May 11, 2012
Look Out for Ultrasound Gel Recall
U.S. marshals, acting on the authority of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), seized several lots of tainted ultrasound transmission gel from a Newark, N.J. pharmaceutical company, Medical News Today reports. The gel is used to enhance the transmission of ultrasound waves. Read entire article.
Posted 05-11-2012
A Special Message to PCA Members:
Many members of PCA are aware that for the first time in years, PCA had an initially contested election for President in 2012. That spirited campaign for PCA President proceeded with campaign mailings and other related activities until several days ago, when candidate Marc Persson, D.C., withdrew his name from consideration. PCA deeply respects and honors Dr. Persson's decision.
Posted 04-30-2012
To All Chiropractors and Friends of Chiropractors:
It was the year 1960 when Dr. David Palmer, then president of the Palmer College of Chiropractic decided to start a rugby program. Dr. Palmer envisioned that the sport of rugby would become the vehicle by which he could spread the profession of Chiropractic to the world. Due to its unique culture and international popularity, he was convinced that the sport of rugby could accomplish this monumental task. The Palmer teams of the 60's and 70's were dominate in American Rugby and helped to foster Dr. Palmer's vision. In 1979 the Palmer Rugby Team traveled to Atlanta, GA to not only compete in, but win the prestigious Atlanta Peachtree Rugby Tournament. Present at that tournament was Dr. Sid E. Williams, president and founder of Life Chiropractic College, who then followed the vision of Dr. David Palmer, by starting the Life Rugby Program in 1980.
The two rugby clubs formed an immediate rivalry which paved the way for the tremendous success and notoriety of both of their rugby programs here in the United States. However, the overall popularity of rugby remained relatively small in the U.S., until the recent decision to include Rugby 7's into the 2016 Olympics. Since that announcement, rugby has become the fastest growing sport in America. As a side note, the last two times rugby was played in the Olympics (1920 and 1924) the USA won the Gold.
Just recently the Life University Undergraduate Sevens rugby squad won the prestigious Las Vegas Sevens Rugby Tournament. Winning that event qualified Life to compete in the Collegiate Rugby Championships in Philadelphia this year on June 2 and 3. The significance of Life's inclusion in this tournament will be profound. Due to the continued commitment by Dr. Guy Riekeman and Life University to the vision of Dr. Sid and Dr. Palmer, we will be presented with the opportunity to showcase Life University and spread the Chiropractic message on national television.
Life's performance that weekend will be an important factor, and be assured that they will make us proud; however, the amount of fans that attend the event to cheer not only for Life University but for the entire Chiropractic profession, will be even more important. If you are anywhere near Philadelphia, then please make plans to join us. If you are a good distance away, then a trip to the home of Rocky Balboa would be a great summer vacation for you and your family!
This event will present great exposure for Chiropractic and will be an opportunity for all of us who love Chiropractic to show our support to the profession we have dedicated our lives to. NBC television is presenting us with a national stage never before seen in the history of Chiropractic, and through rugby we can deliver the message just as it was envisioned many years ago.
Please join with us in our attempt to put together a Chiropractic contingent large enough that it will serve to impress all those who view this event.
We are looking forward to being with you all, June 2 and 3 in Philadelphia.
Yours in Chiropractic,
The Life Rugby Family
PLEASE BUY ALL YOUR TICKETS FOR THE CRC, JUNE 2-3, 2012 THROUGH THE SITE BELOW! THE LIFE UNIVERSITY RUGBY PROGRAM GETS CREDIT WHEN YOU DO.
PCA’s Fairness in Copayment Act Introduced in Senate
URGE YOUR SENATOR TO SUPPORT SB 1391
ACTION REQUESTED:
IMPORTANT UPDATE ON SB1391
The Senate Banking and Insurance Committee met briefly off the floor yesterday to move two "agreed to" items to the floor.
