2012 Committee Highlights

Committees are the lifeblood of the AAO-HNS/F and a great way for members to contribute meaningfully to the organization and the specialty. At the 2012 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPOSM in Washington, DC, Academy and Foundation committees met and discussed achievements during the past year and planned for 2013. On the following pages are brief summaries of actions taken by the committees. The October 2012 Bulletin included listings of all committee members and an article on how to join a committee. The deadline for applications for the 2013 committee appointment process is February 1, 2013. Standing Committees Audit Committee Kenneth W. Altman, MD, PhD, Chair The committee reviewed the audit timeline for audit of the financial statements for the year ended June 30, 2012 (FY12). The timing of the audit is on schedule for completion in mid-October. The audit partner for the AAO-HNS/F independent audit, made a presentation about internal control systems and the audit committee’s role therein. The committee will meet to review the audit with staff and the independent auditors in early November, 2012. Ethics Committee Lauren S. Zaretsky, MD, Chair Transitioned from an Academy committee to a standing committee of both the Academy and Foundation. Began the implementation of the AAO-HNS/F Code for Interactions with Companies. Submitted three miniseminars for the AAO-HNSF 2012 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPOSM. Performed an extensive review of the current “AAO-HNS/F Operational Handbook.” Finance & Investment Subcommittee of the EC (FISC) John W. House, MD, Secretary Gavin Setzen, MD, Secretary-elect The subcommittee heard proposals from investment advisors under consideration for management of the AAO-HNS/F’s investment portfolios and made a recommendation to the Executive Committee. The FISC’s recommendation to engage The Sardana Group as AAO-HNS/F’s professional investment advisory firm was subsequently accepted. The FISC had earlier received and reviewed the Treasurer’s Report for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2012 (FY12), which showed a positive variance between actual FY12 results as compared to the FY12 budget. In November FISC reviewed the report of the Audit Committee on the FY12 audit completed in mid-October. Science and Educational Committee Sonya Malekzadeh, MD, Chair The Science & Educational Committee met in September, December, and May, regularly sharing information on initiatives and activities within the Foundation’s key strategic areas of education, scientific program, instruction courses, and international outreach. The coordinators and senior staff responsible for these areas identified opportunities for further integration to mutually support the Foundation’s advancement across the entire spectrum of scientific and educational support for members. Academy Committees Airway and Swallowing (A&S) Committee Milan R. Amin, MD, Chair A representative of the A&S Committee (Stacy L. Halum, MD) attended the ITQIC meeting in Scotland, which focused on Tracheotomy Care. A&S Committee members Robert J. Stachler, MD, Albert L. Merati, MD, and Milan R. Amin, MD, are producing a manuscript based on a miniseminar that was sponsored by the committee last year regarding treatment of Zenker’s Diverticulum. The A&S Committee has ongoing database projects focused on tracheotomy and TNE that continue to collect and provide data for analysis. Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Committee Karen H. Calhoun, MD, Chair Presented five instruction courses at the AAO-HNSF 2012 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPOSM: Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disorders for the ENT Skin Testing for Inhalant and Food Allergies Sublingual Immunotherapy: Why and How? Pediatric Allergy Update 2012 Unified Airway Disease: Fact or Myth? The Current Evidence Presented one miniseminar at the AAO-HNSF 2012 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPOSM: Food Allergy 2012: State of the Science Certificate Program for Otolaryngology Personnel Committee Peter A. Weisskopf, MD, Chair In June, the workshop portion of the CPOP program took place in Detroit, MI. Twenty-one individuals participated in this two-day hands-on training. Credentials and Membership Committee Pierre Lavertu, MD, Chair At this year’s meeting, the committee discussed working closely with Academy staff with the creation and implementation of new alternatives for increasing Academy membership and reinstating non-members and help in our overall efforts to ensure we do not lose members who transition out of residency. Complementary/Integrative Medicine Committee Edmund A. Pribitkin, MD, Chair At the 2012 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPOSM in Washington, DC, the committee worked on its plans for 2013 including: The committee planned for its 2013 miniseminars including the topics of atypical facial pain, headaches, and migraines, It will do a Bulletin article on “How to Initiate a Discussion about CIM with Patients.” It also discussed its current instruction course content with the intention of adding the topic of Comparison of Levels of Evidence into the “Common Ailments” topic. CPT & Relative Value Committee Jane T. Dillon, MD, Chair At the annual meeting in Washington, DC, the