PPAC Eliminated by the Health System Reform Law

After 18 years of service, the Practicing Physicians Advisory Council (PPAC) was officially disbanded on March 23 by a provision within the health system reform law.  The PPAC was one way for physicians to communicate with the federal government and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) about Medicare administrative issues, specifically Medicare fee for service. Council members would meet quarterly with federal officials to address these concerns.  Members received a letter on April 16th from the Health and Human Services Secretary regarding the dismantling of the board.  Most of the board members were disappointed, some claiming it 'was a surprise..., disheartening..., and made them feel that their input was not wanted.'

According to Amednews, there was no detailed explanation within the legislative language of the law explaining why lawmakers wanted the PPAC gone.  However the title of the provision is 'Focusing CMS Resources On Potentially Overhauled Codes.'  Among other responsibilities, the CMS is responsible for revising the Medicare payout amounts for service codes to accommodate changes in medical practice.  This process requires advice from various physicians through an AMA-convened committee.

AMA President, J. James Rohack, MD, reports that the dismantling of the PPAC was unfortunate and wanted to ensure physicians that the AMA and CMS communicate regularly and the voices and concerns of the physician community are heard. Officials stressed that physicians still have a number of ways to communicate with CMS.
Below are some way to still communicate with CMS.

• The Medicare Provider Feedback Group, which holds an annual town-hall meeting as well as more frequent, smaller sessions to hear physician feedback on fee for service and operational issues.
• Public comments on proposed Medicare regulations published in the Federal Register.
• Physician Open Door Forums, conference calls that are held every six weeks (www.cms.gov/opendoorforums).
• Occasional town-hall meetings on Medicare fee-for-service initiatives.
• The CMS website for physicians (www.cms.gov/center/physician.asp).
• CMS regional office physician relations staff.
• Medicare contractor resources, including 'Ask the Contractor' calls and Provider Outreach & Education Advisory Groups.

For more information, visit Amednews.