American Academy of Neurology

Advocacy: House Repeals SGR, Bill Moves to Senate

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 18:57:00 GMT

The US House has agreed to repeal the Medicare sustainable growth rate (SGR) formula by passing HR. 3961, also known as the "Medicare Physician Payment Reform Act of 2009." This bill now moves to the US Senate, which failed to pass a similar bill two weeks ago

Science: Michael Aminoff Discusses Gene Therapy for Parkinson's Disease

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:10:00 GMT

Michael J. Aminoff, MD, DSc, FRCP, FAAN, talks about his recently published paper on safety and tolerability of putaminal AADC gene therapy for Parkinson's disease

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: CMS to Eliminate Outpatient Mental Health Treatment Limitation

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:29:00 GMT

As part of its final 2010 ruling on the physician fee schedule, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has initiated a plan to phase out the current limitation on payment for outpatient mental health treatment.

Annual Meeting: Submit Your Late-Breaking Science Abstract for 2010 Today

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 23:32:00 GMT

Online submission forms for the Late-Breaking Science Program at the 2010 Annual Meeting are now available.

Advocacy: House to Consider SGR Repeal; Contact Your Representative Today

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 22:15:00 GMT

Elimination of the Medicare Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) formula has been a top priority for the Academy for nearly a decade. The time to act is now. Join your colleagues by contacting your members of Congress to ask them to vote in favor of HR 3961.

Coding & Reimbursement: Medicare Eliminates Consults: What the Academy is Doing For You

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 19:56:00 GMT

When the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) proposed eliminating consults in the summer of 2009, the Academy, along with other consultative specialties and the AMA, opposed the change.

Academy News: Academy is Official Supporter of Memory Screening Day

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 18:54:00 GMT

The Academy joins the Alzheimer's Foundation of America as an official supporter of its National Memory Screening Day on Tuesday, November 17, 2009. This annual initiative provides free confidential memory screenings

Public & Private Payer Relations: CMS Announces 2010 Annual Participation Enrollment Program Extension

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:50:00 GMT

Due to revisions in to the 2010 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS), CMS has extended the 2010 Annual Participation Enrollment Program end date from December 31, 2009, to January 31, 2010.

Public & Private Payer Relations: UHC to Implement Change to Radiology Notification Program in 2010

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:46:00 GMT

The AAN has learned that UnitedHealthcare (UHC) is implementing a change to the Radiology Notification Program, effective February 15, 2010, whereby Premium Quality and Cost Efficiency

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: What Should Neurologists Know About the 'Stark' Law?

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 20:47:00 GMT

The physician self-referral or "Stark" law, first enacted by Congress in 1989, and amended many times since, was intended to prevent overutilization that was perceived to stem from arrangements in which physicians benefited financially from their referrals

Education: Register by December 31 for 2010 RITE

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 20:22:00 GMT

The deadline to register for the AAN's 2010 Residency In-service Training Examination is December 31, 2009. The test will be given between

Public & Private Payer Relations: Take a Survey About Problems with Health Insurers

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 19:08:00 GMT

The AMA and AAN invite you to participate in a survey on claims denial management and health insurer business practices. This 10-minute survey is open to physicians and their practice staff and will help us determine how we can best equip your practice

Science: Raymund A.C. Roos and N. Ahmad Aziz Discuss HTT

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 18:13:00 GMT

Raymund A.C. Roos, MD, PhD (Leiden), and N. Ahmad Aziz, MSc, medical student, discuss their research on the Huntington Disease Gene (HTT), which was recently published in Neurology

Academy News: Interventional Section is Now the Endovascular and Interventional Neurology Section

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 17:55:00 GMT

To reflect the changes in the field of endovascular and interventional medicine within neurology, the AAN's Interventional section has been renamed as the Endovascular and Interventional Neurology Section

Advocacy: House to Vote on SGR Repeal While Academy Waits on Senate

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 16:30:00 GMT

Following passage in the US House of its health care reform bill, the Academy will direct its efforts on the US Senate. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) has agreed to introduce an amendment to add neurology to the bill's primary care section

Foundation: Call for Entries: Submit a Video to 2010 Neuro Film Festival

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 22:38:00 GMT

Submit a short video to the 2010 Neuro Film Festival, an AAN Foundation event raising awareness about neurologic disorders and the need for research. Deadline to enter is February 16, 2010.

Science: Emad Farag Discusses Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cell Implantation for Parkinson's Disease

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 22:26:00 GMT

Emad S. Farag, MD, Assistant Professor of Neurology at UCLA, discusses his paper, "Pathologic findings in retinal pigment epithelial cell implantation for Parkinson disease"

Academy News: New Neurohospitalist and Sports Sections Established

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:07:00 GMT

The Academy has established two new sections, focusing on Sports Neurology and Neurohospitalists. Each will provide a forum for members involved with or interested in learning more about special topics within neurology.

Science: Caterina Mainero Talks About Cortical Pathology in Multiple Sclerosis

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 23:04:00 GMT

Caterina Mainero, MD, PhD, discusses her paper, "In vivo imaging of cortical pathology in multiple sclerosis using ultra-high field MRI"

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: House Bill Moves Forward, Academy Focuses on Senate

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 22:24:00 GMT

Over the weekend, the US House passed a comprehensive health care reform bill. Of particular interest to the Academy was the elimination of the SGR formula calling for annual physician cuts in Medicare. Unfortunately, the SGR fix was taken out of the bill due to its $210 billion price tag.

Practice: Questions About H1N1 Vaccination and GBS? Webinar Now Offers Vital Information

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 21:39:00 GMT

In addition to a recorded webinar, AAN.com offers a wide range of online tools as part of a nationwide effort to encourage neurologists and health care professionals

Education: Deadline for A.B. Baker Teacher Recognition Award Nominations is January 31

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 21:28:00 GMT

Outstanding teachers deserve recognition for their contributions to improving neurology now and in the future. Nominations for the 2011 A. B. Baker Award for Lifetime Achievement in Neurologic Education will be received until January 31, 2010.

Coding & Reimbursement: New 2010 CPT Code: Report Nerve Conduction with Electrode Arrays

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 17:28:00 GMT

The 2010 Current Procedural Terminology book includes a new code to report nerve conduction tests performed using preconfigured electrode arrays. The creation of this new code allows those performing studies that differ from traditional nerve conduction tests

Payment Policy & Decision Making: 2010 Medicare Fee Schedule Changes Include Elimination of Payment for Consultation Codes

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 15:39:00 GMT

On November 1, the CMS released its final ruling regarding the 2010 Physician Fee Schedule. One of the major announcements in the Final Rule is the elimination of payment for consultation codes as of January 1, 2010.

ICD-9, CPT & E/M Coding : Read the Latest on CMS Elimination of Consultation Codes

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 04:55:00 GMT

The recent announcement by CMS that it will stop paying for consultation services has raised a lot of concern and questions from specialists. The AAN answers your questions in an effort to help neurology offices sort through the confusion.

Academy News: Wall Street Journal Includes AAN Supplement for Patients, Caregivers

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:22:00 GMT

The Wall Street Journal included an AAN supplement for patients and caregivers in its November 6, 2009, eastern edition. The newspaper reaches over 700,000 subscribers. The supplement, entitled "Brain Health," features a foreword from President Robert C. Griggs,

Academy News: New Editors-in-Chief Announced for AAN Publications

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:27:00 GMT

The AAN has appointed new editors-in-chief for its publications Neurology and Neurology Today.

Science: Ergun Uc on Cognitive Impairment in Early Parkinson's Disease

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 22:46:00 GMT

Ergun Y. Uc, MD, is the first author of a publication from the Deprenyl and Tocopherol Antioxidative Therapy of Parkinsonism (DATATOP) cohort in the November 3, 2009, issue of Neurology (2009;73:1469-1477), entitled "Incidence of and risk factors for cognitive impairment in an early Parkinson disease clinical trial cohort." Uc is Associate Professor of Neurology at the Department of Neurology of the University of Iowa and at the Neurology Service of the VA Medical Center of Iowa City.

Advocacy: Academy Endorses Report from the Mayday Fund

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The American Academy of Neurology Professional Association has endorsed a newly released report from the Mayday Fund entitled "A Call to Revolutionize Chronic Pain Care in America: An Opportunity in Health Care Reform."

Academy News: Position Open for AAN.com Associate Editor for Education

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:03:00 GMT

The Academy's website, AAN.com, is seeking candidates for Associate Editor for Education, a position that will be open as of January 1, 2010. As a leader in developing content for AAN.com, the Associate Editor for Education provides guidance, expertise, and vision for the Education section on the website. Among other duties, the Associate Editor is responsible for actively recruiting

Science: Joachim Gerber Discusses Neurogenesis in Adults

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 19:08:00 GMT

Joachim Gerber, MD, discusses his team's use of immunohistochemical methods to study neurogenesis in brain sections of patients who underwent autopsy subsequent to bacterial meningitis, stroke, or brain trauma.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: FTC Red Flags Rule Delayed Until June 1

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 21:12:00 GMT

In a last-minute decision, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that the Red Flags rule will be delayed until June 1, 2010. The AMA has been urging the FTC and Congress that physicians are not "creditors" and should not be subject to the rule

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: CMS to Redistribute Payment for Evaluation and Management Services Starting January 1

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 20:51:00 GMT

The CMS has announced plans to stop paying for consultation codes and to redistribute those dollars to other E/M services as part of its 2010 Final Medicare Physician Fee Schedule.

Pay-for-Performance: CMS Offers Alternative Process for Accessing PQRI Reports

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 16:02:00 GMT

Beginning on October 19, 2009, individual eligible providers may now call their respective carrier or A/B MAC Provider Contact Center to request 2007 Re-Run and 2008 PQRI feedback reports

Education: How to Make a Better Presentation: 24 Mistakes to Avoid

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 15:46:00 GMT

By Daniel B. Hier, MD, MBA, FAAN - When you are called on to speak at a course given by the AAN or another organization, the audience has an opportunity to evaluate your content, your slides, your syllabus, and your presentation.

Coding & Reimbursement: Minimize Mistakes, Maximize Reimbursement with Final Audio Conference Call

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 22:47:00 GMT

The last of the one-hour 2009 AAN Coding Audio Conference Calls gives advice for coding correctly and avoiding common reimbursement pitfalls.

Public & Private Payer Relations: Academy Document Drives Changes to Aetna Policy

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 17:02:00 GMT

In an October 2009 update to its medical policy for magnetoencephalography (MEG), Aetna, one of the nation's largest private insurance companies, references the Academy's own model policy document for the technology.

Advocacy: Profiles in Advocacy: Teshamae Monteith, MD

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 16:25:00 GMT

Palatucci Advocacy Leadership Fellow Teshamae Monteith, MD, of San Francisco, CA, serves as an advocacy champion for improved headache treatment and care.

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: Doc Fix Fails in Senate...Smoke and Mirrors?

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 20:58:00 GMT

For the first time since the flawed Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) formula started calling for cuts in physician payments, the US Senate took a vote that would have led to the elimination of the SGR. Unfortunately, the 47-53 procedural

Advocacy: SGR Vote in Senate Does Not Pass

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 17:47:00 GMT

The Senate took a procedural vote on Wednesday on S.1776, which would have permanently repealed the sustainable growth rate (SGR) formula. Failing to make 60 votes, the Senate failed to move forward to consider the legislation that remains a top priority for the Academy.

Public & Private Payer Relations: Get Ready for 'Heal that Claim' Month

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 14:29:00 GMT

The Academy encourages members to perform a claims process checkup during November, in an effort to reduce waste from the claims process and decrease the physician cost to submit claims.

Home: Free Webinars in October Offer What You Need to Know About Influenza and GBS

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 19:20:00 GMT

Learn about the CDC's National Vaccine Safety Monitoring Campaign with free webinars, available in October. The two webinars, entitled "Influenza and Guillain-Barré Syndrome: What You Need to Know," are designed for neurologists and other health care professionals.

Science: AAN.com Talks with CDC Neuroepidemiologist James J. Sejvar About Influenza Monitoring

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 21:02:00 GMT

Over one million people in the US have been infected with the novel influenza A (H1N1) virus. James J. Sejvar, MD, CDC neuroepidemiologist, discusses the neurologic implications

Advocacy: Senate to Vote on Critical Bill to Fix Physician Reimbursement

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 22:58:00 GMT

The Senate will vote on whether to repeal the Medicare Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) formula.

Advocacy: Contact Congress on Physician Bonus Payments

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 14:21:00 GMT

The US House and Senate are currently considering health care reform legislation that would give five to 10 percent bonuses to physicians who provide primary care services. The Academy needs your help to ensure cognitive, face-to-face care for patients.

State Society: CME in Paradise: Attend the Hawaii Neurological Society Annual Meeting

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 14:10:00 GMT

The Hawaii Neurological Society will host its second annual CME event in memory of Dorothy Chu-Krushelnycky, MD, PhD, who died of cancer on June 19, 2008, at the age of 48.

Advocacy: New Guidelines Identify Best Treatments to Help ALS Patients Live Longer, Easier

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 21:47:00 GMT

New guidelines from the American Academy of Neurology identify the most effective treatments for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, or Lou Gehrig's disease). The guidelines, published on the October 13, 2009, recommend that the drug riluzole be offered to people with ALS.

Practice: Q&A: Robert G. Miller Discusses New ALS Guidelines

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 19:59:00 GMT

Two new AAN guidelines—"The Care of the Patient with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Drug, Nutritional, and Respiratory Therapies (an evidence-based review)," and "The Care of the Patient with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Multidisciplinary Care, Symptom Management, and Cognitive/Behavioral Impairment (an evidence-based review)"—were published in the October 13, 2009, issue of Neurology® (2009; 73:1218-1233). AAN.com asked Robert G. Miller, MD, FAAN, to discuss how the guidelines were developed. He spoke with AAN.com Practice & Technology Editor, Neil A. Busis, MD, FAAN.

Education: How Much Knowledge Does a Neurologist Need?

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 21:34:00 GMT

Daniel B. Hier, MD, MBA, FAAN, describes a method for evaluating your knowledge base, and gives 12 steps for acquiring "just-in-time" knowledge for practicing neurologists.

Academy News: Atlanta Area Members Invited to Learn About Neurologic Claims

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 17:14:00 GMT

AAN members in Georgia are invited to attend a free event to learn about neurologic claims. The open house, entitled "A Defense Attorney's Perspective on Malpractice Lawsuits Against Neurologists," will cover trends

Practice: Capitol Hill Report: Neurology Amendment Ready for House Health Reform Debate

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 16:47:00 GMT

After seven days of deliberations last week, the Senate Finance Committee wrapped up consideration of more than 500 amendments on a health reform measure. The Senate legislation is unlikely to draw support from any physician specialties.

Quality Initiatives : Parkinson's Disease Measurement Set Now Open for Public Comments

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 16:16:00 GMT

Your expert opinion is needed on ten performance measures developed for Parkinson's disease.

Advocacy: Health Care Reform: Comparing Both Proposals

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 17:50:00 GMT

The US Senate Finance Committee has begun considering a health care reform proposal, while the US House has passed legislation through three different committees and is moving closer towards a floor debate. The Academy has been tracking these issues closely.

Education: Only a Few Days Left to Save Money on AAN Fall Conference Registration

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 17:39:00 GMT

There are only five days left before the early registration deadline for the 2009 AAN Fall Conference, to be held November 6 through 8 at the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. Registrations received after the October 5 deadline will be charged an additional $100.

Advocacy: Health Care Reform: Academy Adopts Goals

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 20:23:00 GMT

Read the new set of principles the AAN Professional Association will follow as Congress continues to debate health care reform.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Medicare Releases Results of Provider Satisfaction Survey

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 19:18:00 GMT

The Medicare Contractor Provider Satisfaction Survey (MCPSS) enables CMS to gauge provider satisfaction with key services performed by the contractors that process and pay the more than $300 billion in Medicare claims each year.

Public & Private Payer Relations: Review Your Humana Contract Before October 19

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 16:57:00 GMT

The physician protections of the Humana multidistrict litigation class-action settlement agreement end October 19, 2009. The termination of the Humana settlement agreement means that Humana no longer has to comply with its settlement terms.

Science: AAN.com Talks with Edward Murphy and Hope Biswas About the Neurologic Features of HTLV Infection

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 21:24:00 GMT

Edward Murphy, MD, MPH, and Hope Biswas, ScM, discuss their recent paper, "Neurologic abnormalities in HTLV-I– and HTLV-II–infected individuals without overt myelopathy."

Pay-for-Performance: Medicare Learning Network Announces 2009 PQRI and E-Prescribing Program Course

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 17:23:00 GMT

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Medicare Learning Network (MLN) is pleased to announce that the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) and Electronic Prescribing Incentive Program (E-Prescribing) Web-based Training Course is now available.

Foundation: Clinical Research Fundraising Campaign Honors Legacy of Susan S. Spencer, MD, FAAN

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 14:20:00 GMT

The AAN Foundation has created the Susan S. Spencer Clinical Research Circle, and is inviting members to consider being part of the legacy. Members are invited to consider being part of the legacy

Advocacy: Epilepsy Care by Rail

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 20:12:00 GMT

By Mamta Bhushan Singh, MBBS, MD, DM - "The Lifeline Express," India's only train-hospital, helps bring health care to the country's rural population. Singh, a Palatucci Advocacy Leadership Forum graduate, describes how

Coding & Reimbursement: ICD-10-CM Is Coming, Are You Ready?

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 19:34:00 GMT

Register now for the latest one-hour AAN Audio Conference Call, outlining changes in the 2010 ICD-9-CM and the upcoming ICD-10.

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: Senate Finance Bill - No Permanent SGR Fix, No Bonuses Yet for Neurology

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 18:29:00 GMT

After months of wrangling, Senate Finance Committee Chair Max Baucus (D-MT) finally released a health reform draft last week. The bill lacks many of the solutions physicians, including neurologists, have been seeking to improve the

State Society: Build Your Local Network and Exchange Information at the 2009 Fall State Society Meetings

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 17:25:00 GMT

State neurological society meetings offer a range of CME opportunities as well as the chance to network and exchange information with other local neurologists.

Coding & Reimbursement: New E/M Templates Address Documentation of Inpatient Consults

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 16:20:00 GMT

The Coding Subcommittee of the AAN has developed five new E/M templates for neurologists to use when seeing inpatient consultations. There are now 20 templates available

Technology News -- Members Only: AAN Hosts Open Call to Discuss Coding for Intraoperative Neurophysiologic Monitoring

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 15:25:00 GMT

The AAN will host an open, one-hour call on Tuesday, October 6, 2009, at 5:00 p.m. ET, for interested members

Foundation: Clinical Research Training Fellowship Applications Due October 1, 2009

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 13:08:00 GMT

Jumpstart your career in neurologic research with an AAN Foundation Clinical Research Training Fellowship. Six types of fellowship opportunities are available for 2010, offering recipients with salary and tuition stipends for two or three years

Practice: Guideline Finds Children with Microcephaly Risk Neurologic Problems, Need Screening

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 22:40:00 GMT

A new guideline from the AAN finds children with microcephaly are at risk of neurologic and cognitive problems and should be screened for these problems. The guideline, developed in full collaboration with the Child Neurology Society,

Running a Practice: The HITECH Act: New HIPAA Requirements

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 19:44:00 GMT

The Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act, part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, includes rules and regulations that will soon expand HIPAA requirements for covered entities and business associates

Patient Safety: Neurologists Asked to Monitor Patients for Post-Vaccine Related GBS

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 18:00:00 GMT

The American Academy of Neurology is asking its member neurologists and other health care professionals to report any potential post-vaccine related cases of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare nerve disorder

Practice: Evaluation of the Child with Microcephaly

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 21:28:00 GMT

A new AAN guideline, "Practice Parameter: Evaluation of the Child with Microcephaly (an evidence-based review)," has been published. The lead authors, Stephen Ashwal and David Michelson, discuss how the guideline was developed.

Academy News: Washington, DC, Area Members Invited to Learn About Neurologic Claims

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 15:07:00 GMT

AAN members in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC, are invited to attend a free event to learn about neurologic claims.

Practice: The Perils of Being An Expert Witness

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 20:56:00 GMT

By Donna Vanderpool, MBA, JD - Courts, government agencies, and professional organizations are demonstrating an increasing interest in holding physicians accountable for expert witness testimony. This article provides an overview of three categories

Advocacy: AMA Responds to Criticism

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 20:55:00 GMT

The American Medical Association's support of the US House Tri-Committee health reform bill, HR 3200, has drawn significant attention in recent weeks. The AAN Professional Association has not yet taken a formal position in this ongoing debate

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: Congress Returns - Health Care Still Top Priority

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 18:30:00 GMT

The health care reform debate heated up over the August recess as members of Congress across the country heard both support and protests from constituents about the House bill HR 3200. Media reports

Academy News: Pay 2010 Membership Dues Online Today

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 14:54:00 GMT

Continue your investment in your professional future by renewing your 2010 AAN membership dues today. Those who do not pay their dues by the December 31, 2009, deadline will see a lapse in their important AAN member benefits.

Education: There's Still Time to Get the Latest Updates in Neurology

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 17:40:00 GMT

Register now for the 2009 AAN Fall Conference to take advantage of early registration discounts. Get the latest updates in neurology November 6 through 8 at the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. Registrations received after the October 5 deadline will be charged an additional $100.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Academy Responds to Proposal to Eliminate Consultation Codes

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 16:24:00 GMT

On August 31, the Academy submitted a detailed comment letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) on its proposed 2010 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule. Among other issues, the letter stated the Academy's opposition

Academy News: Call for Nominations for Neurology Editor-In-Chief

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 14:35:00 GMT

The AAN Search Committee is requesting nominations for the position of Editor-in-Chief of Neurology® to begin July 1, 2010. While any member may self-nominate or submit a name for nomination, only Fellows of the AAN are eligible for appointment.

Advocacy: Debunking Death Panels: End of Life Counseling

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 22:26:00 GMT

By Glen R. Finney, MD - There has been much discussion about provisions in the House Tri-Committee Bill on Health Care Reform (HR 3200). Concern has been raised about potential "death panels" in the bill.

State Society: State Society Roundtable Takes Place in Denver

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 16:40:00 GMT

On August 8 and 9, state neurological society leaders gathered in Denver for the Academy's Fourth Annual State Society Leadership Roundtable. Topics discussed included: meeting planning, the life cycle of a nonprofit, state and federal advocacy

Advocacy: AAN.com Advocacy Editor

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 22:21:00 GMT

Making advocacy indispensable to our members isn't so simple: To begin with, it's not always clear what advocacy actually means.