They did not consider SB 1391 and there will not be another Committee meeting until late April. The Chairman of the Committee has advised us that he will need some time to get all of the "stakeholders" together to review the language of the bill before he schedules a vote. This is an approach that Sen. White and the Committee have taken on all insurance legislation.
The good news is that we have rounded up strong support from the Committee itself and we should be able to move quickly on the legislation once those stakeholder meetings occur.
Reminder: To all of you who have yet to make contact with the Committee members, we should still be contacting all Committee members - especially the Chairman.
Please do so now.
Our message now is: "SB 1391 is an important consumer protection bill that assures that patients are not being overcharged or subject to excess paperwork as a result of co-payment requirements. Please support SB 1391. Please ask Chairman White to schedule a Committee vote on the bill as soon as possible."
You should e-mail or call:
Donald C. White (Chairman)
(717) 787-8724
dwhite@pasen.gov
Kim Ward
(717) 787-6063
kward@pasen.gov
Patrick M. Browne
(717) 787-1349
pbrowne@pasen.gov
Jacob D. Corman III
(717) 787-1377
jcorman@pasen.gov
Jane M. Earll
(717) 787-8927
jearll@pasen.gov
Stewart J. Greenleaf
(717) 787-6599
sgreenleaf@pasen.gov
John C. Rafferty
(717) 787-1398
jrafferty@pasen.gov
PCA-initiated and supported Senate Bill 1391, sponsored by state Senator Charles McIlhinney (R- Bucks) and a host of bi-partisan co-sponsors, was introduced on to the floor of the Senate on February 13, 2012. In addition to McIlhinney, he was joined by the following co-sponsoring senators: John Rafferty (R- Chester), Lisa Boscola (D- Northampton), Michael Waugh (R- York), Richard Alloway (R- Franklin), Jay Costa (D- Allegheny), Richard Kasumic (D- Fayette), Donald White (R- Indiana), John Gordner (R- Columbia), Bob Robbins (R- Mercer), John Wozniak (D- Cambria) and Edwin Erikson (R- Delaware).
The legislation, designed to alleviate the problem of excessive and multiple health insurance companies’ copayment requirements, was referred to the Senate Banking and Insurance Committee.
PCA members should continue contacting their respective state senators, urging their support of the bill and an expeditious review process and movement through the state Senate.
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HHS Press Release: HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius Announces Delay of ICD-10 until October 1, 2014
In a new press release from HHS, Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced a proposed rule that would delay the compliance date for ICD-10 from October 1, 2013 to October 1, 2014
The proposed rule also would delay by one year, until Oct. 1, 2014, the date by which covered entities must comply with International Classification of Diseases, 10th Edition diagnosis and procedure codes (ICD-10). Covered entities are defined in HIPAA as (1) health plans, (2) health care clearinghouses, and (3) health care providers who electronically transmit any health information in connection with a transaction for which HHS has adopted a standard .
Some provider groups have expressed serious concerns about their ability to meet the October 1, 2013 compliance date. CMS and HHS believe the change in the compliance date for ICD-10, as proposed in this rule, would give providers and other covered entities more time to prepare and fully test their systems to ensure a smooth and coordinated transition among all industry segments.
Click here for the full release.
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PCA MEMBERS WEBSITE NOTICE
AS OF JANUARY 27, 2012
The Pennsylvania Chiropractic Association's website is undergoing major changes in organization, content, and member features that will improve the quality and user-friendliness for you, the member of PCA.
Today, you received an email notice to explain how to access the MEMBERS' ONLY section of this website. Remember to check your JUNK MAIL if you do not see the email notice.
Thank you for your understanding and patience regarding these improvements.
We think you will be very pleased.
To visit the MEMBERS' ONLY section, click here and enter the password.
The MEMBERS' ONLY pages include What's New?, Insurance, Regulations, Issues-News, and Helpful Resources.
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Court Permits Licensed Chiropractors to Delegate Certain Adjunctive Procedures to Unlicensed Support Personnel
By Jason B. Martin, Esquire
The Martin Law Firm, P.C.
