Recognizing World Down Syndrome Day March 21st

Believe it or not, socks get people talking! The staff at MSD are "rock'n their socks" in support of World Down Syndrome Day on Thursday, March 21st. Working remotely didn't stop us from joining the fun and incorporating our co-workers at home. The idea is to start a conversation, so when people ask you about your socks you can tell them you're wearing them to raise awareness of Down syndrome. Get noticed and start a conversation about #WorldDownSyndromeDay.

Governor Carney joined Down Syndrome Association of Delaware, the Delaware Developmental Disabilities Council, and members of the General Assembly to sign a proclamation at Legislative Hall on March 21st for World Down Syndrome Day.

Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester Releases Toolkit for Blood Clot Awareness

Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester has just released her blood clot toolkit in honor of March’s Blood Clot Awareness Month. The toolkit focuses on awareness, action, and advocacy surrounding blood clots, including the Congresswoman Blunt Rochester’s legislation, the Charles Rochester Blood Clot Prevention and Treatment Act (H.R. 5699). A virtual press conference was held on Wednesday discussing the importance of Blood Clot Awareness Month and incorporated the official rollout of the toolkit. 

March 24

Each year, we recognize World TB Day on March 24. This annual event commemorates the date in 1882 when Dr. Robert Koch announced his discovery of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacillus that causes tuberculosis (TB). Learn more about the History of World TB Day. World TB Day is a day to educate the public about the impact of TB around the world. CDC, along with our partners and colleagues around the world share successes in TB prevention and control and raise awareness of the challenges that hinder our progress toward the elimination of this devastating disease.

The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) will join health organizations and advocates around the globe to recognize World Tuberculosis. DPH’s Tuberculosis Elimination and Control Branch (TECB) extends its deepest appreciation to the health care community and TB clinics across Delaware for their unwavering dedication to combating TB in our state and collectively working to provide the best services available to our communities. The Office of Infectious Disease Epidemiology (OIDE) is ready to assist with information pertaining to TB infection (TBI) or TB disease. OIDE can facilitate access to DPH TB clinics, with one located in each county. These clinics offer comprehensive care for both TBI and TB disease, including screening, diagnosis and treatment services, often at minimal to no cost. Identifying suspected and confirmed cases of TB disease swiftly is pivotal in stopping its spread. Additionally, connecting individuals with TBI, also referred to as latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI), to appropriate treatment is paramount in preventing the progression of TB disease. Without intervention, approximately one in 10 individuals with latent TB infection will develop active TB disease in the future. DPH is committed to ensuring strong collaboration between healthcare providers and all public health authorities in the continued pursuit of eliminating TB. To learn more, visit https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph/dpc/tbelimination.html. 

Keeping You Informed

On Monday, March 18th, MSD sent a fourth Special Edition of the MSD eNews & Views with information surrounding the cyber-attack affecting Change Healthcare operations and an invitation to a briefing hosted by the Department of Health and Human Services on March 19, along with information regarding CMS reopening the 2023 MIPS Extreme and Uncontrollable Circumstances (EUC) application. MSD will continue to keep you updated through our digital communications and also our website. The AMA also has a website on the Change Healthcare cyber-security issue that outlines the latest developments, information for physician practices, and related AMA advocacy. 

On Monday this week, Change Healthcare announced it began releasing medical claims preparation software, an important step in the resumption of services, which is to be made available to customers over the following days. The company expects to have third-party attestations available prior to services becoming operational. Following this initial phase, remaining services restoration will continue through ongoing phases of activation until all customers have been connected. The company indicates it has advanced more than $2 billion through multiple initiatives. Recognizing the high level of fragmentation of the US health system that can result in uneven experiences, Change Healthcare continues to enhance and expand funding support to access funding help at no cost. The company also suspended prior authorizations for most outpatient services and utilization review of inpatient admissions for Medicare Advantage plans. Refer to Key Links and Resources from Change Healthcare.

