Government Affairs Update





ASCA's Government Affairs Update is an electronic newsletter for ASCA members highlighting the latest government affairs news affecting the ASC industry. Read the latest issues below.

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Government Affairs Update (March 21, 2019)
  • MedPAC Releases 2019 Medicare Payment Recommendations
  • ASCQR Program Data Submission Deadline is May 15, 2019
  • State Legislative Sessions in Full Swing
  • 2019 ASCAPAC & Advocacy Fund “If Not Now, When?” State Competition Continues
  • Take Action for Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
  • Meet New ASCA Lobbyist Steve Selde
  • ASCA 2019 Session Highlight: CMS Emergency Preparedness Compliance Guide
  • ASCA Voting Representatives: Vote for ASCA’s Board of Directors

Government Affairs Update (March 14, 2019)
  • ASCA Supports Improved Quality and Cost Transparency
  • President Trump Releases FY 2020 Budget
  • ASCA Member Hosts Facility Tour with Legislators
  • 2019 ASCAPAC & Advocacy Fund “If Not Now, When?” State Competition
  • Last Day to Submit Proposals: Company to Administer a Culture of Safety Survey for ASCA
  • ASCA 2019 Session Highlight: Medicare Payment Policy Changes: Opportunities, Obstacles and Implications on Commercial Payers

Government Affairs Update (March 7, 2019)
  • ASCA Nominee Selected for Payment Advisory Panel
  • New Congress Introduces Removing Barriers for Colorectal Cancer Act
  • ASCA Submits Comments to Senate on Reducing Health Care Costs
  • ASCA’s 2019 National Advocacy Day Registration
  • Request for Proposals: Company to Administer a Culture of Safety Survey for ASCA

Government Affairs Update (February 28, 2019)
  • Updated ASC Quality Reporting Program Public Data Now Available
  • “Medicare for All” Legislation Introduced in House of Representatives
  • CMS Launched New Podcast for Stakeholders
  • Last Chance to Complete Survey for 2020 ASC-Payable List Procedures
  • 2019 ASCAPAC & Advocacy Fund “If Not Now, When?” State Competition
  • Last Day: Renew Your ASCA Membership to Continue Receiving Government Affairs Update
  • Request for Proposals: Company to Administer a Culture of Safety Survey for ASCA
  • ASCA 2019 Early Bird Savings End Today

Government Affairs Update (February 21, 2019)
  • ASCs Invited to Join Leapfrog and NHSN Town Hall Call on Outpatient Procedure Component
  • What Procedures Should Be Added to the Medicare List for ASCs?
  • CMS Makes Minor Changes to Emergency Preparedness Guidance
  • Upcoming Medicare ASC Quality Reporting Program Webinar
  • Joint Commission Updates Radiation Risks of Diagnostic Imaging; Sentinel Event Alert to Include Fluoroscopy
  • 2019 ASCAPAC & Advocacy Fund “If Not Now, When?” State Competition
  • ASCA 2019 Early Bird Savings End Next Thursday
  • ASCA Members: Apply for ASCA’s Medical Mission Scholarship Program

Government Affairs Update (February 14, 2019)
  • What Procedures Should Be Added to the Medicare ASC-Payable List?
  • Montana Leads ASCAPAC and Advocacy Fund 2019 State Competition
  • ONC, CMS Release EHR-Related Proposed Rules
  • Two Weeks Left to Renew Your ASCA Membership to Continue Receiving Government Affairs Update
  • Don’t Miss Out on Today’s ASCA 2019 Flash Sale

Government Affairs Update (February 7, 2019)
  • ASCA Advocates for CMS Payment Policy Changes; Your Help Needed
  • Register Today for ASCA’s 2019 State Leaders Conference
  • 2019 ASCAPAC & Advocacy Fund State Competition: Montana Takes Lead
  • ASCA 2019 Early Bird Discounts End This Month
  • Join the New Infection Prevention Community on ASCA Connect

Government Affairs Update (January 31, 2019)
  • CMS Leaders Speak at 2019 CMS Quality Conference
  • Senate Committee Examines Drug Pricing in America
  • 2019 ASCAPAC & Advocacy Fund “If Not Now, When?” State Competition
  • Last Day to Apply for the March CAIP Exam
  • 2018 Q4 Benchmarking Data Collection Period Closes Today

Government Affairs Update (January 24, 2019)
  • MedPAC Approves Recommendations for ASC Payments
  • CMS Announces New Prescription Drug Models
  • Register Today for ASCA’s 2019 State Leaders Conference
  • 2019 ASCAPAC & Advocacy Fund “If Not Now, When?” State Competition
  • New Edition of Finance & Accounting for ASCs Now On Sale
  • ASCA’s 2019 Webinar Series Begins Next Week
  • Renew Your ASCA Membership Before It’s Too Late

Government Affairs Update (January 17, 2019)
  • ASC Quality Reporting Program Resources
  • Rosters Set for Important Congressional Committees
  • 2019 ASCAPAC & Advocacy Fund “If Not Now, When?” State Competition
  • 13th International Congress on Ambulatory Surgery Convenes in May
  • Two Weeks Left to Apply for the March CAIP Exam

Government Affairs Update (January 10, 2019)
  • 2019 Medicare Payment Resources Updated
  • Staffing Changes at CMS
  • ASCA Submits Nomination to Medicare Advisory Committee
  • Register Today for ASCA’s 2019 State Leaders Conference
  • 2019 ASCAPAC “If Not Now, When?” State Competition
  • 2019 Winter Seminar Online Registration Closes Tomorrow
  • Complete this ASCA/HealthCare Appraisers Survey and Earn $50

Government Affairs Update (December 20, 2018)
  • ASCA Updates Website to Reflect Medicare’s 2019 Quality Reporting Requirements
  • HHS Issues Statement on Texas ACA Ruling
  • CMS Issues RFI on Accrediting Organizations
  • OCR Issues RFI on HIPAA
  • New Tools in ASCA’s State Association Resource Library
  • Register by December 31 for the Best Rates on ASCA 2019
  • Read the Latest Edition of ASC Physician Focus
  • Government Affairs Update to Return January 3