__________________________________________________________________
Is Your Practice Prepared for the 1/1/12
New Electronic Claims Format??
PCA Insurance & Coding Consultant David Klein, CPC, CHC
In preparation for the transition to ICD-10, all entities covered by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) that submit transactions electronically are required to upgrade from Version 4010/4010.A1 to Version 5010 transaction standards by Sunday, January 1, 2012.
The PCA stresses that it is important to remember that the upcoming Version 5010 transition is not only mandatory, but is also an integral step toward a successful ICD-10 transition. This change does NOT affect paper claims.
What should you do to prepare?
If you or your EHR system has not yet begun external testing, the PCA advises that you should take the following steps to ensure a smooth transition:
•
Communicate with your software vendor and/or clearinghouse. If they already haven’t, encourage them to take action now and establish a communication plan.
Communicate with your software vendor and/or clearinghouse. If they already haven’t, encourage them to take action now and establish a communication plan.•Take advantage of available resources. There are many different resources offering valuable information to organizations looking to streamline their Version 5010 transition. Additionally, CMS offers several tools to help you plan and execute your transitions to Version 5010 and ICD-10. Visit their website: https://www.highmarkmedicareservices.com
Take advantage of available resources. There are many different resources offering valuable information to organizations looking to streamline their Version 5010 transition. Additionally, CMS offers several tools to help you plan and execute your transitions to Version 5010 and ICD-10. Visit their website: https://www.highmarkmedicareservices.com
- Insurance Companies that Discriminate Against Doctors of Chiropractic
- Third Party Discount Programs
- Unnecessary Retroactive-Reviews that are Costly to Doctors
- Professional DC Reviewers who Deny Care Without Supporting Documents and for no Good Reasons
- Unnecessary Utilization Reviews
- Limiting X-Rays
- Limited Care
- Unnecessary Paperwork
- Chiropractic Riders
- The Hassle-Factor: Restrictive Rules and Regulations that Inhibit Sound Clinical Care, Resulting in Problems for Patients and Doctors
- A Unified Chiropractic Profession
- ALL Philosophies of Chiropractice Care
- YOUR Patients
- Fair & Equitable Reimbursements
- Access to ALL Insurance Plans; No Closed Panels
- Access to Hospitals
- Quality Continuing Education Programs
- Legislative Protection of Act 188: Chiropractic Licensure Act
- Chiropractic Wellness
- Accurate Coding & Documentation
- ONE Place for ALL of Your Professional Needs
- YOUR Legal Rights
- YOU!
PCA Fights Against:
President John E. McCarrin, DC
PCA Strategic
Business Partners
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PCA Meeting
Calendar for 2012
PCA Board Meetings:
6/23-24; 9/15
Annual Convention:
6/22-24
Lancaster Marriott,
Penn Square
District Meetings
WHY WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE?
PCA SPONSORED CONTINUING EDUCATION CLASSES ARE FILLING UP, QUICKLY!
We offer classroom instruction, online webinars and online classes to fit your schedule.
Pennsylvania Chiropractic Association
(717) 232-5762 Fax (717) 232-8368
2010- 2012: Can Two Years REALLY Make a Difference?!!
Dr. John E. McCarrin, President
After nearly twenty four intensive months of reforms and changes, I am pleased to say that two years MADE an enormous difference in the lives of Pennsylvania Chiropractors and the patients we serve with such dedication. I say this in particular with less than two months to go before I complete my service as YOUR President, and a strong sense of pride as I look back on how much our PCA “family” demanded of us as leaders and how far PCA has come in a very, very short time.
As much as PCA’s Executive Committee, the Board of Directors, various committees and the current staff pushed aggressively for changes and reforms within PCA, I am still surprised by the depth and breadth of what YOUR PCA has accomplished on YOUR behalf. Don’t believe me? Then consider the following partial listing of examples:
1.Who’d have expected that within sixteen months, PCA could go from functionally bankrupt in the Fall of 2010 to a modest surplus at the end of 2011? YOU did and WE delivered.