Senate Substitute 1 for Senate Bill 2

Last week, the Delaware Senate passed gun safety legislation that will require training and a permit to purchase a handgun in Delaware. With the Senate's vote, it sends the "permit to purchase" legislation to the Governor's desk. The bill creates an application process to obtain a handgun-qualified purchaser permit to authorize the purchase of a handgun; prohibits selling or transferring a handgun to someone unless they have a qualified purchaser permit; applicant is required to complete a firearms training course within five years before the date of application, similar to Delaware's concealed carry permit law; and provides for low-income residents to obtain a firearms training voucher to cover the costs of the firearms training course. According to Attorney General Kathy Jennings, states with permit to purchase laws have 25% lower gun homicide rates and 50% lower gun suicide rates than those without, and reduce gun trafficking by 75%. As of the publication of this newsletter, the bill awaits action by the Governor. Governor Carney stated he looks forward to signing this bill into law.

Biden and Trump are Sole Candidates

With Republican candidate Nikki Haley suspending her campaign for presidential nomination, it left former President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden as sole candidates for their parties. However, Nikki Haley missed Delaware's deadline to withdraw her name from the ballot, resulting in a last minute scramble to address next steps before early voting would begin. Republicans had the only contested presidential primary election with Donald Trump and Nikki Haley still listed. President Biden is the only Democratic candidate on the Delaware ballot. Senate Bill 241 was introduced, passed both the House and Senate, and signed into law by Governor Carney all on March 19th. The Act extends the deadline for withdrawing from the presidential primary election and also includes the option of not holding a presidential primary election in Delaware in the event of only one remaining candidate. The Act expires on December 31, 2024. Not holding the presidential primary in Delaware, scheduled for April 2nd, is estimated to save the state at least $1.5 million.

DPH Issues Delaware Health Alert

The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) issued a health alert to notify clinicians about the state's first case of mpox (formerly Monkeypox) in 2024 and recommendations to follow. In the United States, cases of mpox have declined since peaking in August 2022, but the outbreak is not over. At this time, mpox cases are still being detected at low levels throughout the country, including a recent increase in Philadelphia cases. This is the first reported case of mpox in Delaware since March 2023. This case occurred in an individual with no history of travel outside the United States. DPH has identified that household and non-household contacts may have been exposed to this individual and is working quickly to investigate further and to determine which contacts might benefit from post-exposure prophylaxis with the mpox vaccine (Jynneos). The Philadelphia Department of Public Health issued a Health Advisory on the ‘Increase in Mpox Cases in Philadelphia’ on March 12, 2024. Refer to the Mpox Dashboard section in this newsletter below.

CDC Issues Health Alert

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Health Alert Network (HAN) Health Advisory to inform clinicians and public health officials of an increase in global and U.S. measles cases and to provide guidance on measles prevention for all international travelers aged ≥6 months and all children aged ≥12 months who do not plan to travel internationally. Measles (rubeola) is highly contagious; one person infected with measles can infect 9 out of 10 unvaccinated individuals with whom they come in close contact. From January 1 to March 14, 2024, CDC has been notified of 58 confirmed U.S. cases of measles across 17 jurisdictions, including seven outbreaks in seven jurisdictions compared to 58 total cases and four outbreaks reported the entire year in 2023. Among the 58 cases reported in 2024, 54 (93%) were linked to international travel. Most cases reported in 2024 have been among children aged 12 months and older who had not received measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. Many countries, including travel destinations such as Austria, the Philippines, Romania, and the United Kingdom, are experiencing measles outbreaks. To prevent measles infection and reduce the risk of community transmission from importation, all U.S. residents traveling internationally, regardless of destination, should be current on their MMR vaccinations. Health care professionals should ensure children are current on routine immunizations, including MMR. Given currently high population immunity against measles in most U.S. communities, the risk of widescale spread is low. However, pockets of low coverage leave some communities at higher risk for outbreaks. Read more on recommendations for physicians. On Tuesday this week, the World Health Organization stressed the urgency in vaccinating children who missed their measles shots during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is a race between whether the catch-up activities can happen quickly enough or whether the outbreaks will continue to scale.

MSD Nominating Committee Wants You!

There are a few positions remaining for election at the April 18th MSD Interim Council Meeting. If you have an interest in serving, please contact Mary LaJudice, Senior Director of Corporate Services at MSD by Friday, March 29th. All physicians interested must be members of MSD in good standing.

