1. Whether the Senate republicans, in the Nov. 4 elections, maintain at least 41 seats is an incredibly important issue currently facing physician hospitals. Without this balance of power in the Senate, it will be very difficult to defeat any legislation that may be brought against our industry in 2009. This republican blocking power was crucial during several of our legislative battles in 2008 and will continue to be so through the next few years.
2. After our next President is chosen, the next important decision for our industry is who that President chooses as his healthcare decision-makers, primarily at the HHS (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services), but also at the cabinet level. These staff will set the tone of the administration’s policy for the next four years and can certainly be a detriment or a help to physician hospitals.
3. Finally, starting October 2008, the federal government has a new ability to wreak havoc on all hospitals’ business offices. Recovery audit contractors (RAC) have begun their pilot program and will be moving toward a permanent program shortly. All hospitals, including physician hospitals, must consider what they can do to protect themselves before, during and after receiving a request for data from the government auditor. A great deal is at stake when a RAC audit is performed — not only money, but the ability to continue to participate in all federal healthcare benefit programs.
— Molly Sandvig is executive director of Physician Hospitals of America (PHA). Contact Ms. Sandvig at mollys@physicianhospitals.org. Learn more about Physician Hospitals of America.
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.