has created two new workgroups to address significant issues facing APMA’s membership and to further APMA’s commitment to member education.
Leaders from across the country came together this past weekend for the 2023 APMA State Advocacy Forum, held August 25–26 in Albuquerque, NM.
The fellowship curriculum is designed to provide the fellow with the fundamental skills, knowledge base, and philosophical foundation in health policy and clinical practice, with specific attention paid to public health, clinical/health services research, and health-care leadership. The application deadline is September 22.
APMA members now have access to another complimentary CECH lecture through the APMA Online Learning Center. Check out “Flatfoot Surgery: Flatfoot Correction Sparing the Talonavicular Joint,” providing 1.0 CECH.
The US Department of Education’s COVID-19 relief for student loans is ending. Interest will begin to accrue on September 1, and payments will be due starting in October.
APMA created this new resource to equip members with the necessary tools and knowledge to make informed decisions in their practice.
Last week, the APMA Center for Professional Advocacy (CPA) hosted the first-ever Mini Summit, addressing DPM supervision of nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs).
The latest issue of JAPMA is the first of three installments dedicated to the opioid crisis. This first issue focuses on opioid problems within the profession. The next issue will focus on opioid solutions, and the third will present opioid prescribing pearls.
On August 3, Novitas, First Coast Service Options, and CGS Part B Medicare Administrative Contractors (MAC) finalized skin substitute policies for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers and venous leg ulcers that become effective September 17.
A recording for the March 9 webinar, "Coding for Biopsies," part of the Coding for Basics Webinar Series, is now available exclusively to APMA members at the Online Learning Center (OLC) storefront. Coding experts Barbara Aung, DPM; Jonathan Huey, DPM; and Lawrence Santi, DPM, presented.
APMA and the APMA Educational Foundation are pleased to announce Valentina Clinton, Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine, Class of 2025, as the winner of the 2023–2024 APMA–PICA full-tuition scholarship.
Members and non-members can now purchase the recording to earn up to 4.0 credit hours towards DPM state licensure.
Representatives Buddy Carter (R-GA) and Lori Trahan (D-MA) sent a letter to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) on July 13, reaffirming congressional intent and asking that SAMHSA use its authority to approve additional training organizations for new or renewing DEA registrants. SAMHSA responded this week, confirming its refusal to act in spite of this reaffirmed congressional intent.
The biennial APMA State Advocacy Forum will be held later this week, August 25–26, in Albuquerque, NM. This event brings together component leaders from across the country for two days of learning and collaboration.
APMA is pleased to announce Joseph Coppola, DPM, of Medford, MA, is this year’s Center for Professional Advocacy Young Physician Advocate Scholarship recipient.
Aetna has informed APMA that effective July 23, it will drop its external review program regarding use of the -25 Modifier when submitted with CPT® 11719-11721, G0127, and 11055-11057.
Last week, APMA welcomed well over 1,400 podiatric physicians and surgeons, sponsors, exhibitors, and guests to its Annual Scientific Meeting (The National) in Nashville, TN.
APMA is pleased to announce the winners of the APMA 2023 Annual Scientific Meeting Abstract Competition.
In keeping with the spirit of APMA’s continued Year of the Member focus, this year at The National we’re excited to offer meeting enhancements designed to make the on-site experience even more meaningful.
Learn about the latest research in foot and ankle medicine and surgery at this morning’s Oral Abstracts presentations. This session is part of the APMA Abstracts Competition, and presenters are eligible for the Outstanding Oral Abstract Presentation award.
CMS issued the calendar year 2024 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule and Quality Payment Program Proposed Rule on July 13. APMA is still reviewing this almost-2,000-page document.
“Don’t think it can’t happen to you.” That’s advice from Gene Pascarella Jr., DPM, who will reflect on the wrongful death malpractice suit he never saw coming during the Risk Management Breakfast Symposium today. Dr. Pascarella wants attendees to know they need to be prepared for the claim no physician wants to be forced to defend.
The APMA Students’ and Residents’ Program returns this year with even more helpful information for attendees who are in the early stages of their podiatric medical careers. Presented by the APMA Young Physician Leadership Panel (YPLP) and moderated by Rachel H. Albright, DPM, MPH, this program will cover a variety of relevant topics for students and residents.
In a long-standing tradition, the last day of The National will focus on improving patient care through practice efficiency and proper coding. Sunday starts with the breakfast symposium “Role of the DPM in Value-Based Health Care” in Presidential D. Michael J. King, DPM, Chief Medical Officer, Upperline Health, and APMA past president, will discuss the evolution of health-care reimbursement models and where they are headed.
Back by popular demand this year are APMA’s Surgical Blitz sessions, featuring multiple, short presentations on a variety of topics, with practical advice perfect for every foot and ankle surgeon.
Podiatrists know the value of a multidisciplinary care team for patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD). Working closely with colleagues in vascular specialties is vital to the success of wound care and limb salvage. But the reality of finding the right treatment options for your patient may not be as clear-cut.
After almost a year of programming and leadership development, the current cohort of the APMA Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) will present their recommendations surrounding young physician engagement to the APMA Board of Trustees and the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery (ABFAS) Board of Directors at The National.
It’s already July. Don’t wait for a renewal packet from your insurance carrier bearing bad news this fall. Find out now whether your practice could save with APMA’s Health-Care Solutions.
“Even the best surgeons experience complications.” So says Michelle Butterworth, DPM, track leader for this afternoon’s Track 2: Surgical Complications Panel.
“The whole idea of antifungal resistance is relatively new; it just has come into our consciousness as providers in the last year or so,” said Warren Joseph, DPM, editor of the Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association and presenter at this morning’s plenary lecture.
In a continued effort to foster inclusivity and promote diversity within the profession, APMA invites all attendees to join us for the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) reception.
Ross Taubman, DPM, never could have foreseen the path his career would take. “You don’t set out as a child saying, I’m going to be the president of an insurance company one day!”
Most podiatric physicians know exactly how to handle a patient with heel pain, from diagnosis to treatment options. But a patient who is angry about the office running late, or one who can’t seem to follow doctor’s orders can be a significantly larger challenge.
The National is truly the must-attend event for every podiatrist, covering the entire spectrum of foot and ankle care and representing every voice in podiatric medicine and surgery.
APMA submitted two comment letters to CMS on Monday, July 3, in responses to proposed changes to Medicaid generally and Medicaid Managed Care.
As of June 27, all new DEA license applications and DEA licensure renewals will now require an attestation that the applicant has completed eight hours “on the treatment and management of patients with opioid or other substance use disorders.”
Aetna has informed APMA that effective July 23, it will drop its external review program regarding use of -59 Modifier when submitted with CPT 11719-11721, G0127, and 11055-11057.
APMA’s Center for Professional Advocacy is now welcoming applications from state components for the 2023 State Advocacy Forum and a virtual mini summit on Physician Extenders.
On Thursday, APMA will meet with CMS to revisit its surgical nails treatment policy, establishing use parameters for CPT® 111730 and 11732.
APMA submitted comments to the US Department of Education (USDE) on June 20, in response to a recently released USDE proposed rule that would require institutions to “provide students with geographically accessible clinical, or externship opportunities related to and required for completion of the credential or licensure in a recognized occupation within 45 days of the successful completion of other required coursework,” in order to begin and continue to participate in any Title IV or Higher Education Act program.
Our opening session at The National is not to be missed! On Thursday, July 13, Ross Taubman, DPM, president and chief medical officer for PICA, will deliver the opening address “Servant Leadership—Life is Not a Linear Path.”
APMA is pleased to announce that the 2022 Spring Virtual Coding Seminar is now available on demand for a registration fee of $99.50! Originally held on April 22, the seminar presents four hours of education on a variety of coding topics presented by Jeffrey Lehrman, DPM.
APMA presented oral testimony to HHS' Interdepartmental Substance Use Disorders Coordinating Committee (ISUDCC) on June 5, requesting that APMA and CPME be approved as a provider and accrediting entity, respectively, for the new DEA MATE Act requirements.
Effective July 1, providers and suppliers are required to report the JZ modifier on all claims that bill for drugs and biologicals from single-dose containers that are separately payable under Medicare Part B when there are no discarded amounts.
Registration for the 2023 State Advocacy Forum will open soon! We ask that all state components and societies share the application provided here with their young physician members and encourage them to apply by the May 31 deadline.
Last week, APMA submitted formal comments to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), expressing our ongoing concerns related to the DEA MATE Act, and following up our meeting on April 28.
APMA joined with AMA and other specialty medical societies to submit a comment letter regarding Cigna’s modifier 25 policy.
The implementation date for the revised fellowship documents, CPME 820 and 830, is July 1.
APMA is pleased and proud to announce that the Alabama Podiatric Medical Association (ALPMA) has succeeded in its long-term efforts to modernize the Alabama scope of practice statute. Alabama Governor Kay Ivey (R) signed Senate Bill 28 into law on May 3, updating podiatrists’ scope to include the ankle. The bill will take effect August 1.
The DEA recently released a temporary rule extending COVID-19 telehealth flexibilities for the prescription of controlled substances.
Among the topics discussed at the meeting were the Same or Similar update, the transition to NPE East/NPE West, competitive bidding, and legislative updates.
APMA representatives participated in the AMA/Specialty Society RVS Update Committee (RUC) meeting April 26–29 in San Diego.
APMA met with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration on April 28 to discuss regulatory avenues for correcting the omission of references to podiatric physicians, APMA, or CPME in its original statutory language and subsequent guidance. We have created a resource page for members.
APMA’s highly anticipated Spring Virtual Coding Seminar was held on Saturday, April 22.
Last week, in conjunction with its Health Policy and Practice Committee Initiatives and Strategic Plan, APMA met with its Private Insurance/Medicare Advantage consultant to review and update its strategy related to private insurance matters.
The US Office of the Inspector General (OIG) has announced its plan to review Medicare fee-for-service claims and Medicare Advantage encounter data for remote patient monitoring services.
At this time, the NPEast and NPE West DMEPOS contractors may require suppliers to provide copies of contracts that establish their relationship with vendors at the time of enrollment/re-enrollment application.
Last week, APMA submitted comments in response to the solicitation by Mathematica to develop and test the Diabetic Foot Assessment and Follow-Up clinical quality measure (CQM) and electronic clinical quality measure (eCQM).
While APMA is working with Congress to obtain a technical correction for the law as well as outreach to SAMHSA to add APMA as an approved entity, we have identified a pathway forward for members whose renewal for licensure is on or shortly following the June 27 deadline.
Mark your calendars for APMA 2023 Advocacy Week, May 8–12, to advocate for the future of the profession.
APMA is deeply saddened by the loss of California member Franklin Kase, DPM. Dr. Kase died in March after a protracted illness. Dr. Kase was extremely active in California and at the national level in podiatry’s payer advocacy efforts. He was instrumental in APMA’s victory with Anthem, where an onerous policy would have significantly cut reimbursements for evaluation and management (E/M) services billed with CPT modifier 25.
All seven Part B Medicare Administrative Contractors have announced a multi-jurisidictional CAC meeting to discuss the evidence relating to trigger point injections.
The CMS PIMMS team was receptive to APMA’s feedback on better communication about measure information and indicated interest in collaborating with APMA on a path forward for a meaningful MIPS Value Pathway (MVP) for podiatric physicians.