Government Affairs Update (December 13, 2018)
  • Senate Health Care Champion Solicits Ideas to Reduce Cost
  • 340B CMP Rule Effective Date
  • Extended Use Dates for Emergency Drugs
  • Register Today for ASCA’s 2019 State Leaders Conference
  • Save the Date: ASCA’s 2019 National Advocacy Day, September 24
  • Register for ASCA 2019 by December 31 for the Best Rates
  • Call for Nominations to ASCA Board of Directors
  • Continue Being an ASC Advocate; Renew Your ASCA Membership for 2019

Government Affairs Update (December 6, 2018)
  • ASCA Answers Questions about Medicare’s 2019 Quality Reporting Requirements
  • 2019 ASC Public Reporting Preview Reports Now Available!
  • MedPAC Draft Recommendations for ASC Payments
  • Medicare Part D Drugs Proposal
  • Government Report Announces Recommendations to Improve US Health Care
  • Join ASCA CEO for an Exclusive Political Insider Briefing
  • CMS to Grant Exceptions to ASCs Affected by Hurricane Florence
  • Volunteer with ASCA and Give Back to the ASC Community
  • One Day Left to Save on ASCA’s 2019 Winter Seminar

Government Affairs Update (November 29, 2018)
  • ASCA Submitted Comments on Regulatory Burden Reduction Measures
  • 2019 Final Rule Rate Documents Added to ASCA Resources
  • Medicare Procedure Price Lookup Allows Patients to Compare Cost Across Sites of Service
  • CMS Proposes Policies Intended to Lower Prescription Drug Costs
  • Senate Committee Holds Hearing on Health Care Innovation
  • One Week Left to Save $100 on ASCA’s 2019 Winter Seminar

Government Affairs Update (November 15, 2018)
  • Comments on CMS Regulatory Burden Reduction Measures Due Monday
  • Senate Committee to Hold Hearing on Health Care Innovation
  • Midterm Elections: Do You Have a New Policymaker?
  • Exclusive Political Insider Briefing

Government Affairs Update (November 8, 2018)
  • 2019 Final Rule Rate Documents Added to ASCA Resources
  • CMS Releases CY19 Physician Fee Schedule/QPP Final Rule
  • Senate Committee to Hold Hearing on Health Care Innovation
  • Midterm Elections: Do You Have a New Policymaker?
  • Sign Up for ASCA’s Free CMS Quality Reporting Webinar

Government Affairs Update (November 1, 2018)
  • CMS Accrediting Organization Recommendations Consistent with ASCA Comments
  • HHS Announces New Payment Model Proposal for Medicare Prescription Drugs
  • New Cosponsors for Colorectal Cancer Screening Bill
  • Senate Committee to Hold Hearing on Health Care Innovation
  • ASCA Submits Comment Letter in Washington Opposing Licensure Increases
  • ASCA 2019 Conference & Expo Registration Now Open

Government Affairs Update (October 25, 2018)
  • CMMI Leaders Discuss APM Progress
  • Members of Congress Tour ASCs
  • Join the Infection Prevention Track at ASCA’s 2019 Winter Seminar
  • Q3 Benchmarking Data Collection Closes Wednesday

Government Affairs Update (October 18, 2018)
  • CMS Proposes Requiring Drug Pricing in TV Ads
  • Mary Mayhew Selected to Oversee Medicaid and CHIP
  • Anthem Pays Landmark Settlement for 2015 Data Breach
  • OMIDRIA Among Drugs and Biologicals Separately Payable as of October 1, 2018
  • Leapfrog Announces Move into Outpatient Space
  • Attend ASC Management Essentials Track at ASCA’s 2019 Winter Seminar

Government Affairs Update (October 11, 2018)
  • CMS Announces Efforts to Strengthen Oversight of Medicare’s Accreditation Organizations
  • Congressman Jimmy Panetta Tours California ASC
  • ASCAPAC Honors Congressman John Larson
  • Winter Seminar Early Bird Savings End Monday
  • Participate in Orthopedic Survey for Chance to Win a Free ASCA 2019 Registration

Government Affairs Update (October 4, 2018)
  • ASCA Rate Documents Updated to Reflect CMS October 2018 Update
  • Congress Passes Opioid Crisis Response Legislation
  • Winter Seminar Early Bird Savings End October 15

Government Affairs Update (September 27, 2018)
  • ASCA Submits Comments on CMS Proposed ASC Payment Rule
  • ASCA Rate Calculator Updated to Reflect CMS October 2018 Update
  • Congress Reaches Agreement on Opioid Crisis Response Legislation
  • Read the Latest Edition of ASC Physician Focus

Government Affairs Update (September 20, 2018)
  • CMS Proposes Regulatory Burden Reduction Measures
  • CMS Updates 2017 MIPS Scores
  • ASC Representative Testifies in US Senate Hearing on Health Care Costs
  • ASCs Praised During Congressional Hearing on Barriers to Health Care
  • US Senate Passes Opioid Crisis Response Legislation
  • Registration Now Open for ASCA’s 2019 Winter Seminar

Government Affairs Update (September 13, 2018)
  • ASCA Submits Comments Regarding Proposed MPFS Updates
  • Your Input Needed on Medicare’s 2019 Proposed ASC Payment Rule—New Template Added!
  • Registration Open for Next CMS ASCQR Program Webinar
  • ASCs Represented in Upcoming Senate Hearing on Health Care Costs
  • US Senate Passes Veterans Affairs Funding Bill
  • Interested in Volunteering?
  • Scholarship Program for Global Medical Missions

Government Affairs Update (September 6, 2018)
  • Your Input Needed on Medicare’s 2019 Proposed ASC Payment Rule
  • ONC, OIG Issue New Requests for Information
  • ASCA’s 2018 September National Advocacy Day
  • Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick Tours ASC

Government Affairs Update (August 30, 2018)
  • Your Input Needed on Medicare’s 2019 Proposed ASC Payment Rule
  • Representative John Carter Tours Texas ASC
  • One Day Left to Apply for the October CAIP and CASC Exams