Advocacy: Profiles in Advocacy: Daniel Potts, MD

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 19:27:00 GMT

In May, the AAN named Daniel C. Potts, MD, of Tuscaloosa, AL, the AAN Palatucci Advocacy Leadership Forum Advocate of the Year. Potts has been championing new approaches

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Recovery Audit Contractors: Here To Stay in 2010

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 19:00:00 GMT

Section 302 of the Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006 makes the Recovery Audit Contractor (RAC) Program permanent and requires the Secretary to expand the program to all 50 states by 2010.

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: Sending an Email to Congress - Is It Worth It?

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 22:58:00 GMT

Academy legislative counsel Mike Amery describes what happens when a constituent writes a letter to Congress. Contact your representatives with the Academy's Vocus service.

Public & Private Payer Relations: White House Announces Open Conference Call on Health Insurance Reform

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 17:51:00 GMT

Academy members can participate in the White House's open conference call for physicians on health insurance reform.

Advocacy: The Easiest Way to Contact Congress? Vocus!

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 17:25:00 GMT

The Academy provides its members with an easy way to give feedback to their elected officials, all within a matter of moments: Vocus. Take the initiative to send a message to your elected officials.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: FTC Delays Enforcement of 'Red Flag' Rules until November 1, 2009

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 17:18:00 GMT

he "Red Flags" Rule is an anti-fraud regulation, requiring "creditors" and "financial institutions" with covered accounts to implement programs to identify, detect, and respond to the warning signs, or "red flags,"

Science: AAN.com Speaks with Jose Luchsinger About Mild Cognitive Impairment

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 23:59:00 GMT

Jose A. Luchsinger, MD, MPH, discusses his paper, "Subcortical cerebrovascular disease in mild cognitive impairment" with AAN.com Science editor, Jose G. Merino, MD, MPhil.

Advocacy: US House Allocates $500 million for TBI and PTSD

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 20:54:00 GMT

The US House of Representatives included $500 million for the treatment of traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder in an FY2010 Department of Defense appropriations bill passed shortly before the congressional August recess.

Annual Meeting: 2009 Annual Meeting Plenary Sessions Available as Webcasts

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 14:17:00 GMT

Find video of the plenary sessions at the 2009 Annual Meeting, even if you weren't able to attend them in Seattle.

Education: AAN.com Talks to Fraser Moore About the Essential Neurologic Examination

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 20:11:00 GMT

Fraser G.A. Moore, MD, FRCPC, discusses a recent study on the problem of the essential neurologic examination. A co-author of the published results, Moore describes his recommendations for teaching medical students about the neurologic examination.

Science: AAN.com Science Editor

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 21:24:00 GMT

These are exciting times to be a neurologist. Research discoveries in the past two decades have changed the way we practice neurology. Advances in molecular biology and genomics allow us to classify

Advocacy: House Passes Three Percent Funding Increase for NIH

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 18:30:00 GMT

The US House of Representatives passed a 2010 budget for the Department Health and Human Services just before the August recess that included a three percent increase

Science: All Media Eyes on Seattle for 2009 Annual Meeting

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 14:33:00 GMT

In the first half of 2009, media coverage of the American Academy of Neurology generated over 4 billion media impressions, through more than 10,000 newspaper, magazine, television, radio, and online news clips mentioning

Education: AAN.com Talks to Steven Ringel About Teaching Rounds and Change

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 21:19:00 GMT

"Neurology, along with almost every other medical specialty, has failed to provide trainees with probability and cost-effectiveness data."

Academy News: Call for Nominations for Neurology Today Editor-in-Chief

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 18:59:00 GMT

The AAN is requesting nominations for the position of Editor-in-Chief of Neurology Today®, the Academy's twice-a-month news tabloid for neurology professionals.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Update Your NPPES Record

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 17:15:00 GMT

The National Plan and Provider Enumeration System has assigned more than 700,000 NPIs to physicians. Many physicians were assigned their NPIs upon their graduation from medical school.

Foundation: Support Research in Alzheimer's and Dementia with Endowment Fund

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 16:18:00 GMT

The AAN Foundation has established the Baumel-Eisner Endowed Alzheimer's/Dementia Research Fund with a $50,000 donation by Barry Baumel, MD, and Gail Eisner in memory of Larry Eisner, MD, FAAN, in celebration of their longtime friendship and partnership.

Advocacy: Academy to Facilitate Advocacy Workshop at World Congress of Neurology

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 16:00:00 GMT

The AAN Professional Association will co-host an Advocacy Workshop during the 19th World Congress of Neurology in Bangkok, Thailand. The Workshop will be held on Thursday, October 29, 2009.

Advocacy: Nomination Period for 2010 Viste Advocate of the Year Opens

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 21:29:00 GMT

Nominations for the 2010 award will be accepted until November 30, 2009. Individuals can either be nominated by an AAN member or apply with a letter of endorsement from another AAN member. The award, which includes a $1,000 honorarium

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: Debate Moves to the States as Health Reform Waits Until September

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 21:36:00 GMT

US House and Senate Committees continue to work on wide ranging health reform bills. Just before recessing until September, the House Energy & Commerce Committee wrapped up a bill that will have to be combined with measures passed

Annual Meeting: Government Employees May Need Special Passport to Attend 2010 Annual Meeting

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 15:35:00 GMT

Federal government employees looking to attend the 2010 AAN Annual Meeting in Toronto on official government business should be aware of an important passport policy.

Practice: FTC Delays Enforcement of the Red Flag Rules Until November 1, 2009

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 20:31:00 GMT

The "Red Flags" Rule is an anti-fraud regulation requiring "creditors" and "financial institutions" with covered accounts to implement programs to identify, detect, and respond to the warning signs, or "red flags," that could indicate identity theft.

Coding & Reimbursement: Changes to ICD-9-CM Announced

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 18:58:00 GMT

The National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) has published the annual Addenda to ICD-9-CM. These diagnosis-coding changes will become effective on October 1, 2009. The Coding Subcommittee of the Medical Economics and Management Committee

Advocacy: Only One Month Remains to Apply for Free Advocacy Training

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 20:34:00 GMT

Ever wonder how you could create real change for the future of your profession and impact the quality of patient care? The AAN is now accepting applications for an award-winning training program to be held January 7 through 10, 2010, in Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Public & Private Payer Relations: Academy Joins Specialty Societies: Meets with Blue Cross Blue Shield Association

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 16:15:00 GMT

Working with a coalition of specialty societies, the Academy arranged a July meeting at the BCBSA offices in Chicago to discuss areas of mutual interest and potential collaboration between physicians and insurers in the face of a changing health care landscape.

Coding & Reimbursement: Learn to Avoid Claim Denials in One-Hour CME Conference Call

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 12:29:00 GMT

Register now for the next one-hour AAN Audio Conference Call, "Avoid Coding Pitfalls and Reduce Claim Denials," and learn how to ensure you sidestep costly coding mistakes.

Education: 2009 Fall Conference in Las Vegas Turns the Spotlight on Neurology

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 19:57:00 GMT

Neurology takes its place within the constellation of stars at the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, November 6 through 8, headlining the latest updates in neurology and practice management from the best and brightest faculty of experts.

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: No Health Reform Votes Before Fall

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 23:44:00 GMT

Health Reform is grinding to a halt in both the House and Senate as Congress approaches its scheduled August recess. As of this writing, the House bill "America's Affordable Health Choices Act of 2009" remains in limbo.

Advocacy: Improving Stroke Care in Sri Lanka

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 05:51:00 GMT

By Tissa Wijeratne, MD, FRACP - Stroke is the third leading cause of death worldwide, causing about five million deaths each year. A high incidence of strokes and stroke-related deaths occur in the developing world, including Sri Lanka,

Academy News: Interactive 2008 Annual Report Published Online

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 20:48:00 GMT

The 2008 Annual Report for the AAN and its subsidiaries, has been published online in interactive, electronic format. Readers can watch a brief video within the document, featuring Drs. DeJong, Forster, and Resch discussing the founding of the Academy

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: Health Debate Starts in the House; Delayed in the Senate

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 18:33:00 GMT

By Mike Amery - House Democrats are pushing for health care reform, the President wants a bill by the August recess, and the Sen. Finance Committee is trying to put a bipartisan deal together but keeps pushing the deadline back.

Advocacy: VA Begins Creating Epilepsy Centers of Excellence

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 21:09:00 GMT

The Veterans Health Administration (VA) has begun creating the Epilepsy Centers of Excellence with $3.8 million in funding for the last three months of FY2009 (July to September).

Patient Safety: Two Internet Drug Safety Sites Your Patients Should Know

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 23:15:00 GMT

By Daniel B. Hier, MD, MBA, FAAN - Medication safety is a serious issue in the United States. Neurologists may find it useful to refer patients to MedNotes or iGuard, two free Internet drug safety sites,

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: CMS Releases Proposed 2010 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 14:51:00 GMT

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services published its proposed 2010 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule. The proposed rule contains a number of important policy changes that have implications for neurologists.

Academy News: New Editors Appointed for Academy Websites

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 21:49:00 GMT

New associate editors have been appointed to oversee sections of the Academy's AAN.com and TheBrainMatters.org websites. The associate editors, reporting to Editor-in-Chief Orly Avitzur, MD, MBA, FAAN,

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: Anxiously Awaiting a Bill

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 22:19:00 GMT

Mike Amery describes a conversation with Chris Dawe, the majority staff member of the Senate Finance Committee responsible for physician issues, and gives a progress report on the debate over health reform bills in the House and Senate.

Electronic Health Records: Incentives Announced for Meaningful Use of EHR

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 22:11:00 GMT

Starting in 2011, The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act) will provide qualifying physicians reimbursement incentives for showing "meaningful use" of Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems.

Academy News: Neurology Recruits New Members for Resident & Fellow Editorial Team

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 20:57:00 GMT

The Neurology Resident and Fellow Editorial team is seeking neurology residents to serve a three-year term as Editorial Team members for the Neurology Resident and Fellow Section

Advocacy: Academy Submits Letter of Support for Adult Day Care Legislation

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 16:30:00 GMT

The Academy has submitted a letter of support for the "Medicare Adult Day Care Services Act." This legislation would give seniors, people with disabilities, and their families the option to choose adult day care under Medicare.

Advocacy: NIH Issues Final Guidelines on Stem Cell Research

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 15:13:00 GMT

On July 7, the final guidelines by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) for determining stem cell lines eligible for extramural NIH-funded stem cell research went into effect. President Obama asked the NIH to develop these

Foundation: Apply Online for AAN Foundation Clinical Research Training Fellowships

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 19:02:00 GMT

Academy members who seek to move their neurologic research career onto the fast track should apply for a 2010 Clinical Research Training Fellowship. The AAN Foundation is accepting online applications now through October 1, 2009

Public & Private Payer Relations: Reorganizing Care: Workers' Compensation

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 22:51:00 GMT

By Gary M. Franklin, MD, MPH - A 2002 report from the Institute of Medicine (IOM), identified the most serious quality problems facing the United States' health care system. This report focused on the quality side of the value equation. The US is spending

Payment Policy & Decision Making: Request Health Insurer Documents Before Settlements End

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 16:02:00 GMT

Due to recent insurer settlements with WellPoint/Anthem, Health Net, Humana and Blue Cross Blue Shield, physicians can provide written requests to the health insurers for copies of their contracts and fee schedules.

Education: Registration Now Open for 2009 Fall Conference in Las Vegas

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 03:05:00 GMT

State Society: State Neurosociety Summer Meetings Offer CME Opportunities

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 19:11:00 GMT

Hosted by state neurological societies, summer meetings offer a range of CME opportunities as well as the chance to network and exchange information with other local neurologists. Academy staff will also be present at most meetings this year

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: Health Care Reform - Focusing on the Patient

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 23:01:00 GMT

Congress was in recess last week, but the health care train continues to move forward. As reported last week, the Academy commented on the House Tri-Committee draft bill.

Academy News: Neurology on the Hill Takes Place March 8-9, 2010

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 22:02:00 GMT

Mark your calendars now. The eighth annual Neurology on the Hill will take place in Washington, DC, March 8-9, 2010. The online application will be available to

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Recovery Audit Contractor Audit Letters Coming Soon

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 20:51:00 GMT

The first batch of audit letters from Recovery Audit Contractors (RACs) is currently on its way to 24 states; the remaining 26 states will begin receiving letters in August. Due to the strict deadlines for responses and appeals upon receipt of a RAC letter, it is a good idea to set up a RAC Response Team if you haven't already done so.

Electronic Health Records: New Report Helps Members with Office Technologies

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 01:15:00 GMT

A new Academy report helps members use technology solutions in their neurology practices. "Technology Solutions for Neurology Practices: A 2009 Report" presents an overview of the technologies such as e-prescribing, smart phones, and chart scanning

Education: New Online Curriculum for Evaluating Neurologic Symptoms in Internal Medicine

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 19:15:00 GMT

The AAN has developed a new curriculum to help medical students, residents in internal medicine, and other non-neurologists evaluate neurologic symptoms in internal medicine.

Patient Safety: Libby Zion's Lesson: Adverse Drug Reactions and Interactions

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 02:47:00 GMT

By Laurence Kinsella, MD, FAAN - The lesson to be learned from Libby Zion's death is that drug-drug interactions (DDI) and adverse drug events (ADE) are under-recognized, and many are unaware

Practice: Sign Up Now for Evidence-Based Medicine Training

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 22:26:00 GMT

Program Directors can register today for free training on how to teach evidence-based medicine to your residents. The AAN's Evidence-Based Medicine Toolkit is an intensive, intimate training program taught

Advocacy: Academy Submits Comments to US House Regarding Proposed Health Care Legislation

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The AAN Professional Association has submitted a comment letter to the chairs of the US House Ways and Means Committee and Energy and Commerce Committee, regarding the recent release of the House Democrats health reform legislation,

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: Blue Dog Card Game

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 18:38:00 GMT

By Mike Amery - With the release of the Tri-Committee health care plan, even without cost details, the health care debate moved to the House last week.

Coding & Reimbursement: How the Academy Participates in the CPT Process

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 23:04:00 GMT

By Marc R. Nuwer, MD, PhD, FAAN - The Academy participates in the Current Procedural Terminology (CPT®) process by submitting new codes and changes to existing codes, and by commenting on code changes proposed by other societies.

Advocacy: House Democrats Release Health Care Reform Legislation

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 18:46:00 GMT

Late last week, House Democrats released their proposal for health care reform legislation, which includes a mandate and subsidies for individuals to purchase health

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: A Billion Here, A Billion There . . .

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 22:50:00 GMT

The Academy's legislative counsel, Mike Amery, discusses Congressional activity following President Obama's speech last week to the AMA.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Information You Need to Know: Medicare Private Fee for Service Plans

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 19:18:00 GMT

A Medicare Advantage Private Fee for Service Plan (PFFS) is a particular product in which the rules for participation are defined by Medicare. It is a Medicare Advantage (MA) health plan, offered by a state-licensed, risk-bearing entity (sometimes a private insurance company).

Advocacy: President Obama Addresses the AMA

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 17:50:00 GMT

The 2009 Annual Meeting of the American Medical Association House of Delegates took place June 12 to 17 in Chicago. At this meeting, the AMA considered proposed resolutions ranging from science and technology to legislation to medical education.

Quality Initiatives : Waste Not, Want Not: A Vision for Health Care in America

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 15:52:00 GMT

By Rita M. Richardson, MD - The NQF recently held a conference, "Waste Not, Want Not: The Right Care for Every Patient,"

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: CMS Issues Scam Alert to Physicians

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 15:16:00 GMT

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has become aware of a scam in which perpetrators send faxes to physicians' offices posing as the Medicare carrier

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: The Public Plan Food Fight

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 22:05:00 GMT

The "Public Plan" represents a line in the sand for health care legislation. Will the federal government initiate an insurance option to compete against private insurance health care plans? The rhetoric got louder this week

Academy News: In Celebration of a Legacy: Memorial Service for Dr. Susan Spencer Announced

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 17:15:00 GMT

In honor of Susan S. Spencer, MD, FAAN, a memorial service with reception to follow will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2009, at 3:00 p.m. in the Yale Battell Chapel.

Education: Recipients of 2009 Residents and Medical Students Scholarships Announced

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 17:18:00 GMT

Over 300 Junior members seeking careers in neurology received scholarships designed to increase recognition, offer experience in their area of interest, or provide an opportunity to attend the AAN's 62nd Annual Meeting in Toronto.

Education: AAN.com Speaks with Dr. Scherokman About New Internal Medicine Curriculum

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 22:08:00 GMT

Barbara Scherokman, MD, FAAN, FACP, discusses the new online curriculum, "Approach to Common Neurological Symptoms in Internal Medicine," now available on AAN.com

ICD-9, CPT & E/M Coding : Online ICD-9/CPT Database Now Free to Academy Members

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 20:11:00 GMT

For the past nine years, the Academy has maintained an online coding database with up-to-date information on both ICD-9 and CPT coding. The database is now available free of charge to all Academy members.

Academy News: Neurology Journal Names Interim Editor-in-Chief

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 20:53:00 GMT

Robert A. Gross, MD, PhD, FAAN, will become the interim Editor-in-Chief of its medical journal Neurology®, the world's leading clinical neurology journal. Gross, who is with University of Rochester Medical Center

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: Supporting Headache Research

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 00:38:00 GMT

Although the broad topic of Health Care Reform leads the headlines, Congress is still working on several other issues, including the 13 annual Appropriations bills required to

Advocacy: State Legislative Update: AEDs, EMGs, and EEGs

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 18:23:00 GMT

As state legislatures around the country wrap up their 2009 legislative sessions, the Academy continues to monitor issues relevant to members.

Education: AAN.com Talks to Aaron Miller about Continuum

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 21:18:00 GMT

Aaron E. Miller, MD, FAAN, discusses the publication process and philosophy behind Continuum, the premier neurology CME publication in the world.

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: End of the First Half

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:36:00 GMT

With the end of May, Congress is nearing the midpoint of the legislative year and was on recess last week. I continued to meet with staff from key committees this week to discuss the Academy's goals for health reform.

Education: New Version of Online NeuroSAE Available

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 17:45:00 GMT

A new version of the popular NeuroSAE is now available. This examination is designed to help you meet the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology's self-assessment requirement for Maintenance of Certification.

Quality Initiatives : Let Us Be Part of a Culture of Health Care Quality Improvement

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 28 May 2009 23:13:00 GMT

By David Z. Wang, DO, FAHA - Under new national interest in health care reform, the AMA-convened PCPI held a meeting in Chicago in March 2009. The conference's theme was to "Mobilize a Culture of Quality Improvement."

Public & Private Payer Relations: MEM Workgroup Develops Model Medical Policy for MEG

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 28 May 2009 20:33:00 GMT

On May 8, 2009, the Academy Board of Directors voted to approve an Academy-developed model medical policy on Magnetoencephalography (MEG). The document explains MEG, summarizes

Academy News: Editor-in-Chief of Neurology Steps Down to Be President, CEO of Mayo

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 27 May 2009 17:49:00 GMT

The Mayo Clinic Board of Trustees confirmed on May 8 the selection of John H. Noseworthy, MD, FAAN, as president and CEO of Mayo Clinic. Consequently, Noseworthy will resign from his position as the editor-in-chief of

Academy News: In Memoriam: Susan S. Spencer, MD, FAAN

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 27 May 2009 15:32:00 GMT

Former member of the AAN Board of Directors Susan S. Spencer, MD, FAAN, passed away suddenly on May 21. Spencer served on the board from 2001 to 2003, and was a past chair of the Clinical Research Subcommittee

Science: NIH Challenge Grant Reviewers Urgently Needed

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 27 May 2009 13:02:00 GMT

The NIH is in need of reviewers for Challenge Grants established as part of the 2009 economic stimulus package passed by Congress. Neurologist input is essential and the Academy is asking members to volunteer to be reviewers.

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: A Crumbling Foundation

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 26 May 2009 21:08:00 GMT

The health care divide between Democrats and Republicans continues to center on whether a public plan option for insurance will be offered. I met with several members of Congress this week - the battle lines were clearly drawn.

Education: AAN.com Talks to Dr. Elkind About Teaching the Next Generation of Neurologists

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 21 May 2009 22:07:00 GMT

Mitchell S. V. Elkind, MD, MS, FAAN, is Associate Professor of Neurology at Columbia University, where he is a past director of the neurology residency program. In February, Elkind's paper,

Electronic Health Records: Free AMA Webinar Helps Physicians Access Stimulus Funds For HIT

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 20 May 2009 18:56:00 GMT

As part of its continuing efforts to help physicians learn about and adopt new technology, the American Medical Association (AMA) announced a new, free webinar series that will help physicians understand the health information technology (HIT) provisions

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: Senate Finance Committee Weighs Options for Health Care Reform

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 18 May 2009 22:18:00 GMT

Last Friday the Committee took comments on a paper it released, "Transforming the Health Care Delivery System: Proposals to Improve Patient Care and Reduce Health Care Costs." The Academy's Health Reform Task Force worked to submit comments

Advocacy: Academy Responds to Senate Finance Committee Paper

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 18 May 2009 18:19:00 GMT

On May 15, the AAN Professional Association submitted a letter to the Senate Finance Committee in response to a paper titled, "Transforming the Health Care Delivery System: Proposals to Improve Patient Care and Reduce Health Care Costs," which contained ideas on how to revise payment systems and policies in the Medicare program.

ICD-9, CPT & E/M Coding : ICD-10-CM To Be Implemented in 2013: What You Need To Do Now

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 14 May 2009 22:51:00 GMT

On January 16, 2009, the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) published a Final Rule announcing that ICD-10-CM (diagnosis coding) and ICD-10-PCS (procedure coding for hospital use only)

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: So What's Going On? Or, How Do I Find $311 Billion?

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 12 May 2009 10:00:00 GMT

"So what's going on, what are we doing?" This was the question (a joke?) House Energy & Commerce Health Subcommittee Chair Frank Pallone (D-NJ) asked earlier this week when ...

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: CMS Goes Green: Electronic Medicare Handbooks Now Available

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 11 May 2009 15:36:00 GMT

CMS is going green - new in 2009, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Service is happy to bring to Medicare beneficiaries an electronic option to receive their Medicare and You handbooks each year.

