Don't miss this update! Your ACC today released the first focused update to its Appropriate Use Criteria (AUC) for Coronary Revascularization. The original criteria were published in 2009. Given the increasing prevalence of coronary artery disease, continued advances in science and technologies and heightened interest regarding the appropriate use of coronary revascularization, the focused update takes into account new clinical trial results, as well as gaps noted during the last two years of implementation, to help ensure the most appropriate use of revascularization procedures. In particular, the updated criteria address the following two areas:

1. Re-evaluation of the indications for the treatment of multivessel CAD with symptoms by PCI and CABG as a result of data from the SYNTAX trial, which came out after the original AUC were published; and
2. Specific indications that represent gaps identified when mapping the 2009 AUC to the CathPCI Registry. Get the details here! For information on your ACC's AUC efforts as they pertain to revascularization and imaging, go to CardioSource.org/FOCUS.

We're demanding change! As part of your ACC's continued efforts to see a permanent fix to the flawed sustainable growth rate (SGR) formula, we recently joined with 109 other specialty and state medical associations to send a letter to the special congressional conference comittee charged with finding a solution. The letter urges repeal of the SGR once and for all, as well as further investigation into using "excess baseline projections for Overseas Contingency Operations to help offset necessary Medicare baseline changes." This approach would essentially "clean the books" without increasing the federal deficit and open up an opportunity to establish a sustainable physician payment system that focuses on quality and provides security for physicians. With the latest fix set to expire early this year, it's critical that we all continue to demand change. Visit CardioSource.org/Budget for the latest.

Make this year "Meaningful!" This year marks the last year for physicians interested in participating in the Electronic Health Record (EHR) Incentive Program to receive the maximum payment. Physicians can earn up to $44,000 over five years if they meet the program requirements and begin participating in 2011 or 2012. First-year participants must only comply with the program's requirements for 90 days. This means that participants in their first year have until Oct. 1 to comply. New this year, your ACC has partnered with the Managed Care Advisory Group (MCAG) to help members receive maximum incentive payments under the EHR Incentive Program. MCAG uses a dashboard to track physician progress in meeting the Meaningful Use requirements and help identify problem areas. Once requirements are met, MCAG will complete and send the application for the incentive bonus to CMS. More information on the MCAG program, as well as the EHR Incentive Program in general, is available at CardioSource.org/HealthIT.

What you need to know about PQRS: The Physician Quality Reporting System (PQRS) has seen significant expansion and improvement since its launch in 2007. However, while participation has grown, the majority of physicians in the Medicare program have not taken advantage of this program. With PQRS transitioning starting in 2013 from bonuses to penalties, those who have resisted may wish to examine their options for reporting. The PINNACLE Network recently kicked off 2012 with a special webinar focused on this topic and providing information on the program itself, as well as ACC tools and resources to help with participation. Check out the archived webinar. Also, don't miss a special article on the topic in the January/February issue of Cardiology, which hits mailboxes and the online page this week!

Happy Anniversary! The ACC Political Action Committee (ACCPAC) is celebrating its 10-year anniversary in 2012. Learn more about the ACCPAC and activities taking place across the country at the newly revamped ACCPAC website. Also stay tuned for more information about ACCPAC activities at ACC.12.

Questions/Comments contact advocate@acc.org .