Who’d have expected that within sixteen months, PCA could go from functionally bankrupt in the Fall of 2010 to a modest surplus at the end of 2011? YOU did and WE delivered.2.Who’d have expected that in less than a year, PCA’s web site would rapidly become THE “go-to” place for all things Chiropractic in the Keystone State, matched by ever-increasing use by members and constant quality, content and design improvements? YOU did and WE delivered.
Who’d have expected that in less than a year, PCA’s web site would rapidly become THE “go-to” place for all things Chiropractic in the Keystone State, matched by ever-increasing use by members and constant quality, content and design improvements? YOU did and WE delivered.3.Who’d have expected that two years ago PCA would have enthusiastically embraced a “conflict of interest policy and disclosure statement? YOU did and WE delivered.
Who’d have expected that two years ago PCA would have enthusiastically embraced a “conflict of interest policy and disclosure statement? YOU did and WE delivered.4.Who’d have expected in 2010 that PCA would play a leading role in pushing legislative and regulatory changes that address fundamental reforms in YOUR practice and benefit YOUR patients? YOU did and WE delivered.
Who’d have expected in 2010 that PCA would play a leading role in pushing legislative and regulatory changes that address fundamental reforms in YOUR practice and benefit YOUR patients? YOU did and WE delivered.5.Who’d have thought that two years ago, the Continuing Education programs, non-CE included, would have blossomed into major revenue generators for PCA members and non-members, resulting most recently in sell-outs of our re-launched Coding Institute, as well as our Annual Convention, “free CE” webinars, CCSP certification program, and many, many others? YOU did and WE delivered
Who’d have thought that two years ago, the Continuing Education programs, non-CE included, would have blossomed into major revenue generators for PCA members and non-members, resulting most recently in sell-outs of our re-launched Coding Institute, as well as our Annual Convention, “free CE” webinars, CCSP certification program, and many, many others? YOU did and WE deliveredYOU expected MUCH of those of us you elected to leadership positions and I am very proud to say that WE delivered. None of these reforms would have happened without a significant group effort from the PCA Board of Directors and especially PCA’s Executive Committee, as well as the PCA staff. These committed and effective professionals deserve both my sincere thanks and heartfelt apologies for occasionally pushing a bit too hard (!).
I want to especially thank people like Dr. Dan Schatzberg who help the make PCA run effectively and efficiently. Dan, who served as Chairman of the Board for nearly two long years, had to put up with me and my “zeal” for reforming PCA. Typically for Dan, he is a 24/7 doctor, ALWAYS available and responsive to me and PCA members, no matter what crazy idea I might want to run by him or my more than occasional late night “Dan, I have an idea…” phone calls. Dan provided a steady hand in managing Board meetings, yet could be an adamant pro-Chiropractic advocate when meeting with the Secretary of Labor & Industry on such issues as attempts by big business to force injured employees to stay “in-panel” and often without Chiropractic care for 180 outrageous days. Fortunately for PCA, Dan stepped up on that issue and made a difference for the better for ALL Pennsylvania Chiropractors.
Dr. Brian Tokach is another EC member deserving of credit. He served as our esteemed Vice President who also stepped up to do amazing heavy lifting with PCA’s Bylaws Committee- cleaning them up, clarifying often confusing language, interpreting them in often times intensely challenging discussions… Again, Brian was always there, was an excellent listener and a constant voice of reason. Perhaps most importantly, Brian was always pushing for PCA to grow and open-up, 24/7.
Dr. Christopher Cianci was PCA’s “money man” and his home’s “marathon man.” The two titles are interchangeable as far as I’m concerned. From bookkeeping to bank accounts, credit cards to audits, office supplies to building lease agreements, Chris completely reorganized what all agree was the “Rubik’s Cube” of financial record-keeping and accountability, many of PCA’s records incomplete or simply missing, for whatever reasons. During his intensive tenure as PCA’s Treasurer and occasionally in the midst of Chris’s equally intensive triathlon training sessions, Chris was always available to talk. Chris was responsive and always ready with a good idea for me to consider.
