Policy & Regulations

This channel includes news coverage of healthcare policy and regulations set by Congress, the states, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and medical associations and societies.

FDA announces recall of Baxter infusion pumps with mismatched software
Spectrum V8 and V6 infusion pumps may have accidentally had their software switched, which could result in underinfusion or a fluid overload. While no injuries have been reported, for safety the affected pumps need to be removed from where they are used and sold.
Medtronic’s new ECMO system receives a key approval
According to Medtronic, its VitalFlow ECMO system was designed and developed with the user experience in mind.
State bans university from issuing new radiologic technologist licenses, leaving hundreds ‘in limbo’
However, those fighting the decision declared victory Monday after filing a lawsuit against the New York Department of Health.
DOJ announces 324 arrests in $14.6B healthcare fraud crackdown
Of those arrested, 96 are doctors, nurses and other healthcare providers. All face charges related to telehealth prescriptions, illegal opioid distribution and fraudulent billing practices.
Radiologists say Senate budget changes ‘threaten’ access to medical education
The American College of Radiology, Society of Interventional Radiology and over 50 other medical societies expressed their concern to Senate committee leaders in a letter sent June 24.

American College of Radiology proposes two new imaging-related CPT codes

If approved by the American Medical Association's editorial panel, one revision could go into effect as soon as July 1.

Professional associations encircle CMS over 2021 Medicare fee schedule

Close to 50 medical organizations representing 1.4 million physicians and other clinicians are pressing CMS to amend the physician fee schedule (PFS) the agency has proposed for Medicare in 2021.

Physician lawmaker introduces bipartisan bill to avert $450M in forthcoming Medicare cuts to radiology

Rep. Michael Burgess, MD, R-Texas, is proposing to temporarily waive budget neutrality requirements for one year under the MPFS.

Playing the percentages on face masks: 5 points to ponder

Around the world during the COVID-19 pandemic, words have occasionally led to blows over people in public not wearing face masks. Then too, fisticuffs have erupted over people in public wearing face masks.

50% of radiology practices plan to reduce staffing if ‘catastrophic’ Medicare cuts move forward in 2021

Another 82% said they expect reimbursement reductions will result in decreased imaging access for patients, according to a new survey.

Initiative aims to leverage technology in mitigating healthcare disparities

AI is a key part of the plan as two groups with little in common come together over health disparities that have only been worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic.

New international coalition pushes patient advocacy agenda

More than 100 patient groups across 38 countries have banded together to form an international patient advocacy coalition to be known as the World Patients Alliance.

Former FDA chiefs want White House to cease ‘deeply troubling’ interference in scientific matters

In particular, the former Food and Drug Administration commissioners are concerned about political meddling in the approval of a COVID-19 vaccine.

Policy & Regulations

FDA announces recall of Baxter infusion pumps with mismatched software

Medtronic’s new ECMO system receives a key approval

State bans university from issuing new radiologic technologist licenses, leaving hundreds ‘in limbo’

DOJ announces 324 arrests in $14.6B healthcare fraud crackdown

Radiologists say Senate budget changes ‘threaten’ access to medical education