Education: Education Highlights from Neurology

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 08 May 2009 21:33:00 GMT

Daniel B. Hier, MD, MBA, FAAN, discusses articles relevant to education in the journal Neurology ...

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Red Flag Rules Start August 1

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 06 May 2009 14:54:00 GMT

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has indicated that enforcement of the Red Flags Rule will be delayed until August 1, 2009. The rule–designed to prevent identity theft—requires that physicians (as well as many other businesses) implement procedures to verify identity and protect patient information.

Academy News: Visit TheBrainMatters.org, the Academy's Public Education Website

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 05 May 2009 18:45:00 GMT

Visit TheBrainMatters.org, the Academy's public education website, for comprehensive coverage of neurologic issues.

Academy News: Academy, ReachMD Launch Radio Show Aimed at Neurology Professionals

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 04 May 2009 17:01:00 GMT

The AAN and ReachMD have launched a new radio program geared toward helping health care professionals better understand neurology. The show, NeuroFrontiers, heard daily on XM Satellite Radio Channel 160, started airing in May and features a 15-minute topic every week through June. Additionally, all shows are available as a live stream or a downloadable podcast at www.reachmd.com/NeuroFrontiers. Downloadable podcasts are also available at aan.com/go/elibrary/neurofrontiers. NeuroFrontiers is hosted by AAN member Anthony G. Alessi, MD, FAAN. Read more.

Annual Meeting: AAN President Discusses Challenges Facing Today's Physicians

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 01 May 2009 19:48:00 GMT

American Academy of Neurology President Stephen M. Sergay, MB BCh, FAAN, presented "Doctoring, 2009: Embracing the Challenge" at the AAN's 2009 Presidential Plenary Session during its 61st Annual Meeting in Seattle, WA. The session, which was held on Tuesday, April 28, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., featured the AAN's premier lecture awards for clinically relevant research.

Academy News: FDA Issues Strengthened Warnings in Labeling for Botulinum Toxin and Related Products

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 01 May 2009 17:07:00 GMT

The US Food and Drug Administration has notified health care professionals of a new requirement for manufacturers of licensed botulinum toxin products to strengthen warnings in product labeling. The requirements include

Practice: New Guidelines Published on Women with Epilepsy and Pregnancy

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 20:01:00 GMT

New guidelines developed by the Academy show the relative safety for women with epilepsy to become pregnant, but caution against taking one particular epilepsy drug, which can cause birth defects.

Practice: AAN.com Talks with Cynthia Harden About New Guidelines for Women with Epilepsy

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 19:41:00 GMT

Three updated Practice Parameters address issues of concern to women with epilepsy who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. AAN.com asked Cynthia L. Harden, MD, the lead author of these Practice Parameters, to discuss the updates by the Quality Standards Subcommittee and

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: Congressmen Request Specifics on Proposals

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 18:49:00 GMT

The purpose of the discussion was to lay out some proposals that all of the specialties could agree on. We focused on support of innovative payment reforms as long as they are sufficiently tested before being put into wide use, relaxing antitrust rules, and liability reform.

Annual Meeting: Students, Residents, and Fellows Gain Knowledge, Further Careers at Annual Meeting

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 15:28:00 GMT

For many aspiring and new neurology professionals, a highlight of the Annual Meeting is the Residents and Fellows Career Forum and Reception.

Annual Meeting: Academy Members Encouraged to Participate in Business Meeting

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 14:53:00 GMT

The Annual Business Meeting on Tuesday, April 28, is an excellent opportunity to find out the latest on Academy business and information

Academy News: New Public Website Provides Comprehensive Resource for Patients, Families

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 22:20:00 GMT

The AAN's public website, TheBrainMatters.org, has been redesigned and is now a comprehensive resource with a new look. Academy members...

Advocacy: Veterans Health Administration Begins Epilepsy Centers

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 21:23:00 GMT

The Veterans Health Administration (VA) is now implementing the new Epilepsy Centers of Excellence. Last year, Congress authorized creation of the centers in...

State Society: The State Neurosociety E-Manual Goes Live

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 21:10:00 GMT

The Academy has developed the State Neurosociety E-Manual as a resource for state societies in all stages of development. This online guide is intended for those involved,

Annual Meeting: Celebration for Research Promises Fun-filled Evening

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 19:44:00 GMT

Attendees at this year's Annual Meeting can count on an entertaining Celebration for Research on Sunday, April 26, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at the Washington State Convention and Trade Center. Join us for an exciting evening filled with music, dancing, laughter, and more.

Annual Meeting: Advocacy Meetings Draw Neurologists Committed to Change

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 15:38:00 GMT

Is it time to get involved in changing the way health care is practiced? The Annual Meeting offers several sessions open for members who wish to learn more about advocacy efforts of the Academy and its individual members. Discover how you can be an instrument of change.

Practice: Protect Your Practice with a Free Webinar on 'Red Flags Rule' Compliance and Identity Theft

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 17:31:00 GMT

Practices are required to comply with the "Red Flags Rule" that requires businesses and organizations to implement a written Identity Theft Prevention Program designed to detect the warning signs—or "red flags"

Advocacy: Read New Approved Position Statement on Health Information Technology

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 15:21:00 GMT

The Academy has recently adopted a position statement that supports the adoption and utilization of health information technology (HIT) and seeks to be an active participant in the development of legislation surrounding HIT that is interoperable and networked with other sources through federated information exchange.

Technology News -- Members Only: New Videos on Voice Recognition Software Available

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 20:06:00 GMT

Voice recognition software can save physicians time and money.

Advocacy: Postma Reports on Viste Public Policy Fellowship

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 15:39:00 GMT

The Kenneth M. Viste, Jr., MD, Neurology Public Policy Fellowship offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in federal policy and develop the kind of political relationships that help promote neurological interests. 2008-2009 Public Policy Fellow, Terri Postma, MD, checks in with her mid-year report.

Advocacy News -- Members Only: Bruce Sigsbee and Michael Amery Discuss Sigsbee's Landmark Testimony Before Congress

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 14:27:00 GMT

On Thursday, April 2, AAN Treasurer and President-Elect Bruce Sigsbee, MD, FAAN, testified before the US House of Representatives on behalf of the Academy during the hearing "Making Health Care Work for American Families: Saving Money, Saving Lives."

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: Would You Like to Meet Your Member of Congress?

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 15:11:00 GMT

The best time to make your voice heard with members of Congress is now, during recess, when members have returned to their districts. Use Vocus to contact your representatives in the House and Senate and advocate for Academy initiatives in neurology.

Academy News: All Members Invited to Attend, Participate in Academy Business Meeting

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 13:10:00 GMT

All Academy members are invited to attend the annual AAN/AAN Professional Association Business Meeting where they can vote on the proposed leadership, vote on proposed bylaw amendments, and participate in other business.

Education: AAN.com Speaks to Sung Bae Lee About the Consortium of Neurology Residents and Fellows

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 19:30:00 GMT

Of the AAN's 3,800 junior members, only a small fraction attend the Annual Meeting each year. Sung Bae Lee, MD, discussions how the CNRF is working to expand Residents and Fellows activities beyond the Annual Meeting.

Coding & Reimbursement: Earn Practice Management CME Via AAN Audio Conferences

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 13:50:00 GMT

The Academy is helping members take some of the confusion out of coding. The 2009 Coding Audio Conferences review proper coding in common circumstances, helping participants to code with

Annual Meeting: Basic Science Resident Curriculum Featured Saturday, April 25

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 13:39:00 GMT

Two half-day programs at the 2009 Annual Meeting will focus on aspects of the basic sciences on which clinical neurology is founded. Offered on Saturday, April 25, on the first day of the Annual Meeting, the topics for this year's curriculum are Neurogenetics and Neurometabolic Disorders.

Annual Meeting: Awards Honor Significant Achievements in Neuroscience Research and Other Areas

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 13:39:00 GMT

From enterprising high school students to world-renowned researchers, the recipients of the 2009 AAN and AAN Foundation Awards are recognized for their top accomplishments in neuroscience research.

Annual Meeting: US, Canadian Attendees Urged to Bring Badges and Tickets to Seattle

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 13:21:00 GMT

Annual Meeting attendees from the United States and Canada should bring their badge and tickets that were mailed to them.

Academy News: National Healthcare Decisions Day is April 16

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 18:30:00 GMT

National Healthcare Decisions Day is an initiative to encourage patients to express their wishes regarding health care through conversations and the completion of advance directives.

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: Congressional Testimony: What's It All About?

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 19:49:00 GMT

What happens when you receive an invitation to testify before the US House Energy & Commerce (E&C) Health Subcommittee?

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: FTC 'Red Flags' Rule Takes Effect May 1, 2009, Likely Applies to Your Practice

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 17:25:00 GMT

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) "Red Flags" Rule requires many businesses and organizations to implement a written Identity Theft Prevention Program designed to detect the warning signs of identity theft in their day-to-day operations. Health care providers should pay particular attention to the requirements that the Red Flags Rule applies to "creditors."

Advocacy: Contact Congress Regarding Medicare Physician Payment Issues

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 16:04:00 GMT

For the first time, the President's budget for Fiscal Year 2010, assumes that Congress will fix the formula calling for a 21 percent reduction in physician reimbursement under Medicare. Even though the annual cuts are generally prevented by Congressional action, keeping this assumption in the FY 2010 budget is a significant safeguard for physicians.

Advocacy: Third Viste Award Recipient Announced

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 14:11:00 GMT

Richard Bedlack, MD, PhD, MSc, will be honored at the 2009 AAN Annual Meeting in Seattle as the third Kenneth M. Viste, Jr., MD, Patient Advocate of the Year. This award was created after Dr. Viste's death in 2005 to recognize neurologists who exemplifies his leadership and commitment to advocating for the patient community.

Academy News: Attend Neurology Claims Update Event, Compliments of The Neurologists' Program

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 14:46:00 GMT

AAN members are invited to attend a complimentary update on neurologic claims trends at an open house presented by Professional Risk Management Services, Inc. (PRMS).

ICD-9, CPT & E/M Coding : An Overview of the ICD-9-CM Process

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 22:51:00 GMT

By Laura B. Powers, MD, FAAN - The International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM), is the...

Advocacy: Academy Board Member Testifies Before Congress

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 19:43:00 GMT

The US House of Representatives Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee invited AAN Board member Bruce Sigsbee, MD, FAAN, to testify on behalf of the Academy during a hearing scheduled for Thursday, April 2.

Annual Meeting: Free Colloquia Offer Valuable Information During Annual Meeting

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 21:44:00 GMT

Colloquia at the 2009 Annual Meeting in Seattle will offer attendees four opportunities to obtain valuable information and enhance their professional skills and knowledge. All colloquia are free of charge to registered attendees.

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: A Meeting with the Referee

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 21:04:00 GMT

Academy Board member Bruce Sigsbee, MD, FAAN, will testify at the House Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee this Thursday, which I mentioned last week. Sigsbee will speak about his experience as a practicing neurologist and describe

Advocacy: Why Isn't 'Alice' in 'Wonderland,' and Can We Help Her Find It?

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 23:09:00 GMT

By Richard S. Bedlack, MD, PhD - ALS is perhaps the most devastating of all diseases, causing rapid and progressive loss of speech. Despite 130 years of research, ALS remains incurable.

Education: Students, Residents, and Fellows Encouraged to Attend Activities in Seattle

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 16:59:00 GMT

Students, residents, and fellows can take advantage of discounted or free Annual Meeting events. Registration includes access to scientific platform and poster sessions, Plenary Sessions, Colloquia, Awards Luncheon, Celebration for Research, and Exhibits.

Annual Meeting: Artworks Needed to Help in Brain Research

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 16:50:00 GMT

The AAN Foundation is looking for creative artists to donate their work to the Art for Research: An AAN Gallery Show at the 2009 Annual Meeting. Donated pieces will be sold with proceeds going to support clinical research training in neuroscience.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: Academy Members Encouraged to Challenge Inappropriate Insurer Rankings

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 15:28:00 GMT

Although insurer physician ranking plans are not currently in place in every state or market, a number of large national health plans such as UnitedHealth Care and Aetna will be rolling out their quality designation and grading programs this spring and simultaneously sending notifications to physicians regarding opportunities to appeal their rating(s).

Advocacy: Neurology on the Hill Brings Academy Members to Washington, DC

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 22:51:00 GMT

Academy members, representing 34 different states gathered in our nation's capitol this past week to urge Congress to act on issues important to their patients, as the seventh annual Neurology on the Hill (NOH) took place in Washington DC.

Annual Meeting: Annual Meeting Updates Available on Facebook

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 22:29:00 GMT

Facebook users can now join the 2009 Annual Meeting event on Facebook to learn about events and activities taking place April 25–May 2 in Seattle.

Academy News: Proposed Amendments to Academy Bylaws Ready for Review

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 20:25:00 GMT

Academy members are encouraged to review changes to the AAN and AAN Professional Association Bylaws. Attendees of the 2009 AAN Business Meeting will have the opportunity to discuss these changes and vote on them.

Academy News: Connect with Your Colleagues on AAN's Facebook Page

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 19:34:00 GMT

The American Academy of Neurology is on Facebook. Members can now join an official AAN group on Facebook, connect with colleagues who have already joined, and view upcoming events and information.

Advocacy: Updates Released on State AEDs and Liability Reform

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 16:52:00 GMT

As states consider legislation during their 2009 sessions, Academy staff have been working to stay on top of the issues that are important to our members.

Education: A.B. Baker Teacher Recognition Award Recipients Announced

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 13:37:00 GMT

The A.B. Baker Section of Neurologic Educators believes that excellent teachers deserve recognition for their contributions to improving neurology now and in the future. Teaching binds students, residents, faculty, other clinicians, researchers, and even patients together and helps make our daily work more meaningful.

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: Influencing the Process

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 23:35:00 GMT

Slated to become the Academy's President-elect at the Annual Meeting in Seattle, Bruce Sigsbee, MD, FAAN, joined Mike Amery on Capitol Hill this week to help prepare arguments for the Academy's position on health care reform for

Academy News: Don't Miss Important News and Event Information About Your Academy

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 19:21:00 GMT

Update your contact information today to be sure your address and other contact information is current. Don't miss out on important news and event information about your Academy, or your host of free AAN member publications designed to

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: RACs Become a Reality

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 18:59:00 GMT

Practitioners and hospitals will soon find Recovery Audit Contractors (RACs) are a reality. This service offers a valuable way to retrieve Medicare overpayments (and underpayments), and also help prevent future overpayments.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: All About CMS' Carrier Advisory Committees

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:52:00 GMT

Saty Satya-Murti, MD, FAAN, answers questions about the role of CACs in setting policies and establishing standards of patient care...

Annual Meeting: Comic Takes the Stage at Celebration for Research

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 20:37:00 GMT

Comedian Josh Blue appears for a performance that puts the "cerebral" in cerebral palsy at the Celebration for Research, Sunday, April 26, at the Annual Meeting.

Education: Earn CME and Learn About Ethics Education at the 2009 Education Colloquium

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 18:00:00 GMT

The Education Colloquium: Ethics and Education, takes place at the 2009 Annual Meeting on Monday April 27, 2009, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The Colloquium is presented free of charge at the Annual Meeting and is open to all registered

Education: Consortium Announces Web Forum for Residents and Fellows

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 13:30:00 GMT

The American Academy of Neurology Graduate Education Subcommittee (GES) and Consortium of Neurology Residents and Fellows proudly announces a web forum for AAN Residents and Fellows.

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: Big Week Leading Up to Neurology on the Hill

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 22:07:00 GMT

Last week was hearing week on the Hill with several committees considering health care reform. The Senate Finance Committee met Thursday on Workforce Issues. In his opening remarks,

Advocacy: Academy Submits Statement to Senate Finance Committee

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 18:37:00 GMT

The Academy's Legislative Affairs Committee and Washington office are watching closely the federal health care reform debate. Following up on the document titled "The Critical Role of Neurologists in Our Health Care System," the Academy recently called on the US Senate to initiate health care reform that recognizes

Annual Meeting: Deadline for Annual Meeting Early Registration and Housing is Friday, March 20

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 04:57:00 GMT

March 20 is the deadline for early registration and housing for the 2009 Annual Meeting in Seattle. Attendees who miss this deadline must register on-site.

Annual Meeting: Pre-order by March 20 for Virtual Annual Meeting Savings

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 03:57:00 GMT

Time is running out to pre-order your Virtual Annual Meeting by March 20. You can save up to $200 on the 2009 Syllabi on CD, online access to Webcast-on-Demand, and Practice CD.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: Updated CPT Code Crosswalk Table Now Available

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 21:28:00 GMT

In response to direct feedback from physicians and medical societies, a CPT Code Crosswalk Table was implemented in 2007 to support the UnitedHealthcare Radiology Notification Program. The crosswalk table houses CPT code information that will enable physicians

Payment Policy & Decision Making:

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 21:20:00 GMT

Annual Meeting: Frontiers in Clinical Neuroscience Plenary Session Focuses on Translational Research

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 19:05:00 GMT

Four noted physician-scientists will outline their recent research findings, along with the clinical implications of their work, at the Frontiers in Clinical Neuroscience Plenary Session on Thursday, April 30, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. in the Washington State Convention and Trade Center.

BRAINS: Practice Managers: Now More Than Ever You Should Join the AAN and BRAINS!

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 14:49:00 GMT

By Bryan Soronson, MPA, FACMPE, CRA - During the current financial crisis, managing a neurology practice has become increasingly challenging. Every day, practice managers face declining reimbursement,

Annual Meeting: Run/Walk for Brain Research Gets You Moving Along Seattle's Waterfront

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 18:58:00 GMT

Join your colleagues at the Annual Meeting for the 2009 Run/Walk for Brain Research. The shoe rubber meets the road on Tuesday, April 28, starting at 6:30 a.m. for a 5k run or mile-long walk along

Foundation: Wine Tasting and Auction Offers a Chance to Savor the Flavor of Giving

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 20:04:00 GMT

The AAN Foundation Wine Tasting and Auction will be held at the Annual Meeting on Wednesday, April 29, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., at the Sheraton Hotel in Seattle.

Advocacy: Advocates Visit Capitol Hill to Encourage Greater NIH-funded Research

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 14:50:00 GMT

A group of 35 neurologists, clinicians, research scientists, and concerned advocates visited Capitol Hill February 24 to educate legislators about the need for greater NIH-funded research. The group, including 22 Academy members, visited 127 congressional offices from 27 states.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: AMA Practice Tip: Losing Revenue Through Inappropriate Health Insurer Adjustments

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 13:38:00 GMT

The American Medical Association has developed the educational resource "Is your practice losing revenue through inappropriate health insurer adjustments?" to alert physician practices to the need to carefully review

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: Heath Care Reform, Brad Pitt, and Wine

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 21:16:00 GMT

President Obama held a "Health Summit" on Thursday, March 5, bringing many key industries, advocates, and members of Congress to the White House to start discussions on health care reform.

Advocacy: Obama Signs Order Lifting Restrictions on Stem Cell Funding

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 17:45:00 GMT

President Barack Obama has signed an executive order that lifts restrictions and federal funding for embryonic stem cell research (ESCR).

Education: Record Number of Examinees Register for RITE

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 23:47:00 GMT

A record number of examinees have registered for the 2009 AAN Residency In-service Training Exam (RITE). A self-assessment tool designed to gauge knowledge of neurology and neuroscience, identify areas

Education: Faculty and Professional Development in the Spotlight

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 00:12:00 GMT

Clerkship and program directors are encouraged to attend the Clerkship and Program Directors' Conference: Faculty and Professional Development at...

Practice: Practice Management and Technology Subcommittee: Dedicated to Assisting Members

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 23:24:00 GMT

By Gregory J. Esper, MD - PM&T takes a broad approach to helping Academy members keep up-to-date with new government and private sector developments in practice management and technology.

Annual Meeting: Future of Neuroscience Conference Focuses on New Genetics: The Future of Neurology

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 20:04:00 GMT

New Genetics: The Future of Neurology will be the focus of this year's Future of Neuroscience Conference. This interactive program is scheduled for Friday, May 1, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Academy News: Sacco to Lead AHA

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 19:06:00 GMT

The American Heart Association has named Ralph L. Sacco, MD, MS, FAHA, FAAN, as president-elect for the 2009–2010 term. He will serve on the national Board of Directors for three years as President-Elect, President, and Immediate-Past President.

Annual Meeting: Volunteer Opportunities at Annual Meeting Offer Savings

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 18:50:00 GMT

The Annual Meeting offers several opportunities for members to volunteer their time and talents and obtain free Annual Meeting registration...

Education: Career Forum and Reception Scheduled for Residents and Fellows

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 22:09:00 GMT

Residents and fellows attending the Annual Meeting in Seattle are invited to a career night featuring discussions of fellowships, private practice, and academic research.

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: Obama Releases 2010 Budget

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 22:38:00 GMT

President Obama outlined his 2010 budget Thursday morning. The document recognizes the impending crisis physicians are facing with a 21 percent cut in Medicare reimbursement looming

Annual Meeting: 2009 Neuro Idol Seeks Members with Unique Talents

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 16:25:00 GMT

If you have a talent and a secret desire to perform in front of an audience, then Neuro Idol may be your big break!

Practice: Evidence-based Medicine and AAN Guidelines

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 20:57:00 GMT

By Janis M. Miyasaki, MD, MEd, FRCPC - Few words generate as much controversy and confusion as "evidence-based medicine." For some, the term implies that medicine before the 1980s

Annual Meeting: Cutting-edge Research Featured at Scientific Sessions

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 15:44:00 GMT

The AAN Annual Meeting is acclaimed for the quality of its wide-ranging scientific platform and poster sessions, and the 2009 meeting in Seattle will be no exception.

Advocacy: Appreciate the Challenges, Advocate for What's Important

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 19:14:00 GMT

In 2008, I took a sabbatical from my practice for a year to do the Kenneth Viste Public Policy Fellowship, sponsored by the American Academy of Neurology, American Neurological Association, and the Child Neurology Society. As I reflect back on that time, I remember how exciting it was to be in the midst of negotiations on a bill one day, and then read about it in the Washington Post the next day. It was amazing to be able to walk through the Capitol building or to go into the Senate gallery and watch debates.

Advocacy: Liability Reform and AED Substitution Activity Reported in State Legislatures

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 15:14:00 GMT

Activity in the state legislatures of Hawaii, Iowa, and Georgia indicate those states' attention to key concerns in national health care reform.