Government Affairs Update (August 23, 2018)
  • Your Input Needed on Medicare’s 2019 Proposed ASC Payment Rule
  • Last Week for ASCQR Program Orthopedic and Urology ASC Measures Dry Run
  • New Cosponsors for Colorectal Cancer Screening Legislation
  • US Senate Continues Consideration of Health Care Appropriations Bill
  • Request for Information: Pricing Transparency
  • ASCA CEO William Prentice Discusses Recent Kaiser Health News/USA Today Article
  • National ASC Month
  • Member Focus Now Offers a Two For One
  • One Week Left to Apply for the First-Ever CAIP Exam

Government Affairs Update (August 16, 2018)
  • Your Input Needed on Medicare’s 2019 Proposed ASC Payment Rule
  • ASCQR Program Orthopedic and Urology ASC Measures Dry Run Now Open
  • US Senate to Consider Health Care Appropriations Bill
  • Registration Deadline Tomorrow for ASCA’s 2018 September National Advocacy Day
  • Two Weeks Left to Apply for the First-Ever CAIP Exam

Government Affairs Update (August 9, 2018)
  • Kaiser Health News Article Released
  • OCR Issues Guidance on Secure Disposal of Devices with PHI
  • One Week Left to Register for ASCA’s 2018 September National Advocacy Day
  • Apply Now for the CAIP and CASC October Exams

Government Affairs Update (August 2, 2018)
  • 2019 Proposed ASC Payment Rule Summary and Rate Calculator Now Available
  • ASCQR Program Orthopedic and Urology ASC Measures Dry Run Now Open
  • New ASC Quality Compare Site Available
  • ASCA Staff Holds Call with ONC Staff
  • US Congressional Committee Examines Potential Reforms for MIPS and MACRA
  • US Senate Committee Holds Hearing on Reducing Administrative Costs
  • Massachusetts Provider Tax Victory
  • Register for ASCA’s Webinar on Coding Challenges and Denials
  • Application Periods for October CAIP and CASC Exams Now Open

Government Affairs Update (July 26, 2018)
  • ASCA Efforts Acknowledged in Medicare’s 2019 Proposed Payment Rule
  • US House of Representatives Passes ASC Bill
  • Application Period for First-Ever CAIP Exam Opens Next Week
  • Q2 Benchmarking Data Collection Closes Tuesday

Government Affairs Update (July 19, 2018)
  • CMS Releases CY 2019 MPFS Proposed Rule
  • FTC Submits Comments for HHS Drug Pricing Blueprint
  • New Cosponsors for ASC Legislation
  • US Congressional Committees Examine Health Care Costs
  • US Congress Holds Hearing on Physician Referrals
  • Congressman Rohrabacher Tours ASC

Government Affairs Update (July 12, 2018)
  • ASCQR Program Announces Orthopedic and Urology ASC Measures Dry Run
  • ASC Report Request in Federal Appropriations Bill
  • Senator Patrick Toomey’s Staff Tours ASC
  • Subscribe to ASCA’s Clinical & Operational Benchmarking Survey

Government Affairs Update (July 5, 2018)
  • CMS Advances Medicare Advantage Demonstration
  • What Procedures Should Be Added to the Medicare List for ASCs?
  • Second Look: Congressional Committee Passes ASC Payment Transparency Act
  • ASCA's Advocacy Program
  • Q2 Data Collection Now Open for the Clinical & Operational Benchmarking Survey

Government Affairs Update (June 28, 2018)
  • ASCA Rate Documents Updated to Reflect CMS July 2018 Update
  • What Procedures Should Be Added to the Medicare List for ASCs?
  • Joint Commission: Proposed New Requirements on Reducing Harm from Anticoagulant Therapy
  • CMS Seeks Input on Stark Law
  • New Cosponsors for ASC Bills
  • Massachusetts ASCs Battle Provider Tax
  • New Online Resources from ASCA Help ASCs Discuss Quality and Safety Concerns

Government Affairs Update (June 21, 2018)
  • Congressional Committee Approves ASC Legislation
  • ASCA Meets with CMS Survey and Certification and Clinical Standards Staff
  • What Procedures Should Be Added to the Medicare List for ASCs?
  • House Passes More Opioid Measures
  • Senate Votes to Preserve Funding for CMMI
  • OCR Issues New HIPAA Guidance Regarding Research
  • Celebrate ASCA’s First Member Appreciation Week

Government Affairs Update (June 14, 2018)
  • New Cosponsors for Ambulatory Surgical Center Quality and Access Act
  • Bill Introduced to Study Non-Opioid Alternatives for Pain Management
  • ASCAPAC's Monuments by Moonlight Tour
  • ASCA's Advocacy Program
  • Next Week is ASCA's First Member Appreciation Week
  • Read the Latest Edition of ASC Physician Focus

Government Affairs Update (June 7, 2018)
  • HHS Posts RFI Regarding Public-Private Health Care Innovation
  • President Trump Signs VA Health Care Reform Bill
  • ASCA’s 2018 June National Advocacy Day
  • Don’t Miss ASCA’s Virtual Career Fair on June 14

Government Affairs Update (May 31, 2018)
  • Colorectal Cancer Screening Guidelines Updated
  • OCR Reminds Facilities to Consider Physical Security as Part of HIPAA
  • Louisiana Grinds Through Special Session
  • Applications for July CASC Exam Due Today

Government Affairs Update (May 24, 2018)
  • US Senate Passes Veterans Health Care Reform
  • Acting VA Secretary Named as Official Nominee
  • NHSN Agreement to Participate and Consent Form Due June 15
  • ASCA’s 2018 September National Advocacy Day
  • Celebrate ASCA Members During Member Appreciation Week

