APMA Submits Testimony in Support of Massachusetts Scope-of-Practice Legislation

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.

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.

Many changes are relevant to podiatry. Register now for APMA's upcoming webinar on these changes.

MIPS Final 90-day Period, COVID Exception Available

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.

APMA Comments on CY 2022 Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System Proposed Rule

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 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 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.

On September 29, HHS, through the HRSA, will begin accepting applications for Phase 4 of the Provider Relief Fund (PRF).

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.

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.

Anthem has agreed with APMA’s recommendation to fix its At-Risk Foot Care and -59 Modifier Coding Policy.

More than 65 member volunteers and state leaders representing 30 states enjoyed two days of education and collaboration, with a handful also participating online.

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.

Coming soon to the APMA Online Learning Center is 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).

Looking for a way to be more involved with APMA? Submit your name by September 1 for consideration to serve on an APMA committee.

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.

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!

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.

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 Advocates for L3000 Coding Change

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 Submits Telehealth Recommendations to AHRQ

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.

CMS updated its COVID-19 Accelerated and Advance Payment (CAAP) Repayment & Recovery FAQs on June 24.

HHS, Labor, and Treasury Release Surprise Medical Billing Rule, APMA to Comment

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.

Revisions to CPME Documents: Comment Period Closes August 20

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.

2021 State Advocacy Forum Young Physician Advocate Scholarship

APMA is excited to announce Courtney McClurkin, DPM, of Dallas as this year’s Center for Professional Advocacy Young Physician Advocate Scholarship recipient.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

Podiatric medical residents could benefit from wellness programs to improve their well-being according to a study published in JAPMA.

APMA is hopeful its feedback will result in a shift toward patient-focused versus provider-centric, and burden reduction.

Read about APMA's efforts to be more diverse and inclusive.

Biden Signs Bill Delaying Medicare Sequester Cuts Through End of 2021

President Joe Biden has signed into law legislation that will delay resumption of Medicare sequestration cuts through 2021.

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.

APMA Meets with Novitas and FCSO to Address Ongoing 3051F/3052F Denials

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 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.

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.

21st Century Cures Act Information Blocking Requirements Update

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.

CMS Instructs MACs to Hold Claims as of April 1 - Pending Extension of Sequester Suspension

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.

PPP Extended—Apply by May 31

APMA is pleased to announce the Senate passed a two-month extension of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) last week.

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.

The 2021 Highlighting Your Heroes Campaign is Here!

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.”

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.

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.

Interim Final Rule Implements PPP Loan Changes

SBA released an interim final rule with updated provisions, which, unless otherwise specified, are effective as of March 4.

CPME Responds to COVID-19’s Impact on Residencies

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.

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

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

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

APMA Educational Foundation Names PICA Distinguished Scholar Award Recipients 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Small-Group Health Plan Update

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

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

E/M Changes Improve Outlook for Podiatrists

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

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

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

APMA Meets with HealthNet Federal Services to address Problematic Policy

APMA met with HeathNet Federal Services (HNFS), the TRICARE Administrator for the West Region, to address denials for non-invasive vascular diagnostic studies.

CECH certificates and new "Coding Documentation Series" webinar dates are now available!

APMA, Coalition Partners Urge Congress to Delay AUC Program Indefinitely

APMA joins with 25 medical specialty organizations in calling on Congress to delay the implementation of the Appropriate Use Criteria (AUC) program for advanced diagnostic imaging.

NPs/PAs Can Serve as "Certifying Physician" for Therapeutic Shoes/Inserts in Some Instances

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.

APMA Addresses Onerous Chart Reviews with CMS

APMA submitted a letter to CMS urging the agency take action to reduce MAOs' medical record request burdens.

APMA Comments on Third CMS COVID-19 Interim Final Rule

APMA submitted comments to CMS on November 2 in response to the Third CMS COVID-19 Interim Final Rule with Comment Period.

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 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.

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.

CPT® Changes Coming January 1, 2021

Several 2021 CPT® code set changes affect podiatrists, including changes to ultrasound, fluorescence wound imaging, arthroscopy, and significant E/M changes.

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).

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.

New Modifier 59 Tool Kit, Webinar on October 1

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!

There is currently no hard deadline for the PPP forgiveness application, but the application form expires on October 31. Contact your lender for instructions.

CMS is delaying garnishing Medicare providers’ payments related to the CARES Act Medicare Accelerated and Advance Payment Program (AAP).

Time to Focus on MIPS

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 Shares Support of Massachusetts Scope-of-Practice Legislation

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.

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.

Have insurance or reimbursement concerns you'd like discussed at the December 5 CAC-PIAC meeting? Let your reps know now!

Two APMA Regional Lecture Series talks will take place virtually at the TPMA Southwest Foot and Ankle LIVE Virtual Conference September 25 and 26.

Updated ABN Form—Use Mandatory as of January 1, 2021

CMS has approved and issued a new Advance Beneficiary Notice of Noncoverage (ABN), Form CMS-R-131.

APMA Victory—AUC Implementation Delayed to 2022

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.

APMA is pleased to announce the winners of the 2020 Abstracts Competition!

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.

APMA Comments on New Noridian Routine Foot Care LCA

APMA sent comments to Noridian about its Local Coverage Article (LCA): Billing and Coding: Routine Foot Care (A57957).

