MSD Serves As Host for SS1 for SB 120 Bill Signing Event |
Governor Thanks Physicians for Work on Primary Care Reform |
Governor John Carney, Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long, Senator Bryan Townsend, Representative David Bentz, Delaware Health and Social Services Secretary Molly Magarik, Insurance Commissioner Trinidad Navarro and others who were instrumental, came to the MSD Building on Friday, October 1st to celebrate the signing of the primary care reform legislation, Senate Substitute 1 for Senate Bill 120. MSD members Nancy Fan, MD, in her leadership role with the Primary Care Reform Collaborative, and James Gill, MD were recognized for their involvement, expertise, and leadership in helping to educate legislators and administrators on the importance of primary care services. Primary care is the foundation for a trusted relationship in the health care system to help keep patients healthy. The bill is a step to ensuring access to high-quality, affordable health care. Insurance Commissioner Navarro indicated the legislation outlines a three-pronged approach for primary care reform: increasing the investment in primary care; creating cost containment mechanisms; and expanding alternative payment model adoption to ensure the investment made in primary care does not result in non-sustainable increases in total cost of care for patients and also does not increase insurance premiums. Watch event the video. |
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Delaware Care Collaboration Reduces Medicare Costs by $2.3M |
Continues to Earn Exceptional Quality Scores from CMS |
The Delaware Care Collaboration (DCC), a Medicare Shared Savings Program (MSSP), Accountable Care Organization (ACO) and member of Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic, is pleased to announce that it saved $2.3 million in health care costs for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) in performance year 2020. DCC, whose partners include Saint Francis Hospital and the Medical Society of Delaware, also received excellent quality measure scores according to data released by CMS in its Performance Year and Quality Results report for 2020. The 2020 Measurement years marks the fifth year in a row that DCC has excelled in quality scores with CMS in their MSSP.
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AMA Recognizes Health Systems That Care for the Caregivers |
2021 Joy In Medicine™ Health System Recognition Program
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The American Medical Association (AMA) recognized 44 health care organizations as
recipients of the 2021 Joy in Medicine™ Health System Recognition Program. The AMA distinction recognizes health systems with a demonstrated commitment to preserving the well-being of health care team members by engaging in proven efforts to combat work-related stress and burnout. Candidates for the Joy in Medicine Health System Recognition Program were evaluated according to their documented efforts to reduce work-related burnout through system-level drivers. Scoring criteria were based on demonstrated competencies in commitment, assessment, leadership, efficiency of practice environment, teamwork, and support. Congratulations to Bayhealth and ChristianaCare hospital systems in Delaware as recipients of 2021 Joy in Medicine Health System Recognition Program.
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Governor Formally Extends Public Health Emergency |
Declarations Must Be Renewed Every 30 Days |
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Funding for New Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill |
89-Year-Old Smyrna Hospital Will Be Replaced |
Governor John Carney, Lt. Governor Hall-Long, and Molly Magarik, Secretary of the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS), announced $50 million to be allocated to build a new Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill in Smyrna, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act. Originally opened in 1932, the hospital provides skilled nursing care to more than 100 residents. (Photo courtesy of the University of Delaware Archives. Picture shows the hospital when originally built in 1931.)
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Medtronic Insulin Pump Recall |
Company Has Expanded Recall of MiniMed 600 Series |
Medtronic had previously informed consumers about any missing or broken retainer ring of the MiniMed™ 630G and 670G insulin pumps. The ring helps to lock the insulin cartridge into the pump's reservoir compartment. Under or over-delivery of insulin may occur if the cartridge is not locked firmly into place. On Tuesday, Medtronic updated this recall stating it will replace at no charge any MiniMed™ 600 series insulin pump that has a clear retainer ring with one that has an updated black retainer ring. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has identified this as a Class I recall, because the use of the device may cause serious injury or death. For questions, contact Medtronic's 24-hour technical support line: (877) 585-0166.
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Safe Use of Surgical Staplers and Staples |
FDA Issues Letter to Health Care Providers |
Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a Letter to Health Care Providers with updated recommendations to help health care providers protect patient safety and reduce the risk of adverse events associated with surgical staplers and staples for internal use. In addition, the FDA announced new actions being taken to help assure the safe use of the devices.
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DPH Announces Start of Flu Season |
Vaccine is Best Defense for Those 6 Months and Older |
October marks the start of the 2021-2022 influenza season, and given the State’s ongoing fight against COVID-19, the Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) believes it is more important than ever for Delawareans to protect themselves and loved ones by getting the flu vaccine as soon as possible. The flu vaccine is vital in helping avoid significant illness from the flu including hospitalization and death. Children younger than 5, older adults, pregnant women, and those who have chronic underlying medical conditions are most at risk for complications from the flu and are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated now. DPH also urges vaccination for those who live or work with infants under 6 months of age, as well as those who live or work in congregant settings such as long-term care and correctional facilities. DPH is also advising the public that the flu vaccine can be administered at the same time as the COVID-19 vaccine. While DPH no longer holds mass community flu clinics, it will offer flu vaccines at community-based locations where staff are administering COVID-19 vaccines.