Government Affairs Update (May 17, 2018)
  • ASCA Meets with ONC Staff
  • Congressional Panels Tee Up Opioid Response Legislation
  • US House of Representatives Passes Veterans Health Care Reform
  • ASCA’s 2018 National ASC Month
  • Sign Up for ASCA’s Free Media Relations Webinar
  • ASCA’s Virtual Career Fair: Recruit the Best Talent, Discover Quality Jobs
  • ASC Focus Digital Debut: Crossing the Atlantic to be at ASCA 2018

Government Affairs Update (May 10, 2018)
  • An Uncertain Future for CMMI
  • Congress Continues Work on Legislation to Address Opioid Epidemic
  • New Veterans Care Bill Approved by Congressional Committee
  • May 15 Deadline for all Web-Based Quality Reporting Measures
  • Registration Deadline Tomorrow: ASCA’s June National Advocacy Day

Government Affairs Update (May 3, 2018)
  • Research Shows Fewer Post-Surgery Adverse Events in ASCs vs. HOPDs
  • May 15 Deadline for all Web-Based Quality Reporting Measures
  • States Look to Ballot Measures for Medicaid Expansion
  • ASCA’s June National Advocacy Day: One Week Left to Register
  • Applications for July CASC Exam Due May 31

Government Affairs Update (April 26, 2018)
  • CMS Overhauls Meaningful Use in IPPS Proposed Rule
  • May 15 Deadline for all Web-Based Quality Reporting Measures
  • Opioid Epidemic Front and Center on Capitol Hill
  • Congress Examines Innovation and Technology in Health Care
  • New Cosponsors for Colorectal Cancer Screening Bill
  • Thank You for Attending the 2018 ASCA State Leaders Conference
  • Have You Registered for ASCA’s 2018 National Advocacy Day Yet?
  • Clinical & Operational Benchmarking Survey Q1 Collection Closes Monday

Government Affairs Update (April 19, 2018)
  • May 15 Deadline for all Web-Based Quality Reporting Measures
  • 24-Hour Multi-Patient Use Endoscope Connectors: Risk of Cross-Contamination
  • Thank You ASCAPAC and Advocacy Fund Contributors
  • Don’t Forget to Register for ASCA’s 2018 June National Advocacy Day
  • OSHA Updates Its Regulations
  • ASCA Foundation Launches Medical Mission Scholarship Program
  • ASCA Partners with MedTrainer to Launch ASCA Learning & Compliance Center
  • ASCA Announces New Board Members and Officers
  • ASCA Presents Nap Gary Legacy Award to Joel Gordon and Milla Perry Jones

Government Affairs Update (April 5, 2018)
  • Medicare Rate Calculator Updated to Reflect Revised Drug and Biologicals Rates
  • ASCA Staff Discusses ASC EHR Issues with ONC
  • Web-Based Quality Reporting Deadline Quickly Approaching
  • ASCA Endorses Legislation to Streamline Private-Sector Veterans Care
  • ASCAPAC’s 2018 “If Not Now, When?” State Competition
  • ASCA 2018 On-Site Registration Still Available
  • Clinical & Operational Benchmarking Survey Q1 Data Collection Now Open
  • Government Affairs Update to Return April 19

Government Affairs Update (March 29, 2018)
  • ASCA Meeting with White House Domestic Policy Office
  • Web-Based Quality Reporting Deadline Quickly Approaching
  • FDA Releases Draft Guidance on Bulk Drug Compounding
  • ASCA State Leaders Conference Registration Closed
  • ASCAPAC’s 2018 “If Not Now, When?” State Competition
  • ASCA 2018 Online Registration Closes Tomorrow
  • Ballots for ASCA’s Board of Directors Due Saturday

Government Affairs Update (March 22, 2018)
  • ASCA Rate Documents Updated to Reflect CMS April 2018 Update
  • MedPAC Releases 2018 Medicare Payment Recommendations
  • Congress Releases $1.3 Trillion Funding Measure
  • Bipartisan Representatives Establish Health Care Innovation Caucus
  • New Cosponsors for Colorectal Cancer Screening Bill
  • ASCA State Leaders Conference Registration Closing
  • ASCAPAC’s 2018 “If Not Now, When?” State Competition
  • Vote for ASCA’s Board of Directors
  • ASCA 2018 Member Discounts Still Available

Government Affairs Update (March 15, 2018)
  • ASC Promotes Colon Cancer Awareness Month
  • Joint Commission Field Review on Fluoroscopy
  • Register for CMS Quality Reporting Program Webinar
  • Oregon Legislature Passes Extended Stay Legislation
  • ASCA’s 2018 “If Not Now, When?” State Competition
  • ASCA’s Online Training Series Goes Mobile!
  • ASCA 2018 Highlight: Pre-Meeting Workshops

Government Affairs Update (March 8, 2018)
  • Momentum Building for Health Care Transparency
  • Quality Reporting Deadline Reminders
  • Administration Officials Talk Health IT at HIMSS18
  • Advocacy: You Don’t Get What You Don’t Ask For
  • ASCA 2018 Session Highlight: ASC Risk Areas Under the False Claims Act

Government Affairs Update (March 1, 2018)
  • New Cosponsors for Colorectal Cancer Screening Bill
  • ASCA State Leaders Conference Registration Open
  • ASCAPAC
  • ASCA 2018 Session Highlight: 2018 Federal Regulatory Policy: What You Need to Know
  • Read the Latest Edition of ASC Physician Focus

Government Affairs Update (February 22, 2018)
  • CMS Releases Revised 2018 Payment Rates; Rate Calculator Updated
  • New CDC Requirement for ASC-8 Reporting and Upcoming ASCQR Program Webinar
  • ASCA Nominates Marian Lowe to the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission
  • ASCA Staff Testify Before Vermont Senate Committee on Health and Welfare
  • ASCA State Leaders Conference Registration Open
  • Representative Roskam Tours Midwest Center for Day Surgery
  • ASCAPAC
  • ASCA Welcomes New Staff Members
  • One Day Left to Save $100 on ASCA 2018
  • Last Call to Renew Your 2018 ASCA Membership