National Public Health Week (NPHW) is April 3-9. The American Public Health Association (APHA) Foot & Ankle Health (FAH) Section is celebrating with educational webinars covering a different facet of public health each day.
APMA has heard from numerous members regarding the recently released guidance about the updated one-time training requirements for any DEA-registered practitioners on the treatment and management of patients with opioid or other substance use disorders: the Medication Access and Training Expansion Act, or MATE Act.
The APMA Center for Professional Advocacy (CPA) is again offering the Young Physician Advocate Scholarship for a young physician member to attend.
Under the new policy, providers must submit office notes with claims submitted with E/M CPT® codes 99212, 99213, 99214, and 99215 and a 25 Modifier when a minor procedure is billed.
On Saturday, March 18, Sylvia Virbulis, DPM, was installed as APMA president by Carroll D. Kratzer, DPM.
The APMA House of Delegates convened in person in Washington, DC, on Saturday. Guest speakers addressed the house, bearing greetings from our physician peers and messages of thanks for the work of the house.
APMA submitted to the Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) Workgroup its Principles of Sound Local Coverage Policies and consensus answers to questions raised by CMS and the Workgroup. APMA has been working with its Contractor Advisory Committee (CAC) Engagement Coalition to reach these consensus positions.
APMA was largely supportive of the proposed improvements, suggesting a number of recommendations and qualifications.
The team shared information and consulted with subject matter experts (including APMA’s Clinical Practice Advisory Committee [CPAC]) and partners outside the profession to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the issues at hand.
In our ongoing collaboration with MGMA, we are delighted to announce that MGMA launched two new surveys.
CPT codes should be selected based only upon choosing the code(s) that most accurately reflect the service(s) provided.
APMA’s trusted partner, PatientPop, has put together a checklist of online marketing strategies to help streamline office work and give APMA members more time to focus on their patients.
APMA members now have exclusive access to a new complimentary on-demand CECH course (1.0 CECH), “The Role of Podiatrists in Geriatric Falls Prevention.”
APMA members can earn 1.0 CECH by attending the webinar, "Coding for Biopsies," on March 9.
APMA is pleased to announce that podiatric physicians will soon be included in the list of covered providers for Wyoming Medicaid patients.
APMA submitted two comment letters on behalf of members on February 13. The first was to the Nonprescription Drugs Advisory Committee and Anesthetic and Analgesic Drug Products Advisory Committee, at the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research at the FDA, advocating that it reduce the burden in acquiring naloxone. The second comment letter was to CMS, largely supporting CMS’ proposals related to addressing MAOs abuse of utilization management tools.
APMA submitted comments to CMS on February 13, expressing our significant concerns about the limitations of MIPS measures available to podiatrists.
APMA representatives participated in the CPT® Editorial Panel meeting February 1-3, in San Diego, CA.
APMA is saddened by the passing of former ACFAS Executive Director Chris Mahaffey, MS, CAE, FASAE. APMA worked with Mahaffey during his nearly two decades of service to the college and appreciates the impact he has made on our mutual members and the profession as a whole.
The summit will take place on March 20, and is open to all interested parties within the profession. Lunch will be served. Space is limited; register no later than March 1.
Be sure to read APMA's important MIPS updates and access our latest resources for members, including a webinar on February 7.
Check out the latest updates and resources regarding surgical treatment of nails.
Check out this update and get pointers on common yet important DME related items.
APMA is pleased to announce the winners of this year’s Physician Suicide Prevention Writing Competition.
Be sure to read APMA's important MIPS updates and access our latest resources for members, including a webinar on February 7.
CMS as well as the Departments of Health and Human Services (HHS), Labor, and Treasury are amending the 2023 guidance for the federal independent dispute resolution process.
Do you want data that can help you negotiate a higher salary in your next job or benchmark your own performance? Participate in the Medical Group Management Association’s (MGMA) 2023 Compensation and Production Survey, which launched on January 2, 2023.
Take note of two important upcoming deadlines for provider relief funds reporting and American rescue plan rural payment reconsiderations.
Due to the efforts of APMA and other specialties and stakeholders, the Omnibus bill contains Section 4112, which provides additional support for physicians and other health-care professionals in adjusting to Medicare payment changes.
CMS has officially released the 2023 DMEPOS Medicare fee schedule, and it has increased by 8.7 percent. This increase is significantly higher than the annual Medicare DMEPOS fee schedule increases seen in many years.
The new CPT® code set contains additions, deletions, and modifications that are pertinent to podiatrists.
Over the past year, APMA’s advocacy efforts have resulted in positive changes that affect members like you every day. Take a minute to review our most notable health policy advocacy successes of 2022.
APMA's strong recommendations are rooted in feedback from members about the burdens associated with updating provider directories.
The APMA Center for Professional Advocacy (CPA) is delighted to announce it is awarding 10 state components 2023 innovation grants.
On December 6, APMA’s RUC team joined with representatives of other societies in a meeting with CMS to discuss unilateral changes to Neuromuscular (NM) Ultrasound (US) codes CPT® 78881-3.
For a limited time, APMA members can purchase this bundle for the discounted price of $98!
Enjoy the change in seasons and plan your fall getaway with savings from your APMA Avis and Budget Car Rental Savings Program.
On November 29, APMA hosted a webinar on Durable Medical Equipment (DME) presented by APMA DME Workgroup Chair Paul Kesselman, DPM, for Carrier Advisory (CAC) and Private Insurance Advisory (PIAC) representatives, as an extension of the CAC-PIAC meeting on November 11.
On November 15, APMA submitted comments to the HHS, the Department of Labor, and Treasury (collectively, the Departments), and the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), in response to its Request for Information (RFI): "Advanced Explanation of Benefits (AEOB) and Good Faith Estimate (GFE) for Covered Individuals."
APMA staff is in talks with Aetna about this issue, and is currently attempting to gather helpful examples of denied claims with supportive redacted case notes to submit to Aetna.
APMA continues to advocate for members about the unreasonable and burdensome Part B MAC policies related to CPT® 11730 and 11750.
Our partner PatientPop recently launched PatientPop Connect—a new way to easily communicate with patients how they want.
APMA urges members to consider key points when using “prescription drug management” to satisfy the “Moderate” threshold of the “Risk of Morbidity from Additional Diagnostic Testing or Treatment” element of evaluation and management (E/M) level selection.
This week, APMA joined with its CGS CAC representatives in submitting comment letter to CGS MAC regarding a draft LCD and LCA related to CTPs for the Treatment of Diabetic Foot Ulcers and Venous Leg Ulcers.
Read about topics discussed and two special awards given at the 22nd Annual Joint National Carrier Advisory Committee (CAC) and Private Insurance Advisory Committee (PIAC) Meeting that took place on November 11 in Arlington, VA.
Last week, APMA responded to the CMS Request for Information (RFI): Make Your Voice Heard. This RFI was seeking public input on accessing health care and related challenges, understanding provider experiences, advancing health equity, and assessing the impact of waivers and flexibilities provided in response to the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency.
This November, APMA marks Diabetes Awareness Month with an expansion of the 2021 'It’s Time' campaign to include messaging for Asian women, particularly Indian women, urging them to take better care of their diabetes and their feet.
See which DME specialties for which CGS Jurisdiction B/C and Noridian Jurisdiction A/D DME MACs' Medical Review Departments are conducting pre-payment supplier-specific reviews.
CMS released the CY 2023 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) Final Rule on Tuesday, November 1. APMA is reviewing the rule and will provide full analysis to members as necessary. CMS also released the CY 2023 Medicare Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) Final Rule.
APMA is proud to announce the launch of its 2023 MIPS Webinar Series. The first webinar in this series, “Finalized Changes for the 2023 MIPS Performance Year,” will take place on December 6, at 8 p.m. ET, with Jeffrey D. Lehrman, DPM, hosting. Register today!
The MIPS automatic extreme and uncontrollable circumstances (EUC) policy will apply to MIPS-eligible clinicians in Puerto Rico and designated areas of Florida.
On February 28, APMA representatives will participate in a multi-jurisdictional panel to examine coverage for Remote Physiologic Monitoring (RPM) and, tentatively, Remote Therapeutic Monitoring (RTM).
APMA met with Novitas and First Coast Service Options, Inc. (FCSO) on October 18, to discuss APMA and AADA’s submitted comments expressing concerns with changes in the Surgical Treatment of Nails Policy in Billing and Coding Article A52998 (Novitas) and A57666 (FCSO).
As a member of APMA, you appreciate the value of research in the field of podiatric medicine. To stimulate interest in this critical area, The Podiatry Foundation has developed a request for proposals for research covering most areas of podiatry.
To make this event the most productive meeting it can be, we need your help; please respond to the APMA CAC-PIAC Member Issue Survey by November 2.
November 6 is the final day the National Supplier Clearinghouse (NSC) will process Medicare enrollment applications for DMEPOS suppliers. Starting November 7, two new contractors will process Medicare enrollment applications for DMEPOS suppliers.
The Biden Administration has extended the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) for another 90 days, through January 11, 2023.
APMA is aware of the ongoing shortages of lidocaine, and has compiled resources for members who are facing lidocaine shortages.
The APMA Center for Professional Advocacy is extending the deadline for applications for the CPA Financial Assistance Grant to October 19.
On October 3, APMA submitted comments to HHS and the Office of Civil Rights (OCR) in response to proposals related to Section 1557 and nondiscrimination in health programs and activities.
APMA's Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) kicked off this weekend in Chicago at the Young Physicians’ Institute (YPI).
Members should be aware that effective October 6, health-care providers, health IT developers, and health information exchanges and networks must share all electronic health information, with some exceptions for security and privacy.
As part of the document review process, CPME surveys the community of interest to obtain the opinions of the podiatric community of interest regarding crucial elements of specialty certification. CPME requests your assistance in completing its brief survey by November 1.
Many upcoming ICD-10 changes are relevant to podiatry. Register now for APMA's upcoming webinar on these changes.
APMA and the APMA Educational Foundation are pleased to announce Andrew Attia, California School of Podiatric Medicine at Samuel Merritt University Class of 2024, as the winner of the 2022 APMA-PICA full-tuition scholarship.
This is your last chance to apply for the APMA/TDI Public Health Fellowship for the 2023-2024 academic year! The deadline to submit your application is this Friday, September 23.
The APMA Educational Foundation is proud to announce this year’s student scholars. A total of $428,000 was awarded to 208 third- and fourth-year students from the nine accredited colleges of podiatric medicine.
APMA submitted comments in response to CMS’ proposed changes to the Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) and Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) Payment System proposed rule for 2023.
Watch your inbox later this week as the APMA Educational Foundation will announce the recipient of the second-annual APMA-PICA Full Tuition Scholarship.
APMA's Center for Professional Advocacy (CPA) is delighted to announce it will once again award state scope innovation grants to component societies in states that already include the ankle in their scope of practice. APMA is accepting applications through September 15.
APMA submitted comments in response to the CMS’ proposed changes to the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule and the Quality Payment Program for 2023.
On August 31, APMA submitted comments to CMS on its Request for Information seeking input from the public regarding various aspects of the Medicare Advantage (MA) program.
CMS' roadmap states there will be a 60-day notice before the end of the PHE. Providers should begin preparing for the end of PHE flexibilities, however, CMS has stated that some measures will remain in the hope of promoting innovation and advancing health equity.
CMS has released Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) performance feedback and final scores for the 2021 performance year and associated MIPS payment adjustment information for the 2023 payment year.