Annual Meeting: 2009 Presidential Plenary Session Features Clinically Relevant Research

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 07:13:00 GMT

Clinically relevant research will be presented by leading lecturers at the 2009 Presidential Plenary Session at the 61st Annual Meeting in Seattle. The session will take place on Tuesday, April 28 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Annual Meeting: Search the Annual Meeting Education Program Online

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 07:13:00 GMT

The complete Education Program for the 2009 Annual Meeting is now available online.

Academy News: Last Chance to Participate in Member Census

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 15:25:00 GMT

Now is your last chance to participate in the AAN 2008 Member Census. Please complete the census today if you have not done so already. The survey only takes a few minutes, and

BRAINS: BRAINS Listserv Participation Options Changing

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 21:48:00 GMT

The Business and Research Administrators in Neurology Society (BRAINS) listserv is a valuable tool for its users. Members are able to network with one another, sharing information and answering one another's questions.

Coding & Reimbursement: Use CPT Code 95999 for Nerve Testing Using Pre-configured Electrode Arrays

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 20:34:00 GMT

Nerve conduction testing performed with pre-configured arrays are to be reported using 95999, according to the AMA's CPT® Assistant (December 2008). Academy members are encouraged to educate other physicians in your community that utilize NCS testing

Academy News: AAN-Endorsed Malpractice Insurance Now Available in Oregon and Connecticut

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 20:06:00 GMT

Malpractice insurance designed exclusively for neurologists is now available in Oregon and Connecticut, along with 13 other states.

Coding & Reimbursement: Participate in Surveys for New CPT Codes

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 20:05:00 GMT

The Academy will be conducting surveys to develop physician work Relative Value Units for new CPT codes. All new codes must be surveyed to determine the rate at which Medicare and other payers reimburse for procedures.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: Reminder Regarding CAP Drugs

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 18:56:00 GMT

In September 2008 the CMS announced the postponement of the Competitive Acquisition Program for 2009. Any physicians who participated in the 2008 program have until February 28, 2009 to return unused CAP drugs to the approved vendor

Home: 2009 Report from Website Editor-in-Chief

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 01:12:00 GMT

AAN.com is now a teenager: it's been 13 years since the launch of the first AAN.com in 1996. News delivery has come a long way, and so has AAN.com.

Advocacy: 2009 Federal Legislative Priorities

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:24:00 GMT

The AAN Professional Association Board of Directors has approved federal legislative priorities for 2009, which were developed based on the recommendations of the Academy's Legislative Affairs Committee (LAC).

Advocacy: Stimulus Package Contains Provisions of Interest to Academy

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 00:21:00 GMT

Following Congressional agreement on compromise version, President Obama has signed H.R. 1, the "American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009"

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: A Monumental Time for Patient Care

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 22:23:00 GMT

The Academy's Health Reform Task Force has been working proactively to prepare for health care reform. Academy staff recently met with several patient advocacy groups to talk about common goals for reform. Everyone at the table agreed that protecting access to neurologists is critical to patient care.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: AMA Practice Tip: Negotiating Contracts

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 20:38:00 GMT

Taking command of payer contracts and thoroughly understanding their implications is essential to the success of a physician practice. Protect your practice from inappropriate payer discounts by understanding the implications of contract provisions.

Annual Meeting: Applications Deadline Extended for 2009 Residents and Fellows Career Forum and Reception

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 21:20:00 GMT

The fellowship poster application, international poster application, and recruiter application deadline for the 2009 Residents and Fellows Career Forum and Reception has been extended to February 25.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: Competitive Acquisition Program Postponed by CMS

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 22:25:00 GMT

Physicians who participated in the 2008 program have until February 28, 2009, to return unused CAP drugs to the approved vendor.

Academy News: m.AAN.com Now Available for Members

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 22:04:00 GMT

The Academy's award-winning website has gone mobile. The American Academy of Neurology now offers members m.AAN.com, an easy-to-access, portable version of AAN.com specially created for access with web-enabled mobile phones.

Pay-for-Performance: Your Comments on Epilepsy Performance Measures Needed

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 20:52:00 GMT

The Academy has developed eight performance measures for epilepsy, and now your expert opinion on the measures is needed. The 30-day open public comment period runs from February 11 to March 12, 2009.

Advocacy: State Legislative Updates: AEDs and EMG

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 21:47:00 GMT

As states introduce legislation to be considered during their 2009 sessions, Academy staff has been working to stay on top of the issues that are important to our members.

Advocacy: Join with Patient Groups to Advocate for Reform on Capitol Hill

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 16:36:00 GMT

Health care reform is at the forefront of the 111th Congress. The time is right for physicians and patients to speak up for the unique needs of neurologic patients. If you're not able to attend Neurology on the Hill this year, there are still several opportunities to come to Washington, DC, this spring

Advocacy: Funding for NIH and Health IT Moves Forward in Congress

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 14:07:00 GMT

As the debate to reform health care progresses, funding for both the National Institute of Health (NIH) and Health Care Information Technology have been included in the economic stimulus package being considered by Congress.

Advocacy: 2009 Update: Advocacy on AAN.com

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 13:37:00 GMT

Regardless of your politics, there is hope that the cyanotic American health care system may get some CPR with the start of the 111th Congress and the beginning of a new Presidential term.

Capitol Hill Report: Capitol Hill Report: Active First Month for New President, Congress

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 19:22:00 GMT

With the beginning of the Obama Administration and the 111th Congress, the Academy has set forth a list of legislative action items, including physician reimbursement, NIH funding, and other proposals.

Education: Understanding Maintenance of Certification: Performance in Practice

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 18:29:00 GMT

This is the fifth in a series of articles on the requirements of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) for Maintenance of Certification (MOC) and how they affect neurologists

Advocacy: Encourage Congress to Support More Funding for NIH

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 20:11:00 GMT

One of the first issues that the new Congress and Administration in Washington will face is the passage of an economic stimulus package.

Annual Meeting: New, Earlier Annual Meeting Embargo Release for Scientific Abstracts

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 20:26:00 GMT

The AAN recently revised its embargo policy for scientific abstracts accepted for presentation at the 2009 Annual Meeting. The embargo for media and others to report on non-late-breaking abstracts will lift at 4:00 p.m. ET, on Wednesday, February 25,

Science: 2009 Update: Science on AAN.com

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 18:05:00 GMT

The Science pages of AAN.com allow neurologists to follow basic, translational, and clinical scientific developments. The site includes daily breaking news stories of neurologic interest on the home page of AAN.com as well as short editorials

Payment Policy & Decision Making: UnitedHealth Care Extends Physician Appeal Deadline to February 11

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 22:02:00 GMT

As a result of requests by the AMA, UnitedHealthcare has agreed to extend the January 27, 2009, physician appeal deadline for its UnitedHealth Premium PDP two full weeks to February 11, 2009.

Academy News: New Mission, Vision, and Values Statements Reaffirm Academy Purpose

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 16:20:00 GMT

In the fall of 2008, Academy leadership developed new mission, vision, and values statements that now guide the AAN's initiatives.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: Major Settlements Reached with UHG and Aetna over Ingenix Database

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 21:00:00 GMT

New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo has reached a settlement with UnitedHealth Group, requiring the insurer to pay $50 million to finance the creation of a new database for determining the "usual, reasonable, and customary (UCR)" charges for medical care.

Advocacy: 2009 Palatucci Advocacy Leadership Forum Convenes in San Diego

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 22:41:00 GMT

Nine Advisors mentored thirty new 2009 Palatucci Advocacy Leadership Forum attendees in San Diego earlier this month. The participants were trained in strategic communication, media, and grassroots legislation skills.

Advocacy: Educational Handout for Media and Policymakers Now Online

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 15:30:00 GMT

The AAN Professional Association's Health Reform Task Force has recently developed an educational handout outlining "The Critical Role of Neurologists in our Health Care System." Designed to educate and inform policymakers about the upcoming challenges neurologists and their patients face

Academy News: Nominations Committee Announces Proposed Slate of Officers for 2009–2011

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 04:56:00 GMT

The Nominations Committee presents the proposed slate of officers AAN / AAN Professional Association Board of Directors for the 2009–2011 term.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: Information Updated for Physicians Appealing Rating in UHC's Premium Designation Program

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 17:00:00 GMT

Further Information for physicians who wish to appeal their rating before February 27 has been released. Physicians must visit the UnitedHealth Premium® Designation Program web page and log in

State Society: Don't Miss Your State Society's February Meeting

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 15:13:00 GMT

State neurological society meetings are excellent opportunities to network with local colleagues, as well as to learn about and discuss current neurological topics and issues with your peers.

Practice: January 2009 Update: Practice and Technology on AAN.com

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 23:58:00 GMT

The AAN's vision is "to be indispensable to our members." The Practice and Technology section of AAN.com is strongly committed to doing our part in achieving the goals and following the standards set forth in our mission statement.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: Appeal Your Rating in UHC's Premium Designation Program Before January 27

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 22:46:00 GMT

Physicians should appeal their rating in United Healthcare's (UHC) Premium Designation Program (PDP) by January 27 if they believe it is wrong.

Academy News: Visit Must-see Seattle During the Annual Meeting

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 22:46:00 GMT

Choose from five exciting tours sponsored by the AAN Alliance that will take you to different corners of the city to explore its art, culture, architecture, cuisine, shopping, lakefront attractions, and more.

Science: Neurology Articles to Require Level of Evidence (LOE) Classification

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 15:20:00 GMT

As of January 15, all Neurology articles dealing with therapeutic intervention will include level of evidence (LOE) classification. AAN.com asked Robert A. Gross, MD, PhD, FAAN, Deputy Editor of Neurology, to comment on this new initiative.

Pay-for-Performance: New PQRI Tools Available to Assist Members with Participation

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 16:53:00 GMT

The American Medical Association (AMA) has developed tools to assist physicians in participating in the 2009 PQRI program.

Education: January 2009 Update: Education on AAN.com

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 20:42:00 GMT

By Daniel B. Hier, MD, MBA, FAAN - As we enter 2009, it is a pleasure to look back at the activities of the Education Section of AAN.com.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: UnitedHealth Premium Designation Program Assessment Results Now Available to Physicians

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 17:02:00 GMT

UnitedHealthcare recently completed the annual UnitedHealth Premium® physician designation program quality and cost efficiency assessment, then mailed the results to physicians across the country.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Providers Urged to Participate in Annual MCPSS

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 15:53:00 GMT

The Medicare Provider Satisfaction Survey offers providers the opportunity to contribute directly to CMS' understanding of Medicare contractor performance, as well as aid future process improvement efforts at the contractor level.

Education: Understanding Maintenance of Certification: Cognitive Expertise

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 20:25:00 GMT

This is the fourth in a series of articles on the requirements of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology for Maintenance of Certification and how they affect neurologists.

Practice: Coding Subcommittee of MEM: Our Activities and Accomplishments

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 18:36:00 GMT

By Peter D. Donofrio, MD, FAAN - The Coding Subcommittee of the Medical Economics and Management Committee focuses on three areas

Advocacy: New Task Force Developed for Upcoming Health Care Reform Debate

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 18:07:00 GMT

With a new President-elect and Congress already beginning to tackle the issue of health care reform, the AAN Professional Association has developed a task force dedicated to developing a comprehensive strategy that will present the needs of neurologists and their patients on Capitol Hill.

Education: A Tour of the Neuro-Ophthalmology Virtual Education Library

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 21:30:00 GMT

AAN.com visited the Neuro-Ophthalmology Virtual Education Library. Daniel B. Hier, MD, MBA, FAAN, talked about the site with Eric R. Eggenberger, DO, FAAN, at Michigan State University.

Education: Choosing Courses for the Annual Meeting Education Program

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 23:21:00 GMT

Ralph F. Józefowicz, MD, FAAN, chair of the Education Committee and Annual Meeting Subcommittee, speaks with AAN.com about selecting Annual Meeting Education Program courses.

Practice: New Administration Embraces EHRs

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 17:11:00 GMT

On December 6, President-elect Obama announced three major economic recovery initiatives: rebuild the nation's roads and bridges, enhance schools including broadband access, and deploy electronic health records (EHR) for every clinician and hospital in the US.

Practice: Learn the Basics of Medicare's Electronic Prescribing Incentive Program

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 20:45:00 GMT

With the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services' Electronic Prescribing Incentive Program scheduled to begin in January, many physicians are preparing for a transition from paper and faxed prescriptions to a computer-based electronic generation, transmission, and filling of a prescription.

Academy News: December 31 Is Last Chance to Pay AAN Membership Dues

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 12:00:00 GMT

December 31 is the deadline to pay your AAN member dues. If dues are not paid by the deadline, you will experience an interruption in your member benefits. Payyour 2009 AAN membership dues online.

Practice: Multimodal Monitoring and Neurocritical Care Bioinformatics: The Dawn of a New Age

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 21:43:00 GMT

By J. Claude Hemphill III, MD, MAS and Michael De Georgia, MD - Neurocritical Care is a growth industry. New approaches to treating stroke, head and spinal cord trauma, global cerebral ischemia after cardiac arrest, and status epilepticus

Electronic Health Records: Choosing a Certified EHR System

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 20:36:00 GMT

Choosing an EHR System for your practice can be a time consuming and an over-whelming task. A good place to start is the list of CCHIT-certified EHR systems.

Pay-for-Performance: Get Ready for E-Prescribing

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 20:17:00 GMT

The E-Prescribing Incentive Program went into effect on January 1, 2009, so start reporting now to qualify for the two percent bonus from Medicare.

ICD-9, CPT & E/M Coding : New E/M Templates Now Available

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 00:18:00 GMT

In response to feedback from members, the Coding Subcommittee has developed nine new templates. These templates have been designed to assist neurologists in coding for a variety of services.

Education: Neurology Education in an Online World

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 00:15:00 GMT

Current neurology residents and fellows can no longer remember a time in their training without access to the Internet.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: NCOIL Model Act Paves Way for Favorable State Regulation of Rental Network PPO Market

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 21:24:00 GMT

As part of an ongoing advocacy campaign to promote fair physician contracting and payment practices, the American Medical Association has actively encouraged the National Conference of Insurance Legislators, which consists of lead state legislators who handle insurance issues, to adopt model legislation to regulate the rental network PPO market.

Advocacy: Pleading the Cause

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 22:56:00 GMT

By Daniel C. Potts, MD - Lester Potts was transformed from a rural Alabama lumberman to a watercolor artist when he participated in art therapy at a dementia daycare center.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Decrease Medicare Paperwork Time by 50 Percent

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 16:37:00 GMT

Now there's a better way for physicians and non-physician practitioners to enroll or make a change in their Medicare enrollment information.

Education: Sign Up for Residents and Fellows Luncheon

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 15:34:00 GMT

The AAN Residents and Fellows Luncheon on Sunday, April 26, 2009, recognizes the 2009 Resident Annual Meeting Scholarship recipients.

Education: Save the Date for Residents and Fellows Career Forum

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 15:34:00 GMT

The 2009 Residents and Fellows Career Forum and Reception will be held on Monday, April 27, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. during the 2009 AAN Annual Meeting. The specifics for the event are listed below.

Practice: E-Readers For Neurologists

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 22:52:00 GMT

By Saty Satya-Murti, MD - For several years, we physicians have been bombarded with information aimed at moving to a paperless office. What about moving to a paperless library? Recently introduced technology is making this a viable option.

Electronic Health Records: Electronic Health Records Demonstration Now Available

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 15:33:00 GMT

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has developed a new demonstration initiative to reward the delivery of high-quality care supported by the adoption and use of electronic health records (EHR).

Annual Meeting: Register Online for the 2009 Annual Meeting in Seattle

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 20:26:00 GMT

Find extended information and announcements about events at the 2009 Annual Meeting.

Education: Early Registration Deadline Approaching for AAN Winter Conference

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 17:42:00 GMT

The December 15 early registration deadline for the 2009 AAN Winter Conference is quickly approaching.

Home: Fill Out Census Survey to Help AAN Serve You Better

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 16:34:00 GMT

Please complete the AAN 2008 Member Census today if you have not done so already. The survey only takes a few minutes, and participation will help the AAN better understand and represent the field of neurology.

Pay-for-Performance: Medicare's Practical Guide to the E-Prescribing Incentive Program Now Available

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 02:54:00 GMT

By adopting e-Prescribing through Medicare's program, eligible professionals can save time, enhance office and pharmacy productivity, and improve patient safety and quality of care while earning incentives from Medicare.

Education: Understanding Maintenance of Certification: Self-Assessment and Lifelong Learning

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 20:55:00 GMT

This is the third in a series of articles on the requirements of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) for Maintenance of Certification (MOC) and how they affect neurologists.

Practice: New AAN Guidelines Identify Best Tests for DSP

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 21:00:00 GMT

The American Academy of Neurology has developed new, evidence-based guidelines to support the most accurate diagnosis for distal symmetric polyneuropathy (DSP). The guidelines, published in the December 3, 2008, online issue of Neurology(R), find that a combination of laboratory and genetic blood tests and other specialized assessments like autonomic testing and nerve and skin biopsy appear to be the most helpful tests for finding the cause of DSP.

Electronic Health Records: Medicare Guide to the E-Prescribing Incentive Program is Now Available

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:28:00 GMT

A guide explaining the e-Prescribing incentive program, how eligible professionals can participate, and how to choose a qualified e-Prescribing system has been published on the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services website.

Advocacy: Help Haitian Health: Adopt a Soccer Team

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 21:58:00 GMT

Anthony G. Alessi, MD, FAAN, describes his work in Haiti as a participant in the AAN's Palatucci Advocacy Leadership Forum.

Advocacy: Report Examines 2008 Election Outcomes and Legislative Impact

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 15:56:00 GMT

What is the impact of the 2008 elections?

Advocacy: Find Your State's 'Dispense as Written Law'

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 15:40:00 GMT

Some states have specific language that may be different for Medicaid as compared to non-Medicaid patients. Find your respective state's "Dispense as Written" Law in a useful new guide located on the AAN Practice page.

Practice: Advances in Technology Increase Telestroke's Viability

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 21:32:00 GMT

By Lawrence R. Wechsler, MD - Telestroke offers an alternative source for emergent evaluation in the emergency department by a vascular neurologist.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: Payment Policy Subcommittee Seeks Collaborative Working Relationships with Health Plans

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 19:36:00 GMT

By Joel Kaufman, MD, FAAN - The mission of the Payment Policy Subcommittee of the Medical Economics and Management Committee (MEM) is to foster positive relationships with the health insurance industry in working together toward health care solutions, and to establish itself as a primary point of contact for members and payers seeking policy definition and development.

Practice: Protests Put RAC Development on Hold

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 18:19:00 GMT

An automatic hold will stop work for all four Recovery Audit Contractors (RAC) regional awards as the result of protests filed by two unsuccessful bidders for the RAC program with the General Accountability Office (GAO).

Practice: The Medical Economics and Management Committee Is Working for You

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 12:32:00 GMT

By Laura B. Powers, MD, FAAN - In our current difficult economic climate, the Medical Economics and Management Committee (MEM) is working hard to ensure the financial viability of neurology practices.

ICD-9, CPT & E/M Coding : Significant New ICD-9 Codes for 2009 Go Into Effect

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 12:09:00 GMT

Many coding changes with an impact on neurology and the way diagnoses are reported have gone into effect since October 1.

Science: NINDS and AAN.com Launch Internet Collaboration

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 23:03:00 GMT

By Walter Koroshetz, MD, FAAN, and Orly Avitzur, MD, FAAN - A new dimension is emerging in the long collaboration between the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) and the American Academy of Neurology.

Pay-for-Performance: CMS Rolls Out New Electronic Prescribing Incentive Program

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 19:50:00 GMT

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced a new initiative for physicians to trade in their prescription pads and improve efficiency and safety when ordering drugs for patients with Medicare.

Advocacy: Academy Efforts on Capitol Hill Yield a Successful Year in Advocacy

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 19:44:00 GMT

Thanks to your efforts, the 110th Congress passed a number of the Academy's priorities, making 2008 a very successful year for the Academy in Washington DC.

Electronic Health Records: New E-prescribing Resource Launched by AMA

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 19:27:00 GMT

The AMA, along with a steering group of clinicians, consumers, employers, health plans, pharmacies, and four major medical associations, has issued the first comprehensive "how-to" guide to help clinicians make informed decisions about how and when to transition from paper to electronic prescribing systems.

Education: Understand Maintenance of Certification: Professional Standing

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 19:00:00 GMT

MOC is an ongoing process through which a diplomate's credentials, licensure, and professional standing are verified and his or her knowledge and practice performance are evaluated.

Coding & Reimbursement: ICD-10-CM/PCS: The Good News, the Bad News, and Potentially No News

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 21:11:00 GMT

By Laura B. Powers, MD, FAAN - Our current diagnosis coding system, ICD-9-CM, is out of date. Accommodation for new classifications results in limited and scattered entries. Is it time for the United States to start using ICD-10?

Payment Policy & Decision Making: AMA Reminds Physicians: 'November is National Heal that Claim Month'

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 21:07:00 GMT

As part of its national campaign to save the health system billions of dollars by improving the accuracy and efficiency of medical claims processing, the AMA announced last week it has selected this month as the first national "Heal that Claim"™ month.

Coding & Reimbursement: Improve Your Reimbursement: Register for E/M Audio Conference by November 7!

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 17:00:00 GMT

Time is running out to register for the Academy's Evaluation and Management audio conference call on Wednesday, November 12, at 2:00 p.m. Central Time. If you register for this important conference call by Friday, November 7, you will learn how to use the Academy's new E/M templates, improve your reimbursement, and earn one CME credit.

Practice: AMA Program Helps Protect Prescribing Information

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:00:00 GMT

The Physician Data Restriction Program (PDRP) offers physicians the option of withholding their prescribing data from pharmaceutical sales representatives while still making it available for medical research purposes.

Pay-for-Performance: CMS Announces Updates to Physician Quality Reporting Initiative Web Page

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 13:00:00 GMT

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has announced a new E-Prescribing Incentive Program section page its Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) web page.

Electronic Health Records: Chart Scanning Offers Versatility, Saves Time, Space, and Money

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 20:31:00 GMT

"Digital Demos: Technology Solutions That You Can Afford" will take place at the 2009 AAN Annual Meeting in Seattle on April 28, 2009.

Electronic Health Records: Personal Health Records: Evolution or Revolution?