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FDA to Discuss EUA for Boosters and Vaccines for Children |
J&J and Moderna Vaccine Boosters; Vaccine for Kids Aged 5-11 |
Last week, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced two upcoming meetings of its Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee (VRBPAC) to discuss newly available data for the currently available COVID-19 vaccines.
VRBPAC Meeting on Janssen and Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine Boosters
On Oct. 14 and 15, VRBPAC will meet to discuss amendments to the emergency use authorization of the Moderna and J & J COVID-19 vaccines for the administration of a booster dose in individuals 18 years of age and older. The committee will also hear a presentation from the National Institute of Health’s National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases on the heterologous use of booster doses following the primary series of the three currently authorized or approved COVID-19 vaccines.
VRBPAC Meeting on Pfizer Data on its COVID-19 Vaccine for Children 5-11
The FDA anticipates receiving a request from Pfizer to amend its emergency use authorization to allow the use of its COVID-19 vaccine in children 5 through 11 years of age. In anticipation of the request, the FDA is moving forward with scheduling an advisory committee meeting on Oct. 26 to inform the agency’s decision-making.
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Requirements Related to Surprise Billing: Part II |
Interim Final Rule Released with Comment Period |
Last week the Departments of Health and Human Services, Labor, Treasury, and the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) released an interim final rule with comment period, entitled “Requirements Related to Surprise Billing; Part II.” This rule details a process that will take patients out of the middle of payment disputes, provides a transparent process to settle out-of-network rates between providers and payers, and outlines requirements for health care cost estimates for uninsured (or self-pay) individuals. Other consumer protections in the rule include a payment dispute resolution process for uninsured or self-pay individuals. It also adds protections in the external review process so that individuals with job-based or individual health plans can dispute denied payment for certain claims. The American Medical Association is initiating its review and more information will be provided once the analysis is complete. View the fact sheet.
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Reversal of "Abortion Gag Rule" |
New Rule Enables Access to Accurate Information and Referrals |
A rewrite of Title X policy was initiated in 2018 under former president Donald Trump restricting clinics that receive federal family planning aid from advising patients about ending their pregnancies and prohibiting referral of pregnant individuals, constraining what physicians and other health care professionals could discuss with patients. The program has always forbidden federal money from directly being used to pay for abortions. The Biden administration on Monday reversed this rule and will allow health centers to receive the federal funds even if they refer patients for abortions. The rule takes effect November 8th. |
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Recognizing the Contributions of PAs to Health Care |
Every year from October 6-12, PA Week is celebrated, recognizing the PA profession and its contributions to the nation's health. This year, honor the PAs you work with for what they do for patients and ways they add value to health care. To our Medical Society of Delaware PA members, we celebrate you! #PAweek. |
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National Prescription Drug Take Back Day |
Patients Can Dispose of Unwanted Medication Safely |
The National Prescription Drug Take Back Day will be held on October 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This program helps to dispose of expired, unused, and unwanted medication. Drop off these medications at one of the designated locations to ensure proper disposal and a safe environment. Drugs must be in a container, such as a pill bottle, box, blister pack, or zip lock bag. Locate a collection site near you.
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Enrollment Underway for 2022 Group Dues Discount Program |
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Highlight On Events And Educational Offerings |
Race to End COVID Event at Dover International Speedway |
Spread the word! This upcoming event sponsored by the Dover International Speedway, the Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH), and the CDC Foundation is the second Race to End COVID event in which participants can take their personal vehicles for a drive on the tracks of Dover International Speedway in exchange for getting a COVID-19 vaccination. Free vaccinations and testing will be available to people during the event taking place on Saturday, October 16, and Sunday, October 17. The first 250 people to sign up online and be vaccinated at the event will receive two tickets to the NASCAR Xfinity Series race on Saturday, April 30, 2022. All three types of COVID-19 vaccines – Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech, and Johnson & Johnson/Janssen – will be offered for first or second doses, as well as the additional doses now being recommended for some groups. Details on who should get additional doses after being fully vaccinated can be found at coronavirus.delaware.gov/vaccine/additional-doses/. Sign-ups for the driving spots and for vaccination-only and testing-only appointments opened at noon on Wednesday, Oct. 6 with a link from https://www.racetoendcovid.org/event/dover-international-speedway/.
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MSD Annual Meeting - SAVE THE DATES! |
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The Medical Society of Delaware will hold its Annual Meeting of the Council, Annual Meeting of the MSD Holding Company Board, and educational sessions virtually on November 9, 10, and 11 this year. Watch for more information and registration details coming soon. |
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Beebe Healthcare has clarified its employee requirements for the COVID-19 vaccine. As reported in local media outlets, during a virtual town hall event held in September, Beebe representatives indicated that the hospital would not require the COVID-19 vaccine for its employees and that it planned to incentivize employees rather than mandate the vaccination. In an announcement on Wednesday, it was clarified that Beebe Healthcare does have a vaccine mandate and that "all team members" receive the vaccine or submit to weekly testing and reporting on their own time and at their own expense.
