New Guidances Issued on PPACA Over the Counter Rx Reimbursements and Mini-Med Plan Waivers

September 4, 2010
Source: NAHU or National Association of Health Underwriters
In early September 2010, the Internal Revenue Service and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released updated guidance on two important provisions of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) affecting consumer and employer benefits.
1) IRS Guidance on 2011 Changes to OTC Drug [...]

Two Tiered Medical Care for Haves and Have Nots – As doctors leave the system, patients scramble to find care

By Adam Graham-Silverman, The Fiscal Times
Not long after Cynthia Thek gave birth, her gynecologist opened a new practice in Englewood, N.J. Gone was the traditional waiting room, replaced by a reception area with spa-like ambience. Instead of a hospital gown, patients got a plush bathrobe. “It’s a beautiful space. The staff is superfriendly. You don’t [...]

CMS intends to streamline PECOS enrollment process

July 02, 2010 | Richard Pizzi, Editor Healthcare Finance News

WASHINGTON – The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services plans to work with providers to address concerns about enrollment in Medicare’s Provider Enrollment, Chain and Ownership System.
PECOS is the electronic system used to enroll physicians and eligible professionals into the Medicare program.
As part of that effort, CMS [...]

Health care reform laws prompt surge in ‘concierge medicine’

by Janet St. James, WFAA.com
SOUTHLAKE — Few physicians can dedicate the time and attention to patients that Marcus Welby MD famously did in that 1970s television series.
Dr. Robin Hall in Southlake does.
She’s part of a booming health trend called concierge care.
In soothing spa-like surroundings, Dr. Hall provides medical care 24-7, house calls, same-day appointments at [...]

Opting Out of the Third Party System Will Save The Doctor-Patient Relationship

Post by: Richard Amerling, MD
Now that the Senate version of ObamaCare has become the law of the land, we need strategies to safeguard the doctor-patient relationship from government intrusion.   The most effective approach is for both patients and physicians to opt out of the third party payment system.
From the patients’ perspective, opting out makes sense.  [...]