August 2010

There are times when it seems that interventional cardiovascular breakthroughs are happening at a breakneck pace. Remember when data from COURAGE (2007), SYNTAX (2008) and FAME (2009) arrived? These data are still being analyzed and debated within clinical practices. Then there are times when the research is percolating and everyone is awaiting either a device or a protocols validation or nullification.

The ever-increasing evidence linking obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) to cardiovascular conditions has spurred cardiologists to form multidisciplinary teams to better treat their patients suspected of having OSA.

Approximately 3,000 U.S. children are born annually with severe heart defects in which one ventricle is too small or weak to pump effectively. While a single ventricle defect is not the most common birth abnormality, it is one of the most challenging due to its surgical complexity and high morbidity and mortality rate. As a result, high-volume facilities, such as the Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), have developed strategic programs to better manage and treat such patients.

Based on surveys distributed throughout 2009, the ACC estimates that nearly half of private practice members have sold their practices to become employees of hospital systems, with many more heading in that direction. The cuts in payment for cardiovascular services included in the final 2010 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) have forced the hands of many practices struggling to remain viable.

Due to increasing economic pressures, many cardiology practices are following the lead of hospitals and hiring (or plan to hire) an in-house marketing specialist. Done right, this can be an excellent strategy. But be sure to first define your objectives and expectations carefully, and then hire the right person with the right skills for the position.