The American Heart Association recently presented Beebe Healthcare with three national quality achievement awards through its Get with the Guidelines® program, which sets forth standards to optimize evidence-based, quality care for patients diagnosed with cardiac-related diseases and disorders. Congratulations to Beebe Healthcare for receiving the Gold Level Get with the Guidelines Resuscitation Award for the Adult Population, Mission Lifeline® Silver Receiving Plus Get with the Guidelines Award, and the Gold Plus/Target: Diabetes Honor Roll Get with the Guidelines Award.
This week, Beebe Healthcare resumed elective surgical procedures requiring an overnight stay in the hospital. At the present time, the volume of hospitalized COVID patients has decreased to a level that allows Beebe leadership to make this decision. Beebe will continually monitor this fluid surge, making determinations as needed based on COVID hospitalization volume.
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Joseph J. D'Amico, Jr., MD |
It is with sadness that we share that MSD member Joseph J. D'Amico, Jr., MD passed away on September 20, 2021. He was a 1972 graduate of Thomas Jefferson University Medical School. Dr. D'Amico had an illustrious career and was a highly sought-after surgeon at ChristianaCare for over 44 years. With his level of expertise and experience, he was a leader in colon-rectal surgery and mastered the latest techniques in robotic surgery. Dr. D'Amico was a member of MSD since 1979. Read the obituary.
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We also recognize the loss of MSD member and retired allergist Andrew G. Weinstein, MD. Dr. Weinstein spent his 35-year career as a practicing allergist with Asthma & Allergy Care of Delaware. He earned his medical degree in 1973 from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, followed by a pediatric residency at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia where he also completed a fellowship in pediatric allergy. He published numerous articles focused on medication adherence in severe asthmatics. A devoted family man, Dr. Weinstein's passions included sailing and tennis. Dr. Weinstein has been a member of MSD since 1978. Read the obituary.
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MSD is spotlighting members throughout the state, highlighting medical students, residents, and your practicing colleagues, whether they are new to membership or have been a member over the years.
This week's spotlight is on Andrea C. Desimone, DO, Chair of the Department of Psychiatry at Bayhealth in Dover. Read more.
If you would like to be featured in the Member Spotlight section, please contact Michelle Seymour, Manager of Membership.
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Caroline E. Bashore, DO - Anesthesia Services, PA
Ranine Ghamrawi, MD - Nephrology Associates
Hannah Z. Mirzakhani, DO - ChristianaCare Hospitalist Partners
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MSD's Membership Department is pleased to announce the newest members of the Medical Society of Delaware. Welcome to the third oldest medical society in the country! If you know someone interested in joining MSD, please contact Michelle Seymour at (302) 224-4905 or Michelle.Seymour@medsocdel.org with any questions or concerns.
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Stacy J. Castaldi, DO - Southern Delaware Imaging Associates |
MSD members are afforded a seven-day review period from the date of this publication to comment regarding applicants for membership. Please contact Michelle Seymour at (302) 224-4905 or Michelle.Seymour@medsocdel.org with any questions or concerns.
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The Latin phrase Rerum Cognoscere translates to learn, examine, or become aware of facts or things. In this section, we highlight measurable items of interest in health care from MSD, Delaware, the US, and the world. |
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6.1%
Percentage decrease in alcohol-related US traffic fatalities due to ride-sharing.
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10%
Percent decrease in
blood donations.
Red Cross
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54%
Percent of teens surveyed who consider their carbon footprint when making a purchase. (The most important social/political issue for them is the environment, followed by racial equality.)
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November 9 - SAVE THE DATE! MSD Annual Meeting of the Council, 6:00 p.m., virtual event.
November 10 - SAVE THE DATE! MSD Holding Company Board of Directors, 6:00 p.m., virtual.
November 11 - SAVE THE DATE! MSD Annual Education Session, 6:00-8:00 p.m., virtual event.
December 13 - 2021 Communicable Disease Summit "How 2020 Changed the World," 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., virtual and in-person (must show proof of vaccination) at John H. Ammon Medical Education Center, ChristianaCare Newark Campus (limited to 70 in-person attendees).
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Was the information in this newsletter useful? If so, forward to a friend to let them know the value of your Medical Society of Delaware membership. |
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The information contained herein is solely informational, planned in accordance for a diverse membership audience. This communication reflects news and announcements that have been made available to MSD and is not intended to exclude other pertinent material. The content published is proposed to represent facts of interest and provide awareness to the members. MSD reserves the right to determine what information is relevant to its membership. |
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Copyright © 2021. All Rights Reserved. |
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