09/20/2023

Ohio Legislature Returns for the Fall: What’s on OSMA’s Agenda?

September 20, 2023 – Along with monitoring dozens of pieces of legislation so far this year, there are several items we will be focusing our advocacy efforts on heading into late September, October, and beyond.

09/19/2023

Regulatory & State Medical Board of Ohio Update

September 19, 2023 – The State Medical Board of Ohio (SMBO) has been working extensively to revise the regulatory structure for physicians in need of help with substance abuse, a mental health condition, or a physical impairment. Additionally, get an update on the Federal "No Surprises Act."

09/14/2023

National Physician Suicide Awareness Information

September 14, 2023 – OSMA is partnering with Disappearing Doctors to cohost an event The Disposables—an original collection of portraits honoring the 400+ physicians who die by suicide each year. The Disposables—created by artist Jeremy Rosario—depicts handcrafted portraits made from donated disposable medical supplies from doctors’ workplaces. The portraits will be on display for public viewing at the COhatch The Gateway starting on Monday Sept. 18 through Oct. 20.

09/05/2023

Health Insurance Coverage for your Practice

September 5, 2023 – One of the biggest costs facing employers today continues to be health insurance coverage for their employees. Costs are rising and coverage continues to change year to year...

09/05/2023

Noncomplaint Patients Increase Liability Risks for Practitioners

September 5, 2023 – The Doctors Company, outlines a number of patient safety strategies to manage noncompliant patients.

08/24/2023

2024 OSMA Annual Meeting – Key Dates & Deadlines

August 24, 2023 – OSMA's Annual Meeting will take place April 5-7, 2024 at the Renaissance Polaris Hotel in Columbus. We look forward to seeing everyone—and in the meantime, here is what to plan for...

08/23/2023

CMS Seeking Comments on Quality Payment Program in 2024 Physician Fee Schedule Changes

August 23, 2023 – Provide your feedback on the proposed changes to the Quality Payment Program by September 11. CMS recently sent out the following request to all physicians...

08/17/2023

Save these Dates to Connect with OSMA's Leadership Team

August 17, 2023 – Join our live updates on the following dates for a brief audio interaction on how your OSMA team is working to advance important state legislative and regulatory issues that protect you and your patients.

08/17/2023

OSMA Collaborates to Reform Medicare’s Payment System

August 17, 2023 – OSMA has joined with the AMA and other state and national medical association to reform Medicare’s broken physician payment system. The AMA sent the below alert to physicians across the country to contact members of congress when their home for the August recess. We encourage all OSMA members to contact congress and stress the importance of fixing Medicare now.

08/08/2023

Meet OSMA Foundation Summer Scholar, Adriane Weininger

Aug 8, 2023 – Adriane is working at the VA hospital in Columbus on a quality improvement project to identify gaps in behavioral health and find ways to minimize them—as well as also trying to identify why there are missed opportunities (no-shows) and if there is an overarching reason behind it.

08/04/2023

CMS Announces New Dementia Model

August 4, 2023 – On July 31, CMS made the following announcement regarding a new dementia model.

08/04/2023

OSMA Advocacy Priorities for Physician & Patient Mental Health Passed in Ohio Budget

August 4, 2023 – During the spring state budget process, OSMA advocated for funding to secure the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in Ohio, and changes to how to better protect physicians' personal data on the medical board's website.

08/02/2023

Young Physician Section: Your Input Needed!

August 2, 2023 – The Young Physician Section (YPS) of OSMA would like YPS member thoughts on starting a series of informal virtual gatherings to address a variety of issues of importance to you in support of your professional and personal life. These will be private virtual meetings open only to OSMA YPS members.

08/02/2023

OSMA Advocacy Delivers: Medicaid Physician Fee Schedule Increase Coming in 2024

August 2, 2023 – During the spring state budget process, OSMA advocated for an increase in the Medicaid physician fee schedule. The final passed and signed version included language for a 5% increase.

08/01/2023

Dealing With Online Patient Complaints

August 1, 2023 – Clinicians are understandably concerned about their reputations and the consequences of any negative comments posted about them on social media platforms. Although the web can be a powerful tool for healthcare practices, it becomes problematic when patients post unfavorable opinions.

08/01/2023

Meet OSMA Foundation Summer Scholar, Connor Riegal

Aug 1, 2023 – Connor is pursuing internship opportunity at Stanford University in the Brain Stimulation Lab to conduct research focused on novel approaches to treat psychiatric illness using deep brain stimulation as well as using neuroimaging to find predictive markets for the prognosis of these conditions.

07/26/2023

Meet OSMA Foundation Summer Scholar, Michaela Stamper

July 26, 2023 – Michaela is working to conduct interviews of relevant stakeholders across the Northeast Ohio community to do an in-depth analysis of the current state of minority community needs and access to care and resources.

07/25/2023

Regulatory/Medical Board Update

July 25, 2023 – The State Medical Board of Ohio met on Wednesday, July 12—updating the list of conditions treatable with medical marijuana to 26, and amending license application questions to align with nationally recognized mental health practices for physicians.

07/25/2023

2024 Proposed Medicare Physician Payment Schedule

July 25, 2023 – Earlier this month, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released the proposed rule for the calendar year (CY) 2024 Medicare Physician Payment Schedule. Our advocacy partners at the national level, the American Medical Association (AMA), provided the following overview of key provisions.

07/24/2023

National Study to Document Changes in Physician Practice Expense—Your Input is Needed

July 24, 2023 – The American Medical Association (AMA) is undertaking a new national study, supported by 173 healthcare organizations, (including the OSMA) to collect representative data on physician practice expenses. The aim of the Physician Practice Information (PPI) Survey is to better understand the costs faced by today’s physician practices to support physician payment advocacy.

07/20/2023

Monthly Advocacy Update from Monica Hueckel

July 20, 2023 – Hear firsthand from OSMA's advocacy leadership on current issues we're working on in the legislative space, including state budget wins for physicians and the practice of medicine, insurance and prior auth issues, public health topics, and some recent scope of practice activity.

07/13/2023

Are Insurance Companies Paying You Correctly?—OSMA Can Help

July 13, 2023 – You have analyzed your contracts, negotiated with the payers, and set new rates. Your job may look finished, but the fun is just starting! Short of reviewing every EOB and ERA, how can you ensure that the new rates are loaded correctly and that procedures are paid appropriately? What are medical practices nationwide doing to confirm that claims are being paid according to contract? What about multiple procedure discounts, modifiers, different rates for different specialties, and other contracting nuances? Should you take a different approach to underpayments vs. denials?

07/12/2023

Provider Funding Available for Patient Nicotine Cessation Efforts

July 12, 2023 – New funding is available for health, medical, behavioral health, and dental providers to help them develop or improve their patient nicotine cessation policies, procedures, and practices through the Ohio Department of Health Tobacco Use Prevention and Cessation Program (TUPCP). Up to $5,100 is available based on the completion of several deliverables.

07/11/2023

Meet OSMA Foundation Summer Scholar, Aditya Mistry

July 11, 2023 – Aditya's research focuses on social determinants of health for PSA screening of individuals with prostate cancer, and analyzing surgical intervention vs. conservational management of large Staghorn kidney stones.

07/05/2023

State Budget Bill Passed, Signed by Governor

OSMA Champions New Medicaid Physician Payment Increase Included in Budget Legislation

July 5, 2023 – This spring, the Ohio Legislature embarked on the biennial state budget process, tasked with passing legislation creating the budget for fiscal years 2024-2025. The Ohio State Medical Association (OSMA)’s Government Relations team engaged with legislators on many health care budget items from the start, when the governor’s initial proposal for the budget was released.

06/28/2023

Meet OSMA Foundation Summer Scholar, Ethan Kosco

June 28, 2023 – Ethan is pursuing an orthopedic spine surgery internship at the Harvard University Medical School Brigham and Women’s Hospital, applying knowledge of regenerative medicine, learning research skills in the stem cell vertebral disc degeneration lab, and observing how research is translated in the operating room.

06/27/2023

IMG Member Spotlight with John A. Sharma, MD

June 27, 2023 – OSMA is proud to be launching the International Medical Graduate (IMG) Section. Recognizing that physicians representing international medical schools bring a wealth of diversity and are a vital part of Ohio’s physician community.

06/27/2023

IMG Member Spotlight with Mohammed M. A. Hakim, MD

June 27, 2023 – OSMA is proud to be launching the International Medical Graduate (IMG) Section. Recognizing that physicians representing international medical schools bring a wealth of diversity and are a vital part of Ohio’s physician community.

06/22/2023

Meet OSMA Foundation Summer Scholar, Sydney Bitting

June 22, 2023 – My summer internship involves research in my interestes of neurology and PM&R. In addition to this research, I am working on a hematology-oncology case report through Akron Children's Hospital and am volunteering at the Akron Rotary Camp that supports children with disabilities.

06/21/2023

AMA Annual Meeting Recap – Ohio Well Represented by OSMA Members

June 21, 2023 – Earlier this month the American Medical Association (AMA) held its annual meeting in Chicago. The OSMA Delegation was extremely active in the policy making process.

06/20/2023

IMG Member Spotlight with Rajpal S. Aujla, MD

June 20, 2023 – OSMA is proud to be launching the International Medical Graduate (IMG) Section. Recognizing that physicians representing international medical schools bring a wealth of diversity and are a vital part of Ohio’s physician community.

06/19/2023

You Did It! We've Reached Our Spring Fundraising Goal

June 19, 2023 - Thanks to your generosity, our goal of raising $20,000 by June has been met—continuing our dedication to Fueling Physician Futures!

06/15/2023

OSMA Provides Key Supportive Testimony for Ohio Prior Authorization “Gold Card” Bill

June 15, 2023 – HB 130 was introduced in the Ohio House in March by Rep. Kevin Miller (R-Newark), and is one of OSMA’s major legislative advocacy priorities this year. The bill, if enacted, would create an exemption system that rewards Ohio healthcare providers who consistently receive a prior authorization approval rate of 80% or more for a specific service, device, or drug in the prior 12-month period.

06/14/2023

OSMA Supports AMA “Fix Medicare Now” Initiative

June 14, 2023 – In addition to reforming prior authorization at the state and federal level, OSMA joins the AMA and organized medicine across the country to fix major flaws in the Medicare physician fee schedule.

06/14/2023

Meet OSMA Foundation Summer Scholar, Trent James

June 14, 2023 – My summer internship involves research on alveolar clefts in the Plastic Surgery Department of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and Medical Center.

06/06/2023

Medicare & Medicaid Updates—Registration is Open!

June 6, 2023 – Join us for OSMA's annual Medicare & Medicaid Updates with tips, policies and resources—keeping you in compliance, and helping to get your claims paid in a timely, appropriate way. Payer rules and policies are constantly changing!

06/06/2023

New MATE Act's 8-Hour Training Requirements

June 6, 2023 – The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) released materials in March 2023 related to the new Medication Access and Training Expansion (MATE) Act. The Act requires new or renewing DEA licensees, as of June 27, 2023, to have completed a total of at least eight hours of training on opioid or other substance use disorders and the appropriate treatment of pain.

06/05/2023

Meet OSMA Foundation Summer Scholar, Elizabeth Abrams

June 5, 2023 – My summer internship is a research project through Ohio State University College of Medicine, with the Department of Emergency Medicine.

06/01/2023

A Focus on Men's Health Month—Q&A with Eric Drobny, MD

June 1, 2023 – Men’s Health Month is in June. Why do you think it’s important to recognize Men’s Health Month and put an emphasis on this area? 

05/31/2023

Post Public Health Emergency FAQ

May 31, 2022 – The COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) ended on May 11, 2023, which changes many federal policies established during the pandemic. OSMA is working to keep members updated as guidance is available.

05/31/2023

Cigna Update to Modifier 25 Policy

May 31, 2022 – Cigna has updated its modifier 25 policy to announce a delay in implementing the required submission of documentation to support the use of modifier 25 when billed with E/M CPT codes 99212 – 99215 and a minor procedure.

05/30/2023

Introducing our 2023 Summer Scholars Recipients!

May 30, 2023 - Thanks to your generosity, we are thrilled to introduce the 2023 cohort of OSMA Foundation Summer Scholars scholarship recipients! Look for more in-depth profiles of each of these Summer Scholars throughout June and July. The future of medicine is certainly bright.

05/25/2023

Take Action: Contact Congress to Fix Prior Authorization

May 25, 2023 – In addition to our efforts at the state level with HB 130, OSMA is also involved with our national and state partners to reform prior authorization practices in Medicare Advantage plans.

05/25/2023

Introducing OSMA’s New President: A Q&A with Eric Drobny, MD

May 23, 2023 – We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Drobny as our new President, and we thank Dr. Brian Santin who tactfully completed his term. Read on to learn more about Dr. Drobny, his medical career, and his vision for leading OSMA.

05/24/2023

Medical Liability Claim Frequency Study

May 24, 2023 – A new analysis from the American Medical Association (AMA) finds the possibility of being sued during a career in medicine is very real for most doctors, which is notable given that most claims end with no finding of negligence or error.

05/17/2023

OSMA Spring Legislative Update

May 17, 2023 - The OSMA government relations team continues activity related to the state budget bill, which recently passed out of the Ohio House and is now in hearings in the Ohio Senate Finance Committee. As summer approaches, OSMA has been involved in advocacy efforts regarding several pieces of legislation in the last few weeks.

05/16/2023

Public Health Emergency Ends

May 16, 2023 - On Thursday, May 11, 2023, the federally declared Public Health Emergency (PHE) ended. As many flexibilities for physicians and practices were provided by federal regulatory agencies during the PHE, it is important to know which, if any, of those flexibilities will be going away.

05/09/2023

Volunteer Opportunities with OSMA—We Need Your Input!

May 9, 2023 - After our annual meeting, we reach out to members looking for volunteers to participate in key organizational initiatives. This year, we’re hoping you will consider volunteering for one of the following committees...

05/08/2023

COVID-19 Vaccine Expiration Reminder

May 8, 2023 - This week, the Ohio Department of Health sent out a reminder to providers of COVID-19 vaccines about recent expiration awareness. NOTE: All remaining doses of Johnson & Johnson (J&J)/Janssen COVID-19 vaccine expired on Saturday, May 6, 2023. 

05/08/2023

Curbside Consultations: Patient Safety and Legal Risks

May 8, 2023 – Informal, or “curbside,” consultations among healthcare practitioners represent an important part of clinical practice and help to promote a collegial relationship in both the clinic and hospital settings.

05/04/2023

Medicare Annual Visits: How to make them work in your office

May 4, 2023 - Medicare annual wellness visits provide an important opportunity to promote health and to provide disease screening and advance care planning with patients who have Medicare. However, billing for the wrong visit or at the wrong time can result in denied claims.

05/04/2023

Tort Reform in Ohio: 20-Year Anniversary Reflections

May 4, 2023 – OSMA Exclusive Partner, The Doctors Company (TDC) CEO and Chairman, Dr. Richard Anderson reflects on the history of tort reform in Ohio.

05/03/2023

Are Employee Health Insurance Costs Giving You a Headache?

May 3, 2023 – OSMA can help. According to a recent survey of 1,000 employers by Forbes Advisor, employer-sponsored health coverage is the most important benefit to employees in 2023. Yet one of the biggest costs facing employers today continues to be health insurance coverage for employees.

05/03/2023

United Healthcare to Reduce Prior Authorizations

May 3, 2023 - OSMA's continued focus at the state and federal level is starting to result in individual plans announcing revisions to prior authorization practices. We’re also supporting HB 130 in Ohio that creates a prior authorization gold card and we anticipate additional legislation in Ohio related to prior authorization and billing later this year.

05/03/2023

Updates to Coverage for COVID-19 Tests

May 3, 2023 - The ending of the Public Health Emergency may impact an individual’s coverage of COVID-19 tests. CMS is encouraging that you know these changes and share the New Consumer Fact Sheet on COVID-19 tests.