committee agreed to several goals for 2013 including: A multi-pronged approach to educating members and subspecialties about the importance, and process of, RUC surveys; working with ARS and other key subspecialties to survey the nasal/sinus endoscopy codes; Drafting a letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) urging them to assign a HCPCS J code to the new Propel, drug eluting stent; and Working with Zupko and Associates to draft a Bulletin article clarifying how to use unlisted codes to properly code for endoscopic skull-based procedures. A presentation was also made by a member of the Sleep Committee, Eric Kezirian, MD, to request consideration for a new sleep endoscopy CPT code. The committee declined the initial request, but agreed to re-review the proposal once further details on pre, intra, and post time for the new code were provided. Diversity Committee Duane J. Taylor, MD, Chair Began the process of selecting candidates for the endowment distribution. Program directors at universities are receptive to working with the committee to promote avenues for diverse residents to conduct rotations. The Diversity Committee members pledged to make some sort of donation to the Harry Barnes endowment to show 100 percent committee member support. Joseph S. Schwartz, MD, (3rd year resident in Canada) presented a report on the breakdown of U.S. otolaryngologists by racial background. Endocrine Surgery Committee Lisa A. Orloff, MD, Chair The committee, named a Model Committee for the second time, has provided volunteer faculty for another sold-out Ultrasound Workshop on the Saturday before the annual meeting. Committee members worked on the Voice Outcomes guidelines (soon to be published), and reviewed several American Thyroid Association (ATA) guidelines. The Bulletin carried articles by Drs. Orloff and Gregory W. Randolph, MD, about the ATA and Thyroid Cancer awareness. Several committee members have been on thyroid humanitarian missions led by Merry E. Sebelik, MD. Equilibrium Committee Allan M. Rubin, MD, Chair The committee reviewed and provided keywords for several webpages as part of the website content relevancy project. The committee provided input on several private payer issues including the use of intratympanic steroids and transtympanic micropressure as treatment options for Meniere’s disease. The AAO-HNS policy statement on micropressure therapy was reviewed and updated by the committee. Geriatric Otolaryngology Committee David E. Eibling, MD, Chair The committee supported the idea of researching other organizations’ documents and criteria for a policy on “the practicing of otolaryngology by the aging otolaryngologist.” It also discussed a possible miniseminar with the Sleep Committee on geriatric sleep issues. It would like to make available the Geriatric educational resources document developed by Kelly M. Malloy, MD, and Sarah H. Kagan, RN, PhD. Head and Neck Surgery & Oncology Committee Daniel G. Deschler, MD, Chair The question that came up on the 2011 HNS Steering committee meeting last year was posed again here: “Is there a way to collaborate with other committees on the selection of miniseminar topics to prevent overlap and increase the chances of acceptance for presentation?” Miniseminar topic discussion included head and neck cancer in the HPV era and skin cancer management 2013. Hearing Committee Robert K. Jackler, MD Developed a minimal reporting standard for hearing results in clinical research. Provided feedback to the Aetna request regarding the “Intratympanic Administration of Corticosteroids for Meniere’s Disease.” Imaging Committee Gavin Setzen, MD, Chair This year, the Imaging Committee worked with the American Rhinologic Society (ARS) to develop a questionnaire to jointly survey members and residents, so that the committee will be able to analyze data to provide members and payers with data on imaging services. The survey was distributed to members in October 2012. Academy members were served by the committee through continued advocacy efforts against decreased payment and prior authorization for in-office imaging services throughout the year. The Academy assisted members with advocacy efforts resulting in overturning a restrictive policy on imaging series by Highmark West Virginia. Other major health policy activities included: providing members with information on the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ (CMS) release of Comparative Billing Reports on Imaging Utilization. Reviewed and provided input on the American College of Radiology (ACR) Appropriateness Criteria. Clarified the role of education and provided members with options for CMEs to meet accreditation. Updates to CME available offerings by the Foundation were made to the Imaging Accreditation webpage. Implantable Hearing Devices Committee Jeffery J. Kuhn, MD, Chair Successful transition from a subcommittee to a committee following AAO-HNS Board of Directors approval in December 2011. Review of BCBSA Medical Policy on Cochlear Implants and Auditory Brainstem Implants (WellPoint/Anthem). United Healthcare policy review on Implantable/non-implantable Hearing Devices and Bone Anchored Hearing Aids. Infectious Disease Committee Farrel J. Buchinsky, MD, MBChB, Chair The Infectious Disease Committee presented “Local Anti-Infectives and Anti-Inflammatory Therapy,” a miniseminar