Board of Medical Licensure and Discipline (BMLD)

The MSD Nominating Committee is looking for a physician who has interest to serve on the Board of the Delaware Board of Medical Licensure and Discipline. This is for a formal nomination by MSD to aid the Governor in consideration of appointment to the Board. The seat is for a physician practicing in New Castle County holding a Delaware medical license in good standing, having practiced medicine in Delaware for a period of not less than five years prior. A member of the Board may serve up to three full, consecutive three year terms. Physicians for consideration may not be an officer of any state or local allopathic or osteopathic medical society or a member of the board of directors of a professional review organization. The Board normally meets one time each month during the afternoon in Dover.

MSD Committee on Membership

The MSD Nominating Committee is also looking for an interested physician(s) to serve on the MSD Committee on Membership. Those considering must be a member of MSD in good standing to serve on this MSD committee. Committee members serve annual renewable terms with no term limits. The Committee on Membership is charged with the recruitment and retention of members and other duties as may be delegated to it by the MSD Executive Board or Council. The Committee meets virtually approximately four times during the year (evening hours) on a date agreeable to the members on the Committee.

Delaware Emergency Medical Services Oversight Council (DEMSOC)

Delaware Code specifies that the Medical Society of Delaware has a representative seat on the Delaware Emergency Services Oversight Council (DEMSOC). MSD is announcing a vacancy for this seat and would like to identify an MSD member physician, preferably an emergency medicine physician, to fill this seat. DEMSOC is charged with monitoring Delaware's Emergency Medical Services system to ensure that all elements of the system are functioning in a coordinated, effective and efficient manner in order to reduce morbidity and mortality rates in Delaware. More information about the DEMSOC can be found in Delaware Code, Title 16, Health and Safety, Chapter 97, Section 9703. Members serve for a term of up to three years and are eligible for reappointment. Meetings are held quarterly at the State Fire School in Dover, from 9-11 a.m. The meetings are held in-person. If you have an interest in this seat, please contact Mary LaJudice at Mary.LaJudice@medsocdel.org and provide an updated CV.

Includes the 1.68% Update to the 2024 Conversion Factor

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has updated its website to reflect the new Medicare Physician Payment Schedule conversion factor. This is a result of the Consolidated Appropriation Act, 2024, which starting March 9 included an additional 1.68 percent update to the 2024 conversion factor that offset a portion of the 3.37 percent cut that went into effect on January 1, 2024. The 2024 conversion factor for dates of service January 1 through March 8, 2024, was $32.74. CMS has now established the new conversion factor of $33.2875 for dates of service March 9 through December 31. CMS is also releasing updated payment files, including the MPFS and associated abstract files, the Ambulatory Surgical Center (ASC) FS, and Anesthesia file. 

Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis

Last week, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Rezdiffra (resmetirom) for the treatment of adults with noncirrhotic non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) with moderate to advanced liver scarring (fibrosis), to be used along with diet and exercise. Previously, patients with NASH who also have notable liver scarring did not have a medication that could directly address their liver damage. Approval of Rezdiffra will, for the first time, provide a treatment option for these patients, in addition to diet and exercise. NASH is a result of the progression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease where liver inflammation, over time, can lead to liver scarring and liver dysfunction. NASH is often associated with other health problems such as high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. By at least one estimate, approximately 6-8 million people in the U.S. have NASH with moderate to advanced liver scarring, with that number expected to increase. Rezdiffra is a partial activator of a thyroid hormone receptor; activation of this receptor by Rezdiffra in the liver reduces liver fat accumulation. 

ACO Primary Care Flex Model Aims to Improve Access to Primary Care for Underserved Medicare Populations

On Tuesday, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), announced a new voluntary model that empowers primary care professionals in eligible Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) to treat people with Medicare using innovative, team-based, person-centered proactive care. The ACO Primary Care Flex Model (ACO PC Flex Model) will provide a one-time advanced shared savings payment and monthly prospective primary care payments (PPCPs) to ACOs. The advanced shared savings payments provide ACOs with needed resources and flexibility to cover costs associated with forming an ACO (where relevant) and administrative costs for required model activities. PPCPs will be distributed by ACOs to primary care practices, giving them improved resources and flexibility to provide care that best suits individuals’ needs. 

