A webinar and new election toolkit from America's Essential Hospitals can help to make sure hospitals' voices are heard this congressional election season.

Webcasts, co-hosted by HRSA OPA and pharmacist association, will focus on helping covered entities identify steps needed to develop and maintain comprehensive 340B policies and procedures in an auditable manner.

CMS website includes information on changes to Medicare and Medicaid EHR Incentive Programs in recent final rule.

Tool gives physicians, nurses, and other health care professionals access to geographic comparisons of opioid prescribing habits and use.

New materials from CMS and the association's list of resources will help providers as they transition to ICD-10 diagnosis and procedure codes on Oct. 1.

Agency resource, in preparation for Oct. 1 transition to ICD-10, can help providers determine how to accurately report codes.

The video clarifies common myths and misperceptions about changes that will occur with the Oct. 1 implementation of ICD-10. America’s Essential Hospitals also compiled a list of resources to help members prepare for a seamless transition to ICD-10.

The guide outlines the critical activities needed for a successful ICD-10 launch on October 1. Also included are instructions for accessing ICD-10 codes and links to training and testing resources.

Interactive case studies include clinical scenarios and tips for providers and billing staff to learn the basics of documentation and coding using ICD-10. Transition is scheduled for Oct. 1.

May 29 webinar will focus on quality reporting program proposals, impact of changes to HAC Reduction Program and Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program.

The call will provide an overview of the materials required for applying to the Medicare Shared Savings Program and lessons learned from previous program year application periods. Notices of intent due May 29, applications due July 31.

Deadline for July end-to-end testing extended to May 22, acknowledgement testing June 1 to June 4, and a call for billing staff, coders, and clinicians June 18. Videos have also been published to the CMS website.

This new model will allow ACOs to take greater performance risks for greater financial reward, calls start March 31.

Interested providers should submit a volunteer form by April 17.

Two videos provide overview and benefits, and expand previous ICD-10 resources from the agency

The Feb. 26 call is for clinicians and billing staff.

After eight years in the Senate minority, Republicans will take control of the chamber in 2015, with at least 52 seats. The elections also resulted in at least 61 new members being elected to Congress, providing a valuable opportunity for essential hospitals to educate new lawmakers.