moderated by Alan Shikani, MD, at the AAO-HNSF 2012 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPOSM in Washington, DC. The committee assisted the review of a 2005 Bulletin article, “Cleaning Equipment in Today’s ENT Office.” An updated article on instrument reprocessing, developed by the Patient Safety and Quality Improvement (PSQI) committee, was published in the September Bulletin. The committee provided feedback on a set of priority issues developed by the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) and Food and Durg Administration (FDA)summit on the reprocessing of reusable medical devices. Media and Public Relations Committee Wendy B. Stern, MD, Chair The Media and Public Relations Committee conducted a media training session for print and television reporters at the BOG Meeting, May 5-7, 2012, Washington, DC. The session covered several topics, including utilizing social media for your practice, pitching stories to print and television reporters, and using Academy media resources on the website. The committee continued to provide existing support of Academy PR Mini-campaigns for 2012 and Academy Health Observances: World Voice Day, Back to School ENT Health, Better Hearing and Speech Month, and Choking Hazards Campaign. Committee members reviewed and revised the content of AAO-HNSF literature and fact sheets for the Website Content Relevancy Project. Medical Devices and Drugs Committee Anand K. Devaiah, MD, Chair The Medical Devices and Drugs Committee (MDDC) reviewed multiple private payer policies at the request of the 3P Workgroup. The MDDC gave input on a policy from United Healthcare focusing on Transtympanic Micropressure Treatment for Meniere’s Disease. In addition, the MDDC has provided input for Wellpoint’s Policy on the use of the Propel device to maintain sinus ostial patency following functional endoscopic sinus surgery. Two miniseminars at the annual meeting in Washington, DC, were sponsored or co-sponsored by the MDDC: “Take It to Trial: Tips for Designing Your Research Study” and “Cochlear Implant Failures: Experiences and Recommendations.” Medical Informatics Committee Edward B. Ermini, MD, Chair Dr. Ermini, Medical Informatics Committee Chair, was instrumental in providing the Health Policy business unit with comments on the quality measures included in the Meaningful Use EHR incentive program. Microvascular Committee Douglas B. Chepeha, MD The Microvascular Committee is actively engaged in a national retrospective review of reconstructive techniques after surgical salvage of patients who have failed chemoradiation treatment. At present 42 institutions have indicated interest and 14 have submitted data on 257 patients. The goal of this effort is to understand how different approaches to reconstruction affect fistula rates. The information is designed to guide future reconstructive approaches and help develop evidence for how surgeons should approach high risk reconstructive cases. This work has been supported in part by a grant from the AAO-HNS. An application for presentation of this data will be made in the form of a miniseminar in time for the next meeting in Vancouver. A miniseminar was presented on “The Difficult Wound,” and was well attended with substantial audience participation. The committee has also taken on a bold effort to address redesign of the approach to the access to educational materials. Patient Safety and Quality Improvement Committee David W. Roberson, MD, Co-chair Rahul K. Shah, MD, Co-chair The PSQI Committee reached out to SSAC and other relevant clinical committees for ideas for the Choosing Wisely™ campaign. Dr. Roberson represented AAO-HNSF members at a National Summit on Overuse conducted by the Joint Commission and the American Medical Association (AMA) Physician Consortium for Performance Improvement® (PCPI). Tympanostomy Tubes for Middle Ear Effusion of Brief Duration is one of the five advisory panels formed. The PSQI miniprogram sessions included Preliminary Survey Data on Adverse Events in Facial Cosmetic Surgery; Avoiding Injuries in Sinus Surgery; Leadership View of PSQI; and Tonsillectomy Disasters. Planning for the 2013 PSQI miniprogram is underway. A patient safety web link will be launched at www.entnet.org in early 2013 to capture de-identified safety event information. Several committee members wrote an article on instrument reprocessing that was published in the Academy’s September 2012 Bulletin. Data collection continued for the study on post-admission criteria for Obstructive Sleep Apnea and the study of patient hand-offs by residents. Ideas for this year’s work plan for both database studies and survey topics included sustainability, costs, and burdens of public reporting; sterilization of office equipment; allergy; surgical competency; injuries associated with robotic surgery for treatment on peripheral nerve injury; and indication for PET scan where it may not be indicated in cancer. Pediatric Otolaryngology Committee David E. Tunkel, MD, Chair Miniseminars by the Pediatric Otolaryngology Committee included “Innovations in Pediatric Otolaryngology­­­—Video Presentations,” “Pediatric Lumps, Bumps, Cysts, and Pits: Current Concepts,” and “Management Algorithms for the Noisy Infant.” “Tympanostomy Tubes in Children” was submitted to the Guideline Development Task Force as a potential clinical practice