To Be Capped at $35 Per Month

AstraZeneca announced it will expand the savings programs for its entire US inhaled respiratory portfolio, helping eligible patients pay no more than $35 per month for their medicine. Expanding the savings programs will help make its inhalers more affordable to the most vulnerable patients living with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including those who are uninsured and underinsured. Starting June 1, 2024, eligible patients will pay no more than $35 per month for all AstraZeneca US inhaled respiratory medicines. This follows a similar move by Boehringer Ingelheim.

Online Tracking Technologies Subject to HIPAA Rules

On March 18, 2024, the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) revised its guidance on “Use of Online Tracking Technologies by HIPAA Covered Entities and Business Associates” to remind regulated entities and the public that the use of online tracking technologies is subject to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) Privacy, Security, and Breach Notification Rules (“HIPAA Rules”). These online tracking technologies, like Google Analytics or Meta Pixel, collect and analyze information about how users are interacting with a regulated entity’s website or mobile application. OCR’s information bulletin reminds regulated entities that they can use online tracking technologies provided that the entities comply with their obligations under the HIPAA Rules. Read more.

DHSS, Governor Carney Announce Additional Investments for Upcoming Year

The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services and Governor John Carney announced additional investments in child care for the upcoming year. Building on the Governor’s Recommended Budget, which proposes expanding eligibility for Purchase of Care to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) and creating over 200 additional ECAP seats, the State will be taking the following actions this year:

• Cap family co-payments at 7% of family income and remove all co-pays for families below 150% of the federal poverty level, ensuring families will pay less out of pocket for child care.
• Increase compensated absence days from five to 10, providing child care centers and homes with additional stability and predictability in their budgets.

When combined with the proposed investments in the Governor’s Recommended Budget, these actions will help more families pay for child care.

HRX-215 Stimulates Liver Regeneration

As reported in Reuters Health Rounds (3/19/24), a first-in-class experimental drug that stimulates liver regeneration could be practice-changing for surgeons who treat liver diseases, new research suggests. The treatment, HRX-215 from German drugmaker HepaRegeniX, was safely tested in humans following success in animal studies, researchers reported in Cell. The liver can regrow itself - a process regulated by an enzyme called MKK4 - but removing too much of the liver injures it beyond its ability to regenerate, the researchers found. Inhibiting the activity of MKK4 with HRX-215 strongly enhances liver regeneration, they discovered in studies in mice. In later experiments, 75% of pigs treated with HRX-215 survived the usually-fatal removal of 85% of the liver. In the early human trial, HRX-215 was safely absorbed into the bloodstream with no ill effects in 48 healthy volunteers, paving the way for mid-stage trials to test the drug’s effectiveness, the researchers said. In patients with liver cancers, complete removal of the tumors offers the only potential cure. When the remaining liver volume would be below a certain threshold, patients are at high risk of developing liver failure. Liver regeneration prompted by HRX-215 could make more extensive liver resections possible, the researchers believe. The drug could eventually also help mitigate the organ shortage for liver transplantation by allowing more healthy volunteers to donate pieces of their liver. Adult recipients usually require a large piece of a living donor's liver. With the potential for HRX-215 to improve regeneration of transplanted liver lobes, surgeons might be able to transplant smaller lobes from donors, making the donor surgery safer while preserving the benefit for the recipient.

National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Programs

The National Health Service Corps (NHSC) is now accepting applications for three loan repayment programs, each with different award amounts and eligibility requirements based on your credentials and discipline.

• NHSC Loan Repayment Program 
• NHSC Substance Use Disorder Workforce Loan Repayment Program 
• NHSC Rural Community Loan Repayment Program

New this year:

• Increased award amounts of up to $75,000 for full-time and up to $37,500 for half-time participants who are physicians, nurse practitioners, nurse midwives and physician assistants providing primary care services.
• Added $5,000 award enhancement for clinicians who demonstrate Spanish-language proficiency.

Clinicians providing primary medical, dental, behavioral health care services, or evidence-based substance use disorder treatment at an NHSC-approved site can receive up to $105,000 to help pay off their student loans. Don’t miss the opportunity for tax-free loan repayment in addition to earning a competitive salary! The application deadline is Thursday, May 9, 2024 at 7:30 p.m. ET. Learn more and apply!