Dr. Eric Osterberg- a true professional. Eric walked into a new environment and as my vice president did one heck of a job. Eric was able to relieve a lot of the pressure for me by stepping up and taking on situations that needed immediate attention. Eric would give up days from both of his offices to travel to Harrisburg and meet with legislators to push our concerns. It's folks like Eric Osterberg who now have groups asking how they can work with the PCA. Eric helped bridge a long-standing gap with the Chiropractic Fellowship of PA and worked with Pennsylvania’s physical therapists so we could effectively collaborate on Senate Bill 1391 (Fairness in Co-Payment Act).
Dr. Casey Phillips has functioned quite effectively as my conscience, which will no doubt have Casey chuckling. Casey has taken his interim position as PCA Treasurer very seriously and is the person who makes sure that everyone is treated equally, regardless of the nature of their position or opinion. He is a true gentleman, always diplomatic and all-around good person who brings a clear sense of purpose to the table when you need to make sure that everyone’s input and opinion is included regarding PCA’s initiatives and direction, legislation and regulations as well.
Dr. Ray Benedetto is a man who never turns down a challenge and he serves as the PCA Board’s “doctor of record.” Quietly toiling away even in the most heated of Board meeting discussions, Ray takes all of the notes and writes the Board minutes, which is, to say the least, a daunting challenge with the many, often talkative personalities at the Board table. Even in the most controversial of exchanges, Ray is always calm and focused. And let me tell you, whether you are testifying in the IBC law suit or having a sit down with Pennsylvania’s Insurance Commissioner to discuss third party administrators, it always good to know you have level-headed people on your team.
So you see, my friends and colleagues, PCA is a “family” and all about people- YOU, me and many, many others- all who could see the raw potential of Chiropractic and were bold and courageous enough to take calculated risks in forever (I hope) reforming PCA’s “good ol’ boys club” and truly transforming PCA into a professional association that is led FOR Chiropractors and BY Chiropractors in the interests of Chiropractic and ALL the patients we serve every day. As dues-paying members of PCA, you should expect nothing less from your next leadership group: committed, inclusive, effective and fully-engaged, 24/7.
Thank you for an extraordinarily challenging opportunity to serve as YOUR President of PCA. I have been blessed by your constant encouragement, your consistent support for the aggressive changes we have implemented and your occasionally very well-pointed criticisms. I sincerely hope that in some personally meaningful way, this new PCA you see today is a tangible “return on your investment” as dues-paying members. My very best wishes to each and every one of YOU!
Respectfully Yours in Chiropractic,
John E. McCarrin, D.C.
PCA President, 2010-2012
PCA Fights For:
Choose
from over 40 hours of
CEs and over 10 Non-CEs
41 Exhibit spaces!
Patricia H. Vance
(717) 787-8524
pvance@pasen.gov
Joseph B. Scarnati
(717) 787-7084
jscarnati@pasen.gov
Michael J. Stack, III
(717) 787-9608
stack@pasenate.com
Lisa Boscola
(717) 787-4236
boscola@pasenate.com
Jim Brewster
(717) 787-5580
brewster@pasenate.com
Lawrence M. Farnese
(717) 787-5662
lfarnese@pasenate.com
Anthony H. Williams
(717) 787-5970
williams@pasenate.com
WHAT'S NEW!
- ACA/TeamCME Set to Certify DCs as Transportation Industry Medical Examiners (Members Only: WHAT'S NEW! Page)
- 2012 Medicare Fee Schedule MEMBERS ONLY
ANNOUNCEMENTS!
The Pennsylvania Chiropractic Association (PCA) proudly welcomes Allstate Business Insurance as a Strategic Business Partner. Read more. . .