04/27/2023

OSMA Advocates for Medicare Physician Payment Changes

April 27, 2023 – OSMA has joined with more than 120 other state and national medical societies communicating our support to the sponsors of H.R. 2474—the Strengthening Medicare for Patients and Providers Act.

04/25/2023

Advocacy Update on Non-Compete Proposed Rule 

April 25, 2023 – In January of this year, the Federal Trade Commission issued notice of a proposed rule which would prohibit non-compete agreements between nearly every employee/employer under the FTC’s jurisdiction, including physician employment agreements.

04/24/2023

Webinars to Help Prepare for the End of the Public Health Emergency

April 24, 2023 - On May 11, 2023, the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) is set to expire. Healthcare providers continue to implement COVID protocols and navigate the ever-changing healthcare regulations at both the federal and state levels, therefore it is important to take time to prepare for the ending of the Public Health Emergency (PHE). Here are some webinars to help you plan...

04/24/2023

OSMA/National Response to Cigna's Re-release of Modifier 25 Policy

April 24, 2023 – Cigna is re-releasing its policy to require the submission of medical records with all Evaluation and Management (E/M) claims with CPT 99212-99215 and modifier 25 when a minor procedure is billed. Last week, OSMA joined the AMA and almost 100 other state and national medical/specialty societies in a collective letter urging Cigna to reconsider this policy.

04/20/2023

OSMA Reaffirms Support for Individuals Impacted by the East Palestine Train Derailment

Continued health, financial and educational support for East Palestine, plus continued testing, discussed by OSMA physician leaders at organization’s Annual Meeting held April 15-16.

04/19/2023

Medical Student Abstract Poster Competition

New this year as part of the OSMA annual meeting, medical students were invited to submit an abstract for poster presentation. This was an excellent opportunity for students to become involved in the OSMA Annual Meeting and to enhance their reputation both within and outside their institution – and to network with physicians about policy, research, career interests and more.

04/19/2023

Training Opportunities for New DEA License Requirements

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) released materials in March 2023 related to the new Medication Access and Training Expansion (MATE) Act. The Act requires new or renewing DEA licensees, as of June 27, 2023, to have completed a total of at least eight hours of training on opioid or other substance use disorders and the appropriate treatment of pain.

04/11/2023

CMS Issues Final Rule Reforming Parts of Prior Authorization Requirements

April 11, 2023 – The rule creates enforcement provisions for misleading marketing schemes, removes barriers to care created by complex coverage criteria, and expands access to behavioral health care. OSMA joined with the American Medical Association in supporting these needed reforms.

04/04/2023

Interprofessional Consultants & Alternative Delivery Methods for Care

April 4, 2023 – CMS has changed the way health care is considered and paid not only by Medicare but many commercial insurance plans. Part of this change is the mandated requirement for Medicaid to cover many of these services as part of the standardization in health care delivery and reimbursement. More and more health care is provided in non- traditional ways.

04/04/2023

ODH Bureau of Vital Statistics to Replace Birth and Death Electronic Reporting Systems

April 3, 2023 – The Ohio Department of Administrative Services has posted a Request for Proposals for a vendor to replace both systems. A vendor should be selected by July. It is anticipated that the EDRS death module will be replaced first in 2024, followed by the IPHIS birth module thereafter.

04/04/2023

Remote Patient Monitoring: Considerations for Telehealth Care

April 3, 2023 – Prior to the pandemic, practitioner concerns over how to conduct a physical examination during a virtual visit created a significant barrier to telehealth. Thanks to appropriate telehealth use guidelines and technological advances, important components of an in-office visit, such as vital signs and point-of-care testing, are now becoming an in-home reality with remote patient monitoring.

03/30/2023

We Need Your Help to Make the Prior Authorization Gold Card a Reality in Ohio!

March 30, 2023 – This is an important time for healthcare in the Ohio legislature, as House Bill 130 was introduced—which, if passed, will create a Prior Authorization Gold Card Program for Ohio providers. Get involved and help us drive meaningful change in the insurance industry.

03/30/2023

Prior Authorization Gold Card Legislation Introduced in Ohio House

March 30, 2023 – Proposed HB 130 would ease regulatory burdens of prior authorization, improve healthcare system and outcomes for patients. 

03/26/2023

Member Q&A with Jay Williamson, MD

March 26, 2023 – OSMA member leaders work tirelessly on behalf of our members to ensure OSMA is meeting the needs of physicians and responding to the ever-changing healthcare landscape. We’d like to spotlight Dr. Jay Williamson.

03/23/2023

OSMA Comments on Federal Prior Authorization Rules

March 23, 2023 – Prior Authorization reform is OSMA’s top advocacy issue in 2023 and 2024. In addition to advocating for major legislative reforms at the state level that will impact commercial and Medicaid plans, we have also been involved in initiatives at the federal level that will impact Medicare advantage plans.

03/21/2023

Women's History Month: What being a female physician means to Dr. Lisa Egbert

March 21, 2023 – March is Women’s History Month, and there are countless women trailblazers in medicine to celebrate. Women like Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell, the first female doctor in the U.S.; Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler, the first Black woman doctor; Dr. Virginia Apgar, the physician who developed the Apgar score; and Dr. Gerty Cori, the first woman to win the Nobel Prize in medicine. OSMA is proud of the strides made by women in medicine.

03/16/2023

MIPS Value Pathways – Newest Reporting Option for 2023

March 16, 2023 – Starting this year, your practice now has a third option for the Merit Based Incentive Payment System Reporting (MIPS).

03/15/2023

Key Factors in a Deposition: What Healthcare Professionals Can Expect

March 15, 2023 – Depositions are conducted under oath in a verbal question-and-answer format by counsel for all of the parties to the proceeding. Although the deponent (that is, the person being questioned) is often a participant to the legal action, more commonly the individual has specific—and possibly unique—knowledge relevant to the case.

03/06/2023

Medical Board Issues Clinical Guidance on East Palestine Train Derailment Clean Up

March 6, 2023 – Earlier this week the State Medical Board of Ohio issued guidance for all physicians and healthcare workers in the region around East Palestine. If you practice in the region or know someone that does, please be sure to review and share this.

03/06/2023

The OSMA Business Credit Card: Helping Members Achieve & Maintain Financial Success

March 6, 2023 – As part of its commitment to supporting the financial success of its members, OSMA has partnered with Mercantile Technologies to create the OSMA Business Credit Card, a credit card built specifically for OSMA members.

03/05/2023

Ohio Department of Medicaid Updates on Next Generation Program Transition

March 5, 2023 – As we have been informing members since late last year, the Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) transitioned significant parts of its programming on Feb. 1 – this included a new electronic data exchange and fiscal intermediary as well as some new managed care organizations. ODM has provided this update on some key elements of the program and some issues that are currently being resolved.

03/04/2023

Lessons in Preventing Button Battery Injuries

March 4, 2023 – According to a study published in Pediatrics, it is estimated that between 2010 and 2019, more than 70,000 emergency department (ED) visits in the United States were battery related among children under 18 years old.

03/02/2023

OSMA Needs Your Help—New Prior Authorization Legislation to Be Introduced

March 2, 2023 – The goal of this legislation, which will be sponsored by Rep. Kevin Miller (R-Newark), is to create a “gold card” system for prior authorization, giving physicians a way to “earn” their way out of prior authorization requirements by demonstrating a high prior authorization success rate. Similar legislation was recently passed and enacted in the state of Texas.

03/01/2023

Summary of New ODM Initiatives Launched February 1

March 1, 2023 – One month ago Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) launched the Next Generation managed care plans, new Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), and Fiscal Intermediary (FI). These initiatives provide an enhanced and personalized healthcare experience for ODM members with more transparency and visibility of care and services for providers. Here are some reminders...

02/21/2023

Student Member Q&A with David Warner

February 21, 2023 – OSMA member leaders work tirelessly on behalf of our members to ensure OSMA is meeting the needs of physicians and responding to the ever-changing healthcare landscape. We’d like to spotlight a student member, David Warner.

02/20/2023

Public Health Emergency Expiration—Reminders

February 20, 2023 – It has been announced that the PHE will be extended through May 11, at which point it will permanently expire, marking the end of PHE extensions. Because the PHE has been in place for nearly three years, it can be difficult to remember which rules existed before then, and which have been temporary. Here are a few highlights of what is expected to change.

02/16/2023

OSMA Physicians & Staff Advocate for Medicare Funding & Prior Authorization Reform in D.C.

February 16, 2023 – Several OSMA physicians joined your OSMA Government Relations team in D.C. to participate in the American Medical Association’s National Advocacy Conference (NAC).

02/16/2023

Ohio’s New Telehealth Rules Effective Feb. 28—What to Know

February 16, 2023 – Physicians across Ohio have continued to embrace remote healthcare services. After a lengthy rule promulgation process, including our member feedback and input from OSMA, the Board has finalized new telehealth rules, which will become effective this month.

02/15/2023

OSMA Joins National Effort to Reform Prior Authorization in Medicare Advantage Plans

February 15, 2023 – While we focus on prior authorization reform in Ohio that will impact commercial and Medicaid plans, Medicare Advantage plans are regulated federally and therefore reforms must occur through congressional legislative action or rulemaking by CMS. In the letter, we urged CMS to focus on the following...

02/09/2023

Interstate Licensure for Telehealth Can Fuel Practice Growth

February 9, 2023 – When using telehealth to treat patients out of state, most healthcare professionals are mindful about licensure issues. But some are not aware that practicing without a license in a given state is not just malpractice, it is a criminal offense.

02/02/2023

Your Chance to Impact Future MIPS Quality & Cost Measure

February 2, 2023 – CMS Just announced the open period to submit new quality and cost measures to be used in future year MIPS measurement. The process allows clinicians, professional associations, medical societies that represent clinicians, researchers, consumer groups, and others to identify and submit measures by May 19, 2023.

02/02/2023

Healthcare Staffing Shortages: Decrease Practice Risks

February 2, 2023 – With increasing regularity, staffing shortages have adversely impacted the delivery of healthcare and the availability of diagnostic and therapeutic resources. The ongoing scarcity of employees negatively influences the quality and depth of many primary and support roles at every level throughout the healthcare workforce—including physicians, dentists, advanced practice clinicians, allied health professionals, practice assistants, and front- and back-office specialists.

02/01/2023

Don’t Forget Wellness Visits: Components & Documentation Requirements

February 1, 2023 – Medicare covers annual wellness visits (AWVs) that provide important opportunities for health care providers to assess health risks and help patients plan for Medicare preventive services (e.g., vaccinations and screenings for illnesses like cancer or diabetes), which can greatly reduce those risks.

02/01/2023

Free Health Information Training & Certification

February 1, 2023 – Through Professional Association of Health Care Office Management’s (PAHCOM) partnership with CommHIT, PAHCOM is able to provide FREE HIT training to current and aspiring practice managers through a U.S. Department of Labor grant dedicated to expanding the technology workforce nationally.

01/26/2023

OSMA's Top Advocacy Priorities for 2023

January 26, 2023 – We anticipate several familiar issues to remain major OSMA advocacy priorities this year, and are always monitoring the legislative and regulatory spaces for new and emerging topics that arise throughout the year. Here’s our current advocacy forecast...

01/25/2023

Reminder: Medicaid New Programming Launches Feb. 1

January 25, 2023 – Over the last several months, OSMA has provided information to members related to major program changes to the Ohio Medicaid program starting Feb. 1. Ohio Medicaid has provided a one-page overview document for practices to ensure you’re aware of the changes and what you need to do to prepare.

01/25/2023

FTC Releases Draft Rule Regarding Non-Compete Agreements

January 25, 2023 – The rule applies to all existing and future non-compete agreements between employers and employees. It also includes non-competes with independent contractors. It would nullify nearly every non-compete agreement for our physician owned practices and prohibit those going forward.

01/23/2023

Cervical Health Awareness Month—OSMA Experts Share Insights

January 23, 2023 – January is Cervical Health Awareness month, so we asked three OSMA member and experts on women’s health to share their insights on the importance of vaccination, regular screenings and other methods of prevention and care.

01/22/2023

Member Q&A with Christopher Brown, MD

January 22, 2023

01/11/2023

Familiarize with OSMA's Strategic Plan (2023-2025)

January 11, 2023 – The OSMA Council (Board of Directors) met in the summer and again in the fall to update the organization’s three-year strategic plan. Leadership approved five main issues areas to guide the organization’s work the next three years.

01/11/2023

Flu, RSV, or COVID-19? Convergence of Three Viruses Creates Risk of Diagnostic Errors

January 11, 2023 – Understanding the differences between the flu, RSV, and COVID-19 will help prevent misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis when patients present with respiratory symptoms. Learn more from TDC's latest article.

01/03/2023

Important ODM Resources for Feb. 1 Programming Launch

January 3, 2023 – ODM released the following announcement regarding resources for the February 1 launch—including FAQs, training schedule, and the top 8 things to know.

01/02/2023

HHS Proposes to Standardize Electronic Health Care Attachments Transactions & Electronic Signature Process

January 2, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services released the following information on Dec. 19 along with a fact sheet and full press release.

12/21/2022

OSMA Joins Public Health Advocates Urging the Governor to Veto H.B. 513

December 21, 2022 – H.B. 513 passed in the Ohio legislature last week, which would remove all local control over tobacco policies including implementing local tobacco retail licensure programs, conducting local compliance to ensure retailers are not selling to kids, and furthering policies to end the sale of flavored tobacco products.

12/20/2022

A Time to Give Thanks—OSMA CEO's Closing Point on 2022

December 20, 2022 – During this holiday season, hopefully you have been able or will be enjoying time with family and friends. As I reflect back on 2022, I am proud of the organization’s focus and dedication to the profession and all individual physicians in Ohio.

12/20/2022

Medicaid Announces Start Date for New Fiscal Intermediary—What to Know

December 20, 2022 – After announcing earlier this month the delay of the transition to new Medicaid Managed Care Organization (MCOs) until Feb. 1, the Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) has now announced the same start date for the new Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) and Fiscal intermediary (FI). ODM released the following information earlier this week.

12/19/2022

Future of Medicine—Care Management Technology

December 19, 2022 – OSMA continues to monitor new technology and regulations that assist with patient care management. We anticipate the new Ohio telemedicine regulations to be finalized early in 2023 and will update members when they are finalized. Additionally, we are working with vendors to highlight different technologies available to practices and patients. This month we are highlighting DrFirst...

12/18/2022

Reminder: 2022 MIPS Extreme & Uncontrollable Circumstances Exception Applications

December 18, 2022 – The American Medical Association (AMA) sent OSMA the following communication to remind members about an important MIPS deadline and advocacy efforts to extend opportunities for filing.

12/15/2022

Lame Duck Legislative Update

December 15, 2022 – OSMA is proud to represent you and advocate on your behalf. Your OSMA Advocacy team has experienced a whirlwind of activity at the Statehouse after the election, and has been carefully monitoring what has happened during the lame duck legislative session.

12/15/2022

OSMA Continues Advocacy Push to Avert 4.5% Cut to the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule

December 15, 2022 – Last week, OSMA joined the AMA—and every other state medical society in the country—signing a letter to Congress urging them to take action before the end of the year to avert the projected 4.5% cut to the 2023 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule.

12/13/2022

Recent Legal Actions to Note

December 13, 2022 – OSMA joined the Ohio Hospital Association in filing an amicus brief in the Ohio Supreme Court to support the decision of Ohio’s 10th District Court of Appeals that when a medical malpractice claim is barred by Ohio’s statute of repose, that any loss of consortium claim arising out of that malpractice claim is also barred.

12/13/2022

Student Member/Leader Q&A with Jass Kaur

December 13, 2022

12/06/2022

2023 Annual Meeting Details

December 6, 2023 – Plan to attend from Friday, April 14 through Sunday, April 16 at the Renaissance Columbus Westerville-Polaris Hotel.

12/06/2022

Members: Feature Your Practice on OSMA Social Media!

December 6, 2023 – If you or your practice would like to be featured on our Facebook and Twitter pages, simply provide OSMA with the following

11/29/2022

Mapping the Perioperative Claims Experience of General Surgeons

November 29, 2022 – Understanding the most common types of complications and the factors that contribute to errors may provide insights for general surgeons about their practice.