Michael J. Bradley, DO Tapped as Luncheon Speaker

The MSD Physician Emeritus Section gathered for their first luncheon of the year on Tuesday at Maple Dale Country Club in Dover. In an effort to provide opportunities across the state, the Club was added as a new venue for Physician Emeritus luncheons beginning this year. This year’s presentations are focused on the lives and work of our MSD members. Michael Bradley, DO is a retired family medicine physician and a longtime member of the Medical Society of Delaware. He joined MSD in 1984, and served as President of MSD from 1994-1995. Dr. Bradley was the first Osteopathic physician to become President of any state medical society and the first DO in the AMA House of Delegates where he served 15 years representing Delaware physicians. Dr. Bradley is the Chair and President of MedNet of Delaware and shared pictures and interesting stories of his life as a physician.

The next Physician Emeritus Luncheon will be on Tuesday, April 9th at the University and Whist Club in Wilmington. Dr. Mehdi Balakhani will present on his life’s work. If you are interested in attending, please contact Michelle Seymour.

Get To Know Your Peers From Across the State

Registration is open for all MSD members to register to attend the MSD 2024 Interim Council Meeting to be held on Thursday, April 18th at the Smyrna Opera House, located at 7 W. South St., Smyrna, DE. The evening will begin at 6:00 p.m. with sign-in and a half-hour cocktail social, followed by the Interim Council business meeting beginning promptly at 6:30 p.m. As a member of MSD, this event affords you the opportunity to connect with your peers and meet new colleagues, all the while enjoying fine food and beverage at a historic Delaware location!

Reports being submitted must be received no later than Monday, March 25th.

Consider submitting a resolution. Resolutions are a vehicle to submit to Council your issues for change. Learn more about writing a resolution from the MSD Resolution Writing Guide or the brief training video developed. Resolution submission deadline is Friday, April 5th. All submissions must be correctly formatted prior to the submission deadline (in final format). For example, no edits/corrections will be accepted after the deadline of April 5th. Please email resolutions to Mary.LaJudice@medsocdel.org.

To register go to: https://reg.planetreg.com/INTERIM2024. Absolute registration deadline is Thursday, April 11 by end of business day.

Nominations Are Open

Governor John Carney on Wednesday announced that the nomination process is now open for the 2024 Compassionate Champion Awards. The Compassionate Champion Awards recognize individuals, organizations, and educational institutions across the State of Delaware that provide trauma-informed services in a manner consistent with the Delaware Developmental Framework for Trauma-Informed Care.

The Compassionate Champion Award highlights individuals or teams in government, non-profit and private organizations, first responder professions, educational institutions, health care professionals, and other agencies that have taken steps toward providing services in a manner consistent with trauma-informed care. In the health care category, it includes agencies, health care professionals, hospitals, or individuals providing trauma-informed care to service recipients. 

Nominations can be submitted on the Governor’s website through 5:00 p.m. on Friday, April 12, 2024. Award winners and details for the recognition ceremony will be announced at a later date.

View the nomination form in English.

View the nomination form in Spanish.

Boosting Mental Health Coverage in Employee Benefits

Mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders, have become increasingly common in the workplace. According to a study in the World Health Organization (WHO), depression and anxiety alone cost the global economy an estimated $1 trillion per year in lost productivity. This statistic serves to bolster the need for employers to assure adequate mental health coverage is in their employee health insurance plans. Mental health issues can affect an individual's ability to function optimally in the workplace, leading to decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, and higher turnover rates. By offering comprehensive mental health coverage, employers can help address these challenges and promote a healthier and more engaged workforce. Including mental health coverage in employee health insurance plans can help reduce the persistent stigma associated with mental illness by normalizing the discussion around mental health and encouraging employees to seek the care they need. Additionally, by providing coverage, employers can ensure that employees have access to a range of mental health services, including therapy, counseling, and psychiatric consultations. By addressing mental health concerns proactively, employers can create a positive work environment that fosters employee well-being and enhances overall productivity and performance. And, by addressing mental health issues early on, employers can prevent more severe problems from developing and minimize the associated costs, such as absenteeism, reduced productivity, and increased health care utilization. Furthermore, healthier and happier employees are more likely to remain with the organization, reducing turnover and the expenses associated with recruitment and training. The Medical Society of Delaware Insurance Services offers its members access to My Benefit Advisor as a solution for employee benefits, including voluntary offerings. For more information about My Benefit Advisor, visit the website at www.mybenefitadvisor.com or contact Sharon Ruth at (302) 397-0173.

