This is a challenge he sees in his own practice setting, in which two full-time staff members are needed for every one physician to keep up with insurance and reimbursement requirements. “I think the saying ‘if you aren’t sitting at the table, you’re on the menu’ holds very true for rheumatologists facing policy changes today,” Dr. Huston stresses.
Staying Ahead of Practice Changes
The value of being aware of policy changes and rules has been extremely helpful for Dr. Huston’s practice, and his practice colleagues are grateful for the time he gives to the ACR via the GAC. For example, with the introduction of MIPS requirements as part of the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act (MACRA) of 2015, the information Dr. Huston was able to share with his colleagues helped them make preparations to meet MIPS requirements.
To his fellow ACR members, he emphasizes the value of getting involved and keeping up with policy changes that affect patient access to care, acknowledging how difficult it can be to follow the rapid evolution of policy changes in healthcare.
“We know how important access to treatment is to our patients; for many, these treatments are life changing,” Dr. Huston says. “It is up to us to make sure those making decisions are well informed about how their decisions impact our ability to provide medical care.”
When he is not pursuing his passion for policy and patient care in his daily practice, Dr. Huston spends his time with his wife, three children, extended family and two dogs in his hometown. He also finds perspective exploring the night sky as an astro-photographer.
Want to Know More?
Read more about the ACR’s policy wins that Dr. Huston has been a part of, and learn about recent proposed policy changes Dr. Huston and members of the GAC encourage ACR/ARHP members to be informed about. You can also apply to be involved in the GAC or other ACR/ARHP committees through the nomination process that ends on June 1.
Carina Stanton is a science journalist in Denver.