11/29/2022

Update from Our Summer Scholar, Megan Sharpe

November 29, 2022 - The Foundation is receiving updates from our 2022 Summer Scholars recipients regarding their progress, their internship experiences, and reflections on what is next in their medical career journey. See what Megan Sharpe is up to!

11/22/2022

Council Q&A with Drs. Bernadette Anderson & Anubhav Mital

November 22, 2022

11/15/2022

What Not to Do: Telehealth Lessons Learned

November 15, 2022 – The rising adoption of telehealth has highlighted the myriad challenges it presents to patients, providers, and healthcare systems. Learn more with TDC's video series.

11/14/2022

Ohio Medicaid Announces Delay in Launch of Fiscal Intermediary & New Managed Care Plans

November 14, 2022 – We have been updating members since early this year regarding major transitions in the administration of the Medicaid program in Ohio. While the Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) has moved forward with implementation of OhioRISE, Single Pharmacy Benefit Manager (SPBM) and Centralized Credentialing, there are now delays in other transitions originally scheduled to take place on Dec. 1.

11/14/2022

Staff Spotlight: A Q&A with Sean McCullough, Director, Policy & Legal Counsel

November 14, 2022 – Our OSMA staff works tirelessly on behalf of our members to ensure OSMA is meeting the needs of physicians and responding to the ever-changing healthcare landscape.

11/10/2022

OSMA’s 2022 Midterm General Election Recap

November 10, 2022 – After a whirlwind midterm election day, millions of Ohio voters have made their voices heard. Overall, the candidates endorsed by the Ohio State Medical Association Political Action Committee (OSMAPAC) prevailed in the majority of races for various statewide offices. Ohio also set a record as far as early and absentee voting in a midterm election - a total of 1,392,767 votes were cast through either in-person early voting or returned absentee ballots as of the end of early voting on Monday.

11/10/2022

OSMA Joins AMA, Other Organizations in Opposition to Federal Allied Practitioner Scope of Practice Legislation

November 10, 2022 – OSMA was among dozens of national and state medical societies and associations that signed an opposition letter, expressing concerns that this bill would negatively impact the quality of care received by Medicare and Medicaid patients.

11/08/2022

Staff Spotlight: A Q&A with Nancy Gillette, General Counsel

November 8, 2022 – Our OSMA staff works tirelessly on behalf of our members to ensure OSMA is meeting the needs of physicians and responding to the ever-changing healthcare landscape.

10/26/2022

Sean McCullough Joins OSMA Advocacy Team, Monica Hueckel Promoted

October 26, 2022 – Sean joins our team as our new Director of Policy and Legal Counsel. OSMA has also promoted Monica Hueckel, who has been with OSMA for more than eight years, to the role of Vice President of Advocacy.

10/20/2022

Ohio Medicaid Changes Coming: Important Updates & Training Reminders

October 20, 2022 – The Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) is in the process of major administrative and program updates and changes. Many of these will directly impact physician practices. Earlier this week, ODM provided the following information and training opportunities to ensure you are up-to-date on what you need to do and know.

10/20/2022

Advocacy Update: Election Day is Approaching—and Know What’s in Store for the Rest of 2022

October 20, 2022 – Early voting began last week for the upcoming general election on Tuesday, November 8. Many important races will feature on your Ohio ballot this year, including decisions for U.S. Senate, Congress, state House and Senate and Ohio Supreme Court. Additionally, Ohioans will elect candidates for the offices of governor, attorney general, and secretary of state.

10/19/2022

October's Medical Board Meeting Recap

October 19, 2022 – At its regularly scheduled Board meeting on October 12, the Board adopted three additional offenses to its list of disqualifying offenses for application for licensure.

10/17/2022

Update from Our Summer Scholar, Anirudh Prabu

Oct 17, 2022 - The Foundation is receiving more updates from our 2022 Summer Scholars recipients regarding their progress and their internship experiences. See what Anirudh Prabu has been up to!

10/13/2022

Prescribing Reminders from the Pharmacy Board

Oct 13, 2022 – We've compiled updates regarding the go-live date for OARRS Provider Authorization, required OARRS reviews, and National Prescription Drug Take Back Day coming up on October 29, 2022.

10/11/2022

Foundation Update from Our Chair

Oct 11, 2022 - As we head into the last few months of 2022, I am incredibly proud to reflect upon the work we have done revitalizing the OSMA Foundation this year, making a significant impact in several of our key priority areas.

10/10/2022

Well-Being CARE is Making Headlines

Oct 10, 2022 - Earlier this fall, OSMA President Dr. Brian Santin and OSMA CEO Todd Baker were interviewed by Medical Economics News in an article about physician burnout...

10/09/2022

Checking in with Our Summer Scholars Students...

Oct 9, 2022 - We are so proud of the inaugural cohort of OSMA Foundation Summer Scholars. Here are the latest reflections from a couple of our Summer Scholars about what their experience has meant to them in their medical education.

10/04/2022

Information Blocking: New Requirements Taking Effect

Oct 4, 2022 – Starting October 6, 2022, the definition of electronic health information (EHI) in the Cures Act expands beyond the EHI data classes listed below to include electronic protected health information (ePHI) as defined by HIPAA.

10/04/2022

HIPAA and Cybersecurity: Five Basic Questions Every Healthcare Organization Should Ask Itself Today

Oct 4, 2022 – Every physician practice and healthcare organization is a target for cybercriminals. No business is too small. When these events occur, it is important to take prompt and meaningful action to help mitigate legal, financial and reputation risk.

10/04/2022

Dispensing Sample Medications: Patient Safety Strategies

October 4, 2022 – Dispensing free sample medications to patients is commonplace in medical and dental offices. With safeguards in place, it can contribute to improved clinical results and generate goodwill between the practitioner and the patient.

09/27/2022

Key Federal Legislation Update: Take Action

Sept 27, 2022 – OSMA wants to ensure Ohio physicians are aware of the following pending issues in Congress, which are highly impactful to the practice of medicine. Physicians are encouraged to reach out to their elected officials in D.C. to urge support for these federal legislative proposals using these provided links.

09/26/2022

Registration Open for Provider Network Management (PNM) Training

Sept 26, 2022 –The Ohio Department of Medicaid sent out the below information to ensure physician practices are aware of training opportunities related to major changes happening this fall.

08/01/2022

Your Well-being Checkup And Referral Engagement Service

August 1, 2022 – The need for well-being support has never been higher, and the OSMA Foundation is supporting Ohio's healthcare workforce with a way to measure factors like personal anxiety, depression and burnout and connect with credible resources who can help.

05/10/2022

OSMA Foundation Awards 6 Summer Scholars Stipends

May 10, 2022 - The Foundation's April reception was an opportunity to meet and celebrate our first cohort of Summer Scholars. Read on for more information about these bright medical students and how the OSMA Foundation Summer Scholars program is helping them pursue summer research and clinical opportunities to advance public health.

04/26/2022

Introducing OSMA’s New President: A Q&A with Brian Santin, MD

April 26, 2022 – We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Santin as our new President, and we thank Dr. Lisa B. Egbert who tactfully completed her term. Read on to learn more about Dr. Santin, his medical career, and his vision for leading OSMA.

02/16/2022

Member Q&A with John A. Bastulli, MD

February 16, 2022

01/24/2022

Council Q&A with Shannon C. Trotter, DO

January 24, 2022

12/20/2021

Member Q&A with Jeffrey R. Leipzig, MD

December 20, 2021

11/22/2021

Council Q&A with John R. Corker, MD, FACEP

November 22, 2021

10/14/2021

Council Q&A with Gregory Surfield, MD, FACS

October 13, 2021

09/07/2021

Council Q&A with Michelle Knopp, MD

September 7, 2021

08/24/2021

Council Q&A with Mary LaPlante, MD, FACOG

August 24, 2021

07/28/2021

Council Q&A with Mary LaPlante, MD, FACOG

July 28, 2021

04/23/2021

Introducing OSMA’s New President: A Q&A with Lisa Egbert, MD

April 23, 2021 – We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Egbert as our new President, and we thank Dr. Anthony Armstrong who skillfully completed his term. Read on to learn more about Dr. Egbert, her medical career, and her vision for leading OSMA.

02/11/2021

Health Equity Q&A with OSMA President Anthony Armstrong, MD

February 11, 2021 - The COVID-19 pandemic and elevated conversations about racial justice have brought the issue of healthcare equity to the forefront for healthcare professionals everywhere. As we support members in 2021, we’re pleased to share thoughts from OSMA President Anthony Armstrong, MD on health equity and what this means for Ohio physicians.

08/01/2019

Ohio Physicians Give Feedback on Medicaid Managed Care Program

Many of our members provide daily patient care to Ohio’s Medicaid population and thus are uniquely qualified to provide meaningful information to assist the Ohio Department of Medicaid in its upcoming competitive Medicaid managed care procurement process. The comments we received from our members generally centered on areas where improvement is most desired, including plan accountability, grievances and appeals, provider support, benefits and delivery, and care coordination and management.

07/23/2019

Wrap Up: Ohio Delegation to the American Medical Association

Your OSMA Delegation to the AMA worked diligently on behalf of Ohio physicians during the recent 2019 Annual Meeting in Chicago. Ohio resolutions were carried forward and either adopted as new policy or committed the AMA to continue existing policy for another ten years.

07/18/2019

Ohio Budget Process Complete

The OSMA Government Relations team has been engaging with legislators on health care-related budget items since the governor’s initial proposal was released, and has been following and participating in the ongoing debates about a number of health policy decisions.

07/18/2019

Terminating Patient Relationships

Just as it is an acceptable and reasonable practice to screen incoming patients, it is acceptable and reasonable to know when to end patient relationships that are no longer therapeutic. It is critical, however, to end the patient relationship in a manner that will not lead to claims of discrimination or abandonment.

07/18/2019

Ohio Physician Wellness Coalition Offers Online CME Courses

The Ohio Physician Wellness Coalition (OPWC), which represents Ohio physicians and hospitals and focuses on addressing physician burnout, launched six videos in its continuing medical education (CME) wellness video series.

07/18/2019

Training Managers Who Walk the Walk

Identifying and training role models in your business or practice is key to creating a positive, productive work environment. Which managers should you cultivate as role models to lead your organization?

06/06/2019

New Pain Management Toolkit Available

A new state toolkit designed to assist primary care doctors who prescribe opioids will be released this month by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH).

06/06/2019

The $4.6 Billion Price Tag of Physician Burnout

To put a price on burnout, the study authors culled data from recent research findings and reports — including direct or inferred findings on doctors cutting back on hours or quitting as a result of burnout.

05/16/2019

Ohio’s Health Value Needs to be Better Now

Ohio is ranked 46 out of the 50 states and the District of Columbia according to the 2019 Health Policy Institute of Ohio (HPIO) Health Value Dashboard—landing the Buckeye state in the bottom quartile.

04/25/2019

Concerns about U.S. Measles Outbreak

A recent poll by The Doctors Company received 9,459 responses to the question: How concerned are you as a healthcare provider about the recent U.S. measles outbreak?

04/25/2019

Hiring Friends and Family at the Office Is a Bad Idea

If your sister is pressuring you to hire your nephew for that much-coveted summer internship position so he can get his “foot in the door,” don’t give in to temptation.

03/28/2019

The 3-Minute Guide to Creating a Modern Website

How to Go Beyond an Online Business Card and Build an Effective Online Presence...

03/28/2019

Dollars & Sense: The State Budget

Earlier this week, the state budget became a bill on Capitol Hill—or at least on Capitol Square in Columbus, Ohio. The OSMA has completed an initial review of the bill language...

03/28/2019

On-Demand Care for YOU

As part of its commitment to the well-being of all physicians in the state of Ohio, the OSMA Physician Well-Being Committee recently launched an online hub...

03/14/2019

Oxycon"tained" Again in 2018

Pharmacy Board Releases Compelling OARRS Data... This week, the State of Ohio Pharmacy Board reported that the number of opioids dispensed to Ohioans dropped by 325 million from 2012 or 2018.

02/28/2019

OSMA Goes to Washington

Earlier this month, several OSMA members along with the OSMA Government Relations staff traveled to Washington DC to meet with members of Congress to discuss how existing laws are affecting patients and practices.

02/28/2019

Lions, and Tigers and Boards, Oh My!

Vision for the Future Commission released its final report to the American Board of Medical Specialties Board of Directors early this month.

02/28/2019

This Bud’s for You (or Your Patients)

Within the first month that the medical marijuana program was running in the state of Ohio, nearly $1M in sales were recorded, but questions remain.

02/27/2019

Take Control of Rising Healthcare Costs

The OSMA understands the struggles to maintain an independent practice. This is one reason why the OSMA decided to offer an OSMA managed, self-funded health care plan.

02/15/2019

2019 OSMA Annual Meeting—Resolutions Posted

All resolutions received by the Wednesday, February 6th deadline have been posted to the website so you can start to review them. We will post background information as we receive it.

02/14/2019

Despite 21% Decrease in Overdose Deaths, Ohio Still Has Work to Do

According to a recent CDC report, Ohio saw a significant decrease – 21.4% - in overdose fatalities in July 2017 through June 2018; second in the nation only to Washington DC, which saw a 24.2% decrease.

02/14/2019

What is the OSMA Doing for You?

With a new governor in office and Ohio legislators back at the Statehouse, the OSMA is putting our advocacy agenda—based on the priorities of our members—in motion.

01/10/2019

Make Sure to Do your Annual HR Check Up

Now that 2019 is underway, it is essential that you make sure your company is in compliance with state and federal regulatory updates.

01/10/2019

OSMA Insurance Agency Announces 2019 Average Rate Renewal of only 2.9 Percent

Physician practices participating in the OSMA’s Health Benefits Plan (HBP) will see another year of rate increases averaging single digits. Renewal increases for 2019 will average 2.9%. This increase, along with plan increases over the past three years, show a four-year average of 4.5%. Significantly below the national averages.

01/08/2019

Ohio’s Lame Duck Legislative Session 2018 – What Happened & What You Should Know

The final months of 2018 were a whirlwind beyond the usual frenzied legislative activity of “lame duck” – with Ohio’s legislators staying in session until just days before the Christmas holiday, and returning for more action just days after. This scenario is extremely rare and hasn’t happened in Ohio’s legislature to this extent in decades.

01/03/2019

Physician Well-Being: The Real 5th Vital Sign

"The reason we should care about burnout is because it has the potential for serious consequences on the quality of patient care and safety, patient satisfaction, professionalism, physicians’ own care and safety, and the viability of the health care system..."

12/06/2018

Ohio Medical Marijuana Patient Registry Opens: What it Means for Doctors

The amount of product will be extremely limited, as growers and dispensaries come online throughout 2019.

09/19/2023

Regulatory & State Medical Board of Ohio Update

September 19, 2023 – The State Medical Board of Ohio (SMBO) has been working extensively to revise the regulatory structure for physicians in need of help with substance abuse, a mental health condition, or a physical impairment. Additionally, get an update on the Federal "No Surprises Act."

09/14/2023

National Physician Suicide Awareness Information

September 14, 2023 – OSMA is partnering with Disappearing Doctors to cohost an event The Disposables—an original collection of portraits honoring the 400+ physicians who die by suicide each year. The Disposables—created by artist Jeremy Rosario—depicts handcrafted portraits made from donated disposable medical supplies from doctors’ workplaces. The portraits will be on display for public viewing at the COhatch The Gateway starting on Monday Sept. 18 through Oct. 20.

08/24/2023

2024 OSMA Annual Meeting – Key Dates & Deadlines

August 24, 2023 – OSMA's Annual Meeting will take place April 5-7, 2024 at the Renaissance Polaris Hotel in Columbus. We look forward to seeing everyone—and in the meantime, here is what to plan for...

08/23/2023

CMS Seeking Comments on Quality Payment Program in 2024 Physician Fee Schedule Changes

August 23, 2023 – Provide your feedback on the proposed changes to the Quality Payment Program by September 11. CMS recently sent out the following request to all physicians...