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 20:31:00 GMT

Consumers more readily log onto the Internet to help them manage their health and health care decisions. Rather than limiting this information to a paper format, a new movement seeks easier access through computer, Internet, or a portable storage device such as USB flash drive, disk, or smart card.

Coding & Reimbursement: Medically Unlikely Edits Go Public, Thanks to CMS

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 20:00:00 GMT

CMS developed the Medically Unlikely Edit (MUE) program to reduce the paid claims error rate for Part B claims. The first edits were implemented January 1, 2007.

Practice: New RAC Program Contractors Named by CMS

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 19:00:00 GMT

The CMS has begun the initial phase-in of its Recovery Audit Contractor program by announcing the four new contractors that will administer the program. Each RAC will be responsible for identifying overpayment and underpayments in approximately one-quarter of the country, according to the agency.

Review and Editorials: Emerging Pathogenesis of Essential Tremor

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:03:00 GMT

By Holly Shill, MD - Over the last two years investigators have begun to elucidate the neuropathological findings in the essential tremor brain.

Academy News: CDC Issues Health Advisory for West Nile Virus Test Kit

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 17:53:00 GMT

The CDC, FDA, and state health departments are investigating a rise in false-positive test results obtained with a commercially available West Nile Virus test kit.

Education: Register Now for 2009 AAN Winter Conference

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 19:12:00 GMT

Early registration is now open for the 2009 AAN Winter Conference, which will be held January 16 through 18 at Disney's Contemporary Resort in Lake Buena Vista, FL. Register by December 15, 2008, and save on registration and hotel costs.

Practice: 2009 CAP Postponement Article is Available on CMS Website

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 17:57:00 GMT

A Medicare Learning Network (MLN) Matters Special Edition article on the 2009 CAP postponement is now available on the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services for website.

Academy News: AAN Membership Dues Invoice Coming Soon

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 21:00:00 GMT

AAN members should watch their mailboxes for the 2009 membership dues invoicing. As an AAN member, you will want to take full advantage of membership—and avoid interruption of benefits—by keeping your dues current.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Medicaid Requires One Out of Three Features for Handwritten Prescriptions

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Effective October 1, 2008, requirements for prescriptions to meet Medicaid tamper-proof requirements moved to a second phase. The National Association of State Medicaid Directors (NASMD) has provided additional information. Handwritten prescriptions must now have at least one of three tamper-resistant features:

State Society: State Society Roundtable Meets in New Orleans

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 21:00:00 GMT

On September 27 and 28, leaders from Neurological State Societies across the country gathered in New Orleans for the Academy's Third Annual State Society Leaders Roundtable.

Advocacy: Congress Passes Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008 as Part of Federal Bailout Package

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 18:00:00 GMT

Congress has acted on another of the AANPA's top priorities for 2008 by passing The Paul Wellstone and Pete Domenici Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008, which was included as part of the recently passed Federal Bailout Package.

Education: Get to Know the ABPN Requirements for Maintenance of Certification

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 18:00:00 GMT

Maintenance of Certification helps physician specialists offer quality patient care through an ongoing process of self-improvement.

Advocacy: Congress Successfully Passes Academy Legislation to Create Epilepsy Centers of Excellence

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 18:00:00 GMT

The US Congress has passed Academy-driven legislation that will create up to six Epilepsy Centers of Excellence (ECoE) at the Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA). President Bush is expected to sign the legislation.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: Aetna Will Allow Outside Panel(s) of Physicians to Decide on Rescissions

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 21:00:00 GMT

Aetna, the third-largest US health insurer, has announced that it will let an independent panel of physicians decide whether to rescind health insurance policies for sick plan members suspected of submitting false or incomplete information on their applications.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: CMS Develops Discharge Planning Checklist for Patients, Caregivers

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 21:00:00 GMT

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is pleased to announce the availability of a useful checklist that prompts patients and caregivers to ask questions about key discharge planning topics including their likely care needs, the options for continuing care, post-discharge care instructions, community-based resources, and more.

Academy News: AAN.com Launches Enhanced Web Features

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 15:56:00 GMT

AAN.com now offers new features and special tools that make the website even more useful for members. You can have articles sent to you, search for older articles in the AAN article Archives, leave a comment on a story that interests you, or email a story to friends and colleagues.

State Society: Don't Forget to Register for State Society Fall Meetings

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 21:00:00 GMT

State Neurological Societies' fall meetings offer local opportunities for CME as well as a chance to network and exchange information with other local neurologists. Be sure to register for upcoming meetings in your area.

Advocacy: New York Installs One-Year Freeze on Malpractice Rates

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 20:00:00 GMT

The state of New York now has a one-year freeze on malpractice rates thanks to special session legislation that Governor David Paterson recently signed into law, giving the Legislature additional time to work on a long-term solution to the medical malpractice problem confronting the state.

Education: There's Still Time to Register for the Fall Conference

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 18:00:00 GMT

There's still time to register for an unparalleled selection of exciting, cutting-edge topics at the 2008 Fall Conference in New Orleans, October 10–12.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Sept. 21–27 is National Adult Immunization Awareness Week

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 21:00:00 GMT

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) remind health care professionals that Medicare Part B reimburses health care providers who accept the Medicare-approved payment amount for influenza, pneumococcal, and hepatitis B vaccines and their administration.

Foundation: In Memoriam—Robert Katzman, MD, FAAN, Giant of Alzheimer's Research, 2006 AAN Foundation Giant of Neurology

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 15:45:00 GMT

Robert Katzman, MD, FAAN, died peacefully at his home on Tuesday, September 16, after a long battle with his health. His wife and one of his sons, Daniel, were at his bedside. A University of California, San Diego memorial is being planned in the next few months.

Education: Request from UTMB for Temporary Placement of Galveston Residents and Fellows

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 15:44:00 GMT

University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston (UTMB) program directors, led by Designated Institutional Official Thomas Blackwell, MD, have requested aid in facilitating the temporary transfer of UTMB residents/fellows to institutions and programs in several specialties and subspecialties, including neurology and related areas.

Practice: Are You Losing Compensation Because of Bad Coding? Register for the E/M Audio Conference

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 20:53:00 GMT

If you are not coding correctly, you may be shortchanging your practice. Learn how to receive what you deserve at the AAN's Evaluation and Management audio conference on Wednesday, November 12, at 2:00 p.m. central time. The registration deadline is Wednesday, November 7.

Advocacy: Last Chance: Apply for 2009 Palatucci Advocacy Leadership Forum

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Applications for the next Donald M. Palatucci Advocacy Leadership Forum must be submitted online by September 21, 2008. Apply now and take part in this empowering experience: using hands-on, interactive workshops, you will learn the skills needed to produce positive change for your patients and the profession of neurology. The Forum will be held January 8—11, 2009, in San Diego. Only online applications will be accepted.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: 'Heal that Claim' Month: Take Time to Review and Appeal Inappropriately Paid Claims

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 23:00:00 GMT

November is "Heal that Claim"™ month. All physician practices are encouraged to hold health insurance companies accountable for making claims processing more cost effective and transparent as part of the American Medical Association's (AMA) "Heal the Claims Process"™ campaign, which the AMA launched earlier this year.

Academy News: 2008 AAN Fall Conference Takes Place October 10–12 in New Orleans

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 19:00:00 GMT

The 2008 AAN Fall Conference will be in full swing the weekend of October 10 through 12. The luxurious Hilton New Orleans Riverside in historic New Orleans is running at full operation and excited to host what is sure to be a first-class weekend, featuring the latest updates in child neurology, epilepsy, headache, movement disorders, multiple sclerosis, neuromuscular disease, neuro-oncology, neuro-ophthalmology, and stroke.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: CMS Announces Postponement of the Competitive Acquisition Program (CAP) for Part B Drugs

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 15:30:00 GMT

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has announced the postponement of the 2009 Medicare Part B Competitive Acquisition Program. The program will continue through December 31, 2008.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: UnitedHealth Care Announces Its Next Review Cycle for the UnitedHealth Premium Designation Program

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 15:00:00 GMT

UnitedHealth Care has announced that the assessment reports for the next Premium® designation cycle are based on refreshed paid claims data and will be sent to physicians in October. Physicians are encouraged to access information on UnitedHealthcare's physician website in order to prepare for the review of their individual data when the reports are issued in October.

Pay-for-Performance: Take the 2007 PQRI Survey

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 18:00:00 GMT

Did you participate in the 2007 Medicare Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI)? Complete a brief survey to provide your input and help guide the AAN and AMA to effectively advocate for changes to the PQRI. We appreciate your comments.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Fee-For-Service Contractors Continue to Get Good Marks from Medicare Providers

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 23:00:00 GMT

Results of the 2007 Medicare Contractor Provider Satisfaction Survey (MCPSS) conducted by The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) show that Medicare health care providers are reasonably satisfied with services provided by Medicare fee-for-service contractors.

Practice: New Guideline Published on Use of Natalizumab for MS

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 20:15:00 GMT

The AAN has published a new guideline on the use of the drug natalizumab for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS).

Advocacy: Academy Continues to Push Congress on NIH and STOP Stroke Act

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 19:00:00 GMT

As legislators return to Washington DC for the month of September, the Academy continues to push Congress to address several issues important to our members. Bills proposing increased funding for the National Institutes of Health and the STOP Stroke Act have reached the Senate floor, but their passage into law is not guaranteed.

Pay-for-Performance: NQF Announces New Composite Measure Evaluation Framework

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 19:00:00 GMT

The National Quality Forum (NQF) has announced its draft report, Composite Measure Evaluation Framework, is available for review and comment. NQF must receive all member comments by Thursday, September 11, 6 pm, ET.

Advocacy: MS Insurance Advisory Committee: Washington State Neurologists Demonstrate Advocacy in Action

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 13:00:00 GMT

When insurance companies attempt to cut costs and restrict access to care, people with multiple sclerosis often become neurologists' most vulnerable patients. Treating MS is very expensive. MS patients and their physicians in Washington State now have a resource that can help.

Coding & Reimbursement: Have You Been Selected to Participate in the Physician Practice Information Survey?

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 14:57:00 GMT

The AAN, the American Medical Association, and more than 70 other organizations are conducting a comprehensive, multi-specialty survey of America's physician practices. The results will be used to positively influence national decision makers. The section of the study pertaining to your practice expenses is particularly important, and we request that you complete it accurately in its entirety. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has indicated it will use the results of this study to help determine physician payment. The survey firm, dmrkynetec, has been retained to contact randomly selected physicians and practice managers to collect responses. All responses will remain confidential.

Practice: New Guideline Published on Trigeminal Neuralgia

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 20:00:00 GMT

A new guideline developed by the AAN finds that surgery should be considered for people who suffer from extreme, electric shock-like pain in their face and do not respond well to drugs. The guideline on treating trigeminal neuralgia, developed in partnership with the European Federation of Neurological Societies, has been published in the August 20, 2008, online issue of Neurology®.

Pay-for-Performance: Comment Periods for NQF National Consensus Standards for Outpatient Imaging and PCPI Obstructive Sleep Apnea Measurement Sets Closing Soon

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 17:00:00 GMT

Open comment periods for measures vetted by the National Quality Forum (NQF) and the Physician Consortium for Performance Improvement® (PCPI) will soon close.

Education: Continuum Neuroimaging Issue with Online Interactive Cases Available Now

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 21:30:00 GMT

The Neuroimaging issue of Continuum: Lifelong Learning in Neurology®, chaired by Laszlo L. Mechtler, MD, is now available online and in print. This issue focuses on neuroimaging of the central nervous system, and features more than 100 interactive cases.

Advocacy: Nominations for Viste Advocate of the Year Now Open

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 21:00:00 GMT

The 2009 Advocate of the Year Award is now open and accepting nominations until November 30th, 2008. Please nominate your colleagues for their commitment to patient advocacy today. The recipients will receive a $1,000 cash prize and recognition at the 2009 AAN Annual Meeting.

Education: Early Fall Conference Registration Discounts
End September 18

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 15:45:00 GMT

The early registration deadline for the 2008 AAN Fall Conference at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside in New Orleans is quickly approaching. Be sure to register by September 18 to save on registration and hotel costs. According to Austin J. Sumner, MD, FAAN, "New Orleans will provide the perfect backdrop to what I hope will be a truly memorable three-day weekend."

Advocacy: State Neurological Societies Prepare for Fall Meetings

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 13:00:00 GMT

State Neurological Societies are preparing for their fall meetings. These meetings offer a range of CME opportunities, as well as the chance to network and exchange information with other local neurologists.

Science: NINDS Announces Research Education Programs for Residents and Fellows

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 17:00:00 GMT

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) is offering a new pilot program designed to enhance the training of physicians and scientists in the fields of neurology and neurosurgery. The program will provide opportunities for residents who are strongly interested in research training while they participate in clinical training. The goal of the program is to increase the number of applicants applying for and receiving mentored career development (K) awards.

Advocacy: Academy Signs Letter Supporting Senate Version of Epilepsy Center Legislation

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 21:52:00 GMT

The American Academy of Neurology Professional Association–in conjunction with the Epilepsy Foundation and other supporters–recently sent a letter to the Chairs and Ranking Members of the House and Senate Veterans' Affairs Committees asking for support of S. 2004, a bill that creates six Epilepsy Centers of Excellence within the Department of Veterans' Affairs.

Academy News: New Cases of PML Found in MS Patients Taking Natalizumab

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 21:54:00 GMT

By Lily Jung, MD, FAAN, Swedish Neuroscience Institute, Seattle, WA

Biogen Idec notified physicians on Thursday, July 31, that two new cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been identified in multiple sclerosis patients receiving natalizumab (Tysabri) in the European Union. Close clinical surveillance associated with the drug allowed for the identification of the two new cases reported.

Education: Finding Neuroimages on the Internet

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:31:00 GMT

Whether they take the form of CT, PET, or MRI scans, gross pathologic images, microscopic images, or patient videos, neuroimages are critical to neurologic education and research. This article presents a number of neurology-related websites featuring high-volume, high-quality image resources.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: Academy Takes a Stand on Principles of Physician Profiling Programs

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 18:16:00 GMT

The American Academy of Neurology Professional Association (AANPA) has adopted a statement of principles that it believes should be included in increasingly popular physician profiling programs that rank physicians according to various criteria.

Academy News: WFN Seeks Nominations for Officers, Trustee

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 17:00:00 GMT

The World Federation of Neurology (WFN) is accepting nominations for the positions of president, first vice president, secretary-treasurer general, and one elected trustee. The deadline for nominations is August 15, 2008.

Advocacy: Congress Overrides President's Veto of Medicare Reimbursement Bill

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 17:54:00 GMT

Following the July 9 passage of legislation in Congress to retroactively eliminate a 10.6 percent cut in physician reimbursement under Medicare, President Bush vetoed the bill (HR 6331) on July 15. However, both the House and Senate quickly voted to override the presidential veto. With the veto override, the bill now becomes law.

Education: AAN.com Talks with Barney Stern About Neurology Education Research

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 19:03:00 GMT

Barney Stern, MD, FAAN, is Chair of the Education Research Subcommittee of the AAN. AAN.com met with Dr. Stern to find out more about the activities of this subcommittee. He spoke with AAN.com Education Editor Daniel B. Hier, MD, MBA, FAAN.

Advocacy: Academy Helps Congress Pass Physician Pay Fix

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 21:45:00 GMT

The US Senate passed legislation Wednesday to retroactively eliminate a 10.6-percent cut in physician reimbursement under Medicare. Sen. Ted Kennedy returned to the senate to make the deciding vote.

Advocacy: State Legislatures Take on Stem Cell Research

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 17:00:00 GMT

Several state legislatures around the country have taken up the issue of stem cell research in 2008. Some have made advancements, while others continue to debate the subject. Find out which states have passed or vetoed legislation involving stem cell research.

Advocacy: Second Viste Award Recipient Announced

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 16:00:00 GMT

Tarakad Ramachandran, MD, FAAN, was honored at the AAN Annual Meeting in Chicago as the second Kenneth M. Viste, Jr., MD, Patient Advocate of the Year award recipient. The award was created in 2005 to recognize neurologists who shared Viste's selfless act of working on behalf of the patient community throughout his distinguished career.

Advocacy: Senate to Take Up Medicare Reimbursement Late Wednesday

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 16:50:00 GMT

The Senate will reconsider legislation this week to stop a more than 10-percent cut to Medicare physician payments. The cuts became effective July 1.

Review and Editorials: FAST Enough for Intracerebral Hemorrhage?

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 21:55:00 GMT

The results of the FAST (Factor Seven for Acute Hemorrhagic Stroke) trial, published in the May 15, 2008, issue of The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM), reaffirmed previous studies' findings that rFVIIa decreases hematoma expansion, but in this phase III study there was no effect on mortality or functional outcome. rFVIIa treatment was associated with an increase in thromboembolic events, principally subendocardial myocardial infarctions. FAST raises several important issues for future clinical trials for this devastating condition.

Education: Submit Applications for Grants to Study Neurology Education by August 25

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 16:15:00 GMT

Applications for Grants to study neurology education may be submitted through August 25, 2008 for funding between January 1, 2009, and December 31, 2009.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: CMS Extends Appeal Rights When Applications for Medicare Billing Privileges Are Denied or Revoked

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 16:00:00 GMT

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) have issued a final rule that extends appeal rights to all providers and suppliers enrollment applications for Medicare billing privileges are denied or revoked by CMS or a Medicare contractor. The rule will also allow providers and suppliers to seek judicial review after they have exhausted the administrative appeals process.

Practice: Effective Neurology Presentations

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 19:21:00 GMT

Behind every successful neurology presentation lies solid research, thoughtful preparation . . . and well designed visual materials. Grabbing the audience's attention with color, contrast, and good layout enhances the effect of your presentation. Your research might be compelling and your presence at the podium might be engaging, but poor visuals can turn off your audience in a matter of moments. Learn how to create effective presentations for your next conference or professional meeting.

Practice: 2008 EHR Vendor Report Published

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 20:50:00 GMT

The 2008 Electronic Health Records (EHR) Vendor Report is now ready for viewing. This is the third year the AANPA has published a vendor report that evaluates the business benefits, functionality, and financial viability of various EHR vendor applications according to the needs of neurology practices.

Advocacy: What You Need to Know to Submit Medicare Claims Starting July 1

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 20:49:00 GMT

Since the US Senate failed to consider legislation to stop the Medicare physician payment cuts, a 10.6 percent Medicare payment cut has gone into effect beginning July 1. Physicians should be aware of their new options for submitting claims.

Advocacy: Senate Fails to Act; 10.6 Percent Medicare Payment Cut Going into Effect on July 1

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 22:11:00 GMT

The US Senate failed for a second time to consider legislation to stop the July 1 Medicare physician payment cuts. The June 26 cloture vote failed 58–40, one vote shy of the minimum needed to prevent the 10.6 percent cut. Note that for procedural reasons, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) changed his vote to "No," so that he is able to recall the issue at a later date.

Education: Program Directors: Attend Free Training on Teaching Evidence-Based Medicine to Residents

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 20:15:00 GMT

The AAN is offering a free training for program directors to teach evidence-based medicine to their residents. The training begins with a two-day course held September 19 and 20 at the Grand America Hotel in Salt Lake City, prior to the American Neurological Association meeting in that city. Two additional training sessions will be held January 9 and 10, and May 15 and 16, 2009. Participants in the training should be program directors or their designees (not program coordinators), who will implement the program at their institutions throughout the year after each training session.

Advocacy: House Votes on Version of Senate Bill to Eliminate Medicare Fee Reduction; VA Epilepsy Centers of Excellence Act Passes

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 19:00:00 GMT

The US House of Representatives on Tuesday, June 24, passed HR 6331, the "Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008." The legislation would erase an over ten-percent reduction to Medicare physician fees, which is currently scheduled to take effect on July 1. The House also passed the Epilepsy Centers of Excellence Act of 2007 (HR 2818), which would establish five epilepsy treatment centers co-located at the Veterans' Affairs Polytrauma Centers in Palo Alto, CA; Minneapolis, MN; San Antonio, TX; Richmond, VA; and Tampa, FL.

Practice: Health 2.0 for Neurologists

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 19:33:00 GMT

Health 2.0 is a term that describes health resources on the web that get more robust as more people use the resources and add more information. These resources include discussions in disease-based websites, narratives written by a community in the manner of Wikipedia, and community-maintained databases from which one can get advice on making a diagnosis. Health 2.0 resources offer the prospect of combining physician and patient knowledge in ways that add much to physician experience and patient knowledge.

Pay-for-Performance: CMS Releases Preliminary Data from Physician Quality Reporting Initiative

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 15:00:00 GMT

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) have released preliminary data related to the reporting of the 2007 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) measures. While individual reports will not be available until mid-July, physicians in multi-physician practices should register online now to allow time for processing.

Coding & Reimbursement: Supplementary ICD-9 'V-Code' Available October 1 to Identify 'Drip and Ship' Patients

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 22:00:00 GMT

A new ICD-9 "V-code" has been approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to identify patients who are given tPA (rt-PA) at a differing institution within 24 hours of an admission for ischemic stroke. There is an immediate need to identify the patients who have tPA initiated in one hospital's emergency room and are then transferred for advanced care at a stroke center—a procedure commonly called "drip and ship."

Advocacy: New Jersey Legislation to Fix Statute on NCV Studies

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 17:26:00 GMT

In 2006, the AAN supported New Jersey Assembly Bill 456, which sought to define needle electromyography (EMG) and the interpretation of nerve conduction velocity (NCV) studies as the practice of medicine in the state of New Jersey. Prior to final passage, however, the language was changed without the AAN's knowledge or support. The bill, as signed into law, defines performing needle EMG as well as the interpretation and performance NCV studies as the practice of medicine. New Jersey statue (P.L.2005, c.303) prevents technicians from legally performing NCV studies.

Advocacy: Pennsylvania AED Legislation Passes Out of Committee

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 17:20:00 GMT

Legislation prohibiting pharmacists from interchanging an antiepileptic drug without prior notification and signed consent from both patient and physician passed out of the Pennsylvania House Health and Human Services Committee on a 22–5 vote on June 17. The bill has been re-committed to the Rules Committee and will hopefully move to the Senate floor for a vote.