With the help of APMA's advocacy efforts, the process by which Hospital Inpatient and Observation Care, Consultation, Nursing Facility, and Home or Residence E/M service levels are selected will change, effective January 1, 2023.
The APMA Center for Professional Advocacy hosted the first virtual State Advocacy Forum on Saturday, August 20. The forum is traditionally a biennial in-person event, but the energy and enthusiasm generated at the 2021 State Advocacy Forum convinced the association two years was too long to wait between meetings. The Iowa Podiatric Medical Society served as the virtual host of the event.
CPME is aware of the recent announcements by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine to offer a Certificate of Added Qualification (CAQ) in podiatric surgery. CPME does not recognize or approve any CAQs within its current policies and procedures for board recognition. CAQs are not equivalent to certification, and they cannot lead to certification in any specific content area.
Last week, APMA submitted its proposal to the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health’s (OASH) request for Comprehensive Diabetic Lower Extremity Exam (CDLEE) service, which would help with prevention of diabetes-related lower extremity complications.
The fifth annual Podiatry School Student Quiz Bowl took place Saturday afternoon at The National in Orlando, FL. Nine exceptional fourth-year students, one from each of the accredited colleges of podiatric medicine and surgery, competed for bragging rights (and a cash prize and trophy) for themselves and their school. And the winner is ... Jonathan Westerveld of Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine!
Furthering APMA’s ongoing commitment to student recruitment and to creating a sustainable pool of podiatric medical student applicants, APMA staff and member volunteers will host a Step into Podiatry career event Friday at The National. The four-hour student recruitment event will feature Q&A sessions with practicing podiatrists and podiatric medical students, meetings with the colleges of podiatric medicine, as well as a tour of the exhibit hall. The event ends with a hands-on cadaveric suture workshop.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 9.7 million people misused prescription pain relievers in 2019. With an opioid crisis still looming large, appropriate postoperative pain management is an important consideration for every podiatric surgeon.
In a new addition to The National, this year APMA is partnering with the American Board of Podiatric Medicine (ABPM) to present an Educators’ Forum. The two-part forum spans four hours Friday afternoon and is perfect for residency directors and anyone involved in postgraduate training. The goal: to modernize the educational experience for podiatric residents.
The National’s Surgical Blitz sessions are back by popular demand! This year, two sessions, one Friday morning and one Saturday morning, explore Forefoot and Soft Tissue procedures and Rearfoot surgery. The National Today spoke with Dyane Tower, DPM, MPH, MS, senior medical director and director of Clinical Affairs at APMA and one of the track leaders, to learn more about what attendees can expect from these rapid-fire sessions.
The five-year mortality rate for critical limb ischemia (CLI) is higher than for many types of cancers.1 With diabetes and chronic kidney disease on the rise, CLI is also on the rise, and many patients are presenting with more severe disease than in years past, making it more important than ever for podiatric physicians to develop a close working relationship with their colleagues in interventional radiology.
“The Quadruple Aim has been described as improving population health, improving the patient experience of care, decreasing the cost of care, and improving the care team experience and well-being (1). I would assert that these are not aspirational goals, but interconnected imperatives for the future of health care.” - Mike DeGere, DPM, MBA
The program at The National is once again split into two convenient tracks, one covering medical topics and the other covering surgical topics. Thursday’s surgical track focuses on a challenge every surgeon will face: complications. The National Today spoke with track leader and moderator Patrick Burns, DPM, to learn more about what attendees can expect.
The National is truly the must-attend event for every podiatrist, covering the entire spectrum of foot and ankle care and representing every voice in podiatric medicine and surgery. This year, once again, we have organized all of our outstanding content into two convenient tracks: One track will cover medical topics, while the other will focus on surgical topics.
On July 22, APMA and the AADA submitted comments to Novitas and First Coast Service Options, Inc. (FCSO) to express their displeasure at the changes in the Surgical Treatment of Nails Policy in Billing and Coding Article A52998 (Novitas) and A57666 (FCSO).
The APMA Center for Professional Advocacy (CPA) has officially launched registration for its first-ever Virtual State Advocacy Forum. Registration is open through August 15.
APMA is proud to share that the roster for the 2022–23 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee has been approved by the APMA Board of Trustees. Please join us in congratulating the following individuals on their appointment to the committee.
On Friday, July 15, APMA responded to Draft II CPME 320—Standards and Requirements for Approval of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery Residencies.
In the 2023 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule, CMS is proposing to change the reimbursement model for skin substitute services in the private office setting. APMA is continuing to review the proposal and preparing to advocate for members.
On July 11, APMA and a small group from its CAC engagement coalition held an initial call with a group of Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) Carrier Medical Directors (CMDs).
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) released the CY 2023 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) Proposed Rule earlier today. APMA is carefully reviewing the details of this Proposed Rule and will provide more information soon.
APMA is thrilled to announce additional relief for Provider Relief Fund (PRF) recipients who were unable to report but returned funds they received before the Human Resources and Services Association (HRSA) created a process to report late, due to fears of additional penalties.
CPME reminds interested individuals or institutions about its call for third-party comments with respect to the compliance of the Des Moines University College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery and the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine, and the council's Draft II revisions to CPME publications 320 and 330, which are open for comment.
A recent Comprehensive Error Rate Testing (CERT) program webinar reviewed CERT data on surgical dressings, revealing a 70-percent error rate in this category. Insufficient documentation is the most common reason for error.
APMA’s DME Workgroup is constantly monitoring developments in DME policy that impact podiatric physicians. The DME Medical Administrative Contractors (MACs) recently issued the following notices.
APMA is hopeful the HRSA will assist vulnerable members and re-issue returned funds that were so desperately needed.
Last week, APMA asked again for CMS to delay the implementation of the Appropriate Use Criteria (AUC) Program required under the Protecting Access to Medicare Act of 2014 (PAMA) and further meaningfully engage affected stakeholders on the program’s implementation and evaluation delay.
APMA's Public Health and Preventive Podiatric Medicine Committee originated a number of important points for the National Academy of Medicine's (NAM) consideration related to residency culture, resilience and mental health resources, reducing administrative burdens, and allowing providers to practice at the top of their training/education/licensure.
APMA is a proud participant in the development of the Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) National Action Plan (NAP), a roadmap enabling national coordination for PAD prevention and treatment to improve outcomes for PAD patients and those at risk.
In their comment letter, APMA, ASPS, and ASSH underscored the medical, social, psychological, and financial burdens that chronic wounds present for patients and health-care systems, and took particular exception to limitations on the number of applications of CTPs, required use of RT or LT Modifier, and the incomplete set of included ICD-10 codes.
In the last two weeks APMA has hosted several health policy workgroup and committee meetings, including DME Stakeholders, Health Policy and Practice committee, and the Coding committee.
Last week, APMA submitted a response to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality’s (AHRQ) request for input on its proposed strategic framework for AHRQ's Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Trust Fund (PCORTF) investments.
APMA is seeking volunteers to serve as the member-at-large representative to a workgroup on podiatric medical education and another on testing. Learn more and express your interest by June 16.
APMA is very pleased to announce that the HRSA is accepting Requests to Report Late Due to Extenuating Circumstances for Reporting Period 2 through Wednesday, May 18, for PRF recipients who were unable to report during Reporting Period 2 because of extenuating circumstances. Providers must submit their request no later than 11:59 p.m. EDT. HRSA initially took this action after hearing from APMA and other member associations, whose members expressed serious concerns about the Period 1 funding they received being recouped despite good faith intents to report and the impact it would have on their practices.
APMA was represented at this past weekend’s meeting of the AMA CPT Editorial Panel Meeting and also at the AMA Relative Value-Based Update Committee (RUC) meeting April 27–30.
Last week, APMA collaborated with AADA, ASPS, and ASSH on submission of comment letters to Palmetto Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) regarding draft Local Coverage Determinations related to surgical treatment of nails that were issued earlier in the year.
In furtherance of APMA’s advocacy efforts related to Carrier Advisory Committee (CAC), APMA will meet with CMS on May 18 to receive updates on various LCD/LCA topics.
The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) is pleased to expand its partnership with NextGen® Healthcare (Nasdaq: NXGN), a leading provider of cloud-based, ambulatory-focused technology solutions. NextGen Healthcare is a founding partner of the APMA Registry, and NextGen® Office is a preferred electronic health record (EHR) system for APMA members.
Make the most of your membership with APMA Engage, your new essential app. Now available for iOS and Android devices.
APMA and other stakeholders plan to submit comments contesting proposed skin substitute policies from Novitas and First Coast Part B Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs).
In conjunction with APMA’s Health Policy and Practice committee meetings, APMA held its annual DME Stakeholder meeting virtually on May 11.
MIPS eligible members may now apply to reweight any or all MIPS performance categories if they have been affected by extreme and uncontrollable circumstances. The application deadline has been updated to March 3.
According to a recent report from the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG), Medicare Advantage Organizations (MAOs) sometimes delayed or denied Medicare Advantage beneficiaries' access to services, even though the requests met Medicare coverage rules.
APMA encourages members to get involved in this important initiative.
With a commitment to continuous innovation, APMA's trusted partner, PatientPop, delivers an all-in-one technology platform that eases and enhances every step of the patient journey, from online search to ongoing post-visit connections.
APMA is conducting its practice survey. Your responses to this important survey will help us to provide accurate information when speaking with regulators, lawmakers, health-care agencies, and other podiatry influencers. The results can also help you negotiate salary and benefits for yourself or your staff.
The Spring Virtual Coding Seminar held on April 23 was a major success. APMA is proud to have once again been able to hold another informative coding course for its participants.
APMA is deeply saddened to share the news that former Deputy Executive Director and COO Jay Levrio, PhD, has passed away. Dr. Levrio died peacefully, surrounded by his family, on April 30.
Part B Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) Palmetto GBA (AL, GA, NC, SC, TN, VA, and WV) has proposed a policy that, if finalized, would limit the frequency of toenail avulsion and permanent toenail excision procedures.
On April 18, APMA submitted a response to the Center for Medicaid and CHIP Services (CMCS) in their response to CMS’ request for information (RFI) on Access to Care and Coverage for People Enrolled in Medicaid and CHIP.
Two weeks ago, Novitas and First Coast Part B Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) released proposed skin substitute policies that, if finalized, would limit skin substitute application to two applications within an episode of skin replacement surgery for wound care.
On April 11, APMA provided comments to CMS and the Yale New Haven Health Services Corporation Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation regarding the development of a measure focusing on patient receipt of key information related to recovery from an outpatient surgery or procedure.
Are you prepared for lift-off? APMA has partnered again with MGMA for its Cost and Revenue and Practice Operations Surveys, now open to all health-care professionals.
CMS stakeholders and partners are invited to join the CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure and her leadership team, who will provide updates on the CMS Strategic Vision and key accomplishments during the first quarter of 2022.
APMA is pleased to announce that we have awarded more than 50 scholarships for student membership to the American Public Health Association (APHA) Foot and Ankle Health Section in 2022.
APMA is in contact with Palmetto about this proposal and is collaborating with the APMA Carrier Advisory Committee (CAC) representatives of the involved states to contest this proposal.
APMA is aware of an abstract presented at the 2021 meeting of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society, which compares outcomes of surgery performed by podiatrists and orthopedic surgeons. While the abstract of this study was published in Foot and Ankle Orthopaedics, the paper in its entirety has not been published, nor to our knowledge has it been accepted for publication by a peer-reviewed journal. It has also been pulled from presentation at future meetings due to problems with the study.
