2013 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 AAO-HNSF 2013 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO℠ in Vancouver, BC, Canada, Academy and Foundation committees met and discussed achievements during the past year and planned for 2014. On the following pages are brief summaries of actions taken by many of the committees. To view a list of current committee members, please refer to the November 2013 Bulletin, or visit http://www.entnet.org/community/committees.cfm. To join a committee, visit www.entnet.org/committees and fill out an  application before the February 3, 2014, deadline. STANDING COMMITTEES Audit Committee Kenneth W. Altman, MD, PhD, Chair The audit of the consolidated financial statements for the year ended June 30, 2013, (FY13) was substantially complete at the time of the Annual Meeting and was on track for completion in early October. The audit committee did not meet during the Annual Meeting, but met later in October 2013 to review the audit with staff and the independent auditors. Ethics Committee Lauren S. Zaretsky, MD, Chair Susan D. McCammon, MD, Committee Chair-Elect Susan D. McCammon, MD, was selected as chair-elect, effective October 2013, until she assumes the chair position October 2014. Two of three submitted miniseminars “Exercises in Futility and Off Label Uses of Drugs and Technology” were approved and presented at the 2013 Annual Meeting. The Ethics-based Patient Management Perspectives in Otolaryngology Module was completed and published. The Ethics Maintenance of Certification Instruction Course was completed and presented at the annual meeting. Eleven position statements were reviewed and recommended to the BODs to be reaffirmed, revised, or sunset. Several policies were developed, or revised, and presented to the BODs for approval in conjunction with the implementation of the Code for interactions with companies. Two of the most significant policies are the Financial and Intellectual Relationships Disclosure Policy and the related Resolution Policy. An official rollout of these policies and an online form is expected in the next few months. Additionally in 2014, a new member handbook is expected to be available and it will include member-related policies and guidance. Finance and Investment Subcommittee of the EC (FISC) Gavin Setzen, MD, Chair The FISC worked throughout the year transitioning the managed investment portfolio to the new independent investment advisor, selected by the FISC at the 2012 Annual Meeting, through an RFP process. During spring 2013, the FISC focused on working with staff to develop the FY14 budget, which was approved by the Board of Directors at its meeting in May 2013. On a quarterly basis, the FISC met to review financial statements, forecasts, and budget to actual variances and reviewed the annual audit and report of the Audit Committee. At the 2013 Annual Meeting, the independent investment advisor made a presentation to the subcommittee about the managed portfolios FY13 investment performance and market outlook. Investment performance reports are reviewed and discussed by the FISC quarterly and with the investment advisor at least bi-annually. The subcommittee continues to discuss a strategy for investing the proceeds from the sale of the former headquarters building, which were recently received from the buyer as repayment of a note entered into at the time of the sale. Preservation of principal is essential as the proceeds are intended to reduce debt on the current headquarters building. An updated reimbursement agreement outlining the terms pursuant to which the Academy and Foundation share costs and provide for reimbursement of expenses was endorsed by the FISC and approved by the ECs on behalf of the BODs. Science and Educational Committee Richard M. Rosenfeld, MD, MPH, Chair The Science and Educational Committee capitalized on opportunities for collaboration, advancement, and innovation in the Foundation’s research, quality, education, and knowledge offerings. In 2013, the committee put special emphasis on its role as an advisory body to the Foundation Board of Directors. Focus areas for 2013 included the identification and addressing of performance gaps in otolaryngology, relationship disclosure policies and procedures, and strategic assessment of the full slate of the Foundation’s scientific and educational products. ACADEMY COMMITTEES Airway and Swallowing Committee Joel H. Blumin, MD, Chair The Airway and Swallowing committee sponsored four basic and translational miniprograms as miniseminars at the 2013 Annual Meeting—”Reflux: Pathophysiology to Management;” “Airway: Advances in Management; Voice: From Cells to Song; and Dysphagia: From Science to Clinical Practice.” Two additional miniseminars under laryngology/broncho-esophagology were also presented—Practical Approach to Swallowing Problems and Endoscopic vs. Open Treatment of Laryngotracheal Stenosis. The committee has reviewed five position statements: Foreign Bodies of the Upper Aerodigestive Tract http://bit.ly/foreign_bodies; The Roles of Flexible Laryngoscopy Videostroboscopy http://bit.ly/flexiblelaryng; Fiberoptic Endoscopic Examinations of Swallowing http://bit.ly/fiberendo; Laryngoscopy and Bronchoscopy http://bit.ly/Laryngo_Broncho; Laryngopharyngeal Reflux http://bit.ly/Laryngo_Reflux. The committee continues to work on developing new miniseminar topics, and continues the ongoing discussion of new educational activities. Members of the committee have been active in the international tracheotomy collaborative and are gathering data regarding tracheotomy and developing best practice guidelines. Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Committee James W. Mims, MD, Chair The committee presented four instruction courses and one miniseminar at the Annual Meeting: “Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT): Why and How?” “Skin Testing for Inhalant and Food Allergies” “Pediatric Allergy Update 2013” “Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disorders for the ENT” “Food Allergy 2013: State of the Science” Reviewed and updated Allergy and Remote Practice Allergy Policy Statements Reviewed and provided comments on an Aetna Immunotherapy  Policy Change Reviewed and updated “Allergies and Hay Fever” and “Antihistamines, Decongestants, and Cold Remedies” patient leaflets. In a joint effort with AAOA, the committee proposed to the Academy’s Executive Committee to sunset and remove the Allergy Clinical Indicator from the Academy’s website. The motion was approved. Two committee members are serving on the guideline development group for Allergic Rhinitis, which was originally submitted to the guideline task force by this committee. Participated in the development of an AAO-HNSF, AAAAI, and ACAAI joint letter to the FDA in response to their consideration of over-the-counter status for a nasal steroid (Sanofi/Nasacort). Credentials and Membership Committee Pierre Lavertu, MD, Chair The Credentials and Membership Committee is charged with determining eligibility for Academy membership, continuing review of Academy member categories, and developing campaigns to increase membership by making all otolaryngologist-head and neck surgeons aware of the need to support the Academy’s overall mission. At this year’s meeting, the committee discussed working closely with Academy staff on the creation and implementation of new alternatives for increasing the AAO-HNS 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 The miniseminar “Integrative Approach to Atypical Facial Pain and Headache” was presented and supported by the Complementary/Integrative Medicine Committee and the Rhinology and Allergy Education Committee. The committee discussed possible topics for miniseminars for the 2014 Annual Meeting and proposed “Tinnitus and Dizziness in the Difficult Patient” as well as “A CIM approach to Difficult and Resistant Chronic Rhinosinusitis.” CPT and Relative Value Committee Jane T. Dillon, MD A Bulletin article was published on the importance of time and intensity when completing Specialty Society Relative Value Scale Update Committee (RUC) surveys. A RUC panel was developed and showcased at the annual meeting highlighting the importance of the surveys, and the AMA RUC process slides were posted onto the Academy website. The committee nominated and obtained Board approval for two new RUC trainees, Pete S. Batra, MD, and Peter Manes, MD, and one new CPT Alternate Advisor, Lawrence M. Simon, MD, and nominated and obtained Board approval for a new CPT/RVU Committee Chair, John T. Lanza, MD. The committee integrated and solicited participation of ARS members in the April RUC survey of four nasal endoscopy codes (31237-31240). A letter was submitted to CMS in support of a HCPCS J code for Propel drug-eluting sinus stent. CPT slides on AcademyU® were updated and reposted for member access and education on the general Academy website. Staff coordinated with Karen Zupko & Associates to draft a Bulletin article on correct coding for endoscopic skull-based procedures and to highlight the importance of RUC surveys in their coding course materials. Diversity Committee Lisa Perry-Gilkes, MD, Chair Awarded two Harry Barnes Endowment Travel Grants to assist with travel to the annual meeting. Awarded two Diversity Endowment Resident Leadership Grants to assist with travel to the annual meeting. Candice C. Colby-Scott, MD, wrote  an article for the June issue of  the Bulletin. Phyllis B. Bouvier, MD, wrote an article for the October issue of the Bulletin. Endocrine Surgery Committee Ralph P. Tufano, MD, Chair The committee provided 14 volunteers as faculty for another sold-out Ultrasound Workshop September 28 in Vancouver. The committee is working on “branding” thyroid/parathyroid on the Academy’s new website design, patient information materials, and in the 2014 annual meeting program. The committee will sponsor several miniseminars for the 2014 meeting. A committee goal is to work with AAO-HNSF leadership to establish a Head and Neck Endocrine Surgery category for listing instructional courses, miniseminars, and scientific program presentations and posters for the 2014 annual meeting. To highlight Thyroid Cancer Awareness month September 2014, the committee will write a Bulletin feature article and collaborate with the thyroid cancer patient support group ThyCa on community outreach in Orlando during the Academy’s annual meeting. Robert A. Sofferman, MD, is developing a Head and Neck Ultrasound Certification in conjunction with the American Institute for Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM.) Ralph P. Tufano, MD, and others are working to establish Thyroid/parathyroid Surgery Courses for residents and fellows in their training programs. He proposed a miniseminar on thyroidectomy skills training to the Society of University Otolaryngologists (SUO). Several committee members took part in thyroid humanitarian missions to Africa and Asia led by Merry E. Sebelik, MD. Under the new survey guidelines, the committee will review the proposed survey on “Laryngeal Nerve Monitoring and Laryngeal Examination.” Because the committee is active year-round, there will be one or more conference calls to maintain the momentum through the year. Equilibrium Committee Joel A. Goebel, MD, Chair The committee presented two miniseminars at the Annual Meeting: “Emerging Concepts in Migraine Associated Dizziness,” moderated by Michael E. Hoffer, MD “Advances in the Objective Diagnosis of Ménière’s Disease,” moderated by Jeremy Hornibrook, FRACS Geriatric Otolaryngology Committee Robert T. Sataloff, MD, DMA, Chair Alan Rubin, MD, Chair-elect The committee was awarded the Model Committee designation this year and gratefully acknowledged the assistance of the Academy in achieving this honor. Work is beginning on a geriatric otolaryngology book with Thieme publishing to be available late in 2014. The book’s editors, Dr. Sataloff, Michael M. Johns III, MD, and Karen M. Kost, MD, distributed a robust outline that touches on more than 12 major topic areas addressing traditional clinical issues in treating the aged and other quality-of-life issues that influence treatment. As the book takes shape, a patient leaflet will be developed about otolaryngic care for the aging patient. Miniseminar topics were proposed for 2014 and 2015, including otolaryngic disease in the aging patient, balance and falls, and sleep surgery. Dr. Rubin was acknowledged as the incoming chair. Head and Neck Surgery and Oncology Committee Christine G. Gourin, MD, MPH, Chair The committee discussed electronic publication of the 4th edition update of the American Joint Committee on Cancer staging manual. Guideline topic discussion included management of the neck mass, which was identified by the committee as a suitable topic for guideline development. The committee presented two miniseminars: on “The ‘New’ Cancer Patient: Young, Non-Smoker, HPV+ Evaluation,” pertaining to the management and evaluation of HPV+ oropharyngeal cancer, which were well attended. The need for an annual update in the face of the HPV epidemic was discussed. Hearing Committee Douglas D. Backous, MD, Chair The committee responded to a letter to the editor in response to the publication of A New Standardized Format for Reporting Hearing Outcome in Clinical Trials. The committee participated in the external peer review of the American Society of Neurophysiological Monitoring (ASNM) Intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) Practice Guidelines for Supervising Professionals. The committee participated in the external peer review of the AAO-HNSF Clinical Practice Guideline: Tinnitus. The committee reviewed/edited seven AAO-HNS position statements: Statement 1: Otology/Neurotology; Statement 2: Ototoxicity; Statement 3: Stapedectomy/stapedotomy; Statement 4: Red Flags—warning of ear disease; Statement 5: Hearing Impairment; Statement 6: Evaluation prior to hearing aid fitting; and Statement 7: Posturography. The committee presented three instruction courses at the annual meeting: “Medical-Legal Evaluation of Hearing Loss: Review and Update,” moderated by Robert A. Dobie, MD; “Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss: An Otologic Emergency?” by Sujana S. Chandrasekhar, MD, and James E. Saunders, MD; and “Implantable Hearing Devices: Indications, Surgery, Outcomes,” moderated by Jose N. Fayad, MD, and Jack J. Wazen, MD. Imaging Committee Gavin Setzen, MD, Chair The ultrasound (US) group, led by Robert A. Sofferman, MD, and including Russell B. Smith, MD, Lisa A. Orloff, MD, and Merry E. Sebelik, MD, worked diligently with the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) and ACS to develop U.S. Guidelines for Head and Neck. A future Bulletin article is planned to provide members more details. The committee and staff continue to advocate against decreased payment and prior authorization for in-office imaging services. Advocacy efforts included: Comments to the Milliman Care Guidelines