Anesthesia

Four things for anesthesiologists to know about the COVID-19 outbreak this week:

Anesthesia Business Consultants is conducting a survey to determine how the National Emergency Fund and other stimulus packages can help its anesthesia and pain management clients weather the COVID-19 outbreak.

Boise (Idaho) Anesthesia Physician Associates laid off 53 employees in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Idaho Statesman reports.

One of the biggest challenges for anesthesia groups navigating the COVID-19 outbreak is right-sizing staff as elective procedures are canceled, according to Anesthesia Business Consultants President and CEO Tony Mira.

Anesthesiologist Floyd Smith, MD, agreed to pay $70,000 to resolve allegations that he prescribed drugs in violation of state law and outside professional standards, the Department of Justice announced March 30.

Illinois healthcare organizations developed opioid prescribing guidelines that apply to ASCs, emergency departments, specialists and primary care providers in Winnebago County, according to local television outlet WREX.

A former anesthesiologist accused of choking a nurse at Lone Tree, Colo.-based Sky Ridge Medical Center pleaded guilty March 9 to felony and misdemeanor charges, CBSN Denver reports.

Dental anesthesia can generate additional revenue for some anesthesia groups, but for most practices, it isn't a lucrative opportunity, according to Anesthesia Business Consultants President and CEO Tony Mira.

Anesthesiologist Neil Ross, MD, was reprimanded by the New Jersey Board of Medical Examiners for allegedly conducting improper examinations when treating family and friends, Patch reports.

Louisville, Ky.-based Baptist Health tapped Joseph Dempsey, MD, to serve as chairman of its newly formed systemwide anesthesia service line, according to WKDZ, a local radio station.