08/04/2023

CMS Announces New Dementia Model

August 4, 2023 – On July 31, CMS made the following announcement regarding a new dementia model.

08/04/2023

OSMA Advocacy Priorities for Physician & Patient Mental Health Passed in Ohio Budget

August 4, 2023 – During the spring state budget process, OSMA advocated for funding to secure the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in Ohio, and changes to how to better protect physicians' personal data on the medical board's website.

08/02/2023

Young Physician Section: Your Input Needed!

August 2, 2023 – The Young Physician Section (YPS) of OSMA would like YPS member thoughts on starting a series of informal virtual gatherings to address a variety of issues of importance to you in support of your professional and personal life. These will be private virtual meetings open only to OSMA YPS members.

07/25/2023

Regulatory/Medical Board Update

July 25, 2023 – The State Medical Board of Ohio met on Wednesday, July 12—updating the list of conditions treatable with medical marijuana to 26, and amending license application questions to align with nationally recognized mental health practices for physicians.

07/25/2023

2024 Proposed Medicare Physician Payment Schedule

July 25, 2023 – Earlier this month, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released the proposed rule for the calendar year (CY) 2024 Medicare Physician Payment Schedule. Our advocacy partners at the national level, the American Medical Association (AMA), provided the following overview of key provisions.

07/24/2023

National Study to Document Changes in Physician Practice Expense—Your Input is Needed

July 24, 2023 – The American Medical Association (AMA) is undertaking a new national study, supported by 173 healthcare organizations, (including the OSMA) to collect representative data on physician practice expenses. The aim of the Physician Practice Information (PPI) Survey is to better understand the costs faced by today’s physician practices to support physician payment advocacy.

07/13/2023

Are Insurance Companies Paying You Correctly?—OSMA Can Help

July 13, 2023 – You have analyzed your contracts, negotiated with the payers, and set new rates. Your job may look finished, but the fun is just starting! Short of reviewing every EOB and ERA, how can you ensure that the new rates are loaded correctly and that procedures are paid appropriately? What are medical practices nationwide doing to confirm that claims are being paid according to contract? What about multiple procedure discounts, modifiers, different rates for different specialties, and other contracting nuances? Should you take a different approach to underpayments vs. denials?

07/12/2023

Provider Funding Available for Patient Nicotine Cessation Efforts

July 12, 2023 – New funding is available for health, medical, behavioral health, and dental providers to help them develop or improve their patient nicotine cessation policies, procedures, and practices through the Ohio Department of Health Tobacco Use Prevention and Cessation Program (TUPCP). Up to $5,100 is available based on the completion of several deliverables.

06/06/2023

Medicare & Medicaid Updates—Registration is Open!

June 6, 2023 – Join us for OSMA's annual Medicare & Medicaid Updates with tips, policies and resources—keeping you in compliance, and helping to get your claims paid in a timely, appropriate way. Payer rules and policies are constantly changing!

06/06/2023

New MATE Act's 8-Hour Training Requirements

June 6, 2023 – The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) released materials in March 2023 related to the new Medication Access and Training Expansion (MATE) Act. The Act requires new or renewing DEA licensees, as of June 27, 2023, to have completed a total of at least eight hours of training on opioid or other substance use disorders and the appropriate treatment of pain.

05/31/2023

Post Public Health Emergency FAQ

May 31, 2022 – The COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) ended on May 11, 2023, which changes many federal policies established during the pandemic. OSMA is working to keep members updated as guidance is available.

05/25/2023

Introducing OSMA’s New President: A Q&A with Eric Drobny, MD

May 23, 2023 – We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Drobny as our new President, and we thank Dr. Brian Santin who tactfully completed his term. Read on to learn more about Dr. Drobny, his medical career, and his vision for leading OSMA.

05/24/2023

Medical Liability Claim Frequency Study

May 24, 2023 – A new analysis from the American Medical Association (AMA) finds the possibility of being sued during a career in medicine is very real for most doctors, which is notable given that most claims end with no finding of negligence or error.

05/08/2023

COVID-19 Vaccine Expiration Reminder

May 8, 2023 - This week, the Ohio Department of Health sent out a reminder to providers of COVID-19 vaccines about recent expiration awareness. NOTE: All remaining doses of Johnson & Johnson (J&J)/Janssen COVID-19 vaccine expired on Saturday, May 6, 2023. 

05/08/2023

Curbside Consultations: Patient Safety and Legal Risks

May 8, 2023 – Informal, or “curbside,” consultations among healthcare practitioners represent an important part of clinical practice and help to promote a collegial relationship in both the clinic and hospital settings.

05/04/2023

Medicare Annual Visits: How to make them work in your office

May 4, 2023 - Medicare annual wellness visits provide an important opportunity to promote health and to provide disease screening and advance care planning with patients who have Medicare. However, billing for the wrong visit or at the wrong time can result in denied claims.

05/03/2023

United Healthcare to Reduce Prior Authorizations

May 3, 2023 - OSMA's continued focus at the state and federal level is starting to result in individual plans announcing revisions to prior authorization practices. We’re also supporting HB 130 in Ohio that creates a prior authorization gold card and we anticipate additional legislation in Ohio related to prior authorization and billing later this year.

05/03/2023

Updates to Coverage for COVID-19 Tests

May 3, 2023 - The ending of the Public Health Emergency may impact an individual’s coverage of COVID-19 tests. CMS is encouraging that you know these changes and share the New Consumer Fact Sheet on COVID-19 tests.

04/24/2023

Webinars to Help Prepare for the End of the Public Health Emergency

April 24, 2023 - On May 11, 2023, the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) is set to expire. Healthcare providers continue to implement COVID protocols and navigate the ever-changing healthcare regulations at both the federal and state levels, therefore it is important to take time to prepare for the ending of the Public Health Emergency (PHE). Here are some webinars to help you plan...

04/19/2023

Training Opportunities for New DEA License Requirements

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) released materials in March 2023 related to the new Medication Access and Training Expansion (MATE) Act. The Act requires new or renewing DEA licensees, as of June 27, 2023, to have completed a total of at least eight hours of training on opioid or other substance use disorders and the appropriate treatment of pain.

04/11/2023

CMS Issues Final Rule Reforming Parts of Prior Authorization Requirements

April 11, 2023 – The rule creates enforcement provisions for misleading marketing schemes, removes barriers to care created by complex coverage criteria, and expands access to behavioral health care. OSMA joined with the American Medical Association in supporting these needed reforms.

04/04/2023

Interprofessional Consultants & Alternative Delivery Methods for Care

April 4, 2023 – CMS has changed the way health care is considered and paid not only by Medicare but many commercial insurance plans. Part of this change is the mandated requirement for Medicaid to cover many of these services as part of the standardization in health care delivery and reimbursement. More and more health care is provided in non- traditional ways.

03/16/2023

MIPS Value Pathways – Newest Reporting Option for 2023

March 16, 2023 – Starting this year, your practice now has a third option for the Merit Based Incentive Payment System Reporting (MIPS).

03/05/2023

Ohio Department of Medicaid Updates on Next Generation Program Transition

March 5, 2023 – As we have been informing members since late last year, the Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) transitioned significant parts of its programming on Feb. 1 – this included a new electronic data exchange and fiscal intermediary as well as some new managed care organizations. ODM has provided this update on some key elements of the program and some issues that are currently being resolved.

03/01/2023

Summary of New ODM Initiatives Launched February 1

March 1, 2023 – One month ago Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) launched the Next Generation managed care plans, new Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), and Fiscal Intermediary (FI). These initiatives provide an enhanced and personalized healthcare experience for ODM members with more transparency and visibility of care and services for providers. Here are some reminders...

02/01/2023

Free Health Information Training & Certification

February 1, 2023 – Through Professional Association of Health Care Office Management’s (PAHCOM) partnership with CommHIT, PAHCOM is able to provide FREE HIT training to current and aspiring practice managers through a U.S. Department of Labor grant dedicated to expanding the technology workforce nationally.

12/18/2022

Reminder: 2022 MIPS Extreme & Uncontrollable Circumstances Exception Applications

December 18, 2022 – The American Medical Association (AMA) sent OSMA the following communication to remind members about an important MIPS deadline and advocacy efforts to extend opportunities for filing.

10/13/2022

Prescribing Reminders from the Pharmacy Board

Oct 13, 2022 – We've compiled updates regarding the go-live date for OARRS Provider Authorization, required OARRS reviews, and National Prescription Drug Take Back Day coming up on October 29, 2022.

10/04/2022

Information Blocking: New Requirements Taking Effect

Oct 4, 2022 – Starting October 6, 2022, the definition of electronic health information (EHI) in the Cures Act expands beyond the EHI data classes listed below to include electronic protected health information (ePHI) as defined by HIPAA.

10/04/2022

HIPAA and Cybersecurity: Five Basic Questions Every Healthcare Organization Should Ask Itself Today

Oct 4, 2022 – Every physician practice and healthcare organization is a target for cybercriminals. No business is too small. When these events occur, it is important to take prompt and meaningful action to help mitigate legal, financial and reputation risk.

09/26/2022

Registration Open for Provider Network Management (PNM) Training

Sept 26, 2022 –The Ohio Department of Medicaid sent out the below information to ensure physician practices are aware of training opportunities related to major changes happening this fall.

04/26/2022

Introducing OSMA’s New President: A Q&A with Brian Santin, MD

April 26, 2022 – We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Santin as our new President, and we thank Dr. Lisa B. Egbert who tactfully completed her term. Read on to learn more about Dr. Santin, his medical career, and his vision for leading OSMA.

04/23/2021

Introducing OSMA’s New President: A Q&A with Lisa Egbert, MD

April 23, 2021 – We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Egbert as our new President, and we thank Dr. Anthony Armstrong who skillfully completed his term. Read on to learn more about Dr. Egbert, her medical career, and her vision for leading OSMA.

07/18/2019

Ohio Physician Wellness Coalition Offers Online CME Courses

The Ohio Physician Wellness Coalition (OPWC), which represents Ohio physicians and hospitals and focuses on addressing physician burnout, launched six videos in its continuing medical education (CME) wellness video series.

06/06/2019

New Pain Management Toolkit Available

A new state toolkit designed to assist primary care doctors who prescribe opioids will be released this month by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH).

03/28/2019

The 3-Minute Guide to Creating a Modern Website

How to Go Beyond an Online Business Card and Build an Effective Online Presence...

03/28/2019

On-Demand Care for YOU

As part of its commitment to the well-being of all physicians in the state of Ohio, the OSMA Physician Well-Being Committee recently launched an online hub...

03/14/2019

Oxycon"tained" Again in 2018

Pharmacy Board Releases Compelling OARRS Data... This week, the State of Ohio Pharmacy Board reported that the number of opioids dispensed to Ohioans dropped by 325 million from 2012 or 2018.

02/28/2019

Lions, and Tigers and Boards, Oh My!

Vision for the Future Commission released its final report to the American Board of Medical Specialties Board of Directors early this month.

02/28/2019

This Bud’s for You (or Your Patients)

Within the first month that the medical marijuana program was running in the state of Ohio, nearly $1M in sales were recorded, but questions remain.

09/20/2023

Ohio Legislature Returns for the Fall: What’s on OSMA’s Agenda?

September 20, 2023 – Along with monitoring dozens of pieces of legislation so far this year, there are several items we will be focusing our advocacy efforts on heading into late September, October, and beyond.

08/24/2023

2024 OSMA Annual Meeting – Key Dates & Deadlines

August 24, 2023 – OSMA's Annual Meeting will take place April 5-7, 2024 at the Renaissance Polaris Hotel in Columbus. We look forward to seeing everyone—and in the meantime, here is what to plan for...

08/23/2023

CMS Seeking Comments on Quality Payment Program in 2024 Physician Fee Schedule Changes

August 23, 2023 – Provide your feedback on the proposed changes to the Quality Payment Program by September 11. CMS recently sent out the following request to all physicians...

08/17/2023

Save these Dates to Connect with OSMA's Leadership Team

August 17, 2023 – Join our live updates on the following dates for a brief audio interaction on how your OSMA team is working to advance important state legislative and regulatory issues that protect you and your patients.

08/17/2023

OSMA Collaborates to Reform Medicare’s Payment System

August 17, 2023 – OSMA has joined with the AMA and other state and national medical association to reform Medicare’s broken physician payment system. The AMA sent the below alert to physicians across the country to contact members of congress when their home for the August recess. We encourage all OSMA members to contact congress and stress the importance of fixing Medicare now.

08/04/2023

OSMA Advocacy Priorities for Physician & Patient Mental Health Passed in Ohio Budget

August 4, 2023 – During the spring state budget process, OSMA advocated for funding to secure the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in Ohio, and changes to how to better protect physicians' personal data on the medical board's website.

08/02/2023

OSMA Advocacy Delivers: Medicaid Physician Fee Schedule Increase Coming in 2024

August 2, 2023 – During the spring state budget process, OSMA advocated for an increase in the Medicaid physician fee schedule. The final passed and signed version included language for a 5% increase.

07/20/2023

Monthly Advocacy Update from Monica Hueckel

July 20, 2023 – Hear firsthand from OSMA's advocacy leadership on current issues we're working on in the legislative space, including state budget wins for physicians and the practice of medicine, insurance and prior auth issues, public health topics, and some recent scope of practice activity.

07/05/2023

State Budget Bill Passed, Signed by Governor

OSMA Champions New Medicaid Physician Payment Increase Included in Budget Legislation

July 5, 2023 – This spring, the Ohio Legislature embarked on the biennial state budget process, tasked with passing legislation creating the budget for fiscal years 2024-2025. The Ohio State Medical Association (OSMA)’s Government Relations team engaged with legislators on many health care budget items from the start, when the governor’s initial proposal for the budget was released.

06/15/2023

OSMA Provides Key Supportive Testimony for Ohio Prior Authorization “Gold Card” Bill

June 15, 2023 – HB 130 was introduced in the Ohio House in March by Rep. Kevin Miller (R-Newark), and is one of OSMA’s major legislative advocacy priorities this year. The bill, if enacted, would create an exemption system that rewards Ohio healthcare providers who consistently receive a prior authorization approval rate of 80% or more for a specific service, device, or drug in the prior 12-month period.

06/14/2023

OSMA Supports AMA “Fix Medicare Now” Initiative

June 14, 2023 – In addition to reforming prior authorization at the state and federal level, OSMA joins the AMA and organized medicine across the country to fix major flaws in the Medicare physician fee schedule.

05/31/2023

Cigna Update to Modifier 25 Policy

May 31, 2022 – Cigna has updated its modifier 25 policy to announce a delay in implementing the required submission of documentation to support the use of modifier 25 when billed with E/M CPT codes 99212 – 99215 and a minor procedure.

05/25/2023

Take Action: Contact Congress to Fix Prior Authorization

May 25, 2023 – In addition to our efforts at the state level with HB 130, OSMA is also involved with our national and state partners to reform prior authorization practices in Medicare Advantage plans.

05/25/2023

Introducing OSMA’s New President: A Q&A with Eric Drobny, MD

May 23, 2023 – We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Drobny as our new President, and we thank Dr. Brian Santin who tactfully completed his term. Read on to learn more about Dr. Drobny, his medical career, and his vision for leading OSMA.

05/17/2023

OSMA Spring Legislative Update

May 17, 2023 - The OSMA government relations team continues activity related to the state budget bill, which recently passed out of the Ohio House and is now in hearings in the Ohio Senate Finance Committee. As summer approaches, OSMA has been involved in advocacy efforts regarding several pieces of legislation in the last few weeks.

05/16/2023

Public Health Emergency Ends

May 16, 2023 - On Thursday, May 11, 2023, the federally declared Public Health Emergency (PHE) ended. As many flexibilities for physicians and practices were provided by federal regulatory agencies during the PHE, it is important to know which, if any, of those flexibilities will be going away.

05/04/2023

Medicare Annual Visits: How to make them work in your office

May 4, 2023 - Medicare annual wellness visits provide an important opportunity to promote health and to provide disease screening and advance care planning with patients who have Medicare. However, billing for the wrong visit or at the wrong time can result in denied claims.