requiring a CT scan prior to stapedectomy. National Imaging Associates (NIA, a Radiology Benefit Manager, RBM) restricting coverage of miniCT in Florida and New York; AAO-HNS sent Coventry letter; Dr. Setzen and staff joined call in August; Coventry agreed to pay for this in south Florida. United HealthCare (UHC) miniCT peer-to-peer review prior authorization issue: UHC changed systems error so it’s no longer required for a peer-to-peer review solely based on the use of a miniCT; published article in The News August 22 to let members know. Signed on to Coalition for Patient Centered Imaging (CPCI) comment letter on August 9 in opposition to HR 2914 to limit the in-office ancillary services exception to the STARK law. Two position statements were reviewed: Point-of-Care Imaging in Otolaryngology (reaffirmed) and Intraoperative Use of Computer Aided Surgery (added references). Joseph Scharpf, MD, and David R. Friedmann, MD, participated in the external peer review process for the clinical practice guideline (CPG) on Bell’s palsy, chaired by Reginald F. Baugh, MD. The committee volunteers, David Friedmann, MD, and Jeff Kim, MD, will participate in the external review for the CPG on tinnitus. The committee joined with the American Rhinologic Society (ARS) to develop a questionnaire to jointly survey Academy and ARS members, including residents and fellows-in-training, regarding practice patterns and other aspects of CT imaging in patients with paranasal sinus disease. A future issue of the Bulletin will include a summary of the survey results. The committee is reviewing more than 100 online courses to determine whether they are imaging-related or not to create a new library of courses that members could take to meet accreditation requirements. Implantable Hearing Devices Committee Craig A. Buchman, MD, Chair Presented an instruction course, “Implantable Hearing Devices: Indications, Surgery, Outcomes” at the annual meeting. Submitted comments and presentation at the Washington State HealthCare Authority (WHCA) Health Technology Assessment on Unilateral and Bilateral Cochlear Implants. Provided comments on the Wellpoint Clinical Guideline on Auditory Brainstem Responses (ABRs) and Evoked Otoacoustic Emissions (OAEs) for Screening and Diagnosis of Hearing Disorders. Submitted a letter to Intermountain related to their lack of coverage for bone-anchored hearing aids (BAHA). Reviewed and provided edits to two position statements: Implantable Devices and Cochlear Implants. Reviewed and provided edits to Cochlear Implants and Meningitis Fact Sheet. Reviewed and provided content edits to Health Information Page-Cochlear Implants. Updated and continues to maintain an Implantable Auditory Devices List. Infectious Disease Committee Farrel Buchinsky, MBChB, Chair The committee presented “Multi-resistant Bacterial Infections in 2013,” a miniseminar moderated by Tulio A. Valdez, MD. The committee conducted a survey on antibiotic usage in the perioperative period in common otolaryngological procedures. Committee members assisted with preliminary and external peer reviews for the Acute Otitis Externa guideline update. Committee members authored a Bulletin article focusing on infectious diseases encountered in West Africa. The Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) sought the support of the committee with two of its congressional initiatives: Limited Population Antibacterial Drug (LPAD) proposal and the related Strategies to Address Antimicrobial Resistance (STAAR) Act. The committee reviewed and supported the retention of the Academy’s Communicable Diseases Policy. Media and Public Relations Committee Wendy B. Stern, MD, Chair The committee worked on public outreach activities and health observances such as World Voice Day and KIDS ENT month. The committee supported the Academy’s response to media requests from publications including the Wall Street Journal and Parade magazine. At the spring 2013 BOG meeting, the committee conducted a training session on social media. The committee also cosponsored a miniseminar, “Utilization of Social Media in Medicine,” at the Annual Meeting. The committee is working with the Ethics Committee to develop guidelines for Academy members for reference on the effective, ethical, and legal use of social media. The committee is striving to make public relations information more accessible to the membership, particularly with relation to guidelines. Medical Devices and Drugs Committee Anand K. Devaiah, MD, Chair The MDDC reviewed and reaffirmed the “Physician Drug Dispensing” Position Statement at the 2012 Annual Meeting. The Board of Directors approved this action item in December of 2012. The MDDC reviewed and revised the “Medical Use of Cocaine” Position Statement. The Board of Directors approved this action item in May 2013. The committee created an Excel database of committee member interests for media interviews, Bulletin articles, medical policy reviews with insurers, or any other requests for weighing in with clinical expertise. Several MDDC members provided expertise for WellPoint’s request for comments for Sinus Ostial Patency Policy and Usage of Propel Device. Medical Informatics Committee Subinoy Das, MD, Chair At the annual meeting, the committee worked on its plans for 2014 including: Development of a new miniseminar on telemedicine. A Bulletin article on electronic medical record (EMR) systems interoperability issues. Development of a medical informatics expert’s list. Development of an article about HIPAA challenges. Microvascular Committee Douglas B. Chepeha, MD The committee is engaged in a national retrospective review of reconstructive techniques after surgical salvage of patients who have failed chemoradiation treatment. Thirty-four institutions have sent data on 498 patients. The goal is to understand how different approaches to reconstruction affect fistula rate. 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-HNSF. The data was presented October 2 with about 200 members present. Univariate data was presented that suggests the use of vascularized tissue reduces fistula rate, however, multivariable regression will be needed to establish significant differences. This effort will be extended for subgroup analysis and a miniseminar is under development for the 2014 meeting. Patient Safety and Quality Improvement Committee David W. Roberson, MD, Co-Chair Rahul K. Shah, MD, Co-Chair Committee oversight of the Choosing Wisely campaign response by the Academy to identify test and/or procedures that should be questioned and to engage patients in discussions about appropriateness of care. PSQI engaged Academy committees and GTF, as many of the topics in our final list came from Academy published clinical practice guidelines. The AAO-HNSF top five list of things physicians and patients should question was presented at the Choosing Wisely® press conference in Washington, DC, in February. A committee-sponsored commentary article appeared in the April issue of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. PSQI was instrumental in working with the FDA on the use of codeine post tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy. The FDA issued an alert last year. The committee communicated to the membership on the FDA’s action and representatives from PSQI were included in FDA conference calls to provide input on the issue. PSQI committee co-chair Dr. Roberson and EVP and CEO Dr. Nielsen co-authored a commentary article with an FDA official that was published in the June 6 New England Journal of Medicine (http://bit.ly/NEJMdrug). The PSQI sponsored two well-attended miniseminars at the annual meeting: “Big Patients Big Worries,” focused on reviewing the unique requirements of obese patients to ensure quality care. “In Office Safety: Are you putting your patients at risk?” focused on compounded pharmaceuticals, allergy vial preparation, and sterilization and safe use of equipment. It reviewed the position statement on performance measures. Data analysis and manuscript development is currently underway for the Post-Op Criteria for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) database study. The study assesses whether specific risk factors for adverse outcomes can be identified among patients with OSA undergoing ENT surgery. PSQI was notified that a paper by Cote, et al., “Death or Neurologic Injury after Tonsillectomy in Children,” recently published in Anesthesia & Analgesia, had conclusions similar to the committee’s “Major Morbidity and Mortality after Tonsillectomy” paper published in The Laryngoscope. The PSQI has reached out to Dr. Cote and colleagues in anesthesia about a possible joint effort to develop an evidence-based guideline for perioperative tonsillectomy care. A patient safety web link developed and tested last year to capture de-identified safety event information from members in a secure environment is now available to members. PSQI will be concentrating on best methods of communicating to members about the link and highlighting its location on the website to make it more prominent this year. In addition to the two publications mentioned above, Dr. Shah continues to address the most recent and relevant information on patient safety and quality improvement in his monthly Bulletin column. Pediatric Otolaryngology Committee Kenny H. Chan, MD, Chair The committee chair and membership developed Bulletin content for KIDS ENT month that included utility of clinical practice guidelines in pediatric otolaryngology as well as a fact sheet on safety issues. The committee developed Bulletin content on tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy analgesia and codeine black box warning. The committee chair and membership developed a GTDF proposal for laryngomalacia. The committee sponsored a miniseminar at the annual meeting on “Tonsillectomy Analgesia without Codeine.” Members of the committee reviewed and offered comment on AAO-HNS Policy Statements regarding “Infant Hearing Screening” and “Pediatric Otolaryngology.” Physician Resources Committee David W. Kennedy, MD, Chair The committee continues to work toward completing a consensus document to address what is believed to be an impending shortage of otolaryngologists. The document will assist in providing the specialty and our members with the education and tools needed to prepare for workforce changes. Fundamental to this document is understanding accurately the current workforce. This year we researched the different organizations publically reporting national otolaryngology numbers. A key finding was that the majority of these organizations use the same source, the AMA Master File, as the basis for their reporting. The final report is currently being analyzed. The committee was provided data by ABOto strongly suggesting that the other databases may underestimate the otolaryngology workforce. This database needs to be reconciled against these other data sources including the AAO-HNS membership data. A subgroup of the committee is working on otolaryngology workforce numbers reconciliation. Clearly providing accurate information to the specialty on this issue is critical for future workforce planning. Moving ahead, a committee subgroup will work with other academy groups, such as Women in Otolaryngology, the Diversity Committee, and the Section of Young Otolaryngologists to identify additional information that we need to collect from our workforce to improve data accuracy. The committee reviewed and provided feedback on two Academy position statements: “Reimbursement for Taking Hospital Call” and “Scope of Practice for Non-physician Providers.” Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Committee Donna J. Millay, MD, Chair The PRS committee presented a miniseminar at the annual meeting titled “Coding and Precertification Strategies for Nasal Surgery.” Several committee members reviewed and provided comments on the Botulinum Toxin Treatment Policy Statement. Rhinology and Paranasal Sinus Committee Scott P. Stringer, MD, Chair Reviewed Aetna’s Rhinoplasty/Septoplasty policy. Reviewed and revised the Dilation of Sinuses, Debridement of Sinus Cavity after FESS and Sinus Endoscopy Position Statements; the Allergy Clinical Indicator; and the five patient information leaflets related to Rhinology. Submitted three miniseminars for the Annual Meeting. Included key rhinology codes within the Academy ICD-10 Superbill as a resource for the general membership. Facilitated successful participation in the Specialty Society Relative Value Scale Update Committee (RUC) surveys of nasal endoscopy codes 31237-31240 for the April RUC meeting. Skull Base Committee Gregory J. Artz, MD, Chair During the past year we have worked with Roberto Cueva, MD, in preparing guidelines for the reporting of results in vestibular schwannoma management. These guidelines were finalized and approved by the committee. The goal of these guidelines is to standardize reporting standards for all the major journals in otolaryngology. After discussions with the American Neurotologic Society and the American Otologic Society, we hope to gain approval from all the major journals in the next year. The committee will attempt to gain approval of one to two miniseminars for the 2014 Annual Meeting on topics that would interest the general otolaryngologist and improve their clinical care of patients. Topics under consideration include physiology and treatment of CSF leaks, outcome of endoscopic anterior skull-base surgery, and management of difficult otolaryngologist complaints such as otalgia and aural fullness. In addition, we will be assisting with skull-base content on the website as directed by the education and steering committees. We have been exploring the idea of compiling a list of skull base centers to be placed on the official AAO-HNS website to help direct referrals for rural and community otolaryngologists searching for centers of excellence to refer patients with complex skull base issues. Sleep Disorders Committee Pell Ann Wardrop, MD, Chair Presented two miniseminars, “Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome: Guidelines, Evidence, and Nuance” and “Creating a ComprehensiveSleepCenter in an Otolaryngology Practice,” at the annual meeting. Submitted two Academy letters to Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) expressing concern that otolaryngologists certified in sleep medicine are not permitted to fit oral appliances. Reviewed and revised eight position statements related to sleep medicine. Submitted one letter to Palmetto (a MAC) regarding their sleep testing policy in independent diagnostic testing facilities (IDTFs), which does not allow otolaryngologists to supervise or interpret sleep studies in that site of service. Reviewed and revised the UPPP Clinical Indicator. Collaborated with the Patient Safety and Quality Improvement Committee to develop and administer a sleep survey. Developed a new position statement on oral appliances. Trauma Committee Joseph