Government Affairs Update (February 15, 2018)
  • ASCA Advocates for Payment Policy Changes at CMS
  • President Trump Releases FY 2019 Budget
  • HHS Secretary Defends President’s Budget in Congress
  • Congressional Investigative Panel Discusses Health Care Consolidation
  • New Cosponsor for Colorectal Cancer Screening Bill
  • Register Today for the 2018 ASCA State Leaders Conference
  • ASCAPAC’s 2018 “If Not Now, When?” State Competition
  • One Week Left to Save on ASCA 2018 Registration
  • CMS to Grant Exceptions to ASCs Affected by Natural Disasters

Government Affairs Update (February 8, 2018)
  • Federal Budget Negotiations Include Medicare Provisions
  • State Leaders Conference Registration Open
  • Congresswoman Sewell Visits Outpatient CareCenter
  • ASCAPAC’s 2018 “If Not Now, When?” State Competition
  • Time Running Out for ASCA 2018 Early Bird Savings
  • Call for Nominations for BASC Board of Directors

Government Affairs Update (February 1, 2018)
  • FDA Releases Compounding Guidances, Details 2018 Policy Priorities
  • Congress Holds Hearing on Drug Quality and Security Act
  • New Cosponsor for Colorectal Cancer Screening Bill
  • ASCA’s 2018 National Advocacy Day Registration is Open
  • ASCAPAC’s 2018 “If Not Now, When?” State Competition
  • ASCA 2018 Early Registration Discounts End This Month
  • BASC Launches New Credential for ASC Infection Preventionists
  • Renew ASCA Membership to Continue Receiving Government Affairs Update

Government Affairs Update (January 25, 2018)
  • ASC Quality Reporting Program Reminders
  • Congress Funds the Government Until February 8
  • Senate Confirms Alex Azar as HHS Secretary
  • Rhode Island Introduces Bill to Require Certification of Central Service Technicians
  • State Leaders Conference Registration Open
  • 2018 ASCAPAC “If Not Now, When?” State Competition
  • ASCA Advocacy
  • Network with Your Peers at ASCA 2018
  • Q4 2017 Benchmarking Data Due Next Week

Government Affairs Update (January 18, 2018)
  • New CDC Requirement for ASC-8 Reporting
  • MedPAC Votes on ASC Payment Recommendations
  • New Cosponsors for Colorectal Cancer Screening Bill
  • New Jersey Governor Signs ASC Bill into Law Before Leaving Office
  • 2018 ASCAPAC “If Not Now, When?” State Competition
  • Get the Latest Regulatory Updates at ASCA 2018

Government Affairs Update (January 11, 2018)
  • CMS Clarifies Surveyor Memo on Texting of Patient Information
  • ASC-13 Clarification: Sampling Will Be Reported
  • Register for Upcoming ASCQR Program Webinar
  • Kaiser Health News/USA Today Article about ASCs in Progress
  • Congressman Roskam Named Health Subcommittee Chairman
  • 2018 ASCAPAC “If Not Now, When?” State Competition

Government Affairs Update (January 4, 2018)
  • Medicare Rate Calculator Updated to Reflect December Correction Notice
  • CMS Releases Surveyor Memo on Texting of Patient Information among Health Care Providers
  • Congress Waives Automatic Cuts to Medicare
  • Senator Hatch to Retire
  • New Cosponsors for Colorectal Cancer Screening Bill
  • State Legislatures Kick Off 2018 Session
  • ASCAPAC State Competition
  • ASCA Advocacy Calendar

Government Affairs Update (December 21, 2017)
  • Updated ASC Quality Reporting Program Data Now Available
  • ASC Quality Reporting Program Specifications Manual Released
  • Extended Use Dates Provided by Pfizer to Assist with Emergency Syringe Shortages
  • OCR Updates HIPAA Resources in Response to Opioid Crisis
  • Join the Nevada Surgery Center Association at ASCA’s Winter Seminars
  • 2018 National Advocacy Day: New September Date
  • Government Affairs Update to Return January 4

Government Affairs Update (December 14, 2017)
  • Congress Poised to Remove $1 Billion from Physician Payments and Extend Medicare Sequester
  • New Cosponsor for Ambulatory Surgical Center Quality and Access Act
  • ASCAPAC
  • CMS Granting Exceptions to ASCs Affected by Natural Disasters
  • Winter Seminar Early Registration Discounts End Tomorrow
  • Call for Nominations to ASCA Board of Directors

Government Affairs Update (December 7, 2017)
  • MedPAC Signals It Will Recommend No Payment Update for ASCs in 2019
  • Clarification on CMS Transitional Pass-Through Policy
  • Senate Committee Approves Measure to Expedite Reimbursement for Veterans Care
  • CMS Provides MACRA Resources
  • Florida Moves One Step Closer to 23-Hour Stays for ASCs
  • Early Registration Discounts for Winter Seminars End Next Week
  • Call for Nominations to ASCA Board of Directors

Government Affairs Update (November 30, 2017)
  • Support Grows for the Ambulatory Surgical Center Quality and Access Act
  • Join the Nevada Surgery Center Association at ASCA’s Winter Seminars
  • Colorado ASC Leaders Support Representative Doug Lamborn
  • Arizona State Senator Tours ASC
  • Read the Latest Edition of ASC Physician Focus
  • Register for ASCA’s Webinar on Medicare’s 2018 Final Rule

Government Affairs Update (November 22, 2017)
  • ASCA Gives Back!