Since the last APMA update on this subject, all seven Part B Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) have removed the guidance that they would be denying claims for amniotic injections for musculoskeletal conditions effective March 16, and recouping payment for claims going back to December 6, 2019.
It’s officially Foot Health Awareness Month! We hope you will take part in our Today’s Podiatrist Keeps Kids Active campaign and help us educate parents and caregivers about kids’ foot health and the important role podiatrists play in keeping kids active.
ABFAS and ABPM are to be commended for their commitment to student recruitment, and their continued investment in the future of the profession.
As the only organization lobbying for podiatrists and their patients on Capitol Hill, APMA goes above and beyond in its legislative advocacy efforts to ensure your priorities are represented. As part of our commitment to advocacy, APMA will host the 2022 APMA Virtual Legislative Conference and Advocacy Week on April 27.
On March 31, APMA sent a formal request to the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to reopen the Reporting Period for at least 60 days to applicable Provider Relief Fund (PRF) recipients who did not successfully report via the HRSA PRF Reporting Portal by the November 30, 2021, deadline.
Guidance regarding coverage, coding, and documentation requirements for DME for Medicare beneficiaries can usually be found on the website of your DMEMAC, and through the DME PDAC DMECS system.
It is with profound sadness that we share the news that Kevan Kreitman, DPM, speaker of the APMA House of Delegates, passed away suddenly this week. Dr. Kreitman will be deeply missed by a grateful profession.
On March 25, APMA responded to the ONC's Request for Information: Electronic Prior Authorization Standards, Implementation Specifications, and Certification Criteria.
The APMA Educational Foundation thanks its donors leading up to and during the 2022 House of Delegates meeting in Washington, DC.
APMA signed on to the Patient Access to Responsible Care Alliance (PARCA) letter thanking the Departments of Health and Human Services, Treasury, and Labor for holding a listening session on the issue of provider nondiscrimination.
During the recent APMA House of Delegates, William Long, DPM, Chair of APMA’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Task Force, presented the final report to the house detailing the efforts of the Task Force during the past year.
APMA has updated its HIPAA manuals effective January 2022. The APMA HIPAA Privacy Manual was updated to reflect the new Information Blocking Rule provisions.
The following alert is offered to provide risk advice to podiatrists. In the past five years, podiatric physicians have seen great patient benefits from the emerging use of amniotic fluid injections to treat musculoskeletal conditions, such as plantar fasciitis and tendonitis. Despite these benefits, the FDA has recently stated that it has not approved the use of such products and that further study is needed. On February 28, all Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) announced that they would be denying claims for amniotic fluid injections.
On March 11, APMA sent a request to all Part B Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) about its concerns with their announcement in late February that Medicare does not cover manipulated amniotic and/or placental tissue biologics for injections to treat illness for claims with dates of services on or after December 6, 2019.
The APMA Educational Foundation kicked off its annual giving campaign during the 2022 House of Delegates meeting in Washington, DC.
APMA is pleased to announce victory on HR 2545, a bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to further clarify the role of doctors of podiatric medicine in the Department of Veterans Affairs. The bill was signed by the president today. This win is yet another example of APMA’s tireless effort to protect and defend podiatric medicine.
APMA held its annual election for officers and trustees on March 13, during the 2022 House of Delegates. Get the results!
At the 2022 APMA House of Delegates meeting (HOD) in Washington, DC, Legislative Advocacy Committee Chair and Trustee William S. Long, DPM, gave attendees a report on the status of APMA's federal legislative advocacy efforts.
At the 2022 APMA House of Delegates meeting (HOD) in Washington, DC, various leaders participated and led discussions on various important topics in a Townhall Forum.
At the 2022 House of Delegates meeting, APMA Director of Communications and Marketing Peggy Tresky, MA, and Associate Director of Young Physicians and Students Tiffany Kildale updated delegates on the more than 18 million prospective students reached through the Step Into Podiatry campaign and the long-term implications of the campaign for applications.
The APMA House of Delegates meeting is an opportunity not only to come together to create policy and priorities for the association, but also to celebrate the outstanding work of APMA members. During the meeting Saturday, several awards were presented.
On Saturday, March 12, Laura J. Pickard, DPM, was installed as APMA president by APMA Past President Kathleen M. Stone, DPM.
The APMA House of Delegates convened in person in Washington, DC, on Saturday. Guest speakers addressed the house, bearing greetings from our physician peers and messages of thanks for the work of the house.
Last week, APMA met with its private insurance consultant to review activities regarding its private insurance advocacy and in line with our APMA strategic goals.
Last week, APMA submitted comments on two proposed rules related to the Medicare Advantage program.
The Board of Directors of the American College of Podiatric Medicine (ACPM) would like to re-introduce you to this organization.
APMA is proud to introduce Ortho Dermatologics, maker of JUBLIA®, as the 2022 sponsor of APMA Weekly Focus. Ortho Dermatologics is a Corporate Partner of APMA that has supported many initiatives for APMA members, including both CECH and non-CECH educational programs over the past decade.
APMA is pleased to announce that Camille Ryans, DPM, has been selected as the APMA/TDI Public Health Fellow for the 2022–2023 academic year.
As an NCICLE member, CPME was given the opportunity to nominate a resident or fellow to represent podiatry on a newly formed NCICLE Learner Advisory Group. CPME nominated two podiatric residents for this group. Drs. Lindsay Short and Thomas Poynter were chosen to serve on the advisory group and they will join MD and DO residents and fellows to discuss current trends, challenges, and opportunities to improve the clinical learning environment from the perspective of a resident.
HHS, through the HRSA, released an additional $560 million in Provider Relief Fund Phase 4 General Distribution payments to more than 4,100 providers last week.
CMS released updated 2022 MIPS Quality Measure Benchmarks to include data from opt-in eligible clinicians and groups that elected to opt-in to MIPS.
Claims processed and paid for dates of service on or after December 6, 2019, will be adjusted and payment will be recouped. Impacted providers will receive an overpayment demand letter identifying the amount of the overpayment.
CMS recently announced in its MLNConnect Newsletter that it will soon issue a comparative billing report (CBR) on Medicare Part B claims for podiatry nail debridement and evaluation and management services.
APMA and a coalition of medical societies met with CMS to reinforce their concerns regarding the Carrier Advisory Committee (CAC) process, and Local Coverage Determinations (LCDs) and Articles (LCAs).
If you have a need for CECH or are looking for a way to meet specific licensure requirements, check out APMA's Essentials Bundle, a collection of six, 1.0 CECH courses on a variety of non-clinical subjects frequently required for state licensure.
APMA has again partnered with the Medical Group Management Association (MGMA) to encourage our members to participate in MGMA’s 2022 Provider Compensation and Production Survey.
The APMA Board of Trustees held its winter meeting this weekend and heard reports from a variety of organizations and committees.
APMA works tirelessly to advocate for the podiatry profession. Over the past year, APMA has been successful in ensuring podiatrists receive equitable reimbursement and patients have full access to care provided by podiatrists. Take a closer look at our recent successes.
APMA’s comments addressed the proposed network adequacy reviews, as well as equalizing cost sharing on specialty care for patients with diabetes.
Providers who received one or more general and/or targeted PRF payments exceeding $10,000, in the aggregate, from July 1, 2020, to December 31, 2020, must report on their use of funds in Reporting Period 2, no later than March 31, 2022.
Dr. Pickard urged the departments to implement regulations that comply with congressional intent and prohibit health plans from discriminating against providers acting within the scope of their licensure.
This week, APMA and other organizations signed on to a letter to HHS from the Patient Access to Responsible Care Alliance (PARCA), voicing concerns with the regulations implementing the No Surprises Act requirement to provide Good Faith Estimates (GFE) to uninsured or self-pay patients.
APMA hired Lynn Curry, PhD, owner and chief consultant with CurryCorp, in the fall of 2021 to collect member stakeholders' perspectives on achieving physician parity. Dr. Curry's findings on the issue of parity are available, along with our response.
APMA is aware its members have experienced issues in registering or renewing access to their Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) web portals due to changes that the CGS DME MAC (DME Jurisdictions B and C) has recently implemented. APMA recommends that members become familiar with the resources that their DME MACs provide and sign up for available DME MAC email distribution lists and webinars.
Recently, APMA members have asked about the rules around billing for non-covered services under Medicare Advantage. To help members understand CMS rules and comply, APMA has drafted guidance and posted a brief video.
Learn about this recently implemented law and attend a webinar on January 11.
Many changes are relevant to podiatry. Register now for APMA's upcoming webinar on these changes.
The Provider Relief Fund Reporting Portal is open for report completion or (re)submission for Reporting Period 1 through December 20. Also, more than 69,000 providers in the US and its territories, will receive Phase 4 payments starting by December 17.
This legislation, among other things, prevents the looming fiscal cliff in Medicare reimbursement for physicians.
If you haven’t contributed yet, you can still make your investment in the future of podiatry and give today! Deckers X Lab will continue to donate one pair of shoes for each gift made through December 31!
APMA congratulates Bausch Health Companies Inc. and its dermatology business, Ortho Dermatologics, one of the largest prescription dermatology health-care businesses, on receiving the APMA Seal of Approval for JUBLIA® (efinaconazole) Topical Solution, 10%, a treatment for onychomycosis, a fungal infection of the toenails.
On December 6, APMA submitted comments to HHS, DOL, and the Treasury expressing significant reservations related to the second interim final rule issued implementing the No Surprises Act.
APMA, ACFAS, AAOS, and AOFAS recently held a call with Anthem and its contractor, AIM, to discuss their new Site of Care review initiative.
CGS DME MAC Jurisdiction B and Jurisdiction C recently updated its DME provider portal, currently MyCGS v7.2.
APMA is excited to announce it has awarded 2022 Innovation Grants to eight state components! These grants help state components with advocacy and their efforts to educate and build relationships with MD/DOs, policymakers, and payers.
As part of our November Diabetes Awareness Month public education campaign, APMA has produced an eye-catching poster perfect for your waiting room or exam rooms.
You can now preview your 2020 Quality Payment Program (QPP) performance information. The Preview Period will close on December 14 at 8 p.m. ET (5 p.m. PT).
Do you need to earn a few more credits before the end of the year and have some free time this weekend? Check out APMA’s Online CECH library! We are currently offering a variety of free and member-discounted courses covering a wide range of topics.
Submit your proposal by December 10 to be a part of the can’t-miss event for every podiatrist in Orlando, FL, July 28–31.
APMA is still in the process of reviewing the rules issued by CMS and OSHA. However, APMA addresses two of members' FAQs.
More than 70 member volunteers came together for the 21st Annual Carrier Advisory Committee and Private Insurance Advisory Committee (CAC-PIAC) Representatives Meeting on November 12, in Alexandria, VA, and online.
Launching in January 2022, the new program LEAD: Longitudinal Education and Assessment for Diplomates will replace ABFAS’ traditional, once-every-ten-years recertification and self-assessment examinations.
Last week, CMS released the CY 2022 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) Final Rule. APMA is currently reviewing the rule and will provide full analysis soon and comment as necessary.
The 21st Joint National Carrier Advisory Committee and Private Insurance Advisory Committee Representatives’ Meeting (CAC-PIAC) will be held this Friday, November 12, in Alexandria, VA, and online.
