by Marius Ged, on Jul 20, 2022 9:51:54 AM
Keep up with the latest radiology news and insights from the industry’s trusted legal partner, Ged Lawyers. Here is an overview of what happened this month in the radiology and medical imaging field.
What’s New in FL Radiology
1) Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Four Board of Medicine
On June 17th, 2022, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of four members to the Board of Medicine. These four members are:
Amy Derick, M.D.
Dr. Derick is the founder and owner of Derick Dermatology. She formerly served as Chair of the Illinois State Medical Disciplinary Board and was selected 2021 Advocate of the Year by the American Academy of Dermatology.
David Diamond, M.D.
Dr. Diamond works at Florida Radiation Oncology. He is a member of the American Society of Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology, as well as the American Board of Radiology.
Patrick Hunter, M.D.
Dr. Hunter is a General Pediatrician at Pensacola Pediatrics and a Clinical Professor in the College of Medicine at Florida State University. He is a US Army veteran and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Nicole Justice
Justice is Tampa General Hospital's Senior Director of Patient Safety. She is a member of the Florida Society for Healthcare Risk Management and Patient Safety and has served as Chairman of the RISE Tampa board of directors.
All these appointments are subject to confirmation by the Florida Legislature.
Industry Updates
1) Local Hospitals Adapting Amid Medical Contrast Dye Shortage
Nationwide, radiologists are suffering as a result of the medical contrast dye scarcity. However, according to some medical professionals, there are specific situations where ingenuity and innovation allow for "business as usual."
Several areas, including Lower Bucks Hospital and St. Mary Medical Center, have implemented various but equally successful strategies to ensure that patients receive uninterrupted care. A radiologist can see and localize the body's internal anatomy using an X-ray, CT scan, or MRI with the help of contrast dye, which is ingested or given intravenously.
This process is done for diagnostic purposes. However, the COVID-related shutdown of GE's dye-manufacturing facility in Shanghai, China which was announced in May, created a severe shortage.
According to Suzette Cunicelli, vice president of professional services for Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic, the aftermath led many hospitals around the country to employ contrast dye only in life-threatening situations. Although the plant is currently operational, she noted that the industry anticipates additional delays due to several cargo ports that are still closed.
According to Dr. Robert Novaco, chief radiologist at St. Mary, the medical staff has maintained regular schedules with few exceptions, thanks to procedural shifts and cross-departmental cooperation. "We anticipated this and have taken very preemptive measures. Over the previous few weeks, we made a number of modifications,” he remarked.
2) Scalp “Petals” Are a Sign in Touraine-Solente-Gole Syndrome
(Image courtesy of the Radiological Society of North America)
An 18-year-old man was presented with a 2-year history of progressive worsening of the scalp and face. Upon physical examination, the results revealed pachydermia, digital clubbing, and gynecomastia. A brain MRI scan further showed scalp hypertrophy which resembled petals.
Experts believe there is a connection between the two and will continue to look for a pattern of these scalp petals showing up in patients diagnosed with Touraine-Solente-Gole Syndrome.
Growing Your Practice
1) Tips for Conquering Burnout in Radiology Practices
Our employment responsibilities frequently conflict with our personal lives as radiologists work longer shifts. Radiologists, who make up the eighth of 29 specialties, reported burnout at a rate of 49%.
We professionals must first recognize burnout as a legitimate concern to address the situation. This process starts with self-leadership. It is essential to schedule time for exercise before or after work. A healthy body is necessary for a healthy mind.
According to Dr. Mattern, physician burnout is the lack of empathy for others and the conviction that they are at odds with us or out of step. Ironically, she explains, we grow more empathetic toward ourselves as we develop empathy for others. Recognizing our own networks of support and how we can both receive and provide support for others is vital to addressing burnout.
Finally, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought isolation to workplaces. It’s important to continue nurturing relationships and connections with each other as we need support from others. Being conscious of our own support circles is key to addressing burnout.
2) Attorneys Without A BAA Could Put Your Practice at Risk - Here's Why
The Healthcare Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) requires all medical professionals to guard patients' identifiable information carefully. Working with an attorney without a BAA is a risk you shouldn't take.
The potential fines for a HIPAA violation can be up to $50,000 per file. You may also find yourself open to civil suits - with possible damages being much higher. The attorney-provider agreement is a necessary step toward protecting your practice from unnecessary risk.
Ged Lawyers signs a BAA with our medical clientele so that both sides comply with the Healthcare Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) provisions. We devote our full attention to PIP claim recoveries.
To ensure that our medical providers get proper compensation, we examine medical records, submit claims, obtain settlements, and take claims to court. We've recovered over $58 million owed for personal injury protection cases. Contact us today to unlock more revenue for your practice. Our experts from Ged Lawyers are ready to onboard you today!