guideline last year, and is now nearing completion by the committee assembled by GDTF. Committee members reviewed clinical practice guidelines on acute otitis media, acute pediatric sinusitis, and obstructive sleep apnea for the American Academy of Pediatrics. Physician Resources Committee David W. Kennedy, MD, Chair Continued with its focus on education and tools needed to prepare for workforce shortages and workforce changes. The committee preliminarily estimates that there will be a significant workforce shortage within the specialty. The committee discussed the importance of another formal workforce study to address issues such as surgeons’ readiness for practice, geographic trends associated with state malpractice legislation, and diversity. A formal workforce study developed with methodology expertise will define the ideology and characterization of the imminent shortfall and provide data to allow for members to have a more proactive understanding, through the Academy, of issues and trends, changing practice patterns, and specialty growth opportunities. Such data would provide the Academy with a major opportunity in terms of specialty planning and recommended changes to current training, particularly for residents and fellows. In the next year, the committee will work on reviewing baseline data of practicing otolaryngologists and using this information to move forward with a consensus document on the impending otolaryngologist shortages. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Committee Donna J. Millay, MD, Chair The Plastics and Reconstructive Surgery Committee has continued to be involved in Private Payer Coverage Policy reviews. To facilitate this process we will have a network set up within the committee to have members available for rapid reviews. The committee will also send in a proposal for a miniseminar involving coding in facial plastics. Rhinology and Paranasal Sinus Committee Scott P. Stringer, MD Review of three private payer policies at the request of the 3P Workgroup that included Wellpoint Chronic Headache, UHC Rhinoplasty, Septoplasty, and Repair of Vestibular Stenosis, and Wellpoint Sinus Ostial Patency. The committee also submitted three miniseminar abstracts for the 2012 annual meeting, one of which (Evidence-Based Post-Op Management of Chronic Rhinosinusitis) was approved. Its 2013 goals include the resubmission of all miniseminar topics not accepted for the 2012 meeting including: a co-sponsored session with infectious diseases on topical treatments; a co-sponsored session with infectious diseases on issues surrounding office based surgery (i.e., training, infection, safety). Sleep Disorders Committee Pell Ann Wardrop, MD Edward M. Weaver, MD, MPH represented the Academy at the Washington State Health Technology Assessment  for “Diagnosis and Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea.” It offered an oral presentation “Safety of Outpatient Surgery for Obstructive Sleep Apnea” during the annual meeting. The committee completed Sleep Medicine: Basic and Translational mini-program, orals, posters, miniseminars, and instruction courses for the annual meeting. Trauma Committee Joseph A. Brennan, MD, COL, USAF, Chair With the first year under our belt, the Trauma Committee has a number of accomplishments. First, dedicated committee members, with the assistance of G. Richard Holt, MD, MSE, MPH-BE, and AAO-HNSF Director of Education Audrey Shively, created a comprehensive online handbook called, “Resident Manual of Trauma to the Face, Head, and Neck.” Many committee members served as instruction courses presenters as well presenting the miniseminar “Trauma Update 2012: Answers to your AAO-HNS Survey.” A May Bulletin article entitled, “Disaster and Mass Casualty Response for Physicians” was written by Anna M. Pou, MD, and Mark E. Boston, MD. The Trauma Committee is eager to submit a plan for approval for a Saturday workshop prior to the 2013 AAO-HNSF Annual Meeting & OTO EXPOSM. Voice Committee Clark A. Rosen, MD, Chair It was agreed that the committee should work to develop a paper on pre-op laryngoscopy, especially when there has been a history of thyroidectomy or other procedure involving the laryngeal nerve to be useful outside the specialty and for primary care. The committee responded to the request to review and integrate its Policy Statement on Voice Therapy in the Treatment of Dysphonia, its Hoarseness Guideline, and its consensus statement on the Use of Voice Therapy in the Treatment of Dysphonia. The American Thyroid Association requested Academy member review of its draft thyroid guideline and the committee responded to that request. Young Physicians Committee Monica Tadros, MD, Chair The committee co-sponsored two miniseminars at the 2012 annual meeting, “Finding Balance in a Surgical Career” and “Interviewing: What to Ask and How.” The committee plans to submit several miniseminars again for the 2013 annual meeting in Vancouver, BC. During the 2012 meeting, the committee developed several task forces and will survey all young physicians in the specialty who are active members to identify their needs and determine the best way the YPC can fulfill its mission aligned with the Academy’s guiding principles and strategic plan. The committee is also interested in working closely with Sonya Malekzadeh, MD, coordinator of education on product