State Society: Find Local Opportunities for CME, Networking, and Advocacy

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 21:00:00 GMT

State neurological society meetings are excellent opportunities to network with local colleagues, as well as to learn about and discuss current neurological topics and issues with your peers. With the fall meeting season right around the corner, now is the perfect time to get involved in these events.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: Join the AMA in its 'Heal the Claims Process' Campaign

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 18:00:00 GMT

The American Medical Association rolled out its "Heal the Claims Process" campaign on Monday, June 16, at the AMA House of Delegates meeting in Chicago. Working in conjunction with the National Health Insurer Report Card (NHIRC), the campaign seeks to reduce unnecessary administrative waste in the health care claims process.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: Make an Impact on Patient Care: Take the Physician Survey

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 14:51:00 GMT

The American Medical Association has teamed up with the Ohio State Medical Association and the Toledo Blade to distribute a national survey to physicians regarding the impact of third-party payers on patient care. Results will be published as part of a series of stories being written by The Toledo Blade.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: NPI: A Work in Progress

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 20:00:00 GMT

In an effort to help iron out problems with inconsistent information between National Plan and Provider Enumeration System (NPPES) and the IRS database, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) are mailing out letters to organization health care providers whose information doesn't match.

Foundation: Congratulating the 2008 Awards Luncheon Honorees

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 19:00:00 GMT

Congratulations to the 2008 Awards Luncheon Honorees: Tedy Bruschi, Austin Sumners, MD, FAAN, Daryl De Vivo, MD, FAAN, and Walter Bradley, DM, FRCP, FAAN.

Foundation: New Members Join the Corporate Roundtable

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 13:00:00 GMT

PhotoThera, Inc., and Orasi Medical, Inc., have just joined as two new Corporate Roundtable members. These two companies have now become a part the growing relationship between the AAN, the AAN Foundation, and industry, to ensure that the Foundation goals of promoting research and education and improving the quality of care for patients with neurological disorders is met.

Foundation: Rowland Honored at Annual Meeting Dinner

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 18:59:00 GMT

On Wednesday, April 16, the AAN and AAN Foundation hosted an event to honor Lewis P. Rowland MD, FAAN, for his longstanding commitment and sustained contributions to the AAN and AANF. Tim Pedley, MD, FAAN, Dr. Rowland's successor as chair at Columbia-Presbyterian, served as emcee for evening, which included a reception, dinner, and a light-hearted, spirited tribute to him. Attendees were invited to contribute personal reminiscences for a Memory Book—a collection of stories, words of gratitude, and heartfelt wishes for Dr. Rowland—that was presented at the end of the evening.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: CIGNA Healthcare Announces Medical Home Pilot Project

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 09:00:00 GMT

In the interest of providing better coordination of care, CIGNA and Dartmouth-Hitchcock recently announced that they have launched a "patient-centered medical home" pilot program. Among the goals of the program are the further enhancement of the coordination of care and the improvement of care quality for patients covered by a CIGNA plan.

Academy News: Give Us Your Feedback: Members Speak Out Now Accepting Submissions via Email

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 21:00:00 GMT

In March 2008, AAN.com launched Members Speak Out, an interactive editorial feature on AAN.com that allows members to read editorials and respond with their professional perspectives and resources.

Now, AAN members can submit their own comments, articles, and editorials directly to AAN.com: it's as easy as sending an email.

Submissions will appear in the Members Speak Out area on the home page.

Members Speak Out: Is It Time for AAN to Adopt a Healthcare Reform Platform?

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 19:36:00 GMT

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society recently adopted seven key principles related to national health care reform. These principles, although created with MS and other chronic illnesses in mind, could potentially serve as a basis for a broader national health care reform platform. The American Academy of Neurology could learn from these other organizations and adopt a comprehensive platform need for health care reform.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Exceptions to Outpatient Therapy Caps Restricted on or After July 1

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 15:12:00 GMT

CMS allowed exceptions to outpatient therapy caps from January 1, 2008, to June 30, 2008, for medically necessary services that were appropriately billed with KX modifiers. On or after July 1, 2008, the exceptions to therapy caps are restricted to those medically necessary services billed by the outpatient departments of hospitals, and use of the KX modifier will no longer be effective.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: CMS Announces Updates Part B CAP Drug List Effective July 1, 2008

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 15:03:00 GMT

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) implemented the Competitive Acquisition Program (CAP) for Medicare Part B drugs and biologicals not paid on a cost or prospective payment system basis. The CAP is an alternative to the average sales price ASP (buy and bill) methodology for acquiring certain Part B drugs which are administered incident to a physician's services.

Home: Register Online Now for 2008 AAN Fall Conference

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 21:00:00 GMT

Online registration for the 2008 AAN Fall Conference in New Orleans is now open. Early registration and hotel discounts are available, so be sure to visit AAN's online registration page before the early registration deadline of September 18, 2008.

Set for October 10 through 12, the 2008 Fall Conference will feature the latest updates in neurology from experts in the field-all designed to help you provide better care for your patients

Advocacy: State Legislatures Taking Action on Stroke Prevention

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 21:00:00 GMT

Legislatures across the nation have made strides in creating stroke awareness in 2008, as states help seek ways to diagnose and treat one of the leading causes of death. These state legislatures have either enacted or are in the process of enacting a variety of measures to make education about treatment and prevention more widely available.

Advocacy: AED Legislation Tied Up in New York Committee

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 19:35:00 GMT

Legislation prohibiting pharmacists from substituting any anti-epileptic drug for the prescribed anti-epileptic drug without notification and informed consent of the prescriber and patient has been "held for consideration" in a New York Assembly Higher Education Committee. This comes after a vote was scheduled to take place on Tuesday, June 3.

Advocacy: One Man Can Change the World: Neurologist Inspires Advocacy Community

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 21:00:00 GMT

By Kinfe Gebeyehu, MD, MPH, FAAP - Motivated by his own experience as a neurologist in Ethiopia, Enawgaw Mehari, MD, has created several award-winning programs that inspire all who are involved in advocacy work. These disparate programs–instigated through the vision and dedication of a single individual motivated by a sense of responsibility and desire to pay back his country–serve as an example that leadership, altruism, and enthusiasm are a powerful combination.

Advocacy: Epilepsy Centers Legislation Moves Forward

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 21:00:00 GMT

The AAN Professional Association (AANPA) is pleased with the Senate's passage of legislation to create Epilepsy Centers of Excellence at the Veterans Administration (VA). The bill, championed by the AANPA (S. 2004), was sponsored by Sens. Patty Murray (D-WA) and Larry Craig (R-ID), and was included as part of S. 2162, a larger veterans' health bill that passed unanimously.

Pay-for-Performance: PQRI Feedback Reports Available in Mid-July

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 18:36:00 GMT

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) have announced that feedback reports for those physicians who participated in the 2007 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative will be available online in mid-July. Reports will be available by practice, as identified by the Tax Identification number (TIN), under which at least one eligible provider has reported 2007 PQRI quality measures data. The reports will include information on reporting rates, clinical performance, and incentives earned by individual providers, along with a summary on reporting success and incentives earned at the practice level.

Foundation: Northwestern University Researcher Wins Development Award in Parkinson's

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 21:00:00 GMT

Aleksandar Videnovic, MD, MSc, an assistant professor of neurology at Northwestern University, is the recipient of the new 2008 Parkinson's Disease Foundation/AAN Foundation Clinician-Scientist Development Award.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: CMS Rescinds Transmittal to Clarify 'Incident-To' Billing Rules

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 19:36:00 GMT

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) have announced that they are rescinding the transmittal issued on May 2, which was intended to clarify "incident-to" billing rules. CMS will reissue the transmittal, presumably with changes, once they have met with medical community and heard their concerns.

Review and Editorials: Update on the Consequences of Prolonged Febrile Seizures (FEBSTAT) study (NINDS NS 43209)

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 30 May 2008 21:00:00 GMT

By Shlomo Shinnar, MD, PhD, FAAN - The question of whether prolonged febrile seizures cause mesial temporal sclerosis (MTS) and mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is one of the most controversial issues of epilepsy research. With the availability of better imaging, magnetic resonance studies of children with prolonged febrile seizures performed within 72 hours of the event can show increased T2 signal in the hippocampus which in some cases may be associated with subsequent MTS. This finding led to the FEBSTAT study, a prospective study focused on determining the association between prolonged febrile seizures and subsequent MTS and TLE.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: Aetna Reveals 'Guiding Principles for Physician Relations'

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 30 May 2008 14:30:00 GMT

On May 28th, Aetna posted its "Guiding Principles for Physician Relations" document online. The Principles coincide with the June 2, 2008, expiration of the Physicians Settlement Agreement with Aetna.

By publishing the Guiding Principles, Aetna seeks to formally define its commitment to building solid relationships with the medical community and to working collaboratively to improve the quality of health care. Specifically, the Principles identify behaviors and business actions that govern Aetna in its interactions with health care professionals.

Advocacy: Genetic Non-Discrimination Bill Signed into Law

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 28 May 2008 20:16:00 GMT

A bill prohibiting discrimination based on genetic tests has become law, thanks in part to Academy members advocating for it during Neurology on the Hill last March. The Genetic Discrimination Ban makes it illegal for employers to make decisions on whether to hire or fire potential employees based on the results of genetic tests. In addition, health insurers can no longer deny coverage or charge higher premiums simply because of genetic test results.

Academy News: Call for Nominations for 2009–2011 AAN and AANPA Boards of Directors and Officers

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 28 May 2008 20:00:00 GMT

The Nominations Committee is accepting nominations for the 2009–2011 Board of Directors and officers of the American Academy of Neurology Professional Association. The open positions are President Elect, Vice President, and two directors. The Committee will also consider leadership requirements of several related organizations.

Applications and recommendations will be accepted until September 30, 2008.

Advocacy: AANPA Members Push Congress to Pass the Save Medicare Act of 2008

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 28 May 2008 17:18:00 GMT

Failure to pass new Medicare legislation before July 1 will result in a 10.6 percent cut of physician payments, followed by a 5 percent cut on January 1, 2009. These cuts could reduce seniors' access to physicians, limit investment in health care technology, and cause offices to cut staff.

Academy News: New Guideline Evaluates Therapies for Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 26 May 2008 20:00:00 GMT

A new AAN guideline evaluates the treatment of patients with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).

The guideline, published in the May 27, 2008, issue of Neurology®, found strong evidence supporting the canalith repositioning procedure (CRP) as a safe and effective treatment that should be offered to patients of all ages with posterior semicircular canal BPPV. Semont's maneuver is possibly effective.

Practice Guidelines

Advocacy: Apply Now For 2009 Palatucci Advocacy Leadership Forum

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 23 May 2008 15:51:00 GMT

The AAN's award-winning Donald M. Palatucci Advocacy Leadership Forum is now taking applications. Apply to become a participant in the next Forum, held January 8–11, 2009. Applications are accepted online only and must be submitted by September 21, 2008.

Education: CME Transcripts from the 2008 Annual Meeting

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 21 May 2008 21:14:00 GMT

Education Program CME transcripts from the 2008 Annual Meeting have been mailed out to attendees. The Scientific Session CME transcripts will be mailed the first week of June. They will appear on the online transcript My CME after July 1, 2008.

Academy News: U.S. Senator Coleman Speaks to Academy Staff on Policy Issues, Initiatives

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 19 May 2008 16:09:00 GMT

U.S. Senator Norm Coleman (R-MN) discussed current issues facing Congress on Monday, May 19, during a visit to the St. Paul headquarters of the American Academy of Neurology.

Practice: Remote Consultation Offers a Valuable Alternative to Face-to-Face Medical Treatment

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 15 May 2008 19:40:00 GMT

Standard face-to-face delivery of medical care provides the best means of evaluation and treatment, though there are times when this type of interaction may not be necessary or possible. In these circumstances, remote consultation can be a valuable alternative.

Members Speak Out: Researchers for the Future: Flexible Neurology Residency at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF)

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 15 May 2008 19:37:00 GMT

Encouraging the long-term career development of neurology residents interested in disease-based research will promote the cultivation of neurology research leaders for the future. The Neurology Flexible Residency has been designed to improve "the pipeline" of neurologic disease-based physician scientists by offering research experience for neurology residents in laboratory or clinical science research. This article discusses the early experience with the Neurology Flexible Residency at UCSF.

Practice: Help the AANPA Inform Medicare About Remaining NPI Problems

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 15 May 2008 16:17:00 GMT

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) confirm that the National Provider Identifier (NPI) deadline will remain May 23rd, with no chance for an extension. That's less than two weeks away! During a recent exercise Medicare conducted, clearinghouses "stripped off" legacy numbers contained on any claims they received and forwarded them onto Medicare with just the NPI numbers. Medicare reported that this drill resulted in a low claims rejection rate. The purpose of the exercise was to determine what the situation may look like after May 23rd when just the NPI number will be the only identifier permitted on claims.

Practice: Have You Been Selected to Participate in the Physician Practice Information Survey?

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 14 May 2008 17:10:00 GMT

The AMA and more than 70 other organizations are conducting a comprehensive multi-specialty survey of America's physician practices. The results will be used to positively influence national decision makers to ensure accurate and fair representation for all physicians and patients, and to articulate the challenges of running a practice that provides expert patient care, while operating a business that is sustainable.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Recovery Audit Contractors: Not Just an Experiment Anymore

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 12 May 2008 20:50:00 GMT

The Medicare Modernization Act of 2003 requires the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to perform a pilot test of Recovery Audit Contractors (RACs), which helps recover what has been estimated as $10.8 billion in Medicare overpayments and underpayments each year. This initiative started as a three-year demonstration project in California, Florida, and New York–and, as a result of its success, the project is currently being expanded.

Coding & Reimbursement: AANPA Coding Subcommittee Develops Series of E/M Templates

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 12 May 2008 19:25:00 GMT

Members of the AANPA's Coding Subcommittee of the Medical Economics and Management Committee (MEM) have developed a series of templates to assist members in appropriate coding for E/M services. The current templates cover levels 3–5 for established and new patient/consultations.

Academy News: New Botulinum Neurotoxin Guidelines Published in Neurology

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 05 May 2008 19:24:00 GMT

Neurology® has published three AAN evidence-based practice guidelines on the use of botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) for various indications, including movement disorders, autonomic disorders and pain, and spasticity. The guidelines, published in the May 6 edition of the journal, find that BoNT is possibly effective for low back pain, and probably ineffective for relief of tension type headache and episodic migraine.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: AANPA Develops Principles for Appropriate Coding of Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring and Testing (IOM)

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 02 May 2008 17:25:00 GMT

The American Academy of Neurology Professional Association (AANPA) Board of Directors recently approved a document designed to assist payers in the development of medical policies for intraoperative neurophysiologic monitoring and testing.

Review and Editorials: Tarnished 'Gold Standard' Trials: Mycophenolate in Myasthenia

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 21:45:00 GMT

By Daniel B. Drachman, MD, FAAN - Two clinical trials of treatment of myasthenia gravis (MG) with mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) in Neurology® report lack of efficacy. Unfortunately, both trial protocols were flawed, with relatively short durations of treatment, unexpectedly good responses to concomitant steroid treatment, and problems in the efficacy measure. However, excellent results, and a favorable profile of side effects, observed in numerous myasthenic patients treated by experienced clinicians require that these published trials be considered in context. In the meantime, MMF must remain available for treatment of MG. Future trial designs should consider prolonged time course, interactions of other immunosuppressive agents, and a more appropriate outcome method.

Advocacy: Report from Neurology on the Hill 2008

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 15:11:00 GMT

By Lily Jung, MD, FAAN - Over one hundred neurologists traveled to Washington, DC, in March to attend the Sixth Annual Neurology on the Hill (NOH). These Academy members came to meet with members of Congress and discuss the Academy's top federal priorities. Constructive knowledge sharing, conversations, and presentations covered legislation critical for neurological research and treatment, strengthening the dialogue between Congress and the community of neurologists.

Academy News: Changes to Bylaws Bring New Member Categories

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 18:43:00 GMT

Proposed amendments to the AANPA Bylaws were approved on April 15, 2008, at the AAN Professional Association (AANPA) business meeting during the 60^th Annual Meeting.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: CIGNA to Stop Reimbursing Hospitals for Never Events and Avoidable Hospital Conditions

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 14:31:00 GMT

CIGNA HealthCare recently announced its intent to stop reimbursing hospitals for so-called "never events" and avoidable hospital conditions, which are errors in patient care that can and should be prevented. The message comes as part of CIGNA's ongoing focus on improving health care quality.

Advocacy: Medicare Physician Reimbursement Short Term Fix Proposed

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 17:05:00 GMT

US Senate Finance Committee chair Max Baucus (D-MT) has committed to drafting legislation that would provide an 18-month fix to stop Medicare physician reimbursement cuts. Without congressional action, physician reimbursement under Medicare will be cut by 10.6 percent on July 1, 2008, and another five percent on January 1, 2009.

Education: Get Ready for the MOC: 8 Steps That Can Help Get You Prepared

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 14:01:00 GMT

By Ralph Józefowicz, MD, FAAN, and Daniel B. Hier, MD, MBA, FAAN - Maintenance of Certification (MOC) from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology is a reality and will affect diplomates certified after October 1, 1994. Since the requirements are being phased in over a 10-year period–and since requirements vary according to the year of original certification–there has been some confusion as to what steps diplomates need to take now. Here are eight simple steps to help get you ready.

Academy News: Progress Report from the National Prion Disease Pathology Surveillance Center

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 20:54:00 GMT

Careful monitoring of human prion diseases is crucial–currently this is the only means for prompt detection of human exposure to bovine spongiform encephalopathy and chronic wasting disease in the U.S., should it occur. The National Prion Disease Pathology Surveillance Center continues to facilitate and expedite rigorous prion surveillance in order to meet this challenge and fulfill its mission.

ICD-9, CPT & E/M Coding : CMS Offers Clarification on E/M Services on the Same Day as Critical Care

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 19:56:00 GMT

In a recent transmittal, CMS offers clarification on how to bill for E/M services that are provided to a patient who receives critical care services the same day.

Academy News: Members Speak Out on AAN.com

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 20:28:00 GMT

Members Speak Out, a new feature on AAN.com, presents opinions and editorials about cutting-edge neurology news and issues, written by AAN members.

Review and Editorials: Antiangiogenic Therapy For Glioblastomas

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 20:40:00 GMT

By Patrick Y. Wen, MD, FAAN - Glioblastomas (WHO grade IV) are the most common type of primary brain tumor in adults, with an annual incidence in the United States of approximately 12,000. Despite optimal therapy with surgery, radiotherapy, and temozolomide chemotherapy, the median survival of patients with glioblastomas is only 12–15 months. There is a desperate need for more effective therapies.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: WellPoint No Longer Paying for 11 Preventable Errors

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 16:48:00 GMT

On April 2, WellPoint announced it is following the lead of the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, which last year announced a plan to end payments for some medical mistakes, so-called "never events." WellPoint is changing its policy and halting reimbursement payments to hospitals and doctors for 11 medical errors that are considered preventable.

Members Speak Out: Open Is Not Free: NIH Public Access Policy in the Spotlight

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 19:42:00 GMT

On April 7, 2008, NIH will mandate that all peer-reviewed publications arising from federally funded research be deposited into PubMed Central within one year of publication. The move toward online access of published medical literature produces some significant dilemmas. This article includes dissection of potential ramifications of the NIH policy, and a Q & A with Neurology Editor-in-Chief Dr. John Noseworthy.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: 3 Things to Know About "Tamper Resistant" Prescription Pads

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 15:47:00 GMT

Starting on April 1, 2008, the first phase of the new requirement on the use of tamper-resistant prescription pads in the Medicaid program will go into effect.

Practice: "Give Me 5" Campaign to Help Public
Identify Signs of Stroke

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 17:49:00 GMT

Help your patients recognize the five signs of stroke–and get them to the ER fast. A new public awareness campaign from the AAN in partnership with the American College of Emergency Physicians, the American Stroke Association, and actress/stroke care activist Morgan Fairchild is reaching out to women at risk of stroke and health care professionals.

Advocacy: Health Care and Politics Merge at the 2008 Practice Colloquium, Saturday, April 12, McCormick Place West, Room 184CD

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 21:36:00 GMT

Hear from keynote speaker and renowned Washington insider, Morton Kondracke, as well as representatives from the Presidential campaigns at the free Practice Colloquium during the 2008 Annual Meeting in Chicago.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Third Annual Medicare Contractor Provider Satisfaction Survey (MCPSS)

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 13:31:00 GMT

You still have time to participate in the Third Annual Medicare Contractor Provider Satisfaction Survey (MCPSS). A random selection of 35,000 Medicare physicians, providers, and suppliers is chosen to participate in the survey.

Academy News: New Editorial Feature for AAN Members: Post Comments on Members Speak Out

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 23:19:00 GMT

All AAN members can now write comments on news articles featured throughout the website.

Members Speak Out: Risks to Neurologists in Using Animals for Their Research

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 19:43:00 GMT

Two recent articles in major publications focus on the difficulties and risks involved in carrying on necessary neurologic research.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: CMS Announces Expansion of Coverage of CPAP for OSA

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 18:28:00 GMT

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) have announced changes to their 2005 National Coverage Determination (NCD) for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Therapy for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) to allow coverage of CPAP.

BRAINS: Come to Open House and Receive Coupon for Free Coding Tool

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 21:02:00 GMT

Proper coding is a constant challenge for members. The Academy helps them by offering services and materials to assist in correct coding procedure. When members code accurately, they receive the appropriate reimbursement in a timely manner. Come to the Guidelines, Practice, and Advocacy Open House at the Annual Meeting to learn more.

Advocacy: The World Neurology Foundation: Supporting Palatucci Advocacy Efforts in Low-Resource Regions

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 21:40:00 GMT

The Palatucci Advocacy Leadership Forum (PALF) includes international neurologists as Fellows, and these individuals have offered a natural partnership with the Academy and the London-headquartered World Federation of Neurology and its Committees. The World Neurology Foundation currently is working to support several projects that have been initiated by PALF alumni.

Review and Editorials: Update on the International Subarachnoid Aneurysm Trial (ISAT) and the Clip versus Coil Controversy

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 20:04:00 GMT

By Joey English, MD, PhD - The International Subarachnoid Aneurysm Trial (ISAT) was a multicenter, prospective, randomized controlled trial of endovascular coiling versus neurosurgical clipping in patients with ruptured cerebral aneurysms suitable for either therapy.

Education: CME Credit Now Available for Neurology® Podcasts

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 17:22:00 GMT

Beginning on March 4, listeners to the weekly Neurology® Podcasts will be able to earn 0.5 AMA PRA Category 1 CME Credits™ by completing short online CME exams.