Government Affairs Update (November 16, 2017)
  • Important Medicare Payment Policy Changes to Know for 2018
  • President Trump Nominates Alex Azar for HHS Secretary
  • Register Now to Save on ASCA’s Winter Seminars

Government Affairs Update (November 9, 2017)
  • 2018 Final Rule Rate Documents Added to ASCA Resources
  • CMS Publishes CY 2018 Final Rules for QPP and MPFS
  • Emergency Preparedness Deadline Less Than One Week Away!
  • Join the Nevada Surgery Center Association at ASCA’s Winter Seminars
  • Protect Your ASC from Regulatory and Legal Risk in 2018

Government Affairs Update (November 2, 2017)
  • 2018 Final Payment Rule Released
  • Emergency Preparedness Deadline Less Than Two Weeks Away!
  • FDA Announces Sodium Chloride 0.9% Injection Bag Shortage
  • Senators Introduce Legislation on Single-Use Drug Waste
  • Illinois ASC Association Holds First Meeting
  • Texas State Representative Lance Gooden Tours ASC
  • CMS Granting Exceptions to ASCs Affected by Natural Disasters
  • ASCA 2018 Registration Now Open

Government Affairs Update (October 26, 2017)
  • Dueling Health Care Proposals
  • Join the Nevada Surgery Center Association at ASCA’s Winter Seminars
  • ASCA Advocacy: Get Involved
  • Use Benchmarking to Drive QAPI
  • Take Advantage of Member Savings for ASCA’s Winter Seminars

Government Affairs Update (October 19, 2017)
  • Emergency Preparedness Deadline Quickly Approaching
  • MIPS Virtual Group Election Period Opens
  • Join the Nevada Surgery Center Association at ASCA’s Winter Seminars
  • ASCA Advocacy: Get Involved
  • Lead Your ASC to Success in 2018 with ASCA’s Winter Seminars
  • Go Behind the Scenes of ASC Management with New Book

Government Affairs Update (October 12, 2017)
  • Hargan Named Acting HHS Secretary
  • Update on Medicare Payment Rules for 2018
  • Bipartisan Senate Health Care Efforts Resume
  • Join the Nevada Surgery Center Association at ASCA’s Winter Seminars
  • Make 2018 Your Best Year Yet with ASCA’s Winter Seminars

Government Affairs Update (October 5, 2017)
  • HHS Secretary Price Resigns; ASCA Regulatory Efforts Continue
  • New CDC Requirement for ASC-8 Reporting
  • ASCQR Program Preview Reports Available Through October 31
  • Medicare Red Tape Relief Project
  • Representative David Schweikert Meets with ASCA Members
  • Enjoy Member Savings for ASCA’s 2018 Winter Seminars
  • Renew Your ASCA Membership for 2018

Government Affairs Update (September 28, 2017)
  • ASCA Payment Resources Updated to Reflect Medicare’s Fourth Quarter Rate Update
  • MIPS Reminder: Begin Collecting Data by 10/2 for Full 90-Day Reporting
  • CMS Renews Approval of AOA/HFAP as National Accrediting Organization for ASCs
  • Graham-Cassidy Falls Short
  • ASCA Hosts Meeting on Future of Outpatient Care
  • Save the Dates: 2018 National Advocacy Day
  • Protect Your Patients and ASC with ASCA’s New Infection Prevention Seminar
  • CMS to Grant Exceptions to ASCs Affected by Maria

Government Affairs Update (September 21, 2017)
  • ASCA Convenes Monthly EHR Stakeholder Group
  • To Repeal or Not to Repeal
  • Register for CMS Webinar on Public Reporting of ASC Quality Reporting Data
  • New Louisiana Regulations Allow For 23-Hour Stay
  • ASCA Signs On to Letter Expressing Concerns with BCBS of Tennessee Pathology Policy
  • Congressional Members and Staff Visit ASCs
  • ASC Focus Launches Member Focus Section
  • CMS to Grant Exceptions to ASCs Affected by Irma
  • Volunteers Wanted

Government Affairs Update (September 14, 2017)
  • ASCA Submits Comments on Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Updates
  • Health Care Still a Priority in the Senate
  • Updated: CMS to Grant Exceptions to ASCs Affected by Harvey
  • ASCA Seeks Your Feedback on Burdens and Challenges
  • Reduce Your Regulatory and Legal Risk

Government Affairs Update (September 7, 2017)
  • ASCA Submits Comments on CMS Proposed Payment Rule
  • Congress Faces Looming Deadlines in September
  • HIPAA Biannual Update
  • CMS Requests Feedback on Quality Payment and Reporting Program User Experience
  • CDC to Host Q&A Session on Collecting Health Care Personnel Influenza Vaccination Data
  • ASCAPAC National State Campaign Co-Chairs
  • CMS to Grant Exceptions to ASCs Affected by Harvey
  • Meet New ASCA Lobbyist Jeff Evans
  • Volunteers Wanted
  • Maximize Your ASC's Reimbursements with ASCA's Winter Coding Seminar

Government Affairs Update (August 31, 2017)
  • OSHA Updates its Regulations
  • Your Input Needed on Medicare’s 2018 ASC Proposed Payment Rule
  • State and Federal Representatives Visit ASCs Across the Country
  • CDC to Host Q&A Session on Collecting Health Care Personnel Influenza Vaccination Data
  • Register for ASCA’s 2018 Winter Seminars

Government Affairs Update (August 24, 2017)
  • ASCA Submits Comments in Response to CY 2018 MACRA Program Updates
  • CMS Announces Launch of Quality and Certification Oversight Reports Website
  • Your Input Needed on Medicare’s 2018 ASC Proposed Payment Rule
  • Members of Congress Visit ASCs Across the Country
  • ASCAPAC
  • Applications for October CASC Exam Due August 31

Government Affairs Update (August 17, 2017)
  • Your Input Needed on Medicare’s 2018 ASC Proposed Payment Rule
  • CMS Proposes Cancelation of Certain Bundled Payment Models
  • Pennsylvania Officials Tour ASCs
  • Access High-Quality, Affordable Online Training

Government Affairs Update (August 10, 2017)
  • ASCA Representatives Meet with HHS
  • Quality Reporting Deadline for Web-Based Measures Less Than a Week Away!
  • Refresher on ASCA HIPAA Resources
  • Happy National ASC Week!
  • Request for Information on Tricare Billing Issues
  • Volunteers Wanted
  • Free OAS CAHPS Webinar Looks at What ASCs Should Do Now

Government Affairs Update (August 3, 2017)
  • IPPS Final Rule Released; Changes Made In Line with ASCA Comments
  • Quality Reporting Deadline for Web-Based Measures Less Than Two Weeks Away!
  • ASCA Announces Free Webinar on OAS CAHPS Survey
  • Read the New Edition of ASC Physician Focus