Last week, the Biden administration released two rules related to mandatory vaccination against COVID-19: A CMS Omnibus COVID-19 Health Care Staff Vaccination Interim Final Rule with Comment Period, and an OSHA Emergency Temporary Standard for COVID-19 Vaccination and Testing.
November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and APMA’s Communications Committee is launching a new public education campaign designed to reach one of our most at-risk patient populations: Hispanic males. The campaign, “Es Hora,” offers a wealth of educational materials for you to use in your practice.
APMA organized a call with CMS and other medical specialty societies on October 28 to discuss our shared concerns with Medicare Advantage Plans’ onerous chart review requests.
Since the February 2021 postponement of the Part II CSPE, the NBPME has established an investigation by the board to review options and ensure pathways for progression and licensure for its students and residents, while maintaining the trust earned from patients, the public, licensing authorities, and others that DPM graduates have the requisite skills.
The APMA Online Learning Center presents an opioid/pain management-focused, on-demand CECH opportunity: “Postoperative Opioid Prescribing Practice in Foot and Ankle Surgery,” with Brandon Brooks, DPM, MPH, and Bradley Brooks, DO (psychiatrist and addictionologist).
The APMA Educational Foundation is pleased to announce the recipients of the PICA Distinguished Scholar Award. One student from each of the nine colleges of podiatric medicine was selected for the prestigious $500 award.
In accordance with CPME procedures, interested individuals or institutions are invited to submit third-party comments with respect to the council’s standards and requirements concerning the application of a new school of podiatric medicine at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) in Edinburg, TX.
“Disaster Medicine: Sepsis” is a free online training module for health-care providers, available through the Sepsis Alliance Institute.
The APMA Educational Foundation is proud to announce this year’s student scholarship recipients. A total of $267,000 was awarded to 160 third- and fourth-year students from the nine colleges of podiatric medicine.
APMA President Jeffrey DeSantis, DPM, submitted written testimony to the Massachusetts Legislature’s Joint Committee on Public Health in support of legislation (HR 2270/S 1510) to modernize the Massachusetts scope of practice for podiatrists to include the foot, ankle, and lower leg.
Over the past 16 years, APMA and the profession have made great strides toward parity. APMA has hired cognitive psychologist and consultant Lynn Curry, PhD, to collect our stakeholders' diverse perspectives on physician parity in a report before the end of the year. APMA will then formulate a responsive plan to resume pursuit of physician parity. Updates on this effort will continue.
Most affected clinicians will see a modest increase in their quality performance category score and MIPS final score. CMS has extended the targeted review deadline to November 29.
The Biden administration released regulations last week outlining how the No Surprises Act’s independent dispute resolution (IDR) process will work to resolve billing disputes between providers and insurers.
Many changes are relevant to podiatry. Register now for APMA's upcoming webinar on these changes.
Given the accounting PRF reporting requires, we strongly recommend providers required to report work with a financial advisor to ensure everything accuracy.
For those who are reporting or plan to report MIPS Improvement Activities (IA) and/or Promoting Interoperability (PI) measures, the final continuous 90-day performance period of 2021 starts October 3.
This popular event will take place on Saturday, December 4, and will feature another deep dive into foot and ankle coding with experts Jeffrey Lehrman, DPM, and David Freedman, DPM.
APMA focused its comments specifically on beneficiaries with larger wounds and ulcers and assignment of the skin substitute application codes for larger wounds to specific APC groups due to cost issues.
APMA and several of its state components signed on to the AUC Coalition letter thanking Representatives Tim Ryan (D-OH), Kay Granger (R-TX), and Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) for their leadership.
APMA Trustee Patrick A. DeHeer, DPM, presented a clinical case to CMS’ ICD-10 Coordination and Maintenance Committee on September 15 regarding APMA’s request for changes to ICD-10 terminology for progressive collapsing foot deformity (PCFD).
APMA submitted comments to the CMS CY 2022 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule on September 13.
APMA is pleased to announce that it has joined the “We Can Do This” campaign as a member of the COVID-19 Community Corps. The campaign is part of the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) efforts to provide reliable and accessible information to the public about COVID-19 and the COVID-19 vaccine.
APMA. in collaboration with AADA, submitted comments to Novitas and First Coast Service Options (FCSO) Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) on draft Local Coverage Determinations related to surgical treatment of nails that were issued earlier this year.
The Biden Administration has announced it "will require COVID-19 vaccination of staff within all Medicare and Medicaid-certified facilities," and that this requirement would apply to "clinical staff, individuals providing services under arrangements, volunteers, and staff who are not involved in direct patient, resident, or client care."
This year’s meeting will be held on November 12 in the Washington, DC, area and a virtual component was added due to the ongoing pandemic.
Last week, APMA submitted comments to the Departments of Health and Human Services, Labor, and Treasury in response their Surprise Billing; Part I interim final rule with comment (IFC).
The APMA Educational Foundation extends its most gracious thanks to the late Raphael Arner, DPM, and his wife, Judith, for their generous estate gift of $12,500, given through the Arner Charitable Trust.
Join APMA and its Public Health and Preventive Podiatric Medicine Committee (PHPPMC), in promoting suicide awareness and prevention this month.
Anthem has agreed with APMA’s recommendation to fix its At-Risk Foot Care and -59 Modifier Coding Policy.
The Provider Relief Fund (PRF) reporting deadline for those who received funds in the first period (April 10–June 30, 2020) is September 30, via the PRF Reporting Portal.
More than 65 member volunteers and state leaders representing 30 states enjoyed two days of education and collaboration, with a handful also participating online.
To view your final score, log in to the QPP website.
2020 MIPS participants can now review their payment adjustment factor(s) on the QPP website. You can submit a targeted review through October 1 at 8 p.m. ET.
Thanks to the support for our hybrid race, the 2021 Team APMA 5K Run/Walk raised more than $9,500 for the APMA Educational Foundation!
The APMA Educational Foundation spent a week with 15 outstanding podiatric medical students at The National in Denver. Each student was awarded a travel fellowship as part of a video contest launched in May.
Looking for a way to be more involved with APMA? Submit your name by September 1 for consideration to serve on an APMA committee.
Reminder: State scope innovation grants applications are due September 1 for components in states that include the ankle in their scope of practice.
APMA is pleased to announce the winners of the Abstract Competition at The National 2021!
The APMA Meetings app is the most convenient way to navigate The National this year.
If you’re on site in Denver, join us today at 4 p.m. for the Grand Opening of the Exhibit Hall! If you’re online, begin visiting our virtual hall early and often—virtual booths are open from the start of the meeting.
Welcome to the APMA 2021 Annual Scientific meeting (The National)! Whether you’re joining us in Denver or online, we’re excited to share this premier foot and ankle meeting with you. Read on for more about what to look forward to!
APMA is in the process of reviewing the rule and will provide comments as appropriate.
Last week, APMA, AOFAS, AAOS, and AOA wrote a letter requesting that CMS follow through with its previous commitment to increase the MUE for CPT 28300 from one to two.
APMA is working with its partners in Congress and other medical specialty societies to push for congressional intervention to delay or cancel further cuts to Medicare reimbursement.
As a result of APMA's advocacy efforts, Anthem has agreed to revise its policy and follow current NCCI policy, addressing denials of properly coded at-risk foot care claims.
APMA heard from members that certain MIPS Quality measure submissions were being rejected and communicated with CMS about this issue.
APMA collaborated with PFA and AOPA during the July 8 CMS HCPCS Panel Meeting to request that the descriptor for HCPCS code L3000 be changed.
APMA submitted a letter to the State Medical Board of Ohio (SMBO) on July 6 in response to its request for information on podiatric scope of practice.
Last week, APMA submitted comments to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ),in response to the agency’s request for information on the impact of telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Last week, APMA wrote to CMS urging the National Correct Coding Initiative (NCCI) to update its policy on modifier 59 use.
CMS updated its COVID-19 Accelerated and Advance Payment (CAAP) Repayment & Recovery FAQs on June 24.
The Health Resource Service Administration (HRSA) will host Reporting Technical Assistance Sessions on July 14 and 20 for PRF recipients and stakeholders.
On July 1, the Departments of Health and Human Services (HHS), Labor (DOL), and Treasury (and the Office of Personnel Management [OPM] for purposes of federal employee health plans), released the first in a series of rules implementing the No Surprises Act passed in late 2020 to address surprise billing.
APMA is delighted to announce the launch of health insurance options for small groups. The enrollment portal is now open; submit your information now and start your new plan as early as August 1.
In 2019, the DOE engaged in negotiated rulemaking around several issues and finalized revisions to regulations in July 2020. The council has incorporated these changes to comply with the new regulations within CPME 120 and CPME 130.
Thanks to advocacy efforts led by FPMA CAC Representative Mark Block, DPM, First Coast Service Options Inc. reversed a longstanding policy in an updated Local Coverage Article by allowing podiatrists to serve as providers who diagnose a non-asterisked complicating condition that qualifies a patient for routine foot care coverage.
APMA is excited to announce Courtney McClurkin, DPM, of Dallas as this year’s Center for Professional Advocacy Young Physician Advocate Scholarship recipient.
APMA’s Center for Professional Advocacy (CPA) hosted its Scope-of-Practice Advocacy Summit on June 17.
The CMS contractor that issues Comparative Billing Reports (CBRs) has announced a new CBR related to services provided by orthoses referring providers. A related webinar is scheduled for July 14.
APMA is pleased to announce victory on HR 2545, a bill to further clarify the role of doctors of podiatric medicine in the Department of Veterans Affairs.
The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), released revised reporting requirements for recipients of Provider Relief Fund (PRF) payments on June 11.
OSHA's new COVID-19 ETS include physician offices, hospitals, and outpatient centers, and nursing homes, among others, to protect workers in health-care settings where suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients are treated.
The APMA Educational Foundation is thrilled to announce 15 outstanding podiatric medical students have been awarded travel scholarships to attend the APMA 2021 Annual Scientific Meeting (The National), July 29–August 1 in Denver!
APMA and the Patient Access to Responsible Care Alliance Coalition (PARCA) wrote to the US Department of Health and Human Services, US Department of Labor, and US Department of Treasury (Departments), urging these agencies to implement protections against provider discrimination as required by the No Surprises Act as included in The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021.
Last week, CMS announced the 2021 PY PI Hardship Exception and other EUCs exception applications are now open, and the 2020 PY Cost performance category has been reweighted to 0.
All EUC applications—including the COVID-19 EUC application—must be submitted no later than 8 p.m. EST on December 31, 2021.
The Joint Task Force of Orthopaedic and Podiatric Surgeons has endorsed a white paper and submitted a resolution for consideration at the June 2021 Special Meeting of the AMA House of Delegates.
This past weekend, APMA held virtual meetings for two of its most active committees: the Coding Committee and the Health Policy and Practice Committee.
At its April 24 meeting, the Council on Podiatric Medical Education reviewed Draft 1 documents of CPME 320 and CPME 330, along with comments from the community of interest.
The flowchart differentiates between trimming and debriding, including the appropriate codes that accompany each.
Podiatric medical residents could benefit from wellness programs to improve their well-being according to a study published in JAPMA.
APMA submitted comments to HHS last week, raising significant concerns with its proposed updates to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Privacy Rule.
APMA is hopeful its feedback will result in a shift toward patient-focused versus provider-centric, and burden reduction.
APMA held its annual DME Stakeholder meeting virtually in conjunction with APMA’s Health Policy and Practice Committee meetings on April 30.