Advocacy: AED Substitution: Educate and Advocate for a Safe Option

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:43:00 GMT

Pharmacies in many states substitute antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) without physician or patient consent to the less expensive generic drugs. Practicing neurologists should routinely ask patients exhibiting breakthrough seizures whether a substitution or change in their medication has been made.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: New CMS Claims Approval Policies Underscore the Importance of Verifying NPPES Data

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 14:25:00 GMT

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) recently discovered a significant problem in the National Provider Identifier (NPI) filing system. Provider verification of information held in the National Plan and Provider Enumeration System (NPPES) is now critical to avoid rejection of claims.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Important Changes to Advanced Beneficiary Notice Process

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 19:04:00 GMT

As of March 3, 2008, CMS has replaced the Advanced Beneficiary Notice (ABN) and the Lab ABN with the ABN of Noncoverage. There will be a six-month transition period beginning March 3 and extending until no later than September 1. All providers must begin using the new ABN during this period.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: NY Attorney General Begins Lawsuit Against Ingenix® for Possible Fraud

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 17:20:00 GMT

On February 13, 2008, New York State Attorney General Andrew Cuomo announced that he had expanded an investigation that focused on Ingenix, an arm of UnitedHealth. Ingenix collects, sorts, and analyzes a large array of data, including therapeutic outcomes and billing information. After an initial six-month investigation, the AG has begun a lawsuit against Ingenix and has subpoenaed many New York health insurers to gather additional information on how they used the Ingenix data.

Practice: It Pays to Know the Latest Business Trends in Practice Management

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 22:00:00 GMT

As part of the January 2008 AAN Winter Conference in Miami, the AAN Winter Practice Management sessions offered courses to inform members about recent innovations and changes in practice management, and tips to improve productivity and efficiency. The courses covered a wide range of topics, including the latest in coding procedures, modifier usage, claims and billing, and many other important business functions for running an effective neurological practice.

Advocacy: From the Advocacy Editor - February 2008

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 17:03:00 GMT

As we approach the first anniversary of the launch of the new AAN website, it's exciting to review the progress we have made on the advocacy website.

Foundation: Donor Dollars at Work

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 20:39:00 GMT

One hundred percent of all funds donated are allocated towards research–and not used for overhead expenses.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: UnitedHealthcare Announces User Feedback Survey

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 15:27:00 GMT

A new survey on UnitedHealthcareOnline.com allows members the chance to provide their information and offer suggestions for future design updates to the website.

Practice: New Search Features Make Finding the Right Guidelines Easier Than Ever

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 20:35:00 GMT

The AAN now offers an enhanced, in-depth search tool, enabling members to find the right guideline or associated tool to care for patients. Search the full text of any Academy guideline or tool, or limit a search to specific topics, tools, or date ranges. Sort the results by date, topic, relevance or tool type.

Review and Editorials: Perfusion imaging in acute ischemic stroke: utile or futile?

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 20:35:00 GMT

By Maarten G. Lansberg, MD, PhD - The premise is simple: tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) and other therapies aimed at restoring blood flow only benefit patients who have hypoperfused yet salvageable brain tissue called an ischemic penumbra.

Education: All Back Issues of Continuum Soon to Be Online

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 16:21:00 GMT

Subscribers will soon have access to issues going back to 1993–the full archive of Continuum: Lifelong Learning in Neurology®.

Home: 2008 Abstracts Now Available Online

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 21:29:00 GMT

The AAN Annual Meeting Scientific Program highlights breakthrough research on the most critical issues facing neurologists. More than 2,000 poster and platform presentations cover the spectrum of neurology from updates on the latest diagnostic and treatment techniques to prevention and practice management strategies. The complete scientific program for the 2008 AAN Annual Meeting in Chicago, IL is available at your fingertips.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: April 1 Deadline Approaches for Required Use of Medicaid Tamper-proof Prescription Pads

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 18:57:00 GMT

Medicaid prescriptions will require use of tamper-proof pads; physicians encouraged to order their supplies now.

Science: From the Science Editor - February 2008

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 15:20:00 GMT

The Science pages of AAN.com allow neurologists to follow scientific developments in neurology, whether basic, translational, or clinical. The site contains daily breaking news stories of neurological interest and short editorials on the latest neurological research, as well information regarding AAN scientific awards and training grants, news and resources related to NINDS. It also provides information related to the AAN Science Committee and its role in planning the scientific aspects of the AAN Annual Meeting. This is accomplished by a team consisting of editorial board members and staff.

Practice: New Guideline Identifies Those Most at Risk of Falls

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 15:18:00 GMT

A new AAN guideline finds certain neurology patients are at a high risk of unintentional falls and should be screened regularly to help prevent the high number of fall-related injuries and deaths in the United States each year. The guideline, "Assessing Patients in a Neurology Practice for Risk of Falls," appears in the February 5, 2008, issue of Neurology®.

Review and Editorials: Emerging Concepts: Treatment-Responsive Autoimmune Limbic Encephalitis

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 15:17:00 GMT

By Josep Dalmau, MD, PhD - Limbic encephalitis was initially reported as a paraneoplastic manifestation of cancer. For many years it was thought that the disorder was extremely rare, invariably associated with cancer, and unresponsive to treatment.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: More BCBS Plans Agree to Pay $10 Million

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 14:53:00 GMT

Several additional Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) plans have reached settlements in the class action lawsuit brought by 90,000 physicians. Physicians who treated a BCBS patient are encourage to file their claim forms for their portion of the Highmark Settlement Fund soon. Claim forms are due by February 27.

Home: FDA Warns of Deaths and Severe Side Effects Linked to Botulinum Toxin

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 15:05:00 GMT

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning about the use of botulinum toxin following the deaths of some children, mostly those with cerebal palsy treated for limb spasticity. The FDA also has received reports of severe side effects in adults who were treated with botulinum toxin for several different kinds of conditions.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: February 27 is Deadline for Physicians to Collect Settlement Shares from Highmark Settlement

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 22:14:00 GMT

The AMA encourages physicians who treated Blue Cross Blue Shield patients between May 22, 1999, and May 31, 2007, to recover their portion of the $10 million Highmark Settlement Fund.

Foundation: AAN Commits to Research with $1 Million Donation

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 16:22:00 GMT

With a $1 million gift, the AAN this year dramatically demonstrated its commitment to research for treatments and cures for neurological disorders. This generous gift to the AAN Foundation will fund up to eight new research fellowships

Education: Education Update - Feb. 2008

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 16:06:00 GMT

As 2008 opens, we are looking to continued progress in enhancing the Education Section of AAN.com during the coming year. Developments have occurred in several areas and users of AAN.com should look forward to significant changes in the next few months.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: NPI Required on Medicare Claims Starting March 1

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 16:37:00 GMT

Beginning March 1, 2008, all 837P and CMS-1500 claims, when required for Medicare claim submission, must have an NPI or NPI/legacy pair in the required primary provider fields.

Coding & Reimbursement: Botulinum Toxin Coding Questions Answered

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 17:47:00 GMT

Find answers to your coding questions for botulinum toxin injections a coding FAQ from the AAN.

Practice: New Technology Page is Essential Resource for Members

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 17:40:00 GMT

AAN.com launches new Technology page to help members learn about how technology can improve neurology practice.

Home: CDC Asks Neurologists for Help Solving Unusual Illnesses in Pork Processing Plant Workers

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 18:44:00 GMT

The CDC has requested neurologists provide information about patients who have developed neuropathy similar to those recently reported in workers at pork processing plants in Minnesota and Indiana.

Annual Meeting: Easily Search for Education Programs at the Annual Meeting

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 22:54:00 GMT

Attendees for the 2008 Annual Meeting in Chicago can use a search engine to find education programs. More than 180 courses are available in 24 subspecialty areas.

The search engine allows attendees to search by title, topic, date, director, and/or day of the week.

The early registration deadline is March 7.

Practice: UnitedHealthcare Premium Designation Program

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 14:27:00 GMT

By William S. Henderson, FACMPE - After the release earlier this year of its physician premium designation program, UnitedHealthcare (UHC) has made some beneficial changes to the way physicians are educated about the program in the second data analysis of physicians in 2007.

Practice: Practice and Technology Editor's Report, January 2008

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 14:27:00 GMT

We've continued to enhance the Practice section of AAN.com since my last report of October 2007. Our focus has been not only to develop and disseminate resources to help clinical neurologists and their staffs but to develop an infrastructure for future advances in knowledge management.

Advocacy: 29 New Palatucci Advocates Complete Training, Begin Action Plans

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 18:30:00 GMT

Palatucci Advocacy Leadership Forum graduates will spend 2008 implementing advocacy action plans, developed with the guidance of Forum physician alumni.

Practice: EHR Demonstrations at Annual Meeting to Compare Vendors

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 15:28:00 GMT

The Academy will host EHR Chart Challenge at the 2008 Annual Meeting to give practitioners the opportunity to evaluate electronic health record vendors. Meeting attendees are invited to learn more at the event.

Practice: AMA Partners With More Than 70 Organizations to Survey Practices

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 20:59:00 GMT

Members are encouraged to watch their mailboxes for the Physician Practice Information survey.

Advocacy: US Army: Nearly 20 Percent of Veterans Have TBI

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 17:06:00 GMT

As many as 20 percent of veterans returning from war have experienced a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI), according to an Army TBI task force report released on January 17.

Education: Academy CME Tracking Tool Now Includes Non-AAN Accrued Credits

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 15:09:00 GMT

The AAN's CME tracker now allows members to keep track of their entire CME credit history.

State Society: Strategies for Developing a Successful State Neurological Society: Lessons from Florida

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 15:06:00 GMT

By Michael F. Finkel MD, FAAN - The Florida Society of Neurology (FSN) was founded in 1968. However, by 2000 it was a much contracted organization, with token membership among Florida neurologists and very low meeting attendance. The FSN Board of Directors began a review of the organization to reverse this trend. Happily, this coincided with the AAN's initiative to build stronger state societies through collaboration with the newly formed State Affairs Committee (SAC), which provided advice and support.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Upcoming Training for the Medicare Part B Drugs Competitive Acquisition Program (CAP)

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 15:46:00 GMT

Noridian Administrative Services, the designated carrier for the CAP, offers interactive, online workshops about the CAP for Part B Drugs and Biologicals.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Updates Made to the 2008 Medicare Fee Schedule

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:57:00 GMT

The 2008 Medicare Fee Schedule has been updated to reflect the changes voted on by Congress which went into affect on January 1, 2008.

Practice: AAN.com Provides Web Resources on Academy Payer Advocacy/Payment Policy Initiatives

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 16:15:00 GMT

New Payment Policy and Decision Making page on AAN.com brings news, resources together for members.

Advocacy: US Health Care Spending Tops $2 Trillion

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 16:09:00 GMT

Americans spent $2.1 trillion on health care in 2006, a 6.7-percent increase over 2005. Spending on physician services rose by 5.9 percent, the lowest rate of increase in seven years, according to CMS findings.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: WellPoint Launches New Physician Rating System

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 16:01:00 GMT

Health benefits company, Wellpoint, announces plans to rollout a physician rating service for patients using Zagat surveys (famous for restaurant rating guidebooks).

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: CMS Launches 3rd Annual Medicare Contractor Provider Satisfaction Survey

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 14:47:00 GMT

January marks the beginning of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) third Medicare Contractor Provider Satisfaction Survey (MCPSS)–an effort aimed at measuring physicians' and other providers' satisfaction with Medicare fee-for-service contractors.

Review and Editorials: Shooting the Messenger (RNA) in the Neurology Clinic: The Promise of Therapeutic RNA Interference

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 14:39:00 GMT

Science Editorials and Reviews – Edited by David Riley, MD

The discovery of RNA interference (RNAi) is one of the more important scientific breakthroughs in the last ten years. RNAi is currently being evaluated in the laboratory and in human therapeutic trials for its ability to silence the expression of disease-related genes. There are several questions about therapeutic RNAi that are of interest to the practicing neurologist.

Home: Neuro Idol Performers/Music of the Decades Dancers Wanted

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 19:06:00 GMT

The AAN is looking for performers for this year's Neuro Idol. Neuro Idol is a cabaret-style show that features musical performances by our very own members.

Advocacy: Congress Passes Legislation to Delay Medicare Physician Pay Cuts; Extends SCHIP Funding

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 14:19:00 GMT

Congress has passed legislation to replace the scheduled 10.1-percent cut of Medicare physician reimbursement with a 0.5-percent increase for the next six months. The bill will delay the cut until June of 2008.

State Society: The Birth of a State Neurological Society

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 14:19:00 GMT

By Terri Postma, MD - The idea to create a state neurological society had been germinating before I was accepted as a Fellow for the AAN Palatucci Advocacy Leadership Forum, and became firmly rooted during my training at the Palatucci meeting in January 2007. While there, we were challenged to formulate action plans for advocacy issues we were interested in pursuing; mine was to start a state neurological society in Kentucky. The task was both exciting and overwhelming.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Natalizumab Added to List of Part B CAP Drugs; 2008 Election Period Extended

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 21:00:00 GMT

Effective January 1, 2008, natalizumab (J2323), will be available through the Medicare Part B Drug Competitive Acquisition Program (CAP).

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: CMS Delays Certain Anti-Markup Provisions to January 1, 2009

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 20:26:00 GMT

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced a delay in the implementation date of most of the anti-markup provisions discussed in the Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule.

Pay-for-Performance: PQRI Provisions Included in Recent Medicare Legislation

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 20:27:00 GMT

Congress passed legislation which extended the 2008 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) for an additional year and provides funding for 1.5-percent bonus payments to participating physicians.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: New York Attorney General Reaches Agreements with Insurers on Physician Ranking Programs

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 21 Dec 2007 21:13:00 GMT

AMA and the New York Attorney General's office have reached agreements with various insurers to curtail unfair physician ranking programs.

Review and Editorials: Urgency for TIA: Push Turns to Shove

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 21 Dec 2007 16:00:00 GMT

By S. Claiborne Johnston, MD, PhD - Several large-scale studies have shown that the risk of stroke is very high in the days to weeks following a transient ischemic attack (TIA). Two groups recently established urgent TIA clinics to evaluate and treat patients with TIA as soon as possible after presenting with symptoms. Both found that the risk of stroke was lower in those patients seen in these clinics, and suggest that the immediate initiation of aggressive therapies after TIA could substantially reduce the stroke risk in this population.

Review and Editorials: Urgency for TIA: Push Turns to Shove

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 21 Dec 2007 16:00:00 GMT

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Medicare Physician Participation Options: CMS Extends December 31^st Deadline by 45 Days

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 17:02:00 GMT

Physicians wishing to change their current Medicare participating or non-participating status must do so prior to this extended deadline (approximately February 15, 2008).

Advocacy: 2008 Palatucci Forum Welcomes 30 New Neurology Advocates

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 20:02:00 GMT

Thirty neurologists from around the world will receive award-winning advocacy training when the 2008 Palatucci Advocacy Leadership Forum is held in Florida in January.

State Society: New State Resources Tools for AANPA Members

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 19:59:00 GMT

Take advantage of several new and improved features to help your state society grow and thrive, now on the AAN website.

State Society: AAN to Host State Society Leadership Roundtable During 2008 Annual Meeting

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 19:48:00 GMT

Based on the success of the 2007 State Society Leadership Roundtable in Denver, CO, the AAN will once again host a State Society Leadership Roundtable during the 2008 Annual Meeting in Chicago.

State Society: State Society Breakout Sessions Provide Unique Gathering Opportunity

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 19:47:00 GMT

In addition to the State Society Roundtable, the AAN will also host three individual state society breakout sessions during the 2008 Annual Meeting.

State Society: Get Involved With Your State's Neurological Society

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 19:47:00 GMT

AAN encourages members to get involved in advocacy efforts in their homestates.

Advocacy: Asia-Pacific Palatucci Alumni to Hold Reunion in March

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 15:30:00 GMT

Palatucci alumni from India, Pakistan, Philippines and Sri Lanka will meet in March 2008 as part of the fifth Asia Pacific Congress Against Stroke to be held in Pasig City, Philippines.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: AANPA, AMA, Others Request Delay in CMS' Proposed Anti Mark-up Revisions

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 14:55:00 GMT

Starting January 1, 2008, CMS will require physicians to be in compliance with new provisions to the rule prohibiting the mark-up of diagnostic tests, published for the first time in the final 2008 Physician Fee Schedule on November 27, 2007.

Review and Editorials: A New Choice on the Menu: Five Years of the Modified Atkins Diet for Epilepsy

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 16:00:00 GMT

By Eric H. Kossoff, M.D. - The modified Atkins diet is a less restrictive, higher protein and carbohydrate, outpatient-initiated dietary therapy for epilepsy in both children and adults who would otherwise use the ketogenic diet. It has been used and researched for the past five years with outcomes similar to the ketogenic diet thus far. Recent data has also suggested this is a valuable new therapy for adults with intractable epilepsy, and although difficult to maintain, leads to a rapid seizure improvement when effective.

Advocacy: Congress Urged to Fix Medicare Reimbursement by Year's End

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 20:53:00 GMT

Time is running out for Congress to prevent a more than 10-percent cut in Medicare physician reimbursement. Academy members are urged to contact their legislators now.

Advocacy: Stem-Cell Breakthroughs Announced

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 20:10:00 GMT

A pair of teams recently announced they have independently created pluripotent human stem cells using non-embryonic tissue. Leaders of both teams call for embryonic stem-cell research to continue.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Register Now for the Individuals Authorized Access to CMS Computer Services-Provider Community (IACS-PC)

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 14:43:00 GMT

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will be announcing new online enterprise applications that will allow Medicare fee-for-service providers to access, update, and submit information online.

Education: Register Today for the 2008 Winter Conference in Miami

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 22:00:00 GMT

It's not too late to register for the 2008 AAN Winter Conference, set for January 18–20, 2008, in Miami—an excellent way to fulfill your educational needs, meet and network with colleagues, earn up to 19.5 AMA PRA Category 1 credits, and take steps toward fulfilling your MOC requirements. Hurry: discounts on early registration end December 28, 2007!

Pay-for-Performance: New Measures for Medicare Pay-for-Reporting Program

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 15:38:00 GMT

The measures and specifications for the 2008 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative are available. A full list of all 119 measures is available on the CMS website.

Practice: HHS Announces Electronic Health Record Demonstration Project

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 16:21:00 GMT

The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) has announced a demonstration project to encourage small and medium-sized practices to adopt electronic health records (EHR)

Science: Submit a Late-Breaking Science Abstract for 2008 Annual Meeting

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 16:13:00 GMT

Submit a Late Breaking Science abstract now for the AAN 60^th Annual Meeting in Chicago. The deadline for submitting abstracts for this program is February 15, 2008.

Advocacy: Epilepsy Legislation Advances in US Senate; NIH Funding Vetoed

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 16:39:00 GMT

On Nov. 14 the US Senate Veterans Affairs Committee approved Epilepsy Centers of Excellence legislation, while a 2.9-percent increase in NIH funding was vetoed the previous day.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: 2008 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Released

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 16:02:00 GMT

The 2008 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule, effective January 1, includes a number of revisions that directly affect neurologists.

Advocacy: New Law Provides Department of Defense MS Research Grants

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 18:51:00 GMT

Federal legislation signed on November 13 now includes multiple sclerosis among the diseases eligible for grants under a $50 million Department of Defense research program.

Practice: AAN and AMA Conducting Physician Practice Information Survey

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 20:45:00 GMT

For the first time in nearly a decade, AAN, the AMA, and more than 70 other medical specialty societies, have worked together to coordinate a comprehensive multi-specialty survey of America's physician practices.

Advocacy: Updates on NIH, SCHIP Legislation

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 20:14:00 GMT

The US Senate recently approved a 2.9 percent increase in NIH funding, while the House approved a modified SCHIP reauthorization bill. Both measures could be vetoed by the President.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: AMA Invites Physicians to Share Concerns About Insurers' Physician Profiling Programs

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 19:40:00 GMT

The AMA is encouraging physicians in all states to voice their concerns regarding inaccurate physician profiling systems in the wake of United Healthcare's Premium Designation Program, an online rating system for in-network physicians that grades "quality and efficiency."

Practice: New Guideline Recommends When Emergency Departments Should Use CT Scans for Seizures

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:24:00 GMT

Neuroimaging in the Emergency Patient Presenting with Seizure, a reassessment of the American Academy of Neurology's 1996 guideline, recommends brain CT scans to screen emergency department patients with seizure. The guideline appears in the October 30, 2007, issue of Neurology®, the premier scientific journal of the AAN.

Advocacy: AAN Member Testifies Before Congress re. VA Epilepsy Legislation

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 19:58:00 GMT

AAN member Brien Smith, MD, testified in support of epilepsy legislation for veterans before the US Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee on October 24.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: CMS and Noridian to Offer Workshop for Physicians Electing Into 2008 Part B CAP

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 16:40:00 GMT

Physicians electing into the 2008 Competitive Acquisition Program (CAP) are invited to participate in an online workshop for Part B drugs and biologicals.

Advocacy: AAN Urges President Bush to Support Increased NIH/NINDS Funding

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 15:19:00 GMT

AAN President Stephen M. Sergay, MB BCh, FAAN, asks President Bush to support Congress' recommended funding levels for the NIH and NINDS in 2008.

Practice: AAN, CNS, Epilepsy Organizations Work with Industry to Address ACTH Access Concerns

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 21:57:00 GMT

The AAN is currently working with four partner organizations to address concerns over a significant increase of H.P. Acthar Gel use to treat infantile spasms. The drug's maker, Questcor, has significantly raised the price.

State Society: Palatucci Alumni Spark New State Neurological Societies in Kentucky, Pennsylvania

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 18:47:00 GMT

Palatucci Advocacy Leadership Forum alums Terri Postma, MD and Brad Klein, MD, MBA, work to establish new state neurological societies in their respective home states of Kentucky and Pennsylvania.

Advocacy: NIH Director Restates Support for Expanded Embryonic Stem-Cell Research

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 13:38:00 GMT

In the Summer 2007 issue of NIH MedlinePlus magazine, National Institutes of Health (NIH) director Elias Zerhouni, MD renewed his call for federal support of "all avenues of research" for stem-cell therapies.

Practice: New Audio Slide Presentation for AAN Parkinson Disease Guideline Now Available

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 16:59:00 GMT

Slide presentation features audio commentary by Rajesh Pahwa, MD, guideline author.