Government Affairs Update (July 27, 2017)
  • Analysis of 2018 Proposed ASC Payment Rule and Proposed Rule Rate Calculator Now Available
  • CMS Quality Reporting Program: 2017 Mid-Year Reports Available
  • Senate Debates Repeal and Replace Legislation
  • House Committee Announces Medicare Red Tape Relief Project
  • Congressman Bergman Tours Michigan ASC
  • Registration Now Open for ASCA’s 2018 Winter Seminars

Government Affairs Update (July 20, 2017)
  • ASCA Efforts on Joint Replacement Acknowledged in Proposed Payment Rule; Now We Need Your Help
  • CMS Releases Proposed Updates to 2018 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule
  • Quality Reporting Deadline for Web-Based Measures Less Than Four Weeks Away!
  • House Committee Requests Study on ASC Volume Migration
  • New Nevada Surgery Center Association Interim Board Moves Forward
  • Wisconsin Surgery Centers Applaud Senate Republicans for Action on ASC Assessment in Budget Proposal
  • Build a Relationship with Your Member of Congress
  • Akorbi Partnership Provides ASCA Members with Language Services at a Discount

Government Affairs Update (July 13, 2017)
  • Constituent Meetings Lead to New Cosponsors for Key ASC Legislation
  • QualityNet Deadline Quickly Approaching: Start the Reporting Process Now
  • Build a Relationship with Your Member of Congress
  • Colorectal Cancer Legislation Builds Momentum in Congress

Government Affairs Update (July 6, 2017)
  • Several State Legislatures Adjourn Without Budgets
  • Arizona Ambulatory Surgery Center Association Gives Back
  • ASCAPAC
  • ASCA Benchmarking Q2 Data Collection Now Open

Government Affairs Update (June 29, 2017)
  • ASCA Payment Resources Updated to Reflect Medicare’s Third Quarter Rate Update
  • Senate Introduces Health Reform Legislation
  • Constituent Meetings Lead to New Cosponsors for Key ASC Legislation
  • Emergency Preparedness Tools: Cyber Attack Response Checklist
  • Educate Your Lawmakers
  • Last Chance to Request ASCA 2017 CE Credits

Government Affairs Update (June 22, 2017)
  • CMS Releases QPP Proposed Rule
  • ASCA Participates in Roundtable Discussion with Secretary Price, Administrator Verma
  • Constituent Meetings Lead to New Cosponsors for Key ASC Legislation
  • ASCA Participates in FDA Listening Session on Compounding Pharmacies
  • Hospira Recalls Sodium Bicarbonate, Other Products Over Microbial Growth
  • Emergency Preparedness Tools: Cyber Attack Response Checklist

Government Affairs Update (June 15, 2017)
  • ASCA Submits Comments in Response to IPPS Payment Rule
  • ASCA Meets with CMS Survey & Certification and Clinical Standards Staff
  • Constituent Meetings Lead to New Cosponsors for Key ASC Legislation
  • American Medical Association Sets New Policy on Colorectal Cancer Screening
  • ASCA and Colorado ASC Association Comment on Proposed Regulatory Changes
  • Educate Your Lawmakers
  • Administrator Survey Winners
  • Save Time and Money with the ASCA Asset Network

Government Affairs Update (June 8, 2017)
  • Emergency Preparedness Interpretive Guidelines Released
  • Claims-Based Quality Reporting: Make Sure You Are on Track
  • Representative Doug Lamborn Tours Pinnacle Surgery Center
  • ASCA and Healthcare Asset Network Launch ASCA Asset Network

Government Affairs Update (June 1, 2017)
  • Reps. Devin Nunes (R-CA) and John Larson (D-CT) Send Letter to Secretary Price
  • New Cosponsors Added to Key ASC Legislation
  • ASCA Announces New Nevada Surgery Center Association
  • ASCAPAC
  • Register Today with the Total Joint Registry to Save Big!

Government Affairs Update (May 25, 2017)
  • Please Be Aware of these Quality Reporting Program Issues
  • President Releases Proposed Federal Budget
  • Congressional Budget Office Evaluates American Health Care Act
  • National ASC Week
  • Results Now Available from ASCA’s Salary Survey

Government Affairs Update (May 18, 2017)
  • National Advocacy Day Leads to New Cosponsors for Key ASC Legislation
  • DEA Warns of Fax-Based Phishing Scam
  • CMS Seeks Nominations for Quality Measurement Panel (Due: May 26)
  • North Carolina Legislature Debates Certificate of Need Reform
  • ASCA Forms Partnership with SPH Analytics for OAS CAHPS Survey
  • Tool: Check Whether You’re Included in MIPS
  • National ASC Week
  • ASCA 2017 Attendees: We Need Your Feedback!
  • ASC Administrator Survey
  • New Policy Analyst at ASCA

Government Affairs Update (May 11, 2017)
  • ASCA Representatives Meet with HHS
  • Less Than One Week Left to Report on ASC-8!
  • 2017 National Advocacy Day
  • ASCAPAC at ASCA 2017
  • ASCA 2017 Attendees: We Need Your Feedback!
  • Register Today with the Total Joint Registry to Save Big!

Government Affairs Update (April 27, 2017)
  • Issues Impacting ASCs in IPPS Rule
  • CMS Releases Emergency Preparedness Guidance
  • Less Than Three Weeks Left to Report on ASC-8!
  • Time is Running Out—Don’t Miss the 2017 State Leaders Conference!
  • ASCAPAC at ASCA 2017
  • On-Site Registration Still Available for ASCA 2017
  • Government Affairs Update to Return May 11

Government Affairs Update (April 20, 2017)
  • Colorectal Cancer Legislation Builds Momentum in Congress
  • Time is Running Out—Don’t Miss the 2017 State Leaders Conference!
  • ASCAPAC at ASCA 2017
  • Voting Closes Friday for ASCA’s Board of Directors

Government Affairs Update (April 13, 2017)
  • New Cosponsors Added to Key Legislation
  • Time to Start Reporting on Quality Reporting Program Measure ASC-8!
  • Time is Running Out—Don’t Miss the 2017 State Leaders Conference!
  • “If Not Now, When?”
  • Member Discounts Still Available for ASCA 2017
  • CMS Hosts Emergency Preparedness Requirements Final Rule Training Call

Government Affairs Update (April 6, 2017)
  • FDA Nominee Testifies Before HELP Committee
  • ASCA Rate Calculator Updated to Reflect CMS April 2017 Update
  • Connecticut Association of Ambulatory Surgery Centers Hosts Legislative Day at the Capitol
  • State Leaders Conference Registration Open!
  • ASCAPAC VIP Dinner Cruise
  • “If Not Now, When?”