A. Brennan, MD, Chair Two miniseminars were conducted by dedicated committee members at the annual meeting: “High-Anxiety Head and Neck Trauma Cases: Lessons Learned” and “Practical Otologic Considerations in Head and Neck Injury.” The Society of Military Otolaryngology successfully launched a Sunday Trauma Workshop with lectures and dinner, which was widely praised. Trauma Committee members are writing a textbook on Head and Neck Trauma, which should be published in 2014. The Trauma Committee plans to submit three miniseminars for the 2014 annual meeting on topics ranging from disaster preparedness for otolaryngologists to the challenges of sustaining a high-level trauma program. Additionally, the committee will be working with the Society of Military Otolaryngologists to conduct the 2014 Trauma Workshop focused on “Mass Casualty—Before, During, and After.” Voice Committee Clark A. Rosen, MD, Chair The Position Statement on Videostroboscopy was submitted with revisions due to changes in practice since original statement. Ryan C. Branski, PhD, worked to construct an “acceptable” compromise with other healthcare professionals involved. During the recent CPT Committee Meeting, the statement was accepted with the revisions. The Voice Therapy and Dysphonia position statement was also on the agenda at the annual meeting for the CPT Committee review. Dr. Rosen suggested that the committee direct attention to issues surrounding Botox single-dose versus multi-dose vial use, noting some pressure in the environment to restrict multi-dose use. VyVy N. Young, MD, and a pharmacy associate are conducting a literature search seeking optional suggestions that might include using an existing allergy hood set-up as an alternative to single vial restrictions. Another suggestion might be for the hospital or its own pharmacy to pre-mix at lower dosage quantity. Or, in some institutions an arrangement can be made, according to Albert L. Merati, MD, for the pharmacy technician to deliver an appropriate dose for use in the OR and take back once administered. It was also suggested that an evidence-based study be considered. Dr. Merati introduced the Global Trach Initiative and asked that members read the initiative documents. A draft position statement on In-office Photoangiolytic Laser Treatment of Laryngeal Pathology was presented for advice and comment to the CPT Committee. CPT requested additional background from the Voice Committee. Dr. Branski will work with committee members to submit miniseminar topics. Young Physicians Committee Monica Tadros, MD, Chair Formation of NEW Young Physicians Section! The committee received approval from the Academy Board of Directors to transition to an Academy Section effective October 2013. Ayesha N. Khalid, MD, will serve as the chair of the section during the initial transition year. A Governance Task Force will be formed to develop and document a new governance structure. Lawrence M. Simon, MD, developed a survey to collect information to inform AAO-HNS/F decisions about the young-physician demographic and needs gaps. The committee co-sponsored two miniseminars at the annual meeting: “Avenues to Leadership” and “Using Social Media in Medicine” and presented the instruction course “E&M Coding.” A Young Physicians’ “Reflections” article is planned for publication in Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery every quarter. The first article was accepted from Dr. Simon for an upcoming publication. Creating a community connected through the new AAO-HNS/F community portal, ENTConnect, continues to be a priority of the young physicians. FOUNDATION COMMITTEES Development Committee Nikhil J. Bhatt, MD The Development Committee hosted a champagne reception during the annual meeting to thank members who made generous charitable contributions as Millennium Society Life, Patron, and Sustaining level donors. About 75 people attended including a majority of the Board of Directors, various Academy and Foundation leaders, as well as invited donors. Dr. Bhatt announced a fundraising campaign in honor of David R. Nielsen, MD, in recognition of his many years of service to AAO-HNS/F in anticipation of his stepping out of his role as EVP and CEO in 2015. Thanks to generous donations by Ken Yanagisawa, MD, and Julia Shi, MD, the AAO-HNSF Eiji Yanagisawa, MD, International Visiting Scholar Endowment has been established to honor Dr. Yanagisawa’s deep commitment to the AAO-HNSF’s international mission of encouraging outreach, worldwide collaboration, exchange of information, and education among those in the otolaryngology community. Art A. Ambrosio, MD, David O. Francis, MD, MS, and James Oberman, MD, were awarded the 2013-2014 Young Physicians Leadership Grant. Thanks to the generous donations of several of our active members, $3,000 in grant funding was secured to provide these three young physicians two travel stipends: $500 to attend the 2013 annual meeting and $500 to attend a leadership forum/Board of Governors meeting 2014, February 28-March 3, in Alexandria, VA. Humanitarian Efforts Committee Merry E. Sebelik, MD, Chair Susan R. Cordes, MD, Steven L. Goudy, MD, Liana Puscas, MD, and Selena E. Heman-Ackah, MD, coordinated and awarded 29 residents and fellows-in-training with Humanitarian Travel Grants in 2013 to offer services in 15 less-developed countries. This year, the AAO-HNSF recognized several humanitarians for their tireless work to several under-served populations, both domestically and overseas, including: James E. Saunders, MD, was awarded the 2013 Distinguished Award for Humanitarian Service. Phyllis B. Bouvier, MD, was awarded the Arnold P. Gold Foundation 2013 Award for Humanism in Medicine. The committee worked with AAO-HNSF Development Staff to: Renew and expand external funding for the Humanitarian Travel Grant Program. Increase visibility of AAO-HNS Members’ humanitarian efforts. Increased participation by AAO-HNS members in Global Surgery organizations beyond the AAO-HNS. Developed consensus among Humanitarian Efforts Committee members and activists identifying humanitarian educational needs of AAO-HNS membership, resulting in an array of proposals to submit to the 2014 Program Committee. History and Archives Committee Lawrence R. Lustig, MD, Chair Marc D. Eisen, MD, PhD, president of the Otolaryngology Historical Society (OHS), hosted the well-attended OHS annual meeting and reception at the Vancouver Club. The four OHS presenters, P. Ryan Camilon, Lanny G. Close, MD,  C. Eduardo Corrales, MD, and Amit A. Patel, MD, will write up their topics as Bulletin articles. In 2013, monthly Bulletin articles on historical topics resulted in increased OHS membership. OHS members are urged to sponsor residents as members and OHS attendees. Deadline for the 2014 OHS call for papers is May 15, 2014. Committee volunteers staffed the OHS booth in Vancouver and gave “Century of Excellence” books to renewing OHS members. The committee strongly urged the Academy to post the historical collection on the Academy website and encouraged posting links to historical articles from the “white” journal and Laryngoscope. Dr. Lustig announced the second edition of Otorhinolaryngology—an Illustrated History, by Neil F. Weir, FRCS, and Albert Mudry, MD, PhD. The Barelli/Kirchner papers now housed at the History Factory are being reviewed by Tracy L. Sullivan, former director of the AdamsCenter. William M. Wexler, MD, donated Rhode Island otolaryngologist Nathan Bolotow, MD’s historic nasopharyngeal endoscopes