Education: New Online NeuroSAE: Self-Assessment Examination in Clinical Neurology Offered by AAN

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 09 Oct 2007 20:55:00 GMT

The AAN has launched a new online product called the NeuroSAE.

The examination is designed to help neurologists meet the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) self-assessment and lifelong learning requirement for Maintenance of Certification. The content outline is based on the one used by the ABPN for its Maintenance of Certification Examination in Neurology.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Six-month Delay Announced on Medicaid Tamper-Resistant Prescription Pad Mandate

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 13:11:00 GMT

New law requires physicians to use tamper-resistant prescription pads by spring of 2008.

Academy News: Help Shape the News You Receive in Neurology Today

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 18:24:00 GMT

Let us know what you think about Neurology Today® and earn a chance to win an iPod. Take the online survey.

Practice: Available Now - New Clinical Practice Guideline Tools

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 17:02:00 GMT

Listed below the titles are the tools recently made available online as companions to the following clinical practice guidelines.

Practice: Residents to Receive Free 2007-2008 AAN Clinical Practice Guidelines Tools

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 16:42:00 GMT

In early October, 2007 PGY1 residents and all other residents who are AAN members will receive a gift from the AAN. The gift is designed to welcome first-year residents to the AAN and the field of neurology and support residents in their efforts to become outstanding and successful neurologists.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Phase III of CMS' Physician Self-referral Rule to Go into Effect December 4, 2007

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 17:04:00 GMT

The Phase III final rule is the third phase of a final rulemaking amending the CMS regulations regarding the physician self-referral prohibition as part of the Social Security Act. This rule finalizes and addresses public comments regarding the Phase II interim final rule, published in March 2004.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Medicare Part B CAP Physician Election Period Starts October 1

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 17:03:00 GMT

The 2008 Physician Election Period for the Medicare Part B Drug Competitive Acquisition Program (CAP) will begin on October 1, 2007, and will conclude on November 15, 2007. The CAP is a voluntary program that offers physicians the option to acquire many injectable and infused drugs they use in their practice from an approved CAP vendor, thus reducing the time they spend buying and billing for drugs. The 2008 CAP program will run from January 1 to December 31, 2008.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Effective October 1, CMS Requires Use of Tamper-Resistant Prescription Pads

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 19:51:00 GMT

CMS will require physicians to write prescriptions on tamper-resistant prescription pads beginning October 1, 2007 to curb prescription misuse.

Home: Register Now for Resident-Only Dystonia and Spasticity Workshop in San Diego

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 21:23:00 GMT

It's not too late to register for the exclusive Resident-and Fellow-only workshop on September 29 in San Diego at the Hilton San Diego Mission Valley on the treatment of dystonia and spasticity using botulinum toxin.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: CMS to Require the Completion of Present On Admission (POA) Indications

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 14:19:00 GMT

Beginning on October 1, 2007, Medicare providers should submit a Present On Admission (POA) Indicator for every diagnosis on impatient acute care hospital claims. Some facilities, such as critical access hospitals, Maryland waiver hospitals, long term care hospitals, cancer hospitals, psychiatric hospitals, inpatient rehabilitation facilities, and children's inpatient facilities are exempt from this requirement. It is important to be sure that your billing staff is aware of the requirement.

Home: AAN Foundation Announces Additional Training Fellowships for 2008

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 16:19:00 GMT

The AAN Foundation is pleased to announce the addition of eight new Clinical Research Training Fellowships to be awarded in 2008, made possible through a generous gift from the AAN. This addition increases to 13 the number of Clinical Research Training Fellowships available. Funds have been provided by the AAN in strong support of the AAN Foundation's commitment to the future of neurology and the importance of research.

Home: AAN Foundation Announces Additional Training Fellowships for 2008

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 16:19:00 GMT

Academy News: Apply Now for Research Training Fellowships and Clinician-Scientist Awards

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 05 Sep 2007 20:16:00 GMT

October 1, 2007 is the deadline to apply for Clinical and Practice Research Training Fellowships, and the Clinician-Scientist Awards sponsored by the AAN Foundation.

Payment Policy & Decision Making: Blue Cross Blue Shield Settlement Claim Forms Due October 19, 2007

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 05 Sep 2007 19:41:00 GMT

The deadline to submit claim forms for the BCBS settlement is approaching. The deadline to opt out You is September 14, 2007.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Incorrect NPI Implementation Schedule Published, CMS Clarifies

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 05 Sep 2007 13:58:00 GMT

Due to an incorrect schedule published by a trade publication, CMS advises providers to look to their Medicare contractors for official schedule information and details.

Academy News: Neurology® Content Now Available Via Podcast

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 04 Sep 2007 14:55:00 GMT

Check out the weekly podcast of content from Neurology®, the official journal of the AAN, which will debut on this site on Tuesday, September 4.

Advocacy: Apply Now for 2008 Neurology on the Hill

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 31 Aug 2007 17:36:00 GMT

Get involved in advocating for your patients and profession by participating in the 2008 Neurology on the Hill event. Training is provided prior to meeting members of Congress on Capitol Hill.

Advocacy: Palatucci Graduates Host 'Headache on the Hill' Advocacy Event

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 22 Aug 2007 16:28:00 GMT

Robert Shapiro, MD, PhD, and Kathy Gardner, MD, 2007 Palatucci Advocacy Leadership Forum graduates from Vermont and Pennsylvania, are leading a group of medical and research professionals to Washington, DC, on September 25-26 to call for stronger support from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) for headache and migraine research.

Home: Neurology Now Nominated for Health Care Publication Award

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 22 Aug 2007 14:00:00 GMT

Neurology Now®, the AAN's popular patient magazine, has been named as one of six finalists for the 2007 Medical Marketing & Media awards in the category of "Healthcare Consumer Publication of the Year." The awards are sponsored by the monthly business publication Medical Marketing & Media.

Advocacy: US Senate Introduces AAN-initiated Epilepsy Center Legislation

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 13 Aug 2007 20:52:00 GMT

The AAN has partnered with members of Congress to introduce a bill to create six epilepsy centers of excellence to be overseen by the VA Director of Neurology.

ICD-9, CPT & E/M Coding : Changes to ICD-9-CM Announced

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 08 Aug 2007 20:55:00 GMT

The ICD-9-CM Coordination and Maintenance Committee recently posted the changes to ICD-9-CM for 2008. The codes will go into effect starting October 1, 2007.

ICD-9, CPT & E/M Coding : 2007 Fall Conference Offers Coding, Practice Management Information

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 08 Aug 2007 20:50:00 GMT

Register now for the 2007 Fall Conference in Las Vegas and improve your practice with updated practice management courses.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: CMS to Disclose NPPES Health Care Provider Data September 4, 2007

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 08 Aug 2007 19:46:00 GMT

National Plan and Provider Enumeration System (NPPES) health care provider data will be disclosed to the public via the internet by CMS beginning on September 4, 2007.

Advocacy: House Passes Two-Year Medicare Reimbursement Fix

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 16:30:00 GMT

The US House has passed the Children's Health and Medicare Protection Act (CHAMP Act) which reauthorizes the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) and replaces the Medicare physician payment cuts of 15 percent over the next two years with positive 0.5 percent increases.

Advocacy: Temporary Fix to Medicare Physician Payment Cuts Proposed

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 30 Jul 2007 15:33:00 GMT

Leaders in the U.S. House of Representatives recently introduced the Children's Health And Medicare Protection Act (or CHAMP Act, H.R. 3162) a bill which reauthorizes the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) and provides a temporary, two-year fix of Medicare physician payments. The CHAMP Act would replace the Medicare physician payment cuts of 15 percent over the next two years with positive 0.5 percent increases.

Practice: AAN Publishes EHR Vendor Report

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 17:05:00 GMT

The AAN's EHR Work Group has produced the 2007 Electronic Health Records (EHR) Vendor Report, which includes results of an evaluation of five EHR vendors targeted at small neurology practices. The findings were derived at a product demonstration session at the 2007 Annual Meeting in Boston and serve as a starting point for those interested in beginning their search for an EHR vendor.

Pay-for-Performance: CMS Issues Alert for PQRI Claims Submitted Through Clearinghouses

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 16:17:00 GMT

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has indicated that there have been some instances of the National Provider Identifier (NPI) being stripped from claims submitted through some clearinghouses.

Coding & Reimbursement: AAN and AMA Conducting Physician Practice Information Survey

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 18:21:00 GMT

The AAN and AMA are partnering to survey thousands of physicians from many specialties to collect up-to-date information on physician practice characteristics in order to positively influence national decision makers while further developing and refining AMA and AAN policy.

Advocacy: AAN Member Helps Raise Support for New VA Epilepsy Center Bill

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 13:54:00 GMT

AAN State Affairs Committee member and Colorado Medical Society President, Lynn Parry, MD, appeared recently with US Congressman Ed Perlmutter (D-Colorado) in support of the Epilepsy Centers of Excellence Act of 2007. Parry and Perlmutter held a press conference in early July to promote the importance of establishing the centers.

Home: Neurology® tops list in WFN survey ranking of 41 neurology journals

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 02 Jul 2007 20:32:00 GMT

A survey of neuroscience journals by the WFN rates the AAN's journal Neurology® as best among 41 neurology journals.

Home: US Department of Justice Requests Assistance Finding Missing Child

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 02 Jul 2007 17:39:00 GMT

The United States Department of Justice (DOJ) has requested the assistance of the AAN and its members in trying to locate a missing child who was abducted from her New Hampshire home in November 2004 by her non-custodial mother and stepfather.

Advocacy: Applications Now Accepted for 2008 Palatucci Advocacy Leadership Forum

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 28 Jun 2007 16:06:00 GMT

Applications for the sixth-annual Donald M. Palatucci Advocacy Leadership Forum are due September 16, 2007. The Forum is an award-winning program that educates neurologists who demonstrate a genuine interest in advocating for their profession and their patients. Since 2003, the program has trained 150 neurologists from 38 US states and ten countries. The Forum will be held January 10 through 13, 2008, at the St. Regis Resort in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Sign up now!

Education: Upcoming Workshops Demonstrate Use of Botulinum Toxin to Treat Neurologic Disease

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 28 Jun 2007 15:57:00 GMT

Sign up now for summer and fall courses to learn the basic pharmacology of botulinum toxin and its treatment techniques for dystonia and spasticity in both adults and children.

Advocacy: Tennessee Adopts Epilepsy Patient Protection Legislation

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 25 Jun 2007 17:56:00 GMT

A new law in Tennessee now requires pharmacists to provide prior notification to physicians and patients of an AED switch from one manufacturer to another.

Education: Check Out New Additions to AAN Library Collection

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 25 Jun 2007 15:28:00 GMT

The AAN Library Collection, held by the Bernard Becker Medical Library at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, has acquired two significant neurology tomes. The books are being cataloged continuously and are available through the Internet (Becker Library Book Catalog) and through the international Union Catalog, OCLC (FirstSearch, WorldCat). All the materials in the AAN collection are organized, processed, and easily retrievable for research.

Coding & Reimbursement: CMS Announces Revised HCPCS Codes Relating to Immune Globulin

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 25 Jun 2007 15:06:00 GMT

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) have announced revised HCPCS codes for immune globulin services, beginning July 1, 2007.

Advocacy: AAN Supports Establishing Epilepsy Centers with New Legislation

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 22 Jun 2007 16:41:00 GMT

The Academy is working with Congress to create six epilepsy centers of excellence that will be overseen by the VA Director of Neurology. Legislation mirrors a previous successful effort by the AAN to permanently authorize similar MS and Parkinson's centers of excellence.

Pay-for-Performance: AAN Advocates for Changes to the PQRI Specifications

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 22 Jun 2007 15:14:00 GMT

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced revisions to the final 2007 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) Measure Specifications, Version 1.1 to provide certain technical corrections. The AAN was able to advocate for changes to the PQRI stroke measures.

Advocacy: President Bush Vetoes Stem Cell Legislation

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 20 Jun 2007 22:00:00 GMT

The Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act which would have allowed federal funding for research using stem cells derived from human embryos has been vetoed by President Bush. The bill will be returned to Congress, which does not have enough votes to override the veto. The AAN had previously sent a letter urging the President to sign the bill.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: CMS Publishes NPI Data Dissemination Notice

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 18 Jun 2007 15:51:00 GMT

CMS has published its NPI Data Dissemination Notice, asserting who will have access to physicians’ NPI numbers as well as other information from their NPI application. Physicians have 30 days to remove any “optional” data.

Advocacy: Congress Passes Stem Cell Legislation

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 20:00:00 GMT

On June 7, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act (S.5) by a vote of 247 to 176. The act would allow federal funding for research using stem cells derived from human embryos originally created for fertility treatments and willingly donated by patients. In April, the AAN sent a letter to President Bush urging him to sign S. 5 into law. Click "read more" for the full story and to read the Academy's letter to the President.

Pay-for-Performance: Share Information on New Neurology PQRI Listserv

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 25 May 2007 17:27:00 GMT

The PQRI program begins July 1 and provides an opportunity for physicians to earn a 1.5% bonus on Medicare payments. Members who plan to participate in the voluntary PQRI program can join the listserv to ask questions of their colleagues and get input from others who experience similar challenges.

Home: New AAN Guideline on Lyme Disease Treatment Published

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 23 May 2007 20:00:00 GMT

The AAN has published a new clinical guideline on Lyme disease. The guideline finds that conventionally recommended courses of antibiotics are highly effective for treating nervous system Lyme disease.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Physician Election Period Open Until June 15 for CMS' Part B CAP

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 23 May 2007 16:26:00 GMT

An additional election period for physicians who are not currently participating in the Part B Competitive Acquisition Program (CAP) is underway. The CAP is an alternative to the Average Sales Price (ASP) method of acquiring many drugs and biologicals administered incident to a physician's services.

Advocacy: AAN Member Testifies on Veterans' TBI/Epilepsy Issues Before Congress

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 23 May 2007 14:28:00 GMT

Legislative Affairs Committee member John Booss, MD, a former Director of Neurology for the Department of Veterans Affairs, presented testimony on TBI and the link to post-traumatic epilepsy before the U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs on Wednesday, May 23.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: CMS Posts Final Decision Memorandum for Carotid Stenting

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 18 May 2007 17:19:00 GMT

CMS has elected not to modify covered indications outlined in its National Coverage Decision proposed changes for Percutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty (PTA) of the Carotid Artery Concurrent with Stenting, The CMS decision is consistent with AAN opinion on the issue.

Home: Get a Refresher on Education, Science with the Virtual Annual Meeting

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 09 May 2007 19:27:00 GMT

The Virtual Annual Meeting provides online access to videos, audio recordings, and slides from more than 220 hours of programs and presentations from the 2007 Annual Meeting in Boston.

Science: 100 Scientific Highlights Now Available Online

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 09 May 2007 13:00:00 GMT

The 100 Scientific Highlights, highlighted by Dr. Stefan Pulst, AAN Science Committee Chair, during the 2007 Scientific Program Highlights Plenary Session, are now available online for free.

Advocacy: AAN Amends Bylaws to Form Professional Association

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 07 May 2007 15:58:00 GMT

At the May 1 AAN business meeting in Boston, members voted unanimously to change the AAN bylaws, enabling the formation of a new American Academy of Neurology Professional Association (AANPA). The AANPA is expected to establish a political action committee (PAC) to enhance the Academy's advocacy work in Washington, DC.

Advocacy: AAN Helps Senator Clinton Draft TBI Legislation

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 18:00:00 GMT

On March 13, 2007, more than 100 neurologists visited Washington, DC, to participate in the fifth annual Neurology on the Hill. They advocated for better neurological care and treatment for combat veterans injured during the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Their efforts highlighted for members of Congress the critically important role of neurology in screening, diagnosing and treating veterans with brain injuries and other complications such as post-traumatic epilepsy.

Advocacy: US Senate Passes Embryonic Stem Cell Research Bill

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 18:00:00 GMT

On April 11, the Senate passed the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act (S.5) by a vote of 63-34. President Bush has threatened to veto this bill, which is nearly identical to the legislation that passed the House and Senate in the previous Congress. Federal funding for human embryonic stem cell research is allowed only for research using embryonic stem cell lines created on or before Aug. 9, 2001, under a policy announced by Bush on that date.

Science: Available Now: 2007 Abstracts Online

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 15:34:00 GMT

The new 2007 Abstracts Online Program is available now for members to search and download. The abstract database contains the complete scientific program scheduled for presentation at the 59th Annual Meeting in Boston.

Academy News: Board of Directors Recommends Bylaws Amendments to Form Professional Association to Aid Advocacy Efforts

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 15:33:00 GMT

In an effort to boost AAN advocacy efforts for patients and the profession of neurology, the Board of Directors will propose that members approve bylaw amendments that would establish a companion nonprofit corporation, The American Academy of Neurology Professional Association. The new organization would enable the creation of a political action committee (PAC) that would heighten the profile of AAN advocacy priorities in Congress. The Board will make these recommendations at the annual Business Meeting, May 1, held at the 2007 AAN Annual Meeting in Boston.

Academy News: Members to Vote on Proposed Slate of 2007—2009 Board of Directors and Officers

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 15:33:00 GMT

AAN members will be asked to vote on a slate of new AAN officers and directors for the 2007–2009 Board of Directors at the annual Business Meeting, held at the AAN Annual Meeting on May 1 in Boston. The meeting will immediately follow the Presidential Plenary session. Only members who attend the Business Meeting will be able to vote on the new slate of AAN leaders.

Academy News: A New Vision for AAN.com

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 14:45:00 GMT

It is a very exciting time for medical sites on the Internet. The burgeoning growth in digital technology and the means to obtain information is astounding. There are so many ways to stay connected today that it seems impossible to imagine that we could practice without the benefits of the online world.

And yet, to date, there has been no singular source that provides neurologists with news, information, and resources on demand. Until now.

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: Medicare Fee For Service NPI Contingency Plan

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 25 Apr 2007 22:21:00 GMT

Effective May 23, 2007, Medicare fee for services (FFS) is establishing a contingency plan for implementing the National Provider Identifier (NPI). This plan includes the stipulation that, as soon as Medicare considers the number of claims submitted with an NPI for primary providers (billing, pay-to, and rendering providers) is sufficient, Medicare will begin rejecting claims without an NPI for primary providers. The plan could be implemented as early as July 1, 2007.

Practice: Free Compensation and Cost Reports Available to Survey Participants

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 25 Apr 2007 19:25:00 GMT

The AAN is partnering with the Medical Group Management Association (MGMA) to urge neurologists and practice managers to participate in two MGMA benchmark surveys on salaries and management costs. Participants will receive free copies of the results of the surveys they complete, valued up to $1,190 if both questionnaires are submitted.

Advocacy: Record Number of AAN Members Attend 2007 Neurology on the Hill

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 25 Apr 2007 15:10:00 GMT

The Fifth Annual Neurology on the Hill brought 107 Members together in Washington DC to Advocate for Important Issues

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: AAN Responds to CMS' Proposed National Coverage Determination (NCD) Change for Carotid Artery Stenting

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 09 Mar 2007 15:39:00 GMT

On February 1, 2007, CMS announced a proposal to extend coverage of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) of the carotid artery concurrent with stenting. The AAN worked in collaboration with the Neurovascular Coalition (NVC) to submit comments on the proposed changes and also put forward our own letter to CMS outlining AAN concerns with portions of the proposal.

View the proposed NCD revisions on the CMS website

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: 2007 Medicare Fee Schedule for Neurologists

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 15:40:00 GMT

The fee schedule designed for neurologists and derived from national Medicare Relative Value Units (RVUs) as published annually in the Federal Register is now available. The dollar values shown here are based on the Medicare RVUs multiplied by the Medicare conversion factor (also published annually in the Federal Register). Actual reimbursement may vary based on geography.

Medicare RVUS (.pdf)
Dollar Values (.pdf)

The AAN submitted comments on the 2007 final Medicare physician fee schedule.

Read the comment letter (.pdf)

Medicare & Regulatory Issues: New Taxonomy Codes for Diagnostic Neuroimaging

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 15:00:00 GMT

The National Uniform Claim Committee approved a request from the AAN for new taxonomy codes for diagnostic neuroimaging. New listings for Diagnostic Neuroimaging are located under both Psychiatry & Neurology and Radiology. The codes were released January 1, 2007, and are effective April 1, 2007. To view the health care provider taxonomy code set, visit www.wpc-edi.com/taxonomy. Providers include a taxonomy code on the national provider identifier (NPI) application.

ICD-9, CPT & E/M Coding : Increased Values for E/M Services

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 15:51:00 GMT

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services published proposed values for 35 E/M codes in June, 2006. The AAN worked closely with other medical specialty societies over the past two years as a leader in the effort to revalue E/M codes as part of the Five-Year Review process. Work RVUs increased for many E/M codes that are key to neurology. The work RVUs for a level 3 office visit, the most billed service on the Medicare fee schedule, increased by 37%. High level consult codes and office visits also saw increases in the work values.

Coding & Reimbursement: AAN Board Endorses AANEM Position on Electrodiagnostic Studies

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 20:30:00 GMT

The Board voted to endorse the American Association of Neuromuscular and Electrodiagnostic Medicine position paper entitled "Proper Performance and Interpretation of Electrodiagnostic Studies" (Muscle & Nerve, March, 2006) on September 22, 2006.

Coding & Reimbursement: AAN Board Endorses AANEM Position on Electrodiagnostic Studies

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 20:30:00 GMT

Coding & Reimbursement: AAN Board Endorses AANEM Position on Electrodiagnostic Studies

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 20:30:00 GMT

The Board voted to endorse the American Association of Neuromuscular and Electrodiagnostic Medicine position paper entitled Proper Performance and Interpretation of Electrodiagnostic Studies" (Muscle & Nerve, March, 2006) on September 22, 2006. Read more.

Coding & Reimbursement: AAN Board Endorses AANEM Position on Electrodiagnostic Studies

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 20:30:00 GMT

Home: AAN Action Alert - Ask Congress to Pass 2007 NIH/NINDS Funding

webmaster@aan.com (Webmaster) — Fri, 09 Feb 2007 19:18:00 GMT

Congressional leaders now intend to complete the FY 2007 Labor-HHS-Education appropriations bill by passing a year-long continuing resolution. Locking in FY 2007 funding at the FY 2006 levels would adversely affect the important research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS).