Summary: We receive a lot of inquiries concerning anesthesia for chronic pain blocks. The question is whether or not this is a worthwhile service to undertake and to what extent does it present concerns. The answer includes both good and bad news. It is a payable service under certain circumstances today, but future reimbursement is very uncertain....

SummaryObstetric anesthesia is either a make-or-break service for anesthesia practices. Its unique aspects, including (a) the use of epidurals that don't require continuous attention, (b) the ability to manage multiple cases simultaneously, and (c) complex, diverse and inconsistent billing rules, make it a subject for special consideration.From a b...

The QPP Final Rule for 2020 showcases some changes that are important to understand for all anesthesia and chronic pain providers. The penalties are increased, the risk is greater if you want to report, and a shift in strategy for reporting altogether are included in this review. On November 1, 2019, CMS released the 2020 Quality Payment Program (Q...

On a recent trip through the Ozarks, attempting to reach a trout-filled river, our caravan of two vehicles was being guided by a GPS device that began to dole out dubious directions. All of a sudden, we found ourselves on a rut-filled gravel road that promised to go on for miles. The lead car kept going, though now at a snail's pace. The driver of ...

Summary The relationship between an anesthesia practice and the hospital administration can become challenging, especially when the negotiation of a hospital contract involves the determination of financial support. While it is true that sometimes the parties cannot come to terms and the administration must employ the providers, this is the e...