for the Academy HQ lobby display. Digitizing the oral histories was back-burnered, pending the recommendations of the Historical Archives Task Force. International Steering Committee Gregory W. Randolph, MD, Chair Looking back at the end of his four-year term, International Coordinator Dr. Randolph, noted that the International Corresponding Societies (ICS) network has grown to 54 societies affiliated with the Academy; 37 International Visiting Scholarships (IVS) and 68 international travel grants have been distributed to international otolaryngologists from 24 countries; and 60 percent of submissions to the “white journal” are international. The committee launched the first International Assembly at the Annual Meeting, which showcased the many international programs. Twelve International Visiting Scholars from Africa, Egypt, India, Latin America, and Southeast Asia attended the annual meeting followed by short-term observerships. The Global Health 2013 was well received and well attended with “good will ambassadors” from India, New Zealand, Panama, Thailand, and Uganda. Prof. Bernard G. Fraysse spoke on Francophone Africa. G. Richard Holt, MD, Regional Advisor for the Middle East, Eugene N. Myers, MD, FRCS Edin (Hon), former International Coordinator, and Ahmed M.S. Soliman, MD, of Philadelphia, hosted the first Egyptian-American Satellite Meeting at the Annual Meeting. Incoming International Coordinator, James E. Saunders, MD, is working closely with the Coalition for Global Hearing Health and the IFOS Hearing for All Initiative in support of the World Health Organization (WHO) Prevention of Deafness Program and its Technical Advisor Shelly Chadha, MD. The committee will work closely with Academy president Richard W. Waguespack, MD, to welcome the 2014 honored countries: Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Saudi Arabia, and the United Kingdom. International Otolaryngology Committee Nikhil J. Bhatt, MD, Chair Dr. Bhatt urged the committee to actively recruit new international members. Member “tool kits” with application forms and engagement brochures were distributed to the committee. Dr. Bhatt invited national societies to publicize the Orlando call for papers and to share the Orlando slides at their international congresses. Dr. Bhatt welcomed six international travel grantees (from China, Egypt, Japan, South Africa, and Venezuela) who are studying in U.S. and Canadian otolaryngology departments. This fall, the 2014 travel grant application forms will be distributed to U.S. and Canadian department chairs. The committee is actively soliciting mentor programs to host International Visiting Scholars in short-term observerships. The committee will be closely involved in the growth of the International Speakers Bureau that provides a resource of more than 130 Academy members available to speak at international congresses. Dr. Bhatt invited Academy leaders to the International Reception, an opportunity to celebrate and thank our international attendees on the final night of the Annual Meeting. Outcomes Research and EBM Subcommittee Scott E. Brietzke, MD, Chair Presented a miniseminar on “Pediatric OSAS: Guidelines, Evidence, and Nuance” at the Annual Meeting. Published two systematic reviews: “Macrolide therapy for chronic rhinosinusitis: a meta-analysis” and “Use of specific neuromodulators in the treatment of chronic, idiopathic cough: a systematic review.” Updated the eligibility specifications for the AAO-HNSF Maureen Hannley Grant to include special consideration for those looking to engage the CHEER Research Network and/or those looking to address the research gaps from one of the AAO-HNSF Clinical Practice Guidelines. Reviewed and updated two policy statements: Evidence-Based Medicine and Use of Animals in Research. Wrapped up the Parent Response to Ear Disease in Children with and without Tubes (PREDICT) QOL Study with two oral presentations at the annual meeting and will be submitting manuscript(s) for publication in late 2013. Work continues on two projects: Developing a resource of administrative and national survey databases for use by otolaryngologists, which will be posted on the Academy website (similar to the Outcomes Tools resource that was developed a few years ago). Database Compare is a large project that will look at the variability between large datasets, ultimately resulting in a journal publication. Panamerican Committee Juan Manuel Garcia, MD, Chair Dr. Garcia listed the committee’s goals to increase: Active participation of U.S. otolaryngologists at the Panamerican Congress, Cartagena, Colombia, October 26-29, 2014 Five Latin Americans’ awareness of and membership in the AAO-HNS Collaboration with the Latin American Leadership Summit (Cumbre de Lideres) and J. Pablo Stolovitzky, MD, in the resident and faculty exchange programs with Latin American ORL departments and six U.S. departments. The committee will send Annual Meeting and Academy membership information to all Latin American ICS leaders and members of the Cumbre de Lideres, including slide sets in Spanish and English. The 2013 Antonio de la Cruz scholar was Angelo M. Campos, MD, of Colombia. Another International Visiting Scholar was Christian Gomez Quiroz, MD, of Peru. Ramon A. Franco, Jr., MD, Regional Advisor for Central America, invited Amarilis M. Melendez-Medina, MD, of Panama as the “goodwill ambassador” at the Global Health 2013 Symposium. EDUCATION COMMITTEES Education Steering Committee Sonya Malekzadeh, MD, Chair, Coordinator of Education The Education Steering Committee provided leadership on several initiatives in 2013, including completion of the Otolaryngology Review: A Lifelong Learning Manual. The Manual will be released in spring of 2014. In addition, the education committees reviewed 27 expiring courses, published 21 Online Lectures, and submitted 135 questions to use for the Academic Bowl and the Question Bank. Core Otolaryngology and Practice Management Education Committee Brendan C. Stack, Jr., MD, Chair The committee continues to provide policy and content oversight to the Coding and Reimbursement workshops held 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.” Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Education Committee J. Randall Jordan, MD, Chair The committee is developing a Home Study Course titled “Plastic and Reconstructive Problems,” as well as a PMP course on “Nasal Reconstruction.” The Academy welcomed Dr. Jordan as the new chair of the committee  in October. General Otolaryngology Education Committee Karen T. Pitman, MD, Chair The committee provided leadership to the third successful ENT for the PA-C conference held in conjunction with AAPA and SPAO in New York. The Home Study Course on “Trauma and Critical Care Medicine” will be released in early 2014. The committee also developed a very popular MOC Review Course for the annual meeting. Head and Neck Surgery Education Committee Richard V. Smith, MD, Chair The committee produced a Home Study Course on “Neoplastic and Inflammatory Diseases of the Head and Neck.” The committee is currently developing a PMP course on “Adult with a Neck Mass.” Laryngology and Bronchoesophagology Education Committee Catherine R. Lintzenich, MD, Chair The committee produced a PMP course on “Adult with Shortness of Breath” and a Home Study Course on “Laryngology, Voice Disorders, and Bronchoesophagology.” Otology and Neurotology Education Committee Bradley W. Kesser, MD, Chair The committee produced a Home Study Course on “Otology