Government Affairs Update (March 30, 2017)
  • Key ASC Legislation Introduced in US House of Representatives
  • ASCA Payment Resources Revised to Reflect CMS April 2017 Update
  • Time to Start Reporting on Quality Reporting Program Measure ASC-8!
  • State Leaders Conference Registration Open!
  • ASCAPAC VIP Dinner Cruise
  • Last Chance to Participate in ASCA’s Free Salary Survey
  • Top-Notch Education Opportunities at ASCA 2017

Government Affairs Update (March 23, 2017)
  • ASCA Meets with CMS Innovation Center
  • If Not Now, When?
  • ASCA 2017 Early Registration Deadline Extended Through March 24
  • Don’t Miss Out on ASCA’s Free Salary Survey

Government Affairs Update (March 16, 2017)
  • ASCA Meets with CMS Regarding Payment Policy
  • Leadership at CMS and FDA Take Shape
  • CBO Releases Analysis of American Health Care Act
  • ASCA State Leaders Workshop Registration Open
  • ASCAPAC VIP Dinner Cruise
  • One Day Left to Save $100 on ASCA 2017
  • Participate in ASCA’s Free Salary Survey
  • ASC Quality Reporting Program Contractor Available to Help with Reporting

Government Affairs Update (March 9, 2017)
  • ASCA Nominates Marian Lowe to Serve on MedPAC
  • House Committees Release and Mark Up ACA Repeal and Replace Legislation
  • Location Change: New Illinois ASC Association Holds Membership Luncheon
  • Nevada ASCs Form New State Association
  • ASCA State Leaders Workshop Registration Open
  • Register for National Advocacy Day
  • One Week Left to Save on ASCA 2017 Registration

Government Affairs Update (March 2, 2017)
  • Senate Finance Committee Moves CMS Administrator’s Nomination Forward
  • What Procedures Should Be Added to the Medicare List for ASCs?
  • Register for National Advocacy Day
  • ASCA 2017 Early Registration Discount Ends March 17

Government Affairs Update (February 23, 2017)
  • What Procedures Should Be Added to the Medicare List for ASCs?
  • Colorectal Cancer Legislation Introduced in Congress
  • NHSN Account Activation Reminder
  • Call for Orthopedic Technical Panel Members
  • New Illinois Ambulatory Surgery Center Association Invites ASCs to a Membership Luncheon!
  • Nevada Surgery Center Association Invites ASCs to Learn About New Membership Opportunities!
  • Don’t Miss Out—Renew Your ASCA Membership by February 28!
  • Your Solutions Center is at ASCA 2017

Government Affairs Update (February 16, 2017)
  • Leadership at HHS Continues to Take Shape
  • Register for National Advocacy Day
  • ASCA Member Resource Reminder: Section 1557 Nondiscrimination Requirements
  • Maintain Access to All Your ASCA Benefits—Renew before February 28!
  • Network with Your Peers at ASCA 2017

Government Affairs Update (February 9, 2017)
  • ASCA Staff and Leadership Meet with MedPAC
  • ASCA’s MedPAC Nominee Conducts Meetings on Capitol Hill
  • Meaningful Use Attestation Deadline is March 13
  • Benefits End Soon—Renew Your ASCA Membership Today!
  • Get the Latest Regulatory News at ASCA 2017

Government Affairs Update (February 2, 2017)
  • Web-based Measure Submission to QualityNet Secure Portal Delayed for Payment Year 2018
  • Despite Protests, Dr. Price’s Nomination to HHS Advances
  • HIPAA Biannual Update
  • Register Today for ASCA 2017
  • Benefits End Soon—Renew Your ASCA Membership Today!
  • A Few Quick Questions on OAS CAHPS and Translation Providers

Government Affairs Update (January 26, 2017)
  • Make Sure to Use Current Medicare Rate Documents
  • FDA Releases Final Guidance on Compounding Pharmacies
  • Senate Finance Committee Holds HHS Confirmation Hearing
  • Get Involved to Make a Difference for Your ASC!
  • Register Today for a Free Webinar on Total Joint Registry Participation!
  • ASCA’s Salary and Benefits Survey Opens February 1

Government Affairs Update (January 19, 2017)
  • MedPAC Recommends Eliminating Update for ASCs in 2018
  • CMS Warns Against Cyber Attacks
  • Senate HELP Committee Holds HHS Confirmation Hearing
  • Don’t Forget to Register for National Advocacy Day!
  • Register Today for a Free Webinar on Total Joint Registry Participation!

Government Affairs Update (January 12, 2017)
  • Update on Safe Harbor for Free Patient Transportation and Gifts of Nominal Value
  • ASCA Quality Resources Updated
  • Register Today for a Free Webinar on Total Joint Registry Participation!
  • Senate Paves the Way for ACA Repeal and Replace Legislation
  • Massachusetts Department of Public Health Announces New ASC Regulations

Government Affairs Update (January 5, 2017)
  • Medicare Rate Calculator Updated to Reflect December 30 Correction Notice
  • Joint Commission & CMS Disallow Text Messaging to Transmit Patient Care Orders
  • Powdered Glove Ban Effective January 18, 2017
  • Congress Begins Work in the 115th Congress
  • State Legislatures Kick Off 2017 Session
  • Make Sure Congress Hears What You Have to Say
  • New Marketing Communications Manager at ASCA



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