Advocacy: American Academy of Ophthalmology

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Congress Joins Call for Retroactive Remedy to CMS Avastin Misstep

Earlier this year, CMS created a new reimbursement code (Q2024) for physicians who use smaller doses of Bevacizumab (Avastin) to treat AMD. We were pleased to learn that CMS recognized that its billing changes for smaller doses of the drug had unintended consequences, and has decided to permit ophthalmologists to revert back to use of the previous reimbursement code that correctly takes into account the compounding costs of smaller doses of Avastin. Unfortunately, CMS' solution is not scheduled to be implemented until Jan. 1, 2010, and will not correct the huge impact its initial decision has already had. In the interest of AMD patients, the Academy, the American Society of Retina Specialists, the Macula Society and the Retina Society are enlisting Congress’ participation to urge CMS to apply the correction retroactively, to Oct. 1.

Health Reform Update
The latest on the bills in the House and the Senate and the objectives the Academy is fighting for.

2010 Fee Schedule
CMS' 2010 Medicare Fee Schedule Rule boosts ophthalmology payments.

‘Red Flags’ Rule Update

FTC Delays Enforcement of Identity-Theft Rule Until June 1

In response to Congressional pressure, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced Oct. 30 that enforcement of its “Red Flags” rule has been postponed until June 1, 2010. The rule, which requires creditors of covered accounts to establish a program that can detect, prevent and mitigate identity theft, was scheduled to take effect Nov. 1. The Academy continues to protest the FTC’s interpretation that physicians are to be considered creditors under the rule and will try to mitigate its burden on physician practices. The FTC has created a Web site dedicated specifically to the rule and its implementation. The Academy has also compiled resources for practices, including a guidance document and sample policies.

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