05/04/2023

Tort Reform in Ohio: 20-Year Anniversary Reflections

May 4, 2023 – OSMA Exclusive Partner, The Doctors Company (TDC) CEO and Chairman, Dr. Richard Anderson reflects on the history of tort reform in Ohio.

05/03/2023

Are Employee Health Insurance Costs Giving You a Headache?

May 3, 2023 – OSMA can help. According to a recent survey of 1,000 employers by Forbes Advisor, employer-sponsored health coverage is the most important benefit to employees in 2023. Yet one of the biggest costs facing employers today continues to be health insurance coverage for employees.

05/03/2023

United Healthcare to Reduce Prior Authorizations

May 3, 2023 - OSMA's continued focus at the state and federal level is starting to result in individual plans announcing revisions to prior authorization practices. We’re also supporting HB 130 in Ohio that creates a prior authorization gold card and we anticipate additional legislation in Ohio related to prior authorization and billing later this year.

04/27/2023

OSMA Advocates for Medicare Physician Payment Changes

April 27, 2023 – OSMA has joined with more than 120 other state and national medical societies communicating our support to the sponsors of H.R. 2474—the Strengthening Medicare for Patients and Providers Act.

04/25/2023

Advocacy Update on Non-Compete Proposed Rule 

April 25, 2023 – In January of this year, the Federal Trade Commission issued notice of a proposed rule which would prohibit non-compete agreements between nearly every employee/employer under the FTC’s jurisdiction, including physician employment agreements.

04/24/2023

OSMA/National Response to Cigna's Re-release of Modifier 25 Policy

April 24, 2023 – Cigna is re-releasing its policy to require the submission of medical records with all Evaluation and Management (E/M) claims with CPT 99212-99215 and modifier 25 when a minor procedure is billed. Last week, OSMA joined the AMA and almost 100 other state and national medical/specialty societies in a collective letter urging Cigna to reconsider this policy.

03/30/2023

We Need Your Help to Make the Prior Authorization Gold Card a Reality in Ohio!

March 30, 2023 – This is an important time for healthcare in the Ohio legislature, as House Bill 130 was introduced—which, if passed, will create a Prior Authorization Gold Card Program for Ohio providers. Get involved and help us drive meaningful change in the insurance industry.

03/30/2023

Prior Authorization Gold Card Legislation Introduced in Ohio House

March 30, 2023 – Proposed HB 130 would ease regulatory burdens of prior authorization, improve healthcare system and outcomes for patients. 

03/23/2023

OSMA Comments on Federal Prior Authorization Rules

March 23, 2023 – Prior Authorization reform is OSMA’s top advocacy issue in 2023 and 2024. In addition to advocating for major legislative reforms at the state level that will impact commercial and Medicaid plans, we have also been involved in initiatives at the federal level that will impact Medicare advantage plans.

03/02/2023

OSMA Needs Your Help—New Prior Authorization Legislation to Be Introduced

March 2, 2023 – The goal of this legislation, which will be sponsored by Rep. Kevin Miller (R-Newark), is to create a “gold card” system for prior authorization, giving physicians a way to “earn” their way out of prior authorization requirements by demonstrating a high prior authorization success rate. Similar legislation was recently passed and enacted in the state of Texas.

02/20/2023

Public Health Emergency Expiration—Reminders

February 20, 2023 – It has been announced that the PHE will be extended through May 11, at which point it will permanently expire, marking the end of PHE extensions. Because the PHE has been in place for nearly three years, it can be difficult to remember which rules existed before then, and which have been temporary. Here are a few highlights of what is expected to change.

02/16/2023

OSMA Physicians & Staff Advocate for Medicare Funding & Prior Authorization Reform in D.C.

February 16, 2023 – Several OSMA physicians joined your OSMA Government Relations team in D.C. to participate in the American Medical Association’s National Advocacy Conference (NAC).

02/16/2023

Ohio’s New Telehealth Rules Effective Feb. 28—What to Know

February 16, 2023 – Physicians across Ohio have continued to embrace remote healthcare services. After a lengthy rule promulgation process, including our member feedback and input from OSMA, the Board has finalized new telehealth rules, which will become effective this month.

02/15/2023

OSMA Joins National Effort to Reform Prior Authorization in Medicare Advantage Plans

February 15, 2023 – While we focus on prior authorization reform in Ohio that will impact commercial and Medicaid plans, Medicare Advantage plans are regulated federally and therefore reforms must occur through congressional legislative action or rulemaking by CMS. In the letter, we urged CMS to focus on the following...

01/26/2023

OSMA's Top Advocacy Priorities for 2023

January 26, 2023 – We anticipate several familiar issues to remain major OSMA advocacy priorities this year, and are always monitoring the legislative and regulatory spaces for new and emerging topics that arise throughout the year. Here’s our current advocacy forecast...

01/25/2023

FTC Releases Draft Rule Regarding Non-Compete Agreements

January 25, 2023 – The rule applies to all existing and future non-compete agreements between employers and employees. It also includes non-competes with independent contractors. It would nullify nearly every non-compete agreement for our physician owned practices and prohibit those going forward.

01/02/2023

HHS Proposes to Standardize Electronic Health Care Attachments Transactions & Electronic Signature Process

January 2, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services released the following information on Dec. 19 along with a fact sheet and full press release.

12/21/2022

OSMA Joins Public Health Advocates Urging the Governor to Veto H.B. 513

December 21, 2022 – H.B. 513 passed in the Ohio legislature last week, which would remove all local control over tobacco policies including implementing local tobacco retail licensure programs, conducting local compliance to ensure retailers are not selling to kids, and furthering policies to end the sale of flavored tobacco products.

12/15/2022

Lame Duck Legislative Update

December 15, 2022 – OSMA is proud to represent you and advocate on your behalf. Your OSMA Advocacy team has experienced a whirlwind of activity at the Statehouse after the election, and has been carefully monitoring what has happened during the lame duck legislative session.

12/15/2022

OSMA Continues Advocacy Push to Avert 4.5% Cut to the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule

December 15, 2022 – Last week, OSMA joined the AMA—and every other state medical society in the country—signing a letter to Congress urging them to take action before the end of the year to avert the projected 4.5% cut to the 2023 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule.

12/13/2022

Recent Legal Actions to Note

December 13, 2022 – OSMA joined the Ohio Hospital Association in filing an amicus brief in the Ohio Supreme Court to support the decision of Ohio’s 10th District Court of Appeals that when a medical malpractice claim is barred by Ohio’s statute of repose, that any loss of consortium claim arising out of that malpractice claim is also barred.

11/10/2022

OSMA’s 2022 Midterm General Election Recap

November 10, 2022 – After a whirlwind midterm election day, millions of Ohio voters have made their voices heard. Overall, the candidates endorsed by the Ohio State Medical Association Political Action Committee (OSMAPAC) prevailed in the majority of races for various statewide offices. Ohio also set a record as far as early and absentee voting in a midterm election - a total of 1,392,767 votes were cast through either in-person early voting or returned absentee ballots as of the end of early voting on Monday.

11/10/2022

OSMA Joins AMA, Other Organizations in Opposition to Federal Allied Practitioner Scope of Practice Legislation

November 10, 2022 – OSMA was among dozens of national and state medical societies and associations that signed an opposition letter, expressing concerns that this bill would negatively impact the quality of care received by Medicare and Medicaid patients.

10/26/2022

Sean McCullough Joins OSMA Advocacy Team, Monica Hueckel Promoted

October 26, 2022 – Sean joins our team as our new Director of Policy and Legal Counsel. OSMA has also promoted Monica Hueckel, who has been with OSMA for more than eight years, to the role of Vice President of Advocacy.

10/20/2022

Ohio Medicaid Changes Coming: Important Updates & Training Reminders

October 20, 2022 – The Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) is in the process of major administrative and program updates and changes. Many of these will directly impact physician practices. Earlier this week, ODM provided the following information and training opportunities to ensure you are up-to-date on what you need to do and know.

10/20/2022

Advocacy Update: Election Day is Approaching—and Know What’s in Store for the Rest of 2022

October 20, 2022 – Early voting began last week for the upcoming general election on Tuesday, November 8. Many important races will feature on your Ohio ballot this year, including decisions for U.S. Senate, Congress, state House and Senate and Ohio Supreme Court. Additionally, Ohioans will elect candidates for the offices of governor, attorney general, and secretary of state.

10/19/2022

October's Medical Board Meeting Recap

October 19, 2022 – At its regularly scheduled Board meeting on October 12, the Board adopted three additional offenses to its list of disqualifying offenses for application for licensure.

09/27/2022

Key Federal Legislation Update: Take Action

Sept 27, 2022 – OSMA wants to ensure Ohio physicians are aware of the following pending issues in Congress, which are highly impactful to the practice of medicine. Physicians are encouraged to reach out to their elected officials in D.C. to urge support for these federal legislative proposals using these provided links.

04/26/2022

Introducing OSMA’s New President: A Q&A with Brian Santin, MD

April 26, 2022 – We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Santin as our new President, and we thank Dr. Lisa B. Egbert who tactfully completed her term. Read on to learn more about Dr. Santin, his medical career, and his vision for leading OSMA.

04/23/2021

Introducing OSMA’s New President: A Q&A with Lisa Egbert, MD

April 23, 2021 – We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Egbert as our new President, and we thank Dr. Anthony Armstrong who skillfully completed his term. Read on to learn more about Dr. Egbert, her medical career, and her vision for leading OSMA.

02/11/2021

Health Equity Q&A with OSMA President Anthony Armstrong, MD

February 11, 2021 - The COVID-19 pandemic and elevated conversations about racial justice have brought the issue of healthcare equity to the forefront for healthcare professionals everywhere. As we support members in 2021, we’re pleased to share thoughts from OSMA President Anthony Armstrong, MD on health equity and what this means for Ohio physicians.

08/01/2019

Ohio Physicians Give Feedback on Medicaid Managed Care Program

Many of our members provide daily patient care to Ohio’s Medicaid population and thus are uniquely qualified to provide meaningful information to assist the Ohio Department of Medicaid in its upcoming competitive Medicaid managed care procurement process. The comments we received from our members generally centered on areas where improvement is most desired, including plan accountability, grievances and appeals, provider support, benefits and delivery, and care coordination and management.

07/23/2019

Wrap Up: Ohio Delegation to the American Medical Association

Your OSMA Delegation to the AMA worked diligently on behalf of Ohio physicians during the recent 2019 Annual Meeting in Chicago. Ohio resolutions were carried forward and either adopted as new policy or committed the AMA to continue existing policy for another ten years.

07/18/2019

Ohio Budget Process Complete

The OSMA Government Relations team has been engaging with legislators on health care-related budget items since the governor’s initial proposal was released, and has been following and participating in the ongoing debates about a number of health policy decisions.

03/28/2019

Dollars & Sense: The State Budget

Earlier this week, the state budget became a bill on Capitol Hill—or at least on Capitol Square in Columbus, Ohio. The OSMA has completed an initial review of the bill language...

02/28/2019

OSMA Goes to Washington

Earlier this month, several OSMA members along with the OSMA Government Relations staff traveled to Washington DC to meet with members of Congress to discuss how existing laws are affecting patients and practices.

02/14/2019

What is the OSMA Doing for You?

With a new governor in office and Ohio legislators back at the Statehouse, the OSMA is putting our advocacy agenda—based on the priorities of our members—in motion.

01/08/2019

Ohio’s Lame Duck Legislative Session 2018 – What Happened & What You Should Know

The final months of 2018 were a whirlwind beyond the usual frenzied legislative activity of “lame duck” – with Ohio’s legislators staying in session until just days before the Christmas holiday, and returning for more action just days after. This scenario is extremely rare and hasn’t happened in Ohio’s legislature to this extent in decades.

09/20/2023

Ohio Legislature Returns for the Fall: What’s on OSMA’s Agenda?

September 20, 2023 – Along with monitoring dozens of pieces of legislation so far this year, there are several items we will be focusing our advocacy efforts on heading into late September, October, and beyond.

09/19/2023

Regulatory & State Medical Board of Ohio Update

September 19, 2023 – The State Medical Board of Ohio (SMBO) has been working extensively to revise the regulatory structure for physicians in need of help with substance abuse, a mental health condition, or a physical impairment. Additionally, get an update on the Federal "No Surprises Act."

09/14/2023

National Physician Suicide Awareness Information

September 14, 2023 – OSMA is partnering with Disappearing Doctors to cohost an event The Disposables—an original collection of portraits honoring the 400+ physicians who die by suicide each year. The Disposables—created by artist Jeremy Rosario—depicts handcrafted portraits made from donated disposable medical supplies from doctors’ workplaces. The portraits will be on display for public viewing at the COhatch The Gateway starting on Monday Sept. 18 through Oct. 20.

09/05/2023

Health Insurance Coverage for your Practice

September 5, 2023 – One of the biggest costs facing employers today continues to be health insurance coverage for their employees. Costs are rising and coverage continues to change year to year...

09/05/2023

Noncomplaint Patients Increase Liability Risks for Practitioners

September 5, 2023 – The Doctors Company, outlines a number of patient safety strategies to manage noncompliant patients.

08/24/2023

2024 OSMA Annual Meeting – Key Dates & Deadlines

August 24, 2023 – OSMA's Annual Meeting will take place April 5-7, 2024 at the Renaissance Polaris Hotel in Columbus. We look forward to seeing everyone—and in the meantime, here is what to plan for...

08/23/2023

CMS Seeking Comments on Quality Payment Program in 2024 Physician Fee Schedule Changes

August 23, 2023 – Provide your feedback on the proposed changes to the Quality Payment Program by September 11. CMS recently sent out the following request to all physicians...

08/17/2023

Save these Dates to Connect with OSMA's Leadership Team

August 17, 2023 – Join our live updates on the following dates for a brief audio interaction on how your OSMA team is working to advance important state legislative and regulatory issues that protect you and your patients.

08/17/2023

OSMA Collaborates to Reform Medicare’s Payment System

August 17, 2023 – OSMA has joined with the AMA and other state and national medical association to reform Medicare’s broken physician payment system. The AMA sent the below alert to physicians across the country to contact members of congress when their home for the August recess. We encourage all OSMA members to contact congress and stress the importance of fixing Medicare now.

08/08/2023

Meet OSMA Foundation Summer Scholar, Adriane Weininger

Aug 8, 2023 – Adriane is working at the VA hospital in Columbus on a quality improvement project to identify gaps in behavioral health and find ways to minimize them—as well as also trying to identify why there are missed opportunities (no-shows) and if there is an overarching reason behind it.

08/04/2023

CMS Announces New Dementia Model

August 4, 2023 – On July 31, CMS made the following announcement regarding a new dementia model.

08/04/2023

OSMA Advocacy Priorities for Physician & Patient Mental Health Passed in Ohio Budget

August 4, 2023 – During the spring state budget process, OSMA advocated for funding to secure the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in Ohio, and changes to how to better protect physicians' personal data on the medical board's website.

08/02/2023

Young Physician Section: Your Input Needed!

August 2, 2023 – The Young Physician Section (YPS) of OSMA would like YPS member thoughts on starting a series of informal virtual gatherings to address a variety of issues of importance to you in support of your professional and personal life. These will be private virtual meetings open only to OSMA YPS members.

08/02/2023

OSMA Advocacy Delivers: Medicaid Physician Fee Schedule Increase Coming in 2024

August 2, 2023 – During the spring state budget process, OSMA advocated for an increase in the Medicaid physician fee schedule. The final passed and signed version included language for a 5% increase.

08/01/2023

Dealing With Online Patient Complaints

August 1, 2023 – Clinicians are understandably concerned about their reputations and the consequences of any negative comments posted about them on social media platforms. Although the web can be a powerful tool for healthcare practices, it becomes problematic when patients post unfavorable opinions.

08/01/2023

Meet OSMA Foundation Summer Scholar, Connor Riegal

Aug 1, 2023 – Connor is pursuing internship opportunity at Stanford University in the Brain Stimulation Lab to conduct research focused on novel approaches to treat psychiatric illness using deep brain stimulation as well as using neuroimaging to find predictive markets for the prognosis of these conditions.