Mena T. Scavina, DO

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 comments on the current pending member(s) listed above or if you know of someone interested in joining MSD. You could be eligible for a membership referral discount on your dues!

Anis K. Saliba, MD

MSD recognizes the loss of one of its members on March 10, 2024. Anis K. Saliba, MD passed away after a brief illness at the age of 91. Dr. Saliba graduated from the International College at the American University of Beirut and received his medical degree from the Damascus University School of Medicine in Syria. He immigrated to the U.S. in 1960, where he began his medical training, completing his surgical residency at Coney Island Hospital in New York and a thoracic surgical fellowship at St. Vincent's Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio. Dr. Saliba moved his family to Lewes in 1967 to begin his career as a surgeon while also acting as a general practitioner to many in the community. Already board-certified in general surgery and thoracic surgery, Dr. Saliba found the time to earn a third board certification in surgical critical care at 60. His nearly 40-year career at Beebe Healthcare was marked by selfless dedication to his community and his patients, particularly those of modest means. In addition to his medical practice, Dr. Saliba served Beebe Healthcare in multiple leadership roles, including president, chief of staff, and its board of directors before his retirement in 2003. Upon retirement, he continued to serve on Beebe Healthcare’s board, as well as volunteer at medical clinics throughout Sussex County.  Dr. Saliba along with his spouse Susan initiated the Dr. and Mrs. Anis Saliba Scholarship in 2017, which is awarded annually for the fall semester to a senior student in Beebe Healthcare’s Margaret H. Rollins School of Nursing. Donations for the Dr. Anis and Sue Saliba Nursing Scholarship for Margaret H. Rollins School of Nursing may be made in his name to Beebe Medical Foundation, 902 Savannah Road, Lewes, DE 19958; beebehealthcare.org/memorial-gifts; or to the Lewes-Rehoboth Rotary Club, P.O. Box 91, Lewes, DE 19958. Read the obituary.

MSD is pleased to highlight one of our 2024 Premier Educational Program Partners. PNC Bank has been a part of the effort to keep our professional medical and public education programs growing through its partnership with MSD as a Premier Educational Program (PEP) Partner.

For more than 160 years, PNC has been committed to providing their clients with great service and powerful financial expertise to help them meet their financial goals. PNC offers a wide range of services for all their customers, from individuals and small businesses, to corporations and government entities. No matter how simple or complicated the need, PNC has the products, knowledge, and resources necessary for financial success. PNC is a 2020 MSD Premier Educational Partner supporting high quality professional medical education for Delaware physicians and other health care professionals to advance the health and well-being of Delaware's citizens. For more information, visit https://www.pnc.com/en/about-pnc.html?lnksrc=topnav. 

If you would like to become a PEP Partner, please contact Lynn Robinson, MSD's Director of Professional Education. 

Stop Doing Things That Add No Value

Physicians frequently feel resigned to complete whatever work is handed to them—a problem that becomes worse when they’re experiencing burnout. Unnecessary tasks quickly become a burden in the daily workload of physicians and other clinicians. Use the Plan-Do-Study-Act approach (or another organizational process) to eliminate the “stupid stuff” from your regular work. Encourage team members to submit ideas for poorly designed or unnecessary work and engage partners who can support your cause. 

Learn more:

Toolkits:

• Getting Rid of Stupid Stuff
• Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA)

Resource:

• De-Implementation Checklist

Playbook:

• Saving Time

Webinar:

• Plan-Do-Study-Act: A STEP-by-STEP Approach to Quality Improvement

AMA STEPS Forward^® offers a collection of engaging and interactive educational content designed to help put the joy back into medicine.