Read about APMA's efforts to be more diverse and inclusive.
Your APMA DME Work Group published guidance for APMA members regarding documentation requirements related to surgical dressings.
President Joe Biden has signed into law legislation that will delay resumption of Medicare sequestration cuts through 2021.
Congratulations to Beth Reittinger, DPM, PGY-1 on being selected by APMA as the Symposium on Advanced Wound Care (SAWC) Spring Virtual 2021 “Wound Care Podiatrist Scholarship” winner.
APMA’s ambitious legislative efforts continue with the introduction of HR 2545, to clarify the role of doctors of podiatric medicine in the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.
The Medical Group Management Association (MGMA) is allowing an extension to respond to its Cost and Revenue Operations Survey.
Novitas and FCSO acknowledged the ongoing issue and the mystery behind the codes not being accepted while the same codes are noted in the measure specifications for 2021.
APMA provided an overview of the issues with the Same or Similar policy in practical implementation and made several recommendations to reduce burden on clinicians.
APMA held another successful virtual Coding Seminar this past Saturday, April 10. Attendees should be able to access recordings of the presentations in the next few weeks.
The 2021 State Advocacy Forum will be held August 20–21 at the Whitley Hotel in Atlanta.
Last week, APMA kicked off its 2021 Foot Health Awareness Month campaign, Today’s Podiatrist Keeps America Active. The campaign is designed to speak to the athlete in everyone with information about proper foot health for athletes and the role podiatrists play in sports medicine.
As a result of the efforts of APMA, DME Workgroup, and podiatric CAC representatives for Palmetto Jurisdictions, Palmetto will now reimburse DPMs for performing remote physiological monitoring (RPM) services.
APMA has worked with its Hart Health Strategies consultants to provide an updated resource for members on their obligations under the 21st Century Cures Act as it relates to information blocking.
APMA recently wrote to Anthem, Centene, and Humana to address members’ concerns with these carriers denying properly coded at-risk foot care claims.
In anticipation of possible Congressional action to extend the 2-percent sequester reduction suspension, CMS instructed the Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) to hold all claims with dates of service on or after April 1, 2021, for a short period without affecting providers’ cash flow.
For groups and virtual groups that need to submit an application, you must do so by March 31.
APMA is pleased to announce the Senate passed a two-month extension of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) last week.
Legislation to define DPMs as podiatric physicians in the Maryland Health Occupations Code passed the Maryland House of Delegates. APMA is requesting state senate adoption.
In a letter addressed to President Joe Biden, APMA urged the president and his administration to take several significant regulatory and administrative actions to lessen paperwork burdens, promote ready access to foot and ankle care, and reduce longstanding health disparities.
On March 11, APMA submitted to Noridian its concerns and recommendations on Noridian’s Proposed LCD: Wound Care (DL38902) and Draft Local Coverage Article: Billing and Coding: Wound Care (DA58565).
The APMA Educational Foundation kicked off its 2021 Annual Giving Campaign at the APMA 2021 House of Delegates meeting this weekend, with the theme “Highlighting Your Heroes.”
On Sunday, March 14, Jeffrey R. DeSantis, DPM, was installed as APMA president by Franklin Kase, DPM.
APMA continues to urge HHS to authorize DPMs as vaccinators without limitations and recommendeds that podiatric medical students be added to the list of qualified individuals who can serve as vaccinators.
CMS was receptive to APMA's concerns. APMA will continue to address this issue for our members.
The specialty societies addressed problems with Anthem/AIM’s process for obtaining prior authorizations, including requesting a peer-to-peer review. AIM acknowledged these problems and assured us they resolved them.
Following APMA’s advocacy efforts, Noridian releases new LCA, which contains 353 added diagnosis codes that APMA requested.
SBA released an interim final rule with updated provisions, which, unless otherwise specified, are effective as of March 4.
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.
Recognizing the continued impact COVID-19 is having on residency training programs, the council has decreased required MAV by 15 percent, waived diversity requirements for 2021 residency graduates, and approved a petition to allow programs flexibility to provide alternative clinical experiences.
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.
Bookmark www.apma.org/mediahub to check out the latest updates.
APMA Coding Consultant Jeffrey D. Lehrman, DPM, has created a brief webinar on what to do in 2021 to avoid a penalty in 2023.
HHS amended its declaration under the PREP Act on January 28 to add categories of qualified persons authorized to prescribe, dispense, and administer FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines.
APMA encourages members to take MGMA’s 2021 Provider Compensation and Production Survey.
APMA has requested that Novitas and FCSO update their processing immediately to appropriately allow for processing of the new codes for this measure, and to retroactively correctly process previously rejected claims with the CPT 3051F or 3052F codes.
One student from each of the nine colleges of podiatric medicine was selected for the prestigious $5,000 award.
Summary documents have been created to provide insight into the revisions made to CPME publications 320 and 330. The revised draft and summary documents are on the council’s website.
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.
APMA urged CMS to immediately implement and reimburse for PPE, and to establish coverage and payment for audio-only E/M services on a permanent basis.
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).
Preview your 2019 QPP performance information now, before it is publicly available.
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.
The American Association for Women Podiatrists (AAWP) is asking APMA members to share their personal thoughts and experiences in its Bias and Discrimination in Podiatry survey.
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.”
This fall, one CSPM student will receive a scholarship in the name of the CCPM Class of ’83, to ease their financial burden.
Effective January 1, postoperative global periods for CPT® 28820 (Amputation toe, MPJ) and CPT® 28825 (Amputation toe, IPJ) have changed to zero days.
To thank you for your participation, NBPME is offering 12 $100 Amazon gift cards.
Stay up-to-the-minute on research; learn how to get alerted to new JAPMA content.
CPME has published the proposed revised versions of CPME 320 and 330 and scheduled a Town Hall meeting for January 26.
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 led a collaboration with AOFAS and AAOS to request that the NCCI increase the Medically Unlikely Edit (MUE) of CPT 28300 (Osteotomy, calcaneus) from one to two.
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.
The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) is relaunching this week; on January 11, for first-time borrowers via community financial institutions (CFIs), and on January 13 for second-time borrowers.
HHS is requiring providers who received more than $10,000 in combined monies from any PRF distribution to report via the portal.
APMA believes this meeting with Noridian has set concerns about this issue in a positive direction for resolution.
The end of 2020 was a busy time for member advocacy! APMA submitted comments to HHS, CMS, and OASH.
HHS has updated its Provider Relief Fund (PRF) FAQs regarding how the payment was calculated for the Phase 3 General Distribution.
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.
CMS was receptive to our concerns with the current Carrier Advisory Committee process and transparency during LCD Development meetings.
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.
APMA submitted comments to HHS' Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) in response to its Interim Final Rule with Comment Period, “Information Blocking and the ONC Health IT Certification Program: Extension of Compliance Dates and Timeframes in Response to the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency.”
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.”
Important information about HHS' distribution of the Phase 3 General Distribution Provider Relief Funds.
APMA has sent a letter to the National Governors Association urging governors nationwide to include podiatrists in the first phase of vaccinations for health-care providers and to allow podiatrists to prescribe and administer the vaccine.
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).
APMA, AOFAS, and AAOS submitted a letter to the National Correct Coding Initiative requesting an increase of the MUE value associated with CPT 28300 from one to two.
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.
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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.
Participating in MIPS 2020 PY? Apply now for a 2020 MIPS PI performance category hardship exception application. Conditions apply; deadline is December 31.
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.
This year, podiatric medical students have been particularly impacted by changes in academic structure, employment opportunities, and financial stability. By donating today, you are supporting APMA’s effort to ease the financial burden of medical school on podiatry students.
The APMA Center for Professional Advocacy (CPA) is delighted to announce that eight state components were awarded a 2021 Innovation Grant. These grants are designed to help state components with their scope-of-practice and physician definition advocacy efforts and their efforts to educate and build relationships with MD/DOs, policymakers, and payers.
Share these affordable insulin prescription purchase options with your patients today.
HHS extended the deadline to apply for the Provider Relief Fund (PRF) Phase 3 General Distribution to November 27 for entities lacking a validated TIN, provided the TIN validation process was initialized by November 13.
APMA met with HeathNet Federal Services (HNFS), the TRICARE Administrator for the West Region, to address denials for non-invasive vascular diagnostic studies.
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.
CECH certificates and new "Coding Documentation Series" webinar dates are now available!
Final rule allows DPMs to refer TRICARE patients to PT/OT and speech pathology.
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.
This change does not allow an NP who practices independently (without MD/DO supervision) and is not practicing “incident to” a supervising physician's authority to serve as the Certifying Physician.
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 submitted a letter to CMS urging the agency take action to reduce MAOs' medical record request burdens.
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 submitted comments to CMS on November 2 in response to the Third CMS COVID-19 Interim Final Rule with Comment Period.
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.
The COVID-19 public health crisis is causing many families to suffer financial hardship, isolation, and stress. You can help by sharing these resources with your patients.
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.
APMA has written to Anthem about its questions and concerns with Anthem’s "Clinical Appropriateness Guidelines for the Musculoskeletal Program, Appropriate Use Criteria: Small Joint Surgery," set to take effect November 1. APMA is also sending a joint letter with ACFAS, AOFAS, and AAOS to express our shared concerns.
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.
GetInsulin.org is a nonprofit organization that connects individuals living with diabetes in the United States to insulin affordability options, with access to insulin matching their unique circumstances.
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.
APMA expressed significant concerns with a proposed rule for payment policies revisions under the Physician Fee Schedule and Other Revisions to Part B for Calendar Year 2021, and commented on proposed changes to the Quality Payment Program (QPP).
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!
On October 1, as part of its Continuing Resolution (HR 8337), Congress provided relief to COVID-19 Medicare Advanced and Accelerated Payment Program (AAP) loan recipients.
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.
A Routine Foot Care and -59 and X{ESPU} Modifier Tool Kit is now available for members. You'll get a template appeal letter, articles, documentation guidelines, and more. Take advantage of these resources today!
HHS updated its timeline for clinicians who received more than $10,000 in Provider Relief Fund general and targeted distributions.
There is currently no hard deadline for the PPP forgiveness application, but the application form expires on October 31. Contact your lender for instructions.
APMA created www.apma.org/COVID19Deadlines, where you can check for updated deadlines and get a direct link to the corresponding programs.
CMS is delaying garnishing Medicare providers’ payments related to the CARES Act Medicare Accelerated and Advance Payment Program (AAP).
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.
October 1 marks the beginning of the final 90-day consecutive period that you can report on Promoting Interoperability and/or Improvement Activities for the MIPS 2020 performance year.
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.
APMA sent a letter to Massachusetts legislators on August 28 urging them to include updated podiatric scope of practice in their health-care reform legislation.
Read an excerpt from the forthcoming APMA News interview with two Massachusetts residents deployed to care for COVID-19 patients.
APMA submitted a letter to the medical director of Amerigroup Caritas Medicaid District of Columbia last week on behalf of members in the DC–MD–VA region who might be treating vulnerable patients covered by this plan.
APMA thanks participants in this year’s Virtual Team APMA Run/Walk. See the winners in each event category!
Have insurance or reimbursement concerns you'd like discussed at the December 5 CAC-PIAC meeting? Let your reps know now!
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.
Two APMA Regional Lecture Series talks will take place virtually at the TPMA Southwest Foot and Ankle LIVE Virtual Conference September 25 and 26.