and Neurotology” and a PMP on “Adult with Recurrent Vertigo.” Pediatric Otolaryngology Education Committee Kenny H. Chan, MD, Chair The committee worked in conjunction with ASPO to produce the Pediatric Otolaryngology Continuing Education Webinar Series. It included 10 episodes, each one focused on a pertinent pediatric otolaryngologic topic. The committee also produced a Home Study Course on “Congenital and Pediatric Problems” and a PMP on “Child with Recurrent Throat Pain and Fever.” Rhinology and Allergy Education Committee Brent A. Senior, MD, Chair The committee published a Home Study Course on “Rhinology and Allergic Disorders” and a PMP course on “Adult with Epistaxis.” The PMP “Adult with Recurrent Rhinorrhea” will be published  this month. Board of Governors (BOG) Committees Representatives from Board of Governors societies from across the country were well represented during the AAO-HNSF 2013 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPOSM. Highlights from the meeting include: BOG Legislative Representatives Committee Paul M. Imber, DO, Chair After a detailed review of legislative efforts to repeal the Sustainable Growth Rate formula, the committee was introduced to exciting new programs including the launch of the In-District Grassroots Outreach (I-GO) program and a new initiative encouraging residents and fellows-in-training to engage in the Academy’s advocacy activities. Members also received updates on recent strategic changes to the Academy’s Government Affairs programs, such as new member opportunities regarding state legislative tracking and the conversion of the BOG Spring Meeting & OTO Advocacy Summit to a spring  leadership event. BOG Rules and Regulations Committee Joseph E. Hart, MD, Chair The committee discussed plans to streamline the operations of the BOG and suggestions on how to increase interest in BOG awards. BOG Socioeconomic and Grassroots Committee David R. Edelstein, MD, Chair The committee continued the rollout of their Regional Representation Plan to improve communications across BOG regions and to offer members a voice where viable BOG societies aren’t in existence. Individual regional representatives from each of the 10 regions were appointed to the committee. Plans are underway for the regional representatives to conduct periodic conference calls with members within their regions. The committee sponsored several panel presentation sessions on a variety of topical issues including: quality controls, implementation of ICD-10, the impact of patient satisfaction scores, and insurance challenges. The committee continues to monitor suggestions for important grassroots issues to develop future polls to BOG member societies. BOG Executive Committee-sponsored Miniseminar Wendy B. Stern, MD, BOG Secretary “Hot Topics in Otolaryngology 2013: ACOs” Dr. Stern moderated a compelling panel presentation on current hot topics in otolaryngology with a focus on Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs). The BOG Executive Committee along with the 3P Workgroup also jointly sponsored a miniseminar, “Alternative Payment Models and Academy Advocacy.” BOG General Assembly BOG committee chairs provided updated reports on their committee’s activities during the past year. The New York State Society of Otolaryngology received the 2013 BOG Model Society Award. Michael Setzen, MD, received the 2013 BOG Practitioner Excellence Award. Denis C. Lafreniere, MD, BOG Chair, presented Recognition Awards to Sujana S. Chandrasekhar, MD, and Wendy B. Stern, MD, for their service on the BOG Executive Committee. Dr. Lafreniere presented BOG Chair Awards to: Gerald Leonard, MD, Robert T. Sataloff, MD, and J. Pablo Stolovitzky, MD. Governors (or their alternates) in attendance elected Dr. Stern to the position of BOG Chair-Elect and Sanjay R. Parikh, MD, to the position of BOG Secretary Section for Residents and Fellows-in-Training (SRF) Nikhila M. Raol, 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 held a well-attended General Assembly meeting. During the session, attendees elected the following new officers: Kanwar S. Kelley, MD, JD, Chair John M. Carter, MD, Vice Chair Hamad Chaudhary, MD, Member-at-Large Meghan N. Wilson, MD, Information Officer Sanjeet Rangarajan, MD, BOG Governor David S. Cohen, MD, BOG Legislative Representative Margaret S. Carter, MD, BOG Public Relations Representative In addition, Dr. Raol transitioned to Immediate Past Chair. SRF-sponsored/co-sponsored Miniseminars “Understanding and Managing Career Burnout” “Grant Writing Pearls and Pitfalls: Maximizing Your Funding” “Getting Published: Letters, Commentaries, and Social Media” “Using Social Media in Medicine” Women in Otolaryngology  (WIO) Section Susan R. Cordes, 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’s Communications Committee connects Women in Otolaryngology via several media outlets including Bulletin articles, quarterly eNewsletters, and an ongoing social media presence. The Section’s Research and Survey Committee completed an analysis of women on journal editorial boards, which was presented as a poster at the Annual Meeting. The Endowment Committee funded four projects benefitting women in otolaryngology. The Program Committee secured an excellent speaker for the WIO Luncheon and presented a miniseminar, and the Awards Committee identified candidates for various awards, including the Helen F. Krause, MD Trailblazer Award. The Leadership and Mentoring Committee continued to work on improving a resident mentoring program and moved forward on plans for a longitudinal leadership program to begin next fall. WIO Section Committees Each of the six WIO committees conducted committee meetings to plan and coordinate their activities for the coming year. The 2012-13 committees’ leaders were: Awards, Valerie A. Flanary, MD, Chair Communications, Erika A. Woodson, MD, Chair Development/Endowment, Pell Ann Wardrop, MD, Chair Leadership Development and Mentorship, Mona M. Abaza, MD, Chair; Carol R. Bradford, MD, Chair-Elect Program, Lauren S. Zaretsky, MD, Chair; Suman Golla, MD, Chair-Elect Research and Survey, Linda S. Brodsky, MD, Chair; Sujana S. Chandrasekhar, MD, Chair-Elect WIO Luncheon/General Assembly Christina M. Surawicz, MD, gastroenterologist, Seattle, WA, kicked off the WIO luncheon with her well-attended interactive presentation, “Women and Leadership.” During the session, the Section honored Dana M. Thompson, MD, as the recipient of the 2013 Helen F. Krause, MD Trailblazer Award. WIO members elected to leadership positions: Christine B. Franzese, MD, Chair-Elect, and Dale Amanda Tylor, MD, Member-at-Large. The WIO Governing Council welcomed incoming chair, Mona M. Abaza, MD, and thanked outgoing chair Dr. Cordes for her great leadership throughout the past year. General Assembly attendees had the opportunity to network with their colleagues and learn more about WIO Section committees and the Academy by participating in breakout roundtable discussions. The WIO Endowment Fund has continued to be very successful in its fundraising efforts and plans to once again offer Requests for Proposals that fulfill the Section’s charge to support the career development of women otolaryngologists-head and neck surgeons. The Section encourages women in all aspects and phases of their careers to consider participation and/or leadership in the WIO Section through the committee application process or by running for elected office. WIO Co-Sponsored Miniseminar “Avenues to Leadership: Opportunities