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.”

2021 State Advocacy Forum Headed to Atlanta

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

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.

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.

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.

NCCI Erroneous Edit Correction Victory

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

Exciting New Features in APMA Coding Resource Center

APMA Coding Resource Center (CRC) subscribers will see exciting changes when they log in to their accounts this week.

Take the Physician Call Coverage Compensation Survey

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.

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.

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 has recorded two new special podcasts for members.

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.

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.

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.

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.

For the latest COVID-19 guidance and updates from CPME, visit www.cpme.org.

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.

RIPMA Awarded Advocacy Grant

RIPMA was recently awarded an APMA CPA Assistance Grant to help obtain a legal opinion related to a hospital discrimination issue.

Important DME MACs Requirement Change

Effective January 1, 2020, the DME MACs have changed the requirement for a “Detailed Written Order” to a requirement for a “Standard Written Order.”

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.

APMA Comments on CMS’ Proposed Rules

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.

APMA Advocates for Podiatrists on Falls Prevention to the US Senate Committee

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.

APMA Urges CMS, ONC to Move Cautiously on Interoperability Proposed Rule

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 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.

Director, Legislative Advocacy and APMAPAC, Benjamin J. Wallner, was awarded the PAC Chair Award on Monday.

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.

Same or Similar AFO Denials Explained, What to Do About It

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.”

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.

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.

Physicians Continue to Fight -25 Modifier Reimbursement Policies

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.

A5513 and K0903 Victory!

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.

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.

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.

House of Delegates Bylaws Webinars

The latest draft of the proposed modifications to the APMA Bylaws is available at www.apma.org/hod.

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.

New MIPS FAQs Available on APMA.org

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 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 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.

Join the AACPM DPM Mentor Network to help ensure a bright future for podiatry.

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.

The 97th APMA House of Delegates (HOD) meeting convened yesterday in Washington, DC.

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.

APMA Demands Humana End Denial of At-Risk Foot Care Claims with -59 Modifier

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.

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?

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.

HealthHelp DiagnosticSite Issues Resolved

APMA is pleased to report a recent advocacy win for podiatric physicians with HealthHelp.

APMA's Diabetes Campaign, "Diabetes: A Path to Poor Circulation?", is up and running.

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.

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.

APMA Responds to Proposal to Fix Medicare Appeals Backlog

APMA submitted comments on the proposed rule by CMS and the Office of Medicare Hearings and Appeals (OMHA) on Monday, August 29.

Private Insurance Resource Guide (PIRG)

The Private Insurance Resource Guide (PIRG) is an online, detailed guide just for members on elements of insurance related to the practice of podiatry.

2015 PQRS Feedback Reports, Annual Quality and Resource Use Reports Available Soon

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.

APMA presented on social media to a standing room only crowd.

Don't miss a thing at The National with our meetings app.

APMA Chides CMS for MACRA Proposed Implementation Timeframe; Calls for more Flexibility

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).

CMS Webinar on Resource Use Performance Category

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).

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.

Five Practice Management Lessons from Inaugural PM Expo

Get five key lessons from this unique event, and watch for details about future PM Expo dates.

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.

Help a student out today at www.apma.org/donate.

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.

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.

Former APMA Executive Director and CEO honored at 2016 APMA House of Delegates meeting.

APMA President Phillip E. Ward, DPM, honored Dyane Tower, DPM, MPH, MS, with the Rising Star Award on Saturday.

APMA members describe what they take back to their practice after attending The National.

APMA Executive Director and CEO James R. Christina, DPM, invites you to attend The National 2016.

SGR Reform Clears Senate; President Obama to Sign Legislation

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.

APMA’s 95th House of Delegates meeting convened in Washington, DC, on Saturday, March 21.

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.

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.

Podiatrists, Other Medical Professionals Report Tax Scam

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.

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.

National Academies of Practice Seeks New Members

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.

Volunteers Sought for ICD-10 End-to-End Testing in Spring; Applications Due January 21

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.

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.

APMA Submits Comments on the Discussion Draft of Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act of 2014

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.

Clarification on Physician Supplier Requirements for Hours of Operation, Beneficiary Copies of Supplier Standards

APMA’s DME Workgroup recently obtained clarification concerning the requirements for posting and maintaining hours of operation for DME physician suppliers.

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!

APMA Comments on FTC’s Health-Care Competition Notice

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.

APMA’s 94th House of Delegates meeting today welcomed several special guests to the meeting.

Frank Spinosa, DPM, was installed as APMA president at the 2014 House of Delegates.

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.

Comedian Greg Schwem will be the opening speaker for the APMA 2014 Annual Scientific Meeting in Honolulu, July 24-27.

Participate in PQRS in 2013 or Lose Money in 2015

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 Opposes CMS’ Omission of CPME from Sunshine Act Reporting Exemption

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.

Comedian Jerry Seinfeld shares his story of how an APMA member podiatrist ended his 30-year struggle with heel pain.

AACPM and CPME Respond to Need for Additional Residency Positions

Learn how APMA and CPME are working to address the podiatric residency shortage.

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.

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 responds to the Supreme Court's ruling upholding most of the Affordable Care Act.