development for offering a pathway to leadership for young physicians who are transitioning into practice. Foundation Committees Development Committee Nikhil J. Bhatt, MD, Chair The Development Committee conducted its first meeting during the annual meeting focusing the discussion on how to best meet its committee charge to lead fundraising efforts in support of achieving AAO-HNSF mission, goals, and programs. Proposed holding a financial planning miniseminar at the 2013 annual meeting to include information that assists members in considering non-cash options of major gift level charitable donations. To increase the engagement of young physicians and residents with the Academy, the committee will pursue securing four travel grants (two young physicians and two residents) to attend the 2013 annual meeting. Award selection will be based on submission of a 300-word essay describing why the member deserves the travel grant and how he or she plans to give back to the Academy. The next meeting of the committee was planned for mid-November. Humanitarian Efforts Committee Merry E. Sebelik, MD, Chair Congratulations to the Humanitarian Efforts Committee immediate past chair James E. Saunders, MD, for being selected as the next AAO-HNSF International Coordinator. The Humanitarian Efforts Committee expressed its sincere thanks to Dr. Saunders for his strong leadership during the past six years as chair. The committee decided to sunset the Research/Best Practices work group and to combine the Resident Travel Grants Panel with the Residency Advocacy work group. This year the committee will work on putting together better guidelines for each work group. The current work groups are: Resident Travel Grants Panel/Residency Advocacy; Gold Foundation; Emergency/ Disaster Relief/Telemedicine; Head/Neck and Thyroid; Otology; Pediatric; Plastic Reconstructive Surgery (PRS); and Senior Corps/Retirees. Awarded 25 residents and fellows-in-training with Humanitarian Travel Grants in 2012 to offer services in 16 less-developed countries. The Humanitarian Efforts Member Engagement Portal is up and running to help facilitate matching critical needs with medical specialty expertise. History and Archives Committee Lawrence R. Lustig, MD, Chair The Otolaryngology Historical Society’s program at the Cosmos Club was well received and Andrew G. Shuman, MD, Eduardo C. Corrales, MD, and Robert K. Jackler, MD, will write their topics for the Bulletin. Two groups visited the History Factory, the professional archivists where the Academy collection is housed. International Otolaryngology Committee Nikhil J. Bhatt, MD, Chair Dr. Bhatt announced plans to expand the number of International Visiting Scholars, and invited national societies to publicize the call for applications. Five international travel grantees attended the annual meeting and the 2013 application forms will be distributed to U.S. and Canadian department chairs. Dr. Bhatt urged the committee to actively recruit new international members. International Steering Committee Gregory W. Randolph, MD, Chair Dr. Randolph has submitted an Academy panel for the IFOS World Congress, Seoul, Korea, June 2013, and KJ Lee, MD, plans a post-Congress tour of the Far East. Seven International Visiting Scholars from India, Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia attended the annual meeting followed by observerships. The committee will work closely with Dr. Netterville to welcome 2013 honored countries: Canada, Kenya, Nigeria, and Thailand. Outcomes Research, and EBM Subcommittee Scott E. Brietzke, MD, Chair Chair, Scott E. Brietzke, MD, MPH, wrote an article in the July issue of the Bulletin titled, “Evidence Gaps: Prioritizing Our Research ‘To Do’ List” emphasizing the importance of prioritizing and addressing gaps in research, which is the primary focus of this committee’s efforts. Melissa A. Pynnonen, MD, and Seth M. Cohen, MD, each completed a systematic review with the assistance of several other committee members. One review has already been accepted in Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery. Lisa Ishii, MD, and Stephanie Misono, MD, were awarded travel grants to attend the 2012 Cochrane Colloquium in Auckland, New Zealand, where they were to attend workshops and seminars for developing high quality systematic reviews. A survey-based study, led by Eric J. Kezirian, MD, MPH, that considers factors that may be relevant to the surgical treatment of obstructive sleep apnea, with a specific focus on procedures that treat hypopharyngeal or retrolingual obstruction was published in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. A committee endorsed miniseminar titled, “Rapid Review: Guidelines in Pediatric Otolaryngology” was accepted for presentation at the 2012 AAO-HNS Annual Meeting & OTO EXPOSM. Panamerican Committee Juan Manuel Garcia, MD, Chair The 2012 Antonio de la Cruz, MD, scholar was Gustavo Bravo, MD, of Chile, and Jaime Fandino, MD, was the “goodwill ambassador” invited by J. Pablo Stolovitzky, MD, Latin American Regional Advisor to speak at the Global Health 2012 Symposium. The Salvadoran Society of ORL-HNS is affiliated as an International Corresponding Society and the Bolivian Society has requested affiliation. Education Committees Education Steering Committee Sonya Malekzadeh, MD, Chair, Coordinator for Education The Education