07/26/2023

Meet OSMA Foundation Summer Scholar, Michaela Stamper

July 26, 2023 – Michaela is working to conduct interviews of relevant stakeholders across the Northeast Ohio community to do an in-depth analysis of the current state of minority community needs and access to care and resources.

07/25/2023

Regulatory/Medical Board Update

July 25, 2023 – The State Medical Board of Ohio met on Wednesday, July 12—updating the list of conditions treatable with medical marijuana to 26, and amending license application questions to align with nationally recognized mental health practices for physicians.

07/25/2023

2024 Proposed Medicare Physician Payment Schedule

July 25, 2023 – Earlier this month, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released the proposed rule for the calendar year (CY) 2024 Medicare Physician Payment Schedule. Our advocacy partners at the national level, the American Medical Association (AMA), provided the following overview of key provisions.

07/24/2023

National Study to Document Changes in Physician Practice Expense—Your Input is Needed

July 24, 2023 – The American Medical Association (AMA) is undertaking a new national study, supported by 173 healthcare organizations, (including the OSMA) to collect representative data on physician practice expenses. The aim of the Physician Practice Information (PPI) Survey is to better understand the costs faced by today’s physician practices to support physician payment advocacy.

07/20/2023

Monthly Advocacy Update from Monica Hueckel

July 20, 2023 – Hear firsthand from OSMA's advocacy leadership on current issues we're working on in the legislative space, including state budget wins for physicians and the practice of medicine, insurance and prior auth issues, public health topics, and some recent scope of practice activity.

07/13/2023

Are Insurance Companies Paying You Correctly?—OSMA Can Help

July 13, 2023 – You have analyzed your contracts, negotiated with the payers, and set new rates. Your job may look finished, but the fun is just starting! Short of reviewing every EOB and ERA, how can you ensure that the new rates are loaded correctly and that procedures are paid appropriately? What are medical practices nationwide doing to confirm that claims are being paid according to contract? What about multiple procedure discounts, modifiers, different rates for different specialties, and other contracting nuances? Should you take a different approach to underpayments vs. denials?

07/12/2023

Provider Funding Available for Patient Nicotine Cessation Efforts

July 12, 2023 – New funding is available for health, medical, behavioral health, and dental providers to help them develop or improve their patient nicotine cessation policies, procedures, and practices through the Ohio Department of Health Tobacco Use Prevention and Cessation Program (TUPCP). Up to $5,100 is available based on the completion of several deliverables.

07/11/2023

Meet OSMA Foundation Summer Scholar, Aditya Mistry

July 11, 2023 – Aditya's research focuses on social determinants of health for PSA screening of individuals with prostate cancer, and analyzing surgical intervention vs. conservational management of large Staghorn kidney stones.

07/05/2023

State Budget Bill Passed, Signed by Governor

OSMA Champions New Medicaid Physician Payment Increase Included in Budget Legislation

July 5, 2023 – This spring, the Ohio Legislature embarked on the biennial state budget process, tasked with passing legislation creating the budget for fiscal years 2024-2025. The Ohio State Medical Association (OSMA)’s Government Relations team engaged with legislators on many health care budget items from the start, when the governor’s initial proposal for the budget was released.

06/28/2023

Meet OSMA Foundation Summer Scholar, Ethan Kosco

June 28, 2023 – Ethan is pursuing an orthopedic spine surgery internship at the Harvard University Medical School Brigham and Women’s Hospital, applying knowledge of regenerative medicine, learning research skills in the stem cell vertebral disc degeneration lab, and observing how research is translated in the operating room.

06/27/2023

IMG Member Spotlight with John A. Sharma, MD

June 27, 2023 – OSMA is proud to be launching the International Medical Graduate (IMG) Section. Recognizing that physicians representing international medical schools bring a wealth of diversity and are a vital part of Ohio’s physician community.

06/27/2023

IMG Member Spotlight with Mohammed M. A. Hakim, MD

June 27, 2023 – OSMA is proud to be launching the International Medical Graduate (IMG) Section. Recognizing that physicians representing international medical schools bring a wealth of diversity and are a vital part of Ohio’s physician community.

06/22/2023

Meet OSMA Foundation Summer Scholar, Sydney Bitting

June 22, 2023 – My summer internship involves research in my interestes of neurology and PM&R. In addition to this research, I am working on a hematology-oncology case report through Akron Children's Hospital and am volunteering at the Akron Rotary Camp that supports children with disabilities.

06/21/2023

AMA Annual Meeting Recap – Ohio Well Represented by OSMA Members

June 21, 2023 – Earlier this month the American Medical Association (AMA) held its annual meeting in Chicago. The OSMA Delegation was extremely active in the policy making process.

06/20/2023

IMG Member Spotlight with Rajpal S. Aujla, MD

June 20, 2023 – OSMA is proud to be launching the International Medical Graduate (IMG) Section. Recognizing that physicians representing international medical schools bring a wealth of diversity and are a vital part of Ohio’s physician community.

06/19/2023

You Did It! We've Reached Our Spring Fundraising Goal

June 19, 2023 - Thanks to your generosity, our goal of raising $20,000 by June has been met—continuing our dedication to Fueling Physician Futures!

06/15/2023

OSMA Provides Key Supportive Testimony for Ohio Prior Authorization “Gold Card” Bill

June 15, 2023 – HB 130 was introduced in the Ohio House in March by Rep. Kevin Miller (R-Newark), and is one of OSMA’s major legislative advocacy priorities this year. The bill, if enacted, would create an exemption system that rewards Ohio healthcare providers who consistently receive a prior authorization approval rate of 80% or more for a specific service, device, or drug in the prior 12-month period.

06/14/2023

OSMA Supports AMA “Fix Medicare Now” Initiative

June 14, 2023 – In addition to reforming prior authorization at the state and federal level, OSMA joins the AMA and organized medicine across the country to fix major flaws in the Medicare physician fee schedule.

06/14/2023

Meet OSMA Foundation Summer Scholar, Trent James

June 14, 2023 – My summer internship involves research on alveolar clefts in the Plastic Surgery Department of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and Medical Center.

06/06/2023

Medicare & Medicaid Updates—Registration is Open!

June 6, 2023 – Join us for OSMA's annual Medicare & Medicaid Updates with tips, policies and resources—keeping you in compliance, and helping to get your claims paid in a timely, appropriate way. Payer rules and policies are constantly changing!

06/06/2023

New MATE Act's 8-Hour Training Requirements

June 6, 2023 – The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) released materials in March 2023 related to the new Medication Access and Training Expansion (MATE) Act. The Act requires new or renewing DEA licensees, as of June 27, 2023, to have completed a total of at least eight hours of training on opioid or other substance use disorders and the appropriate treatment of pain.

06/05/2023

Meet OSMA Foundation Summer Scholar, Elizabeth Abrams

June 5, 2023 – My summer internship is a research project through Ohio State University College of Medicine, with the Department of Emergency Medicine.

06/01/2023

A Focus on Men's Health Month—Q&A with Eric Drobny, MD

June 1, 2023 – Men’s Health Month is in June. Why do you think it’s important to recognize Men’s Health Month and put an emphasis on this area? 

05/31/2023

Post Public Health Emergency FAQ

May 31, 2022 – The COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) ended on May 11, 2023, which changes many federal policies established during the pandemic. OSMA is working to keep members updated as guidance is available.

05/31/2023

Cigna Update to Modifier 25 Policy

May 31, 2022 – Cigna has updated its modifier 25 policy to announce a delay in implementing the required submission of documentation to support the use of modifier 25 when billed with E/M CPT codes 99212 – 99215 and a minor procedure.

05/30/2023

Introducing our 2023 Summer Scholars Recipients!

May 30, 2023 - Thanks to your generosity, we are thrilled to introduce the 2023 cohort of OSMA Foundation Summer Scholars scholarship recipients! Look for more in-depth profiles of each of these Summer Scholars throughout June and July. The future of medicine is certainly bright.

05/25/2023

Take Action: Contact Congress to Fix Prior Authorization

May 25, 2023 – In addition to our efforts at the state level with HB 130, OSMA is also involved with our national and state partners to reform prior authorization practices in Medicare Advantage plans.

05/25/2023

Introducing OSMA’s New President: A Q&A with Eric Drobny, MD

May 23, 2023 – We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Drobny as our new President, and we thank Dr. Brian Santin who tactfully completed his term. Read on to learn more about Dr. Drobny, his medical career, and his vision for leading OSMA.

05/24/2023

Medical Liability Claim Frequency Study

May 24, 2023 – A new analysis from the American Medical Association (AMA) finds the possibility of being sued during a career in medicine is very real for most doctors, which is notable given that most claims end with no finding of negligence or error.

05/17/2023

OSMA Spring Legislative Update

May 17, 2023 - The OSMA government relations team continues activity related to the state budget bill, which recently passed out of the Ohio House and is now in hearings in the Ohio Senate Finance Committee. As summer approaches, OSMA has been involved in advocacy efforts regarding several pieces of legislation in the last few weeks.

05/16/2023

Public Health Emergency Ends

May 16, 2023 - On Thursday, May 11, 2023, the federally declared Public Health Emergency (PHE) ended. As many flexibilities for physicians and practices were provided by federal regulatory agencies during the PHE, it is important to know which, if any, of those flexibilities will be going away.

05/09/2023

Volunteer Opportunities with OSMA—We Need Your Input!

May 9, 2023 - After our annual meeting, we reach out to members looking for volunteers to participate in key organizational initiatives. This year, we’re hoping you will consider volunteering for one of the following committees...

05/08/2023

COVID-19 Vaccine Expiration Reminder

May 8, 2023 - This week, the Ohio Department of Health sent out a reminder to providers of COVID-19 vaccines about recent expiration awareness. NOTE: All remaining doses of Johnson & Johnson (J&J)/Janssen COVID-19 vaccine expired on Saturday, May 6, 2023. 

05/08/2023

Curbside Consultations: Patient Safety and Legal Risks

May 8, 2023 – Informal, or “curbside,” consultations among healthcare practitioners represent an important part of clinical practice and help to promote a collegial relationship in both the clinic and hospital settings.

05/04/2023

Medicare Annual Visits: How to make them work in your office

May 4, 2023 - Medicare annual wellness visits provide an important opportunity to promote health and to provide disease screening and advance care planning with patients who have Medicare. However, billing for the wrong visit or at the wrong time can result in denied claims.

05/04/2023

Tort Reform in Ohio: 20-Year Anniversary Reflections

May 4, 2023 – OSMA Exclusive Partner, The Doctors Company (TDC) CEO and Chairman, Dr. Richard Anderson reflects on the history of tort reform in Ohio.

05/03/2023

Are Employee Health Insurance Costs Giving You a Headache?

May 3, 2023 – OSMA can help. According to a recent survey of 1,000 employers by Forbes Advisor, employer-sponsored health coverage is the most important benefit to employees in 2023. Yet one of the biggest costs facing employers today continues to be health insurance coverage for employees.

05/03/2023

United Healthcare to Reduce Prior Authorizations

May 3, 2023 - OSMA's continued focus at the state and federal level is starting to result in individual plans announcing revisions to prior authorization practices. We’re also supporting HB 130 in Ohio that creates a prior authorization gold card and we anticipate additional legislation in Ohio related to prior authorization and billing later this year.

05/03/2023

Updates to Coverage for COVID-19 Tests

May 3, 2023 - The ending of the Public Health Emergency may impact an individual’s coverage of COVID-19 tests. CMS is encouraging that you know these changes and share the New Consumer Fact Sheet on COVID-19 tests.

04/27/2023

OSMA Advocates for Medicare Physician Payment Changes

April 27, 2023 – OSMA has joined with more than 120 other state and national medical societies communicating our support to the sponsors of H.R. 2474—the Strengthening Medicare for Patients and Providers Act.

04/25/2023

Advocacy Update on Non-Compete Proposed Rule 

April 25, 2023 – In January of this year, the Federal Trade Commission issued notice of a proposed rule which would prohibit non-compete agreements between nearly every employee/employer under the FTC’s jurisdiction, including physician employment agreements.

04/24/2023

Webinars to Help Prepare for the End of the Public Health Emergency

April 24, 2023 - On May 11, 2023, the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) is set to expire. Healthcare providers continue to implement COVID protocols and navigate the ever-changing healthcare regulations at both the federal and state levels, therefore it is important to take time to prepare for the ending of the Public Health Emergency (PHE). Here are some webinars to help you plan...

04/24/2023

OSMA/National Response to Cigna's Re-release of Modifier 25 Policy

April 24, 2023 – Cigna is re-releasing its policy to require the submission of medical records with all Evaluation and Management (E/M) claims with CPT 99212-99215 and modifier 25 when a minor procedure is billed. Last week, OSMA joined the AMA and almost 100 other state and national medical/specialty societies in a collective letter urging Cigna to reconsider this policy.

04/19/2023

Medical Student Abstract Poster Competition

New this year as part of the OSMA annual meeting, medical students were invited to submit an abstract for poster presentation. This was an excellent opportunity for students to become involved in the OSMA Annual Meeting and to enhance their reputation both within and outside their institution – and to network with physicians about policy, research, career interests and more.

04/19/2023

Training Opportunities for New DEA License Requirements

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) released materials in March 2023 related to the new Medication Access and Training Expansion (MATE) Act. The Act requires new or renewing DEA licensees, as of June 27, 2023, to have completed a total of at least eight hours of training on opioid or other substance use disorders and the appropriate treatment of pain.

04/11/2023

CMS Issues Final Rule Reforming Parts of Prior Authorization Requirements

April 11, 2023 – The rule creates enforcement provisions for misleading marketing schemes, removes barriers to care created by complex coverage criteria, and expands access to behavioral health care. OSMA joined with the American Medical Association in supporting these needed reforms.

04/04/2023

Interprofessional Consultants & Alternative Delivery Methods for Care

April 4, 2023 – CMS has changed the way health care is considered and paid not only by Medicare but many commercial insurance plans. Part of this change is the mandated requirement for Medicaid to cover many of these services as part of the standardization in health care delivery and reimbursement. More and more health care is provided in non- traditional ways.

04/04/2023

ODH Bureau of Vital Statistics to Replace Birth and Death Electronic Reporting Systems

April 3, 2023 – The Ohio Department of Administrative Services has posted a Request for Proposals for a vendor to replace both systems. A vendor should be selected by July. It is anticipated that the EDRS death module will be replaced first in 2024, followed by the IPHIS birth module thereafter.

04/04/2023

Remote Patient Monitoring: Considerations for Telehealth Care

April 3, 2023 – Prior to the pandemic, practitioner concerns over how to conduct a physical examination during a virtual visit created a significant barrier to telehealth. Thanks to appropriate telehealth use guidelines and technological advances, important components of an in-office visit, such as vital signs and point-of-care testing, are now becoming an in-home reality with remote patient monitoring.

03/30/2023

We Need Your Help to Make the Prior Authorization Gold Card a Reality in Ohio!

March 30, 2023 – This is an important time for healthcare in the Ohio legislature, as House Bill 130 was introduced—which, if passed, will create a Prior Authorization Gold Card Program for Ohio providers. Get involved and help us drive meaningful change in the insurance industry.

03/30/2023

Prior Authorization Gold Card Legislation Introduced in Ohio House

March 30, 2023 – Proposed HB 130 would ease regulatory burdens of prior authorization, improve healthcare system and outcomes for patients. 

03/26/2023

Member Q&A with Jay Williamson, MD

March 26, 2023 – OSMA member leaders work tirelessly on behalf of our members to ensure OSMA is meeting the needs of physicians and responding to the ever-changing healthcare landscape. We’d like to spotlight Dr. Jay Williamson.

03/23/2023

OSMA Comments on Federal Prior Authorization Rules

March 23, 2023 – Prior Authorization reform is OSMA’s top advocacy issue in 2023 and 2024. In addition to advocating for major legislative reforms at the state level that will impact commercial and Medicaid plans, we have also been involved in initiatives at the federal level that will impact Medicare advantage plans.

