January 2009
News in brief
HCPCS codes online
The 2009 Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System list of updated and revised codes were released in mid-October. BCBSM’s coverage decisions for all new 2009 HCPCS codes are now available on web-DENIS. Once you log in to web-DENIS, go to the Provider Publications and Resources page. It will be posted alongside the January 2009 issue of The Record. For more details, see the January 2009 Record.
January forum focuses on Medicare Advantage
Professional providers are invited to learn what’s changed and what’s important about our 2009 Medicare Advantage plan on Friday, Jan. 16 in Grand Rapids. These forums are among BCBSM’s continuous efforts to make it easier for you to do business with us. Our professional forum runs from 9 a.m. to noon. Check-in starts at 8:30 a.m. at the Crowne Plaza, 5700 E 28th St. SE, Grand Rapids. For driving directions, please call the hotel at 616-957-1770 or go online to get directions. To register up to the day of the event, go to the Provider Training and Seminars page of bcbsm.com. For more information, please call Provider Orientation at 313-225-5910.
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A message from Dr. Simmer
Act now to save the future of primary care
In 2009, we face a severe economic contraction that threatens the foundation for future prosperity in Michigan. Health care costs act as a massive weight that this foundation can no longer support. Each year, millions of people lose coverage (or have their coverage reduced) and, as a result, lose access to vital healthcare services. Read More.
BCBSM provides funding to help schools battle childhood obesity
As part of its efforts to address the problem of childhood obesity, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan is offering grants totaling $320,000 to 36 schools across Michigan to help them promote increased physical activity and good nutrition. The grants range from $1,000 to $15,000, and will impact a total of 15,380 students.
Read More.
BCBSM honors the memory of Kevin Kelly
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan joined with leaders of the Michigan State Medical Society in honoring the memory of Kevin A. Kelly, immediate past executive director of MSMS. He died in December of 2008. Read More.
Medicare Advantage PPO network response positive, deadline extended
BCBSM would like to thank the thousands of practitioners and facilities who submitted signed Medicare PPO contracts before the original Dec. 17, 2008 deadline. We were extremely pleased to see how many of our current providers wanted to join the network.
Read More.
Start the New Year with our new electronic Physician Update
Start 2009 off on the right foot and sign up for our Physician Update online edition. Beginning this year, Physician Update will be offered as an e-mail newsletter. Going electronic definitely has its advantages: Read More.
T. Jann Caison-Sorey, M.D., receives American Academy of Pediatrics award
T. Jann Caison-Sorey, M.D., Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan senior medical director, PPO and Care Management Programs, has received the American Academy of Pediatrics 2008 “Founders of Adolescent Health Award.” The award recognizes exemplary achievement on behalf of adolescents on a local level. Read More.
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