Steering Committee provided leadership to several new initiatives in 2012 including an update to the COCLIASM resident discussion portal, keyword indexing of all education activities as part of the Website Content Relevancy Project, and a relaunch of the AcademyU® platform. In addition, new education products released in 2012 include AcademyQ™, the knowledge assessment mobile app for iPhone and iPad, the ENT Exam Video Series, available on YouTube, and the “Resident Manual of Trauma to the Face, Head, and Neck.” Work continues on the “Maintenance Manual for Lifelong Learning” (MMLL) update with the new e-publication expected in fall 2013. Core Otolaryngology and Practice Management Education Committee Richard R. Waguespack, MD, Chair The committee continues to provide policy and content oversight to the Coding and Reimbursement workshops conducted regionally each year. Its members serve as experts in ever-changing coding and practice management issues. In addition, the committee produced a Home Study Course on “Clinical Competency Issues.” Brendan C. Stack Jr., MD, has taken over as committee chair through 2014. Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Education Committee Fred G. Fedok, MD, Chair The committee produced a Home Study Course on “Plastic and Reconstructive Problems” and two PMP courses on “Adult with Tired Eyes” and “Adult with Saddle Nose Deformity.” The committee welcomes J. Randall Jordan, MD, as the chair-elect for 2013. General Otolaryngology Education Committee Karen T. Pitman, MD, Chair The committee provided leadership to the second successful ENT for the PA-C conference conducted in conjunction with AAPA and SPAO. They also produced a Home Study Course on “Trauma and Critical Care Medicine” and an online course, “Grave’s Disease.” In addition, this committee served as reviewers for the ENT Exam Video Series. GOEC was designated as a Model Committee for 2012. Head and Neck Surgery Education Committee Dennis H. Kraus, MD, Chair The committee is currently developing three PMP courses on “Adult with Facial Pain,” “Adult with Cystic Neck Mass,” and “Nasal Reconstruction.” Richard V. Smith, MD, assumes the role of chair for this committee through 2014. HNSEC was designated as a Model Committee for 2012. Laryngology and Bronchoesophagology Education Committee Catherine R. Lintzenich, MD, Chair The committee produced a PMP course on “Adult with Chronic Cough” and is currently developing one on “Subglottic Stenosis.” Otology and Neurotology Education Committee Bradley W. Kesser, MD, Chair The committee produced a COOL course on “Dizziness in the Elderly” and a PMP course on “Adult with Progressive Hearing Loss.” Pediatric Otolaryngology Education Committee Sugki S. Choi, MD, Chair The committee produced a Home Study Course on Congenital and Pediatric Problems and three COOL courses on “Indications for Tonsillectomy,” “Aerodigestive Foreign Body,” and “Complications of Pediatric Sinusitis.” They also published a PMP on “Child with Sudden Onset of Drooling.” New committee chair, Kenny H. Chan, MD, began his tenure in October 2012. POEC was designated as a model committee for 2012. Rhinology and Allergy Education Committee James A. Hadley, MD, Chair The committee just published a Home Study Course, “Rhinology and Allergic Disorders” and is developing a PMP course, “Epistaxis.” This committee welcomes Brent A. Senior, MD, as the new chair through 2014. Board of Governors (BOG) Committees Representatives from Board of Governors societies from across the country were well represented during the BOG meetings, conducted during the AAO-HNSF 2012 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPOSM. Highlights from the meetings included those outlined here. BOG Development/Fundraising Task Force Jay S. Youngerman, MD, Chair The BOG expressed its sincere thanks to Dr. Youngerman and the members of the Task Force for their successful fundraising efforts during the past several years. With the formation of the new Foundation Fundraising Committee, the Task Force sunsetted at the end of the 2012 annual meeting, Dr. Youngerman will continue his great work on the new Foundation committee. BOG Legislative Representatives Committee Paul M. Imber, DO, Chair The committee received updates on current federal and state legislative activities for 2012, including Medicare physician payment reform, repeal of the Independent Payment Advisory Board (IPAB), medical liability reform, cosmetic medical procedure taxes, and ongoing scope-of-practice battles.  Committee members also received an update on the recent Supreme Court decision upholding the individual mandate provisions of the Affordable Care Act. In addition, updates were provided on a new “look” for ENT PAC (the political action committee of the AAO-HNS), new “in-district” grassroots opportunities, and highlights of the 2012 OTO Advocacy Summit. The committee heard from guest speaker Ingrida Lusis with the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA) who spoke on their activities and collaborative efforts with the AAO-HNS. BOG Rules and Regulations Committee Joseph E. Hart, MD, Chair The committee conducted a strategy session for committee members to outline plans for auditing all current state/local BOG societies in the coming year. BOG Socioeconomics and Grassroots Committee Peter J. Abramson, MD, Chair Guest speaker Richard W. Waguespack, MD, updated attendees on the progress of the 3P Workgroup. Attendees reviewed and debated a proposal from the Georgia BOG Society, “Opposition to Subspecialty Certification in Pediatric Otolaryngology.”  