Information on Recent Product Recalls and Safety Announcements

CPAP, BIPAP Masks with Magnets

On March 1, 2024, Sleepnet Corporation initiated a worldwide recall for all CPAP and BIPAP masks with magnets due to potential interference with certain medical devices. When a magnet comes into close proximity to certain medical implants or metallic implants, it could interfere with the performance or the position of the implant, potentially resulting in serious injury or death. Sleepnet has been distributing masks with magnets worldwide since 2006 and to date, there have been no Medical Device Reports associated with the Sleepnet masks with magnets. This is a voluntary action based on information obtained from post market surveillance.

Plastic Syringes Made in China

On March 18, 2024, the FDA issued warning letters that describe violations related to the sale and distribution of unauthorized plastic syringes made in China that have not been cleared or approved by the FDA for sale or distribution in the U.S. to three entities. At this time, the FDA is providing additional recommendations to their November 2023 safety communication. Until further notice and because of potential quality and performance issues, the agency recommends that U.S. suppliers, consumers, and health care organizations immediately transition away from using plastic syringes manufactured by Jiangsu Caina Medical Co. Ltd and unauthorized plastic syringes manufactured by Jiangsu Shenli Medical Production Co. Ltd (which includes all models other than the 5 mL luer lock syringe), unless absolutely necessary until the transition is complete. As this is an ongoing evaluation, for all other plastic syringes made in China, the agency’s recommendations remain unchanged from their November 2023 safety communication. Continue to use them as needed only until you are able to transition to alternatives and closely monitor for leaks, breakage, and other issues, and report any problems to the FDA. This issue does not include glass syringes, pre-filled syringes, or syringes used for oral or topical purposes. To determine if your syringes were made in China, confirm the manufacturing location by reviewing the labeling, outer packaging, or contacting the supplier or group purchasing organization.

Instructions for Use for the Impella Left Sided Blood Pumps

Abiomed is recalling the Instructions for Use for its Impella Left Sided Blood Pumps because the pump catheter may perforate (cut) the wall of the left ventricle in the heart. During operations, the Impella device could cut through the wall of the left ventricle. The FDA has identified this as a Class I recall, the most serious type of recall. Use of these devices may cause serious injuries or death.

AirLife Manual Resuscitators

Vyaire Medical, Inc. is recalling certain AirLife manual resuscitators for a manufacturing defect that could lead to injury or death. Using the recalled resuscitators could result in patients not receiving enough ventilation. In some cases, patients may not receive any ventilation. Patients who don’t get adequate ventilation may not be able to properly exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide (hypoventilation) or they could experience a dangerous drop in blood oxygen (hypoxia). These conditions can lead to serious injury or death.

InfuTronix Nimbus Ambulatory Infusion Pump System

InfuTronix, LLC has announced a voluntary recall of the Nimbus Ambulatory Infusion Pump System, including Nimbus II PainPro, Nimbus II Flex, Nimbus II Plus, Nimbus II EpiD and Nimbus II EMS from the US Market due to a high number (3698) of customer complaints related to the Nimbus Infusion Pump systems dated May 2019 to August 2023. 

Bayhealth

Beebe Healthcare

March 26 - Strategies for Improving Maternal and Infant Health Due to Opioid Use, 12-1 p.m., virtual webinar. This activity has been approved for a maximum of 1 AMA PRA Category 1 credit.

April 9 - Delaware Cancer Consortium 2024 Retreat, 9:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Bally's Dover Casino Resort, Conference Center Ballroom D). This activity has been approved for a maximum of 4.25 AMA PRA Category 1 credit.

April 9 - Mind Matters: The Intersectionality Between Behavior Health, HIV, and Substance Use, 8:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m., Del One Conference Center, 100 Campus Dr., Dover. This activity has been approved for a maximum of 5 AMA PRA Category 1 credit.

April 12 - Climate and Health Conference, 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., John H. Ammon Education Center, ChristianaCare Newark Campus. This activity has been approved for a maximum of 6.75 AMA PRA Category 1 credit. No fee to attend, but registration is required, no late in-person registrations will be accepted. Registration deadline is April 10th.

April 13 - Delaware Academy of Family Physicians Annual Meeting, Bayhealth SIM Center, Dover.

April 17 - 18th Annual Delaware Healthy Mother & Infant Consortium Summit, 8:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m., Chase Center on the Riverfront.