03/21/2023

Women's History Month: What being a female physician means to Dr. Lisa Egbert

March 21, 2023 – March is Women’s History Month, and there are countless women trailblazers in medicine to celebrate. Women like Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell, the first female doctor in the U.S.; Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler, the first Black woman doctor; Dr. Virginia Apgar, the physician who developed the Apgar score; and Dr. Gerty Cori, the first woman to win the Nobel Prize in medicine. OSMA is proud of the strides made by women in medicine.

03/16/2023

MIPS Value Pathways – Newest Reporting Option for 2023

March 16, 2023 – Starting this year, your practice now has a third option for the Merit Based Incentive Payment System Reporting (MIPS).

03/15/2023

Key Factors in a Deposition: What Healthcare Professionals Can Expect

March 15, 2023 – Depositions are conducted under oath in a verbal question-and-answer format by counsel for all of the parties to the proceeding. Although the deponent (that is, the person being questioned) is often a participant to the legal action, more commonly the individual has specific—and possibly unique—knowledge relevant to the case.

03/06/2023

Medical Board Issues Clinical Guidance on East Palestine Train Derailment Clean Up

March 6, 2023 – Earlier this week the State Medical Board of Ohio issued guidance for all physicians and healthcare workers in the region around East Palestine. If you practice in the region or know someone that does, please be sure to review and share this.

03/06/2023

The OSMA Business Credit Card: Helping Members Achieve & Maintain Financial Success

March 6, 2023 – As part of its commitment to supporting the financial success of its members, OSMA has partnered with Mercantile Technologies to create the OSMA Business Credit Card, a credit card built specifically for OSMA members.

03/05/2023

Ohio Department of Medicaid Updates on Next Generation Program Transition

March 5, 2023 – As we have been informing members since late last year, the Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) transitioned significant parts of its programming on Feb. 1 – this included a new electronic data exchange and fiscal intermediary as well as some new managed care organizations. ODM has provided this update on some key elements of the program and some issues that are currently being resolved.

03/04/2023

Lessons in Preventing Button Battery Injuries

March 4, 2023 – According to a study published in Pediatrics, it is estimated that between 2010 and 2019, more than 70,000 emergency department (ED) visits in the United States were battery related among children under 18 years old.

03/02/2023

OSMA Needs Your Help—New Prior Authorization Legislation to Be Introduced

March 2, 2023 – The goal of this legislation, which will be sponsored by Rep. Kevin Miller (R-Newark), is to create a “gold card” system for prior authorization, giving physicians a way to “earn” their way out of prior authorization requirements by demonstrating a high prior authorization success rate. Similar legislation was recently passed and enacted in the state of Texas.

03/01/2023

Summary of New ODM Initiatives Launched February 1

March 1, 2023 – One month ago Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) launched the Next Generation managed care plans, new Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), and Fiscal Intermediary (FI). These initiatives provide an enhanced and personalized healthcare experience for ODM members with more transparency and visibility of care and services for providers. Here are some reminders...

02/21/2023

Student Member Q&A with David Warner

February 21, 2023 – OSMA member leaders work tirelessly on behalf of our members to ensure OSMA is meeting the needs of physicians and responding to the ever-changing healthcare landscape. We’d like to spotlight a student member, David Warner.

02/20/2023

Public Health Emergency Expiration—Reminders

February 20, 2023 – It has been announced that the PHE will be extended through May 11, at which point it will permanently expire, marking the end of PHE extensions. Because the PHE has been in place for nearly three years, it can be difficult to remember which rules existed before then, and which have been temporary. Here are a few highlights of what is expected to change.

02/16/2023

OSMA Physicians & Staff Advocate for Medicare Funding & Prior Authorization Reform in D.C.

February 16, 2023 – Several OSMA physicians joined your OSMA Government Relations team in D.C. to participate in the American Medical Association’s National Advocacy Conference (NAC).

02/15/2023

OSMA Joins National Effort to Reform Prior Authorization in Medicare Advantage Plans

February 15, 2023 – While we focus on prior authorization reform in Ohio that will impact commercial and Medicaid plans, Medicare Advantage plans are regulated federally and therefore reforms must occur through congressional legislative action or rulemaking by CMS. In the letter, we urged CMS to focus on the following...

02/09/2023

Interstate Licensure for Telehealth Can Fuel Practice Growth

February 9, 2023 – When using telehealth to treat patients out of state, most healthcare professionals are mindful about licensure issues. But some are not aware that practicing without a license in a given state is not just malpractice, it is a criminal offense.

02/02/2023

Your Chance to Impact Future MIPS Quality & Cost Measure

February 2, 2023 – CMS Just announced the open period to submit new quality and cost measures to be used in future year MIPS measurement. The process allows clinicians, professional associations, medical societies that represent clinicians, researchers, consumer groups, and others to identify and submit measures by May 19, 2023.

02/02/2023

Healthcare Staffing Shortages: Decrease Practice Risks

February 2, 2023 – With increasing regularity, staffing shortages have adversely impacted the delivery of healthcare and the availability of diagnostic and therapeutic resources. The ongoing scarcity of employees negatively influences the quality and depth of many primary and support roles at every level throughout the healthcare workforce—including physicians, dentists, advanced practice clinicians, allied health professionals, practice assistants, and front- and back-office specialists.

02/01/2023

Don’t Forget Wellness Visits: Components & Documentation Requirements

February 1, 2023 – Medicare covers annual wellness visits (AWVs) that provide important opportunities for health care providers to assess health risks and help patients plan for Medicare preventive services (e.g., vaccinations and screenings for illnesses like cancer or diabetes), which can greatly reduce those risks.

02/01/2023

Free Health Information Training & Certification

February 1, 2023 – Through Professional Association of Health Care Office Management’s (PAHCOM) partnership with CommHIT, PAHCOM is able to provide FREE HIT training to current and aspiring practice managers through a U.S. Department of Labor grant dedicated to expanding the technology workforce nationally.

01/26/2023

OSMA's Top Advocacy Priorities for 2023

January 26, 2023 – We anticipate several familiar issues to remain major OSMA advocacy priorities this year, and are always monitoring the legislative and regulatory spaces for new and emerging topics that arise throughout the year. Here’s our current advocacy forecast...

01/25/2023

Reminder: Medicaid New Programming Launches Feb. 1

January 25, 2023 – Over the last several months, OSMA has provided information to members related to major program changes to the Ohio Medicaid program starting Feb. 1. Ohio Medicaid has provided a one-page overview document for practices to ensure you’re aware of the changes and what you need to do to prepare.

01/25/2023

FTC Releases Draft Rule Regarding Non-Compete Agreements

January 25, 2023 – The rule applies to all existing and future non-compete agreements between employers and employees. It also includes non-competes with independent contractors. It would nullify nearly every non-compete agreement for our physician owned practices and prohibit those going forward.

01/23/2023

Cervical Health Awareness Month—OSMA Experts Share Insights

January 23, 2023 – January is Cervical Health Awareness month, so we asked three OSMA member and experts on women’s health to share their insights on the importance of vaccination, regular screenings and other methods of prevention and care.

01/22/2023

Member Q&A with Christopher Brown, MD

January 22, 2023

01/11/2023

Familiarize with OSMA's Strategic Plan (2023-2025)

January 11, 2023 – The OSMA Council (Board of Directors) met in the summer and again in the fall to update the organization’s three-year strategic plan. Leadership approved five main issues areas to guide the organization’s work the next three years.

01/11/2023

Flu, RSV, or COVID-19? Convergence of Three Viruses Creates Risk of Diagnostic Errors

January 11, 2023 – Understanding the differences between the flu, RSV, and COVID-19 will help prevent misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis when patients present with respiratory symptoms. Learn more from TDC's latest article.

01/03/2023

Important ODM Resources for Feb. 1 Programming Launch

January 3, 2023 – ODM released the following announcement regarding resources for the February 1 launch—including FAQs, training schedule, and the top 8 things to know.

01/02/2023

HHS Proposes to Standardize Electronic Health Care Attachments Transactions & Electronic Signature Process

January 2, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services released the following information on Dec. 19 along with a fact sheet and full press release.

12/21/2022

OSMA Joins Public Health Advocates Urging the Governor to Veto H.B. 513

December 21, 2022 – H.B. 513 passed in the Ohio legislature last week, which would remove all local control over tobacco policies including implementing local tobacco retail licensure programs, conducting local compliance to ensure retailers are not selling to kids, and furthering policies to end the sale of flavored tobacco products.

12/20/2022

A Time to Give Thanks—OSMA CEO's Closing Point on 2022

December 20, 2022 – During this holiday season, hopefully you have been able or will be enjoying time with family and friends. As I reflect back on 2022, I am proud of the organization’s focus and dedication to the profession and all individual physicians in Ohio.

12/20/2022

Medicaid Announces Start Date for New Fiscal Intermediary—What to Know

December 20, 2022 – After announcing earlier this month the delay of the transition to new Medicaid Managed Care Organization (MCOs) until Feb. 1, the Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) has now announced the same start date for the new Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) and Fiscal intermediary (FI). ODM released the following information earlier this week.

12/19/2022

Future of Medicine—Care Management Technology

December 19, 2022 – OSMA continues to monitor new technology and regulations that assist with patient care management. We anticipate the new Ohio telemedicine regulations to be finalized early in 2023 and will update members when they are finalized. Additionally, we are working with vendors to highlight different technologies available to practices and patients. This month we are highlighting DrFirst...

12/18/2022

Reminder: 2022 MIPS Extreme & Uncontrollable Circumstances Exception Applications

December 18, 2022 – The American Medical Association (AMA) sent OSMA the following communication to remind members about an important MIPS deadline and advocacy efforts to extend opportunities for filing.

12/15/2022

Lame Duck Legislative Update

December 15, 2022 – OSMA is proud to represent you and advocate on your behalf. Your OSMA Advocacy team has experienced a whirlwind of activity at the Statehouse after the election, and has been carefully monitoring what has happened during the lame duck legislative session.

12/15/2022

OSMA Continues Advocacy Push to Avert 4.5% Cut to the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule

December 15, 2022 – Last week, OSMA joined the AMA—and every other state medical society in the country—signing a letter to Congress urging them to take action before the end of the year to avert the projected 4.5% cut to the 2023 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule.

12/13/2022

Student Member/Leader Q&A with Jass Kaur

December 13, 2022

12/06/2022

2023 Annual Meeting Details

December 6, 2023 – Plan to attend from Friday, April 14 through Sunday, April 16 at the Renaissance Columbus Westerville-Polaris Hotel.

12/06/2022

Members: Feature Your Practice on OSMA Social Media!

December 6, 2023 – If you or your practice would like to be featured on our Facebook and Twitter pages, simply provide OSMA with the following

11/29/2022

Mapping the Perioperative Claims Experience of General Surgeons

November 29, 2022 – Understanding the most common types of complications and the factors that contribute to errors may provide insights for general surgeons about their practice.

11/29/2022

Update from Our Summer Scholar, Megan Sharpe

November 29, 2022 - The Foundation is receiving updates from our 2022 Summer Scholars recipients regarding their progress, their internship experiences, and reflections on what is next in their medical career journey. See what Megan Sharpe is up to!

11/22/2022

Council Q&A with Drs. Bernadette Anderson & Anubhav Mital

November 22, 2022

11/15/2022

What Not to Do: Telehealth Lessons Learned

November 15, 2022 – The rising adoption of telehealth has highlighted the myriad challenges it presents to patients, providers, and healthcare systems. Learn more with TDC's video series.

11/14/2022

Ohio Medicaid Announces Delay in Launch of Fiscal Intermediary & New Managed Care Plans

November 14, 2022 – We have been updating members since early this year regarding major transitions in the administration of the Medicaid program in Ohio. While the Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) has moved forward with implementation of OhioRISE, Single Pharmacy Benefit Manager (SPBM) and Centralized Credentialing, there are now delays in other transitions originally scheduled to take place on Dec. 1.

11/14/2022

Staff Spotlight: A Q&A with Sean McCullough, Director, Policy & Legal Counsel

November 14, 2022 – Our OSMA staff works tirelessly on behalf of our members to ensure OSMA is meeting the needs of physicians and responding to the ever-changing healthcare landscape.

11/10/2022

OSMA’s 2022 Midterm General Election Recap

November 10, 2022 – After a whirlwind midterm election day, millions of Ohio voters have made their voices heard. Overall, the candidates endorsed by the Ohio State Medical Association Political Action Committee (OSMAPAC) prevailed in the majority of races for various statewide offices. Ohio also set a record as far as early and absentee voting in a midterm election - a total of 1,392,767 votes were cast through either in-person early voting or returned absentee ballots as of the end of early voting on Monday.

11/10/2022

OSMA Joins AMA, Other Organizations in Opposition to Federal Allied Practitioner Scope of Practice Legislation

November 10, 2022 – OSMA was among dozens of national and state medical societies and associations that signed an opposition letter, expressing concerns that this bill would negatively impact the quality of care received by Medicare and Medicaid patients.

11/08/2022

Staff Spotlight: A Q&A with Nancy Gillette, General Counsel

November 8, 2022 – Our OSMA staff works tirelessly on behalf of our members to ensure OSMA is meeting the needs of physicians and responding to the ever-changing healthcare landscape.

10/26/2022

Sean McCullough Joins OSMA Advocacy Team, Monica Hueckel Promoted

October 26, 2022 – Sean joins our team as our new Director of Policy and Legal Counsel. OSMA has also promoted Monica Hueckel, who has been with OSMA for more than eight years, to the role of Vice President of Advocacy.

10/20/2022

Ohio Medicaid Changes Coming: Important Updates & Training Reminders

October 20, 2022 – The Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) is in the process of major administrative and program updates and changes. Many of these will directly impact physician practices. Earlier this week, ODM provided the following information and training opportunities to ensure you are up-to-date on what you need to do and know.

10/20/2022

Advocacy Update: Election Day is Approaching—and Know What’s in Store for the Rest of 2022

October 20, 2022 – Early voting began last week for the upcoming general election on Tuesday, November 8. Many important races will feature on your Ohio ballot this year, including decisions for U.S. Senate, Congress, state House and Senate and Ohio Supreme Court. Additionally, Ohioans will elect candidates for the offices of governor, attorney general, and secretary of state.

10/19/2022

October's Medical Board Meeting Recap

October 19, 2022 – At its regularly scheduled Board meeting on October 12, the Board adopted three additional offenses to its list of disqualifying offenses for application for licensure.

10/17/2022

Update from Our Summer Scholar, Anirudh Prabu

Oct 17, 2022 - The Foundation is receiving more updates from our 2022 Summer Scholars recipients regarding their progress and their internship experiences. See what Anirudh Prabu has been up to!

10/13/2022

Prescribing Reminders from the Pharmacy Board

Oct 13, 2022 – We've compiled updates regarding the go-live date for OARRS Provider Authorization, required OARRS reviews, and National Prescription Drug Take Back Day coming up on October 29, 2022.

10/11/2022

Foundation Update from Our Chair

Oct 11, 2022 - As we head into the last few months of 2022, I am incredibly proud to reflect upon the work we have done revitalizing the OSMA Foundation this year, making a significant impact in several of our key priority areas.

10/10/2022

Well-Being CARE is Making Headlines

Oct 10, 2022 - Earlier this fall, OSMA President Dr. Brian Santin and OSMA CEO Todd Baker were interviewed by Medical Economics News in an article about physician burnout...

10/09/2022

Checking in with Our Summer Scholars Students...

Oct 9, 2022 - We are so proud of the inaugural cohort of OSMA Foundation Summer Scholars. Here are the latest reflections from a couple of our Summer Scholars about what their experience has meant to them in their medical education.

10/04/2022

Information Blocking: New Requirements Taking Effect

Oct 4, 2022 – Starting October 6, 2022, the definition of electronic health information (EHI) in the Cures Act expands beyond the EHI data classes listed below to include electronic protected health information (ePHI) as defined by HIPAA.