The proposal was forwarded to the BOG Executive Committee, slightly modified and then adopted by the BOG General Assembly attendees. A discussion of insurance challenges, including mandatory outpatient thyroidectomies and PET scan charge back and pay for appeals was presented. Dr. Abramson unveiled the Committee’s Regional Representation Plan to improve communications across BOG regions and to offer members a voice where viable BOG societies don’t exist. BOG Executive Committee-sponsored Miniseminar—”Hot Topics in Otolaryngology: 2012″ Wendy R. Stern, MD, BOG Secretary Dr. Wendy Stern moderated a compelling panel presentation on current hot topics in otolaryngology. They included the changing relationship between physicians and hospitals as a response to pressures to reduce healthcare costs and consolidate the healthcare system, specifically looking at integrated healthcare systems and Accountable Care Organizations and highlighting the advocacy work of our Academy. BOG General Assembly BOG committee chairs provided updated reports on their committees’ activities from the past year. The Connecticut Ear, Nose, and Throat Society (CENTS) received the 2012 BOG Model Society Award. BOG Chair Sujana S. Chandrasekhar, MD, presented Recognition Awards to Michael D. Seidman, MD, and Susan R. Cordes, MD, for their service on the BOG Executive Committee. Dr. Chandrasekhar also presented an award to Jay Youngerman, MD, for his strong leadership and dedication as the chair of the BOG Fundraising/Development Task Force. Dr. Chandrasekhar presented BOG Chair Awards to Hosakere S. Chandrasekhar, MD; John W. House, MD; and Gavin Setzen, MD. Governors (or their alternates) in attendance elected Peter J. Abramson, MD, to the position of BOG Chair-Elect and Stacey L. Ishman, MD, to the position of BOG Member-at-Large. Sections Section for Residents and Fellows-in-Training (SRF) Jayme R. Dowdall, MD, Chair The Section for Residents and Fellows-in-Training (SRF) functions as an advisory board to the Board of Directors (BOD). During the annual meeting, Monday was officially recognized as Residents Day with several special events geared toward residents. SRF General Assembly The Section conducted a very well-attended General Assembly meeting. During the session, attendees elected the following new officers: Nikhila M. Raol, MD, Chair Nathan A. Deckard, MD, Vice Chair John M. Carter, MD, Member-at-Large Meghan N. Wilson, MD, Information Officer Estelle S. Yoo, MD, BOG Governor Kanwar S. Kelley, MD, JD, BOG Legislative Representative Brianne B. Roby, MD, BOG Public Relations Representative In addition, Jayme R. Dowdall, MD, transitioned to Immediate Past Chair. SRF-sponsored/co-sponsored Miniseminars “Interviewing: What to Ask and How” “Finding Balance in a Surgical Career” Women in Otolaryngology (WIO) Section Shannon P. Pryor, MD, Chair The Women in Otolaryngology (WIO) Section seeks to support women otolaryngologists by identifying their needs, fostering their development, and promoting women as leaders in the specialty.  The Section completed its transitional year and its committees are planning several activities in the coming year. WIO Section Committees Each of the six WIO committees conducted committee meetings to plan and coordinate their activities for the coming year.  The committees and their current leaders are: Valerie A. Flanary, MD, Chair, Awards Erika A. Woodson, MD, Chair, Communications Pell Ann Wardrop, MD, Chair, Development/Endowment Mona M. Abaza, MD, Chair, Leadership Development and Mentorship Lauren S. Zaretsky, MD, Chair, Program Linda S. Brodsky, MD, Chair, Research and Survey WIO Luncheon/General Assembly Medical blogger physician, Kevin Pho, MD, AKA “KevinMD,” kicked off the WIO luncheon with his talk, “Connect and Be Heard: Make a Difference in Healthcare with Social Media.” The Section honored Sujana S. Chandrasekhar, MD, as the recipient of the 2012 Helen F. Krause, MD Trailblazer Award. The WIO Governing Council also honored Dr. Pryor for her hard-work during the past year and welcomed incoming Chair, Susan R. Cordes, MD. General Assembly attendees had the opportunity to network with their colleagues and learn more about WIO Section committees by participating in breakout roundtable discussions. The WIO Endowment Fund has continued to be successful in their fundraising efforts and solicited “Requests for Proposals” that fulfill the Section’s charge to support the career development of women otolaryngologist-head and neck surgeons. WIO-sponsored/co-sponsored Miniseminars “Interviewing:  What to Ask and How” “Role of Women in Humanitarian Outreach” Advisory/ Other Committees Centralized Otolaryngology Research Efforts (CORE) Study Section Jay O. Boyle, MD, Head and Neck Surgery Sub-Committee Chair Christine G. Gourin, MD, Head and Neck Surgery Sub-Committee Chair-elect David R. Friedland, MD, PhD, Otology Sub-Committee Chair Rodney J. Schlosser, MD, General Sub-Committee Chair One hundred reviewers participated in the 2012 Study Section (up 30 percent from 2011) Reviewed 189 research grant applications (up 24 percent from 2011) requesting $3,517,630 in research