April 18 - DEAAP Spring Conference, "Paving the Way to Pediatric Wellness: Chronic Disease Management and Mental Health in Primary Care," 2:00-5:30 p.m., Hyatt Place Wilmington Riverfront (760 S. Justison St.). This activity has been approved for a maximum of 3 AMA PRA Category 1 credit.

May 1 - Delaware Academy of Medicine/DPHA 2024 Annual Meeting, 6:00 p.m., Hyatt on the Riverfront, Wilmington. Lewis B. Flinn President's Award Recipient is Joseph F. Kestner, Jr., MD.

May 7 - 61st Annual William J. Holloway Infectious Disease Symposium, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., virtual and in person at the John H. Ammon Education Center, ChristianaCare Newark Campus. This activity has been approved for a maximum of 5 AMA PRA Category 1 credit.

October 29 - SAVE THE DATE! 28th Annual Delaware Healthcare Forum, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Bally's Dover Casino Resort, Rollins Center, Dover.

September 19 - SAVE THE DATE! DAFP Geriatric Medicine Symposium, ChristianaCare, Newark.

October 19 - DAFP Research & Education Foundation Healthcare Heroes 5k, Cape Henlopen State Park.

November 23 - SAVE THE DATE! MSD Annual Meeting and Presidential Reception, Bally's Dover Casino Resort

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.

The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) encourages you to sign up for Delaware Health Alert Notifications through the Delaware Health Alert Network (DHAN). The DHAN is an electronic notification system to health care professionals through emailing and faxing. The system is activated when a CDC HAN email message is received. The message is sent out to the distribution lists selected by DPH subject-matter experts. Learn more about Delaware's Health Alert Notification system. If you are not currently receiving health alert messages directly and would like to sign up to receive, please self-register in the Health Alert Delaware system.

• 2024 Adult Immunization Schedule (for ages 19 years or older) - www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/hcp/imz/adult.html (includes new recommendations for RSV vaccine, Mpox vaccine, and pentavalent meningococcal vaccine)

• 2024 Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule (for ages 18 years or younger) -https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/hcp/imz/child-adolescent.html (includes new recommendations for RSV vaccine, RSV monoclonal antibody, Mpox vaccine, 20-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, and pentavalent meningococcal vaccine)

• Information for from the My Healthy Community Website (updated on Thursdays) - https://myhealthycommunity.dhss.delaware.gov/portals/flu/locations/state/seasons/2023-2024/overview
• Find a Flu Shot

• Information for Delaware Medical Professionals - https://publichealthalerts.delaware.gov/mpox/

• PAXCESS Patient Support Program - for patients prescribed Paxlovid. Provides insurance verification, live PAXCESS support representatives to help with eligibility and financial assistance. Patients can enroll online at the PAXCESS website, or by phone by calling 1-877-C19-PACK (1-877-219-7225).
• Updates to Clinical Testing Guidance Algorithms - CDC has updated several testing guidance pages for patients with acute respiratory illness (1) not being hospitalized, (2) being hospitalized, and (3) hospitalized and non-hospitalized patients when SARS-CoV-2 and influenza viruses are co-circulating. Clinicians can use these updated resources to inform clinical decision making. (12/8/2023)
• Ellume tests available for those who are blind or have low vision (free at-home COVID-19 tests) https://acl.gov/accessibletests
• Find COVID-19 Vaccines: https://www.vaccines.gov/
• No Cost COVID-19 Testing Locator can help uninsured people (or those adults without full vaccine insurance coverage) who are symptomatic or exposed find current community and pharmacy partners participating in the Increasing Community Access to Testing (ICATT) program.
• FDA At-Home OTC COVID-19 Diagnostic Tests provides a list of all FDA-authorized at-home over-the-counter (OTC) COVID-19 diagnostic tests
• Federal website for information on navigating COVID: COVID.gov
• COVID-19 Therapeutics Locator
• CDC COVID Data Tracker
• CDC will report regional-level test positivity data from the National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System (NREVSS)
• (Delaware) General Questions: call 211 or email DPHCall@delaware.gov or Vaccine@delaware.gov for vaccine-specific questions.
• Latest information on Delaware's response (testing, treatment, vaccination): de.gov/coronavirus (Updated 2/2023)