at Every Level” ADVISORY/OTHER COMMITTEES Ad Hoc Payment Model Workgroup James C. Denneny III, MD, Chair Clarified differences and utility of clinical indicators, consensus statements, policy statements and guidelines for members and payers. Completed July 2013; printed in August Bulletin and available on website: http://www.entnet.org/Practice/loader.cfm?csModule=security/getfile&pageID=175934 Reviewed AMA draft tool on Value-Based Contracting Readiness Assessment and submitted comments  on February 15. Developed catalogue of current portfolio of quality measures, outcomes data, and care paths. Provided comments on AAO-HNS letters to House and Senate on SGR repeal/payment reform. Began efforts to seek out a partner in the payer industry to assist with the development of payment models. This will be an ongoing effort during the end of 2013 and beginning 2014. For early 2014, workgroup will analyze trends in payment reform. Additionally, it will provide information to Members on episode bundling, and outreach to private payers, and oversee efforts with other groups. The group continues to look for collaborative partners to evaluate and analyze data to assist with recommendations for a new payment model for otolaryngology. 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) In 2013, the CORE leadership (including the boards and councils of all participating societies) approved a portfolio of 41 grants totaling $848,730 (up 13 percent from 2012). A record 28 percent (11) of those selected to receive funding were resubmitted applications. Presented one miniseminar, “Grant Writing Pearls and Pitfalls: Maximizing Your Funding,” at the Annual Meeting. Jean Andersol Eloy, MD, et Al., published three manuscripts about the program: AAO–HNSF CORE Grant Acquisition is Associated with Greater Scholarly Impact Does Receiving an AAO–HNSF CORE Grant Influence Career Path and Scholarly Impact among Fellowship-Trained Rhinologists? The Impact of AAO–HNSF CORE Grant and NIH Funding in Laryngology Instruction Course Advisory Committee Sukgi S. Choi, MD, Instruction Course Coordinator Capitalizing on the huge success of the two Clinical Fundamentals instruction courses presented at the 2012 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPOSM in Washington, DC, eight additional Clinical Fundamental instruction courses were included on the 2013 program. These courses were designed to meet the American Board of Otolaryngology’s Maintenance of Certification requirements for Clinical Fundamentals (Part II) and were also eligible for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit. A three-hour General Otolaryngology Review Course was included within the program. The course was designed to meet the American Board of Otolaryngology’s Maintenance of Certification requirements for Clinical Fundamentals (Part II) and was also eligible for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit. The opportunity for AAO-HNS/F resident members to attend the afternoon instruction course program for free has been expanded this year. A minimum of 10 seats were reserved for resident members in all instruction course rooms (not including minicourses, hands-on, or the clinical fundamentals courses). Physician Payment Policy (3P) Workgroup James C. Denneny III, MD Michael Setzen, MD, Co-chairs Reviewed all position statements (75 total reviewed by committees) Five comment letters to Congress on repeal of the SGR and payment reform. Eleven comment letters to CMS and other regulatory bodies, including comments on proposed rules on the 2014 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule, Hospital Outpatient and AmbulatorySurgicalCenters and Inpatient payment systems, Physician Compare website redesign, and ACO exclusivity. Met with CMS face-to-face in April regarding payment and quality programs related to otolaryngology. Developed three quality fact sheets, which outline the key components of CMS’ quality incentive programs, including: ERx, PQRS, and EHR Meaningful Use. Created a customizable ENT ICD-10 Superbill to assist members in the transition to ICD-10 coding by October 2014. Successfully advocated for positive revisions to WellPoint’s policy on Tonsillectomy in Children. Successfully advocated for revision and clarification of Aetna’s Allergy Immunotherapy policy. Continued ongoing third party payer advocacy efforts with United Healthcare’s (UHC’s) and Aetna’s rhinoplasty, septoplasty coverage policies. Nineteen responses were provided to third party payers regarding their medical policies with input received from Academy committees. Surveyed and presented five CPT codes to the AMA RUC. Reviewed and/or presented on 21 code change proposals from January 2012-October 2013. The CPT team also drafted and reviewed three AMA CPT® Assistant Articles, as well as four new CPT for ENT articles to assist members with achieving correct coding. Reviewed Bell’s Palsy Clinical Practice Guideline. Two health policy miniseminars for the annual meeting were hosted by 3P, including a 3P miniseminar on new strategies in Academy advocacy for physician payment and an ICD-10 transition miniseminar. In the next year 3P will work with Academy committees to review outstanding Position Statements and four Clinical Indicators. 3P’s new co-chair, Jane T. Dillon, MD, will join the current co-chair, Dr. Denneny, to focus 3P more on the future of physician payment, coordinating with the Academy’s quality efforts. For additional information on any of these issues, contact healthpolicy@entnet.org. Program Advisory Committee Eben L. Rosenthal, MD, Scientific Program Coordinator Several new miniseminars on management of obstructive sleep apnea, new detection and imaging methods in otology and cancer, as well as important updates on healthcare legislation from the Board of Governors were included in the Annual Meeting programming. This year Annual Meeting attendees had the opportunity to view all scientific posters online at kiosks located in the poster hall or through the annual meeting mobile app. Poster presenters and attendees also enjoyed breakfast Tuesday morning in the poster hall. The oral presentations given during the Annual Meeting received a face-lift this year. In response to comments we received from oral presenters and previous year attendees, select oral presentations were given in a new accelerated format that consisted of a three-minute oral presentation and two minutes of discussion. Specialty Society Advisory Council Albert L. Merati, MD, Chair The SSAC continued its discussion of submitting a proposal for an extended miniseminar or “spotlight series” for the 2014 annual meeting. A motion was presented and seconded that SSAC participating societies continue to support the CORE Grants Program. The SSAC continues to examine cost sharing options for the program. Surgical Simulation Task Force Ellen S. Deutsch, MD, Chair Presented an overview of simulation in otolaryngology at the Council of Medical Specialties Simulation Summit in Washington, DC. Presented at the AmericanCollege of SurgeonsSimulationCenter Accreditation Meeting, March 15 in Chicago. Conducted comprehensive survey of use of simulation in otolaryngology residency programs. Conducted open simulation meetings at the Combined Otolaryngology Spring Meetings (COSM) and AAO-HNSF 2013 Annual Meeting &  OTO EXPOSM. Robotic Surgery Task Force Eric M. Genden, MD, Chair The Robotic Surgery Task Force continued work on a 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.