funding. Made funding recommendations to the 11 partnering specialty societies. Provided written critiques back to all 189 research grant applicants. Ultimately, the partnering specialty societies and sponsors awarded 45 grants (up 18 percent since 2011) totaling $737,471 (up 17 percent from 2011). Instruction Course Advisory Committee Sukgi S. Choi, MD, Instruction Course Coordinator The Instruction Course Advisory Committee reviewed and organized the instruction course program for the last annual meeting in Washington, DC. The committee: Reviewed the course evaluation results completed by attendees at the 2011 annual meeting and based on the data along with attendance figures, auto-accepted 172 instruction courses to be presented at the 2012 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPOSM. Reviewed an additional 326 applications to be considered for the 2012 program, ultimately presenting a total of 355 exceptional instruction courses. Included two instruction courses specifically designed to fulfill the ABO’s Clinical Fundamental requirements for Part III of Maintenance of Certification during the 2012 annual meeting: Clinical Fundamentals: Treatment of Anaphylaxis Clinical Fundamentals: Clinical Outcome Measures/Evidence Based Medicine Physician Payment Policy (3P) Workgroup Richard W. Waguespack, MD, and Michael Setzen, MD, Co-chairs Five comment letters to CMS, including comments on proposed and final EHR Meaningful Stage Two rules, proposed rules on the 2013 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule and Hospital Outpatient and Ambulatory Surgical Centers. Successfully advocated for coverage of sinus ostial balloon dilation by Humana with continued efforts to support members who are locally advocating for change, including the availability of a new template appeal letter drafted for member’s balloon sinus ostial dilation denials. Continued ongoing third party payer advocacy efforts in support of patient safety and opposing United Healthcare’s (UHC’s) direct-to-consumer hearing aid sales program including meetings with UHC executive leadership and a letter to the FDA. Eighteen responses were provided to Third Party Payers regarding their medical policies with input received from Academy Committees in comparison to five responses the previous year. CPT and RUC efforts were significantly increased with 20 codes RUC surveyed and presented to the AMA RUC and six Code Change Proposals (CCPs) submitted to AMA’s CPT Editorial Panel. Nine Clinical Indicators were updated after detailed review by numerous Academy Committees and 3P, including “Endoscopic Sinus Surgery,” “Nasal Endoscopy,” “Canalith Repositioning,” “Tonsillectomy, Adenoidectomy, and Adentonsillectomy,” “Septoplasty,” “Adenoidectomy,” “Laryngoscopy/ Nasopharyngoscopy,” “Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: Pediatric,” and “Neck Dissection.” Clinical Indicator page at http://www.entnet.org/Practice/clinicalIndicators.cfm. Three Health Policy Miniseminars for the 2012 annual meeting were hosted by 3P, including the 3P miniseminar on new strategies in Academy advocacy for physician payment; ICD10 transition miniseminar; and the Medicare Contractor Administrative Committee (CAC) miniseminar. Program Advisory Committee Eben L. Rosenthal, MD, Scientific Program Coordinator The Program Advisory Committee planned and conducted the scientific program for the 2012 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPOSM in Washington, DC. The committee: Reviewed 985 oral and poster applications, ultimately accepting 274 orals and 442 clinical and basic translational posters. Reviewed 143 miniseminar applications, accepting 91 thought-provoking miniseminars presented by experts in the field. Specialty Society Advisory Council Samuel H. Selesnick, MD, Chair The SSAC discussed the value of producing an SSAC miniseminar for annual meeting. Eben Rosenthal, MD, AAO-HNSF coordinator for scientific program, gave the group an overview on the submission process. Sonya Malekzadeh, MD, AAO-HNSF coordinator for education, gave the group an update on the recent educational initiatives for the AAO-HNSF. David R. Nielsen, MD, EVP/CEO, gave the group an update on the Value Based Payment Modifier and PQRS. Richard W. Waguespack, MD, and Michael Setzen, MD, from 3P discussed with the group how to better communicate with the societies on providing input on payer/insurer payment policies Surgical Simulation Task Force Ellen Deutsch, MD, Chair The Task Force researched and reported to the Foundation Board on the state of surgical simulation in otolaryngology. Throughout the year members represented the AAO-HNS/F on cross-specialty surgical simulation organizations, while continuing to gather data and information. Open surgical simulation meetings took place at both COSM and the annual meeting. A Simulation Fair took place in conjunction with several related miniseminars. The Task Force continues to work on a survey and plans for a surgical simulation summit in 2013. Robotic Surgery Task Force Eric Genden, MD, Chair The Robotic Surgery Task Force began work on best practices for training and credentialing in robotic surgery within otolaryngology-head and neck surgery. The Task Force represents the AAO-HNS/F in national robotic surgery organizations and initiatives, such as the development of Foundations for Robotic Surgery.