As Cardiology continues to change, the goal of the ACC and its Chapters is to keep members informed of the national and local trends that are impacting the practice of cardiovascular medicine. On Sunday, the College’s Board of Governors met for its third and final regularly scheduled meeting of the year to discuss these trends and learn about ACC efforts to help members meet the challenges associated with these trends head on.

The meeting kicked off with a first look at the recent ACC 2010 Practice Census. More than 2,400 respondents from 49 states and Puerto Rico provided valuable insight into the various ways changes have forced many private practices to take drastic actions to remain viable.  Heading into the 2010 Legislative Conference over the next two days, the Practice Census results will be crucial in discussing state-based impacts of health care reform and ongoing Medicare payment cuts.

The survey found that over the past year more than half of all practices have taken some form of cost-cutting action as a direct result of the cuts in reimbursement for cardiovascular services included in the 2010 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule. In addition, the survey found that private practices have also been forced to re-evaluate their business models and look for options that improve the quality and efficiency of their practices, while also providing additional revenue. According to the survey, nearly 40 percent of private group practices are currently integrating with hospitals or merging with other practices.

Other issues of importance to states include local coverage determinations, radiology benefit managers and the public reporting of PCI data. BOG members were able to discuss these issues in detail and provide first-hand feedback in terms of challenges and successes. Also key, BOG members were given inside looks into ways the College is paving the way to address national and state-based trends. Whether it’s harnessing technologies that put guidelines at the bedside, working with health plans to develop a tool that focuses on ensuring appropriate use of medical imaging, or developing a “Cardiovascular Practice Improvement Pathway” that recognizes quality, evidence-based care, the College has a number of new initiatives underway to meet the needs of members. In addition, the PINNACLE Network and Registry are working to ensure data-driven system development, increased adherence to practice guidelines, provide lifelong learning opportunities and ensure appropriate payment and recognition.

Guest speakers, including Joshua Seidman, Ph.D., director of the Meaningful Use Group for the Office of the National Coordinator, were also on hand to provide insight into other areas of interest to cardiology. Seidman provided answers to questions about the new federal EHR incentive program. In addition, George Diamond and Sanjay Kaul of Cedars Sinai  spoke on the subject of “From Clinical Trial Evidence to Practice Guidelines: Lost in Translation.” Their presentation encouraged discourse around the challenges associated with the development of clinical guidelines.

The College has many opportunities to lead and help shape the new health care landscape. Much of the work in terms of implementation will take place at the state level. Coming out of this meeting – on football Sunday no less – I believe the College is prepared to carry the ball into the end-zone.

Which reminds me, your chance to choose your next ACC Governor is coming up. BOG elections will be open from Oct. 19 to Nov. 16.  the Board of Governors (BOG) and Cardiac Care Associate (CCA) Liaison elections are open from Oct. 19 to Nov. 16. Visit www.CardioSource.org/Elections for more information and details on the election process, or contact your National ACC Chapters staff at 202-375-6657.