10/04/2022

HIPAA and Cybersecurity: Five Basic Questions Every Healthcare Organization Should Ask Itself Today

Oct 4, 2022 – Every physician practice and healthcare organization is a target for cybercriminals. No business is too small. When these events occur, it is important to take prompt and meaningful action to help mitigate legal, financial and reputation risk.

10/04/2022

Dispensing Sample Medications: Patient Safety Strategies

October 4, 2022 – Dispensing free sample medications to patients is commonplace in medical and dental offices. With safeguards in place, it can contribute to improved clinical results and generate goodwill between the practitioner and the patient.

09/27/2022

Key Federal Legislation Update: Take Action

Sept 27, 2022 – OSMA wants to ensure Ohio physicians are aware of the following pending issues in Congress, which are highly impactful to the practice of medicine. Physicians are encouraged to reach out to their elected officials in D.C. to urge support for these federal legislative proposals using these provided links.

09/26/2022

Registration Open for Provider Network Management (PNM) Training

Sept 26, 2022 –The Ohio Department of Medicaid sent out the below information to ensure physician practices are aware of training opportunities related to major changes happening this fall.

08/01/2022

Your Well-being Checkup And Referral Engagement Service

August 1, 2022 – The need for well-being support has never been higher, and the OSMA Foundation is supporting Ohio's healthcare workforce with a way to measure factors like personal anxiety, depression and burnout and connect with credible resources who can help.

05/10/2022

OSMA Foundation Awards 6 Summer Scholars Stipends

May 10, 2022 - The Foundation's April reception was an opportunity to meet and celebrate our first cohort of Summer Scholars. Read on for more information about these bright medical students and how the OSMA Foundation Summer Scholars program is helping them pursue summer research and clinical opportunities to advance public health.

04/26/2022

Introducing OSMA’s New President: A Q&A with Brian Santin, MD

April 26, 2022 – We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Santin as our new President, and we thank Dr. Lisa B. Egbert who tactfully completed her term. Read on to learn more about Dr. Santin, his medical career, and his vision for leading OSMA.

02/16/2022

Member Q&A with John A. Bastulli, MD

February 16, 2022

01/24/2022

Council Q&A with Shannon C. Trotter, DO

January 24, 2022

12/20/2021

Member Q&A with Jeffrey R. Leipzig, MD

December 20, 2021

11/22/2021

Council Q&A with John R. Corker, MD, FACEP

November 22, 2021

10/14/2021

Council Q&A with Gregory Surfield, MD, FACS

October 13, 2021

09/07/2021

Council Q&A with Michelle Knopp, MD

September 7, 2021

08/24/2021

Council Q&A with Mary LaPlante, MD, FACOG

August 24, 2021

07/28/2021

Council Q&A with Mary LaPlante, MD, FACOG

July 28, 2021

04/23/2021

Introducing OSMA’s New President: A Q&A with Lisa Egbert, MD

April 23, 2021 – We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Egbert as our new President, and we thank Dr. Anthony Armstrong who skillfully completed his term. Read on to learn more about Dr. Egbert, her medical career, and her vision for leading OSMA.

02/11/2021

Health Equity Q&A with OSMA President Anthony Armstrong, MD

February 11, 2021 - The COVID-19 pandemic and elevated conversations about racial justice have brought the issue of healthcare equity to the forefront for healthcare professionals everywhere. As we support members in 2021, we’re pleased to share thoughts from OSMA President Anthony Armstrong, MD on health equity and what this means for Ohio physicians.

08/01/2019

Ohio Physicians Give Feedback on Medicaid Managed Care Program

Many of our members provide daily patient care to Ohio’s Medicaid population and thus are uniquely qualified to provide meaningful information to assist the Ohio Department of Medicaid in its upcoming competitive Medicaid managed care procurement process. The comments we received from our members generally centered on areas where improvement is most desired, including plan accountability, grievances and appeals, provider support, benefits and delivery, and care coordination and management.

07/18/2019

Ohio Budget Process Complete

The OSMA Government Relations team has been engaging with legislators on health care-related budget items since the governor’s initial proposal was released, and has been following and participating in the ongoing debates about a number of health policy decisions.

07/18/2019

Terminating Patient Relationships

Just as it is an acceptable and reasonable practice to screen incoming patients, it is acceptable and reasonable to know when to end patient relationships that are no longer therapeutic. It is critical, however, to end the patient relationship in a manner that will not lead to claims of discrimination or abandonment.

07/18/2019

Ohio Physician Wellness Coalition Offers Online CME Courses

The Ohio Physician Wellness Coalition (OPWC), which represents Ohio physicians and hospitals and focuses on addressing physician burnout, launched six videos in its continuing medical education (CME) wellness video series.

07/18/2019

Training Managers Who Walk the Walk

Identifying and training role models in your business or practice is key to creating a positive, productive work environment. Which managers should you cultivate as role models to lead your organization?

06/06/2019

New Pain Management Toolkit Available

A new state toolkit designed to assist primary care doctors who prescribe opioids will be released this month by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH).

06/06/2019

The $4.6 Billion Price Tag of Physician Burnout

To put a price on burnout, the study authors culled data from recent research findings and reports — including direct or inferred findings on doctors cutting back on hours or quitting as a result of burnout.

05/16/2019

Ohio’s Health Value Needs to be Better Now

Ohio is ranked 46 out of the 50 states and the District of Columbia according to the 2019 Health Policy Institute of Ohio (HPIO) Health Value Dashboard—landing the Buckeye state in the bottom quartile.

04/25/2019

Concerns about U.S. Measles Outbreak

A recent poll by The Doctors Company received 9,459 responses to the question: How concerned are you as a healthcare provider about the recent U.S. measles outbreak?

04/25/2019

Hiring Friends and Family at the Office Is a Bad Idea

If your sister is pressuring you to hire your nephew for that much-coveted summer internship position so he can get his “foot in the door,” don’t give in to temptation.

03/28/2019

The 3-Minute Guide to Creating a Modern Website

How to Go Beyond an Online Business Card and Build an Effective Online Presence...

03/28/2019

Dollars & Sense: The State Budget

Earlier this week, the state budget became a bill on Capitol Hill—or at least on Capitol Square in Columbus, Ohio. The OSMA has completed an initial review of the bill language...

03/28/2019

On-Demand Care for YOU

As part of its commitment to the well-being of all physicians in the state of Ohio, the OSMA Physician Well-Being Committee recently launched an online hub...

03/14/2019

Oxycon"tained" Again in 2018

Pharmacy Board Releases Compelling OARRS Data... This week, the State of Ohio Pharmacy Board reported that the number of opioids dispensed to Ohioans dropped by 325 million from 2012 or 2018.

02/28/2019

OSMA Goes to Washington

Earlier this month, several OSMA members along with the OSMA Government Relations staff traveled to Washington DC to meet with members of Congress to discuss how existing laws are affecting patients and practices.

02/28/2019

Lions, and Tigers and Boards, Oh My!

Vision for the Future Commission released its final report to the American Board of Medical Specialties Board of Directors early this month.

02/28/2019

This Bud’s for You (or Your Patients)

Within the first month that the medical marijuana program was running in the state of Ohio, nearly $1M in sales were recorded, but questions remain.

02/27/2019

Take Control of Rising Healthcare Costs

The OSMA understands the struggles to maintain an independent practice. This is one reason why the OSMA decided to offer an OSMA managed, self-funded health care plan.

02/15/2019

2019 OSMA Annual Meeting—Resolutions Posted

All resolutions received by the Wednesday, February 6th deadline have been posted to the website so you can start to review them. We will post background information as we receive it.

02/14/2019

Despite 21% Decrease in Overdose Deaths, Ohio Still Has Work to Do

According to a recent CDC report, Ohio saw a significant decrease – 21.4% - in overdose fatalities in July 2017 through June 2018; second in the nation only to Washington DC, which saw a 24.2% decrease.

01/10/2019

Make Sure to Do your Annual HR Check Up

Now that 2019 is underway, it is essential that you make sure your company is in compliance with state and federal regulatory updates.

01/10/2019

OSMA Insurance Agency Announces 2019 Average Rate Renewal of only 2.9 Percent

Physician practices participating in the OSMA’s Health Benefits Plan (HBP) will see another year of rate increases averaging single digits. Renewal increases for 2019 will average 2.9%. This increase, along with plan increases over the past three years, show a four-year average of 4.5%. Significantly below the national averages.

01/03/2019

Physician Well-Being: The Real 5th Vital Sign

"The reason we should care about burnout is because it has the potential for serious consequences on the quality of patient care and safety, patient satisfaction, professionalism, physicians’ own care and safety, and the viability of the health care system..."

12/06/2018

Ohio Medical Marijuana Patient Registry Opens: What it Means for Doctors

The amount of product will be extremely limited, as growers and dispensaries come online throughout 2019.

09/14/2023

National Physician Suicide Awareness Information

September 14, 2023 – OSMA is partnering with Disappearing Doctors to cohost an event The Disposables—an original collection of portraits honoring the 400+ physicians who die by suicide each year. The Disposables—created by artist Jeremy Rosario—depicts handcrafted portraits made from donated disposable medical supplies from doctors’ workplaces. The portraits will be on display for public viewing at the COhatch The Gateway starting on Monday Sept. 18 through Oct. 20.

09/05/2023

Noncomplaint Patients Increase Liability Risks for Practitioners

September 5, 2023 – The Doctors Company, outlines a number of patient safety strategies to manage noncompliant patients.

08/01/2023

Dealing With Online Patient Complaints

August 1, 2023 – Clinicians are understandably concerned about their reputations and the consequences of any negative comments posted about them on social media platforms. Although the web can be a powerful tool for healthcare practices, it becomes problematic when patients post unfavorable opinions.

05/31/2023

Post Public Health Emergency FAQ

May 31, 2022 – The COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) ended on May 11, 2023, which changes many federal policies established during the pandemic. OSMA is working to keep members updated as guidance is available.

05/08/2023

COVID-19 Vaccine Expiration Reminder

May 8, 2023 - This week, the Ohio Department of Health sent out a reminder to providers of COVID-19 vaccines about recent expiration awareness. NOTE: All remaining doses of Johnson & Johnson (J&J)/Janssen COVID-19 vaccine expired on Saturday, May 6, 2023. 

05/03/2023

Updates to Coverage for COVID-19 Tests

May 3, 2023 - The ending of the Public Health Emergency may impact an individual’s coverage of COVID-19 tests. CMS is encouraging that you know these changes and share the New Consumer Fact Sheet on COVID-19 tests.

04/24/2023

Webinars to Help Prepare for the End of the Public Health Emergency

April 24, 2023 - On May 11, 2023, the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) is set to expire. Healthcare providers continue to implement COVID protocols and navigate the ever-changing healthcare regulations at both the federal and state levels, therefore it is important to take time to prepare for the ending of the Public Health Emergency (PHE). Here are some webinars to help you plan...

04/19/2023

Medical Student Abstract Poster Competition

New this year as part of the OSMA annual meeting, medical students were invited to submit an abstract for poster presentation. This was an excellent opportunity for students to become involved in the OSMA Annual Meeting and to enhance their reputation both within and outside their institution – and to network with physicians about policy, research, career interests and more.

04/11/2023

CMS Issues Final Rule Reforming Parts of Prior Authorization Requirements

April 11, 2023 – The rule creates enforcement provisions for misleading marketing schemes, removes barriers to care created by complex coverage criteria, and expands access to behavioral health care. OSMA joined with the American Medical Association in supporting these needed reforms.

04/04/2023

Interprofessional Consultants & Alternative Delivery Methods for Care

April 4, 2023 – CMS has changed the way health care is considered and paid not only by Medicare but many commercial insurance plans. Part of this change is the mandated requirement for Medicaid to cover many of these services as part of the standardization in health care delivery and reimbursement. More and more health care is provided in non- traditional ways.

04/04/2023

Remote Patient Monitoring: Considerations for Telehealth Care

April 3, 2023 – Prior to the pandemic, practitioner concerns over how to conduct a physical examination during a virtual visit created a significant barrier to telehealth. Thanks to appropriate telehealth use guidelines and technological advances, important components of an in-office visit, such as vital signs and point-of-care testing, are now becoming an in-home reality with remote patient monitoring.

03/06/2023

The OSMA Business Credit Card: Helping Members Achieve & Maintain Financial Success

March 6, 2023 – As part of its commitment to supporting the financial success of its members, OSMA has partnered with Mercantile Technologies to create the OSMA Business Credit Card, a credit card built specifically for OSMA members.

03/04/2023

Lessons in Preventing Button Battery Injuries

March 4, 2023 – According to a study published in Pediatrics, it is estimated that between 2010 and 2019, more than 70,000 emergency department (ED) visits in the United States were battery related among children under 18 years old.

03/01/2023

Summary of New ODM Initiatives Launched February 1

March 1, 2023 – One month ago Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) launched the Next Generation managed care plans, new Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), and Fiscal Intermediary (FI). These initiatives provide an enhanced and personalized healthcare experience for ODM members with more transparency and visibility of care and services for providers. Here are some reminders...

02/20/2023

Public Health Emergency Expiration—Reminders

February 20, 2023 – It has been announced that the PHE will be extended through May 11, at which point it will permanently expire, marking the end of PHE extensions. Because the PHE has been in place for nearly three years, it can be difficult to remember which rules existed before then, and which have been temporary. Here are a few highlights of what is expected to change.

02/16/2023

Ohio’s New Telehealth Rules Effective Feb. 28—What to Know

February 16, 2023 – Physicians across Ohio have continued to embrace remote healthcare services. After a lengthy rule promulgation process, including our member feedback and input from OSMA, the Board has finalized new telehealth rules, which will become effective this month.

02/09/2023

Interstate Licensure for Telehealth Can Fuel Practice Growth

February 9, 2023 – When using telehealth to treat patients out of state, most healthcare professionals are mindful about licensure issues. But some are not aware that practicing without a license in a given state is not just malpractice, it is a criminal offense.

02/02/2023

Healthcare Staffing Shortages: Decrease Practice Risks

February 2, 2023 – With increasing regularity, staffing shortages have adversely impacted the delivery of healthcare and the availability of diagnostic and therapeutic resources. The ongoing scarcity of employees negatively influences the quality and depth of many primary and support roles at every level throughout the healthcare workforce—including physicians, dentists, advanced practice clinicians, allied health professionals, practice assistants, and front- and back-office specialists.

01/11/2023

Familiarize with OSMA's Strategic Plan (2023-2025)

January 11, 2023 – The OSMA Council (Board of Directors) met in the summer and again in the fall to update the organization’s three-year strategic plan. Leadership approved five main issues areas to guide the organization’s work the next three years.

01/11/2023

Flu, RSV, or COVID-19? Convergence of Three Viruses Creates Risk of Diagnostic Errors

January 11, 2023 – Understanding the differences between the flu, RSV, and COVID-19 will help prevent misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis when patients present with respiratory symptoms. Learn more from TDC's latest article.

12/18/2022

Reminder: 2022 MIPS Extreme & Uncontrollable Circumstances Exception Applications

December 18, 2022 – The American Medical Association (AMA) sent OSMA the following communication to remind members about an important MIPS deadline and advocacy efforts to extend opportunities for filing.

08/01/2022

Your Well-being Checkup And Referral Engagement Service

August 1, 2022 – The need for well-being support has never been higher, and the OSMA Foundation is supporting Ohio's healthcare workforce with a way to measure factors like personal anxiety, depression and burnout and connect with credible resources who can help.

02/16/2022

Member Q&A with John A. Bastulli, MD

February 16, 2022

01/24/2022

Council Q&A with Shannon C. Trotter, DO

January 24, 2022

12/20/2021

Member Q&A with Jeffrey R. Leipzig, MD

December 20, 2021

11/22/2021

Council Q&A with John R. Corker, MD, FACEP

November 22, 2021

10/14/2021

Council Q&A with Gregory Surfield, MD, FACS

October 13, 2021

09/07/2021

Council Q&A with Michelle Knopp, MD

September 7, 2021

08/24/2021

Council Q&A with Mary LaPlante, MD, FACOG

August 24, 2021