If you enjoyed the Ask the Experts sessions last week, don't miss these upcoming coding education opportunities!
CMS has approved and issued a new Advance Beneficiary Notice of Noncoverage (ABN), Form CMS-R-131.
APMA submitted comments to the CMS Office of Burden Reduction and Health Informatics on July 29 requesting further regulatory burden relief.
APMA is pleased to announce that after multiple requests, CMS has announced it is delaying full implementation of the Appropriate Use Criteria (AUC) requirements for advanced imaging orders to 2022.
The Small Business Association opened the PPP Forgiveness Platform and began accepting lender submissions on August 10. Check with your lender for details.
APMA is pleased to announce the winners of the 2020 Abstracts Competition!
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.
The APMA student recruitment team participated in the National Institutes of Health’s Graduate and Professional School Fair on August 5. APMA’s recruitment resource, Step into Podiatry, was featured during the virtual event.
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.
APMA sent comments to Noridian about its Local Coverage Article (LCA): Billing and Coding: Routine Foot Care (A57957).
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.
APMA President Seth Rubenstein, DPM addressed the National Medical Association’s (NMA) Podiatric Medicine and Surgery Section during its virtual 2020 Annual Convention July 31-August 4. According to its website, NMA is “the collective voice of African American physicians and the leading force for parity and justice in medicine and the elimination of disparities in health.”
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.
At its most recent meeting, the APMA Board of Trustees approved Atlanta as the host site for the 2021 State Advocacy Forum. Previously held in Detroit, Philadelphia, Salt Lake City, and Milwaukee, the State Advocacy Forum is conducted in a host state that is selected to recognize that state component’s exceptional accomplishments in state advocacy
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.
On July 16, legislators introduced a bill that would expand telehealth beyond the COVID-19 pandemic by eliminating restrictions on its use in Medicare, providing a bridge for patients currently using the practices because of the crisis, and requiring a study on the use of telehealth during COVID-19.
After months of APMA's advocacy, the US Department of Homeland Security Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has explicitly included podiatric physicians in its definition of physicians classified as an essential critical infrastructure worker during the COVID-19 public health emergency.
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 stands in solidarity with our Black members, leaders, and patients. We want them to know that Black lives do matter. Recent discussions have resulted in new ideas about how to advance APMA’s commitment to ending health-care disparities and how to promote inclusivity and diversity. Among these ideas are several that APMA plans to pursue in the coming months.
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.
CMS announced on June 24 that any clinician "significantly impacted" by the COVID-19 public health emergency may submit an Extreme and Uncontrollable Circumstances Application to reweight any or all MIPS performance categories for the 2020 PY if they choose.
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.
APMA is pleased to announce that the joint effort we led with AAOS and AOFAS has resulted in the National Correct Coding Initiative (NCCI) correcting an erroneous NCCI edit related to CPT 28296 and CPT 28289.
Last week, APMA submitted a letter to the National Correct Coding Initiative (NCCI) to request that an update be made to Chapter I of the NCCI Policy Manual For Medicare Services.
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.
Last week, HHS announced additional distributions from the Provider Relief Fund to eligible Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) providers that participate in state Medicaid and CHIP programs.
Congress recently passed new flexibilities for recipients receiving funds via the Paycheck Protection Program.
APMA is pleased to provide a comprehensive compilation of information to assist members with opening their offices in a safe manner for their patients and staff.
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.
Two key APMA committees met virtually last week to discuss topics that directly impact our members as well as their patients.
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.
PICA, in partnership with APMA, is hosting an essential webinar on Wednesday, June 10, at 8 p.m. ET: “Risk Management Strategies and Other Considerations as you Provide Care and Treatment Post COVID-19.”
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.
In support of J. Kevin West, Esq., who wrote a letter on behalf of PICA policyholders, APMA submitted its own letter to Noridian to express our shared concerns with its policies related to the Therapeutic Shoe Program for Persons with Diabetes (TSD).
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.
APMA submitted comments on May 25 in support of the Department of Defense’s (DOD) Interim Final Rule: TRICARE Coverage and Payment for Certain Services in Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic. APMA supported the two major changes the DOD finalized.
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.
Are you readying to reopen or expand your practice hours as COVID-19 restrictions ease? Have questions about obligations to your employees? Reserve your spot now for APMA’s upcoming member-exclusive webinar, “Employee Issues in the Time of COVID-19.”
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.
APMA submitted comments to CMS in response to CMS’ interim final rule on flexibilities for physicians and other providers during the COVID-19 public health emergency.
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.
HHS released new guidance in the past week addressing continued questions about the provider relief fund general distribution. These updates addressed a number of topics relevant to podiatrists.
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.
CPME has developed a petition form to be completed and submitted by the residency director by May 31 for residents who will not meet the MAV/rotation requirements, but who have demonstrated competence through alternative means, as referenced in the CPME Statement on COVID-19 and Minimum Activity Volume (MAV) published on March 30.
The APMA Online CECH series continues this week with “Juvenile Hallux Valgus.” Members can earn up to 1.0 CECH for attending. APMA Trustee Patrick DeHeer, DPM, will lecture on juvenile hallux valgus. Registration is also open for week 4.
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.
In the past week, the Small Business Administration (SBA), US Treasury, and IRS have released more rules and guidance on the PPP, and CMS issued a new interim final rule with comment period that, among other changes, increases the reimbursement for telephone-only teleheath visits.
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 TRICARE administrator for the West Region now permits DPMs to order non-invasive vascular or arterial studies for TRICARE beneficiaries.
Last week HHS announced additional plans for distributing funds from the CARES Act Provider Relief Fund. Approximately $10 billion was scheduled to be released on April 24 to providers who have already shared key data with HHS.
The APMA Board of Trustees recently voted to endorse a website devoted to care for the diabetic foot in the context of COVID-19.
CMS announced on April 26 its decision to reevaluate the amounts that will be paid under the Accelerated Payment Program and to suspend its Advance Payment Program to Part B suppliers.
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.
APMA Coding Resource Center (CRC) subscribers will see exciting changes when they log in to their accounts this week.
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.
BuckheadFMV is conducting a survey on physician call coverage compensation practices and is looking to obtain data specific to doctors of podiatric medicine along with other physicians.
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.
On April 10, 2020, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) began distributing the initial $30 billion in relief funding to Medicare fee-for-service (FFS) facilities and providers in support of the national response to COVID-19. Some providers have already received payments from this initial distribution. These are grants, not loans, and do not have to be repaid.
CMS has re-opened the 2019 extreme and uncontrollable circumstances application.
APMA has been working hard to ensure our members are seen, heard, and represented as various government agencies work to address the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Last week, APMA advocated for members via several key mechanisms.
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.
APMA has recorded two new special podcasts for members.
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.
The COVID-19 public health emergency continues to pose new and unprecedented challenges for our health-care system and individual physicians and practices. APMA is here to help its members navigate these difficult times and continue to deliver the highest-quality foot and ankle care to patients.
During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency and through the end of 2024, there are four main non-face-to-face service types podiatrists can provide. A podiatrist’s ability to employ these services and be reimbursed for these services may differ based on the patient’s insurance and state licensure. Always check with payer and state licensure guidelines before providing any service.
The Small Business Administration (SBA) released an interim final rule on April 2 addressing the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), a new SBA loan option created under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
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.
APMA is working hard to make sure members have access to the most up-to-date information on recent changes to how and what services podiatric physicians can provide to patients via non face-to-face services. As of March 30, the biggest changes for Medicare and Medicare Advantage patient billing are the following.
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 announced an expansion of its accelerated and advance payment program for Medicare participating health-care providers and suppliers to ensure they have the resources needed to combat the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). This program expansion includes changes from the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
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.
For the latest COVID-19 guidance and updates from CPME, visit www.cpme.org.
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 places the highest value on the health and wellbeing of its members and staff. In light of new developments in the rapidly evolving COVID-19 outbreak, the APMA Board of Trustees has voted to cancel the 2020 House of Delegates meeting scheduled for March 13–16 in Washington, DC, and The Coding Seminar, scheduled for March 28 in Dallas.
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.
RIPMA was recently awarded an APMA CPA Assistance Grant to help obtain a legal opinion related to a hospital discrimination issue.
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.
Effective January 1, 2020, the DME MACs have changed the requirement for a “Detailed Written Order” to a requirement for a “Standard Written Order.”
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).
In support of a recommendation from the APMA Board of Trustees and Council on Podiatric Medical Education, the 2019 APMA House of Delegates approved a resolution calling for a Blue Ribbon Panel to review and study the history, traditions, and current circumstances associated with the recognition of special areas of practice and recognition of certifying boards.
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!
APMA submitted three formal comment letters to CMS on September 27 in response to its CY 2020 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS), Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS), and the End-Stage Renal Disease/Durable Medical Equipment, Orthotics, Prosthetics, and Supplies (ESRD/DMEPOS) Proposed Rules.
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.
APMA submitted comments on falls and fall-related injuries to the US Senate Special Committee on Aging on June 26. Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries among older adults, as the committee mentioned in its call for comments.
Hurry! Register online for the must-attend meeting for every podiatrist now through July 3.
APMA submitted supportive, but cautionary, comments to CMS and the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology on June 3 related to proposed changes to interoperability 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.
APMA News is pleased to invite members to be featured in our 10 Questions column, which runs on the back page of each issue of the magazine. Contact Aimee Condayan for details.
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.
Director, Legislative Advocacy and APMAPAC, Benjamin J. Wallner, was awarded the PAC Chair Award on Monday.
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.
APMA hosted leaders from AAOS, ACFAS, and AOFAS last week for a joint task force meeting to address mutual concerns and priorities for orthopaedic and podiatric surgeons.
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.
The DME MACs have recently begun strictly enforcing a long-existing policy, “Same and Similar.” This has resulted in suppliers more frequently receiving denials for DME, indicated on EOBs with reason code “M3.”
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.
To receive your continuing education certificate of attendance and verification report, you must complete the overall meeting evaluation. Follow the below instructions to do so.
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.
The APMA Educational Foundation is now participating in AmazonSmile, a program in which the online retailer, Amazon.com, donates 0.5 percent of the price of eligible smile.amazon.com purchases to the foundation.
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.
As a member of AMA and its Medical Specialty Society -25 Modifier coalition, APMA continues to fight private insurance policies that unduly reduce reimbursement for physicians.
APMA congratulates the Wisconsin Podiatric Medical Association (WPMA) on its recent legislative success.
APMA is very pleased to announce that after much advocacy by APMA and the American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association (AOPA), diabetic shoe inserts fabricated using scanning devices will be reimbursed the same as those inserts made over a positive model of the patient’s foot, effective April 1, using a temporary HCPCS code, K0903.
Many awards were presented at the APMA House of Delegates meeting in Washington, DC.
On Sunday, March 18, Dennis R. Frisch, DPM, was installed as president of APMA by Ross A. Taubman, DPM. Dr. Frisch addressed the house, outlining APMA’s accomplishments and his goals for the coming year. He promised to devote his energy toward moving forward together as well as the importance of APMA membership.
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.
The APMA House of Delegates took time on Saturday to honor the memory of noted coding expert and APMA consultant Harry Goldsmith, DPM, of California, who passed away on February 7.
Critical deadlines for MIPS Performance Year 2017, as well as the Medicare EHR Incentive Program 2018 adjustments are approaching.
The latest draft of the proposed modifications to the APMA Bylaws is available at www.apma.org/hod.
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.
APMA has been advocating to CMS for the revision of recently issued NCCI guidance, as it relates to the -59 modifier and coding for CPT 11055 and 11720.
Two new rules published November 2, 2017, by CMS will affect podiatrists' payments in 2018 and 2020.
A new set of FAQs addresses the MIPS quality payment program. It is available on the MACRA resource page, along with other valuable MACRA-related tools.
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 celebrated a major advocacy victory this week when CMS withdrew proposed rule CMS-6012-P, which would have required previously exempted, qualified practitioners including podiatrists to obtain additional certification and licensing to furnish and fabricate orthotics and prosthetics.
APMA is saddened to announce that Past President Jerry D. Brant, DPM, passed away September 17 after a battle with pancreatic cancer.
APMA staff and members from the Massachusetts Podiatric Medical Society (MPMS) recently attended the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), August 6–9 in Boston. NCSL is a bipartisan organization that serves the legislators and staffs of the nation's 50 states, commonwealths, and territories.
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).
Join the AACPM DPM Mentor Network to help ensure a bright future for podiatry.
APMA Executive Director and CEO James R. Christina, DPM, explains how to avoid a MIPS penalty.
The APMA House of Delegates secured PICA’s $25,000 matching grant by raising more than $100,000 at the house. Visit www.apma.org/donate and donate today to support our students.
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.
The 97th APMA House of Delegates (HOD) meeting convened yesterday in Washington, DC.
Ira Kraus, DPM, was installed as the president of APMA on Sunday, March 19, by APMA Past President Michael J. King, DPM.
APMA President R. Daniel Davis, DPM, presented Timothy Tillo, DPM, with the Distinguished Service Citation on Saturday at the 97th Annual APMA House of Delegates meeting in Washington, DC.
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!
As previously reported, APMA has been working over the past year and half to resolve APMA members’ ongoing issues with Humana Medicare Advantage plans’ blanket denials of at-risk foot care claims with the -59 modifier.
Going to the 2017 NYSPMA Clinical Conference this week and/or weekend? Stop by APMA’s booth, #1515!
Social media has woven its way into every part of our lives, including health care. According to MediaBistro.com, 40 percent of those surveyed reported information they see via social media impacts how they handle their health. How are you using social media to help promote your practice?
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).
Practicing medicine today is so extremely challenging that we often spend a lot of energy focusing on all that is wrong with our current health-care delivery system.
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.
APMA is pleased to report a recent advocacy win for podiatric physicians with HealthHelp.
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.
APMA's Diabetes Campaign, "Diabetes: A Path to Poor Circulation?", is up and running.
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.
When ICD-10 was adopted on October 1, 2015, CMS instructed Medicare contractors to not deny claims billed under the Part B physician fee schedule through either automated medical review or complex medical record review based solely on the specificity of the ICD-10 diagnosis code as long as the provider used a valid code from the correct family. This policy will end on October 1, 2016.
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.
CMS announced today that it will allow physicians participating in MACRA’s Quality Payment Program four options to comply with the first year of the law and avoid penalties. APMA, along with other physician specialties, have called on CMS to delay implementation and provide more flexibility in the program.
You can now view many of the lectures from The National 2016.
APMA submitted comments on the proposed rule by CMS and the Office of Medicare Hearings and Appeals (OMHA) on Monday, August 29.
Visit the APMA Coding Resource Center now and experience the site's first major redesign since its 2009 launch.
The Private Insurance Resource Guide (PIRG) is an online, detailed guide just for members on elements of insurance related to the practice of podiatry.
Online library of lectures on topics especially for residents. Free for members. Subscription required.
The 2015 Physician Quality Reporting System (PQRS) feedback reports will be available in September for individual eligible professionals (EPs) and PQRS group practices. The 2015 Annual Quality and Resource Use Reports (QRURs) will also be available in September for groups with two or more EPs and solo practitioners.
Members, take advantage of our resources!
APMA presented on social media to a standing room only crowd.
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.
Don't miss a thing at The National with our meetings app.
APMA is pleased to announce that Dyane Tower, DPM, will join the APMA staff as the new director of Clinical Affairs in early October.
APMA submitted comments to CMS on June 27 addressing concerns with the proposed rule implementing the new Merit-Based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) and Alternative Payment Models (APMs) established by the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act of 2015 (MACRA).
EIDM users must recertify their accounts annually. This year, the EIDM Security Official (SO) or Individual Practitioner must recertify by Thursday, June 30.
CMS invites the public to join an upcoming listening session on June 8, 12-1 p.m. EDT, to learn more about the Resource Use performance category, part of the Merit-Based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) proposed in the recently released MACRA Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM).
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.
Join CMS for a webinar on the comparative billing report on Podiatry: Nail Debridement and Evaluation and Management (E/M) Services (CBR201608), Wednesday, June 22, from 3–4:30 p.m. EDT.
APMA is pleased to report two recent reimbursement victories with Humana and Cigna.
Get five key lessons from this unique event, and watch for details about future PM Expo dates.
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’s legislation to recognize podiatrists as physicians within the Veterans Health Administration—the VA Provider Equity Act—is in danger of failing after being left out of the Senate’s VA omnibus bill, the Veterans First Act.
APMA is evaluating the proposed rule from CMS on physician payment reform.
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.
Help a student out today at www.apma.org/donate.
Strong concerns about student recruitment—specifically, a low applicant pool—were raised at the APMA House of Delegates meeting in March.
APMA sponsored a briefing on Capitol Hill underscoring for legislators and staffers the critical importance of podiatrists in diabetic limb salvage and promoting the Helping Ensuring Life- and Limb-Saving Access to Podiatric Physicians (HELLPP) Act.
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.
The APMA House of Delegates took time on Saturday to honor the memory of past Delegate Oliver “Ollie” Foster, DPM, of California, who passed away last week. The APMAPAC Kaplan-Clarke-Foster Practice Management Seminar is named in honor of Dr. Foster, who was an avid supporter of the PAC.
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.
Former APMA Executive Director and CEO honored at 2016 APMA House of Delegates meeting.
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.
APMA President Phillip E. Ward, DPM, honored Dyane Tower, DPM, MPH, MS, with the Rising Star Award on Saturday.
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.
APMA members describe what they take back to their practice after attending The National.
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 Executive Director and CEO James R. Christina, DPM, invites you to attend The National 2016.
As previously reported by APMA, HealthNet recently issued guidance confirming that podiatrists may now order or prescribe durable equipment when acting within the scope of their license or certification thanks to a recently revised Defense Health Agency DE benefit under TRICARE.
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.
SGR reform has now cleared the Senate after passing in the House nearly two weeks earlier. President Obama is expected to sign the legislation into law soon.
Americans may be ready to resume walking, running, and other outdoor sports this spring, but are their feet?
APMA’s 95th House of Delegates meeting convened in Washington, DC, on Saturday, March 21.
The 95th APMA House of Delegates (HOD) meeting convened yesterday in Washington, DC.
Frank Spinosa, DPM, presented his President’s Award to James A. Lamb, retired executive director of the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery (ABFAS), in recognition of his 18-year tenure at ABFAS and his many contributions to the profession.
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.
APMA is pleased to announce that James R. Christina, DPM, has been confirmed as its new executive director and CEO. Dr. Christina was selected after a lengthy national search process conducted by JDG Associates executive search firm and confirmed by the House of Delegates today during its annual meeting.
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.
Several podiatrists from different states alerted APMA last week that they have been victims of tax scams and possible identify theft. After further research by APMA, it appears that the same or similar tax scam schemes have targeted all types of medical providers.
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.
To enhance the already robust selection of tracks available through the educational program at The National, this year attendees will be able to receive additional focused knowledge through small group discussions hosted by APMA affiliates on Friday, July 24, from 1:30–5:30 p.m. The group discussions are designed for more intimate learning than general lectures and explore topics of specific interest to the affiliate host.
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.
The National Academies of Practice (NAP) is seeking nominations for deserving individuals to be inducted within its ranks. NAP is dedicated to affordable, accessible, coordinated quality health care for all. NAP believes that health-care practice that has an interprofessional foundation and addresses a person as a whole provides better health care and better preventive care.
CPME has approved new residency positions and a new residency program.
With the holidays behind us, APMA’s Health Policy and Practice Department (HPP) would like to highlight final rule, member resources, and opportunities members may have missed in December.
A second sample group of providers will have the opportunity to participate in ICD-10 end-to-end testing with Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) and the Common Electronic Data Interchange (CEDI) contractor April 26–May 1.
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.
APMA requests submissions from members who are interested in presenting a lecture(s) at the APMA 2015 Annual Scientific Meeting (The National), July 23–26 in Orlando, FL.
Kyle Bruce, DPM, is APMA's newest public health fellow. Applications for the 2015*8211;2016 fellowship are due November 7.
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 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’s DME Workgroup recently obtained clarification concerning the requirements for posting and maintaining hours of operation for DME physician suppliers.
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.
The National will have two opportunities for attendees to gain hands-on training from renowned experts with an ultrasound workshop and ankle arthroscopy workshop. Attendance is limited, so register today!
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.
In February, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) published a notice on health-care competition. APMA submitted a comment letter in response to this FTC notice last week. It addressed the education, training, and experience of podiatrists, as well as scope of practice laws and other legislative and regulatory restrictions that do not reflect the advancement of podiatric medicine and the value of care by podiatrists.
Several key initiatives were addressed at the 94th House of Delegates.
APMA’s 94th House of Delegates meeting today welcomed several special guests to the meeting.
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.
Frank Spinosa, DPM, was installed as APMA president at the 2014 House of Delegates.
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.
APMA President Matthew Garoufalis, DPM, honored US Rep Brad Wenstrup, DPM (R-OH), during the 2014 APMA House of Delegates meeting with the President's Award in honor of Dr. Wenstrup's outstanding achievements.
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.
Comedian Greg Schwem will be the opening speaker for the APMA 2014 Annual Scientific Meeting in Honolulu, July 24-27.
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.
Participate in PQRS by December 31, 2013, or your Medicare Part B payments will decrease by 1.5 percent in 2015. Participation is easy; follow these steps to ensure you don't lose money.
APMA’s Health Policy and Practice department introduces a new resource for Medicare provider and DMEPOS supplier revalidation.
APMA is strongly opposed to CMS’ arbitrary omission of CPME from a list of accrediting and certifying entities under a Physician Payment Sunshine Act (PPSA) regulation that exempts indirect payments made to speakers at accredited or certified continuing medical education (CME) programs from reporting requirements.
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.
Comedian Jerry Seinfeld shares his story of how an APMA member podiatrist ended his 30-year struggle with heel pain.
Matthew G. Garoufalis, DPM shares his thoughts on what APMA members can do to help address the podiatric residency shortage.
Learn how APMA and CPME are working to address the podiatric residency shortage.
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.
Due to partisan gridlock in Washington, D.C., the federal government will encounter an automatic budget "sequester" starting March 1, 2013. Learn more about how these budget cuts will impact APMA members and podiatric physicians.
APMA recently held a productive meeting with the National Health Service Corps (NHSC) within the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).
In a landslide victory, Brad Wenstrup, DPM, has won the Ohio second district congressional race by a 59-41 percent vote. Dr. Wenstrup is the first ever podiatrist to be elected to the US House of Representatives and APMA congratulates him on this victory.
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.
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