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Merrill JR, Flitcroft MA, Miller T, Beichner B, Clarke CN, Maduekwe UN, Wang TS, Dream S, Christians KK, Gamblin TC, Evans DB, Kothari AN. Patterns of Unnecessary Insurer Prior Authorization Denials in a Complex Surgical Oncology Practice. J Surg Res 2023; 288:269-274. [PMID: 37037166 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2023.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Insurance prior authorization (PA) is a determination of need, required by a health insurer for an ordered test/procedure. If the test/procedure is denied, a peer-to-peer (P2P) discussion between ordering provider and payer is used to appeal the decision. The objective of this study was to measure the number and patterns of unnecessary PA denials. METHODS This was a retrospective review at a quaternary cancer center from October 2021 to March 2022. Included were all patients with outpatient imaging orders for surgical planning or surveillance of gastrointestinal, endocrine, or skin cancer. Primary outcome was unnecessary initial denial (UID) defined as an order that required preauthorization, was initially denied by the insurer, and subsequently overturned by P2P. RESULTS Nine hundred fifty seven orders were placed and 419 required PA (44%). Of tests requiring authorization, 55/419 (13.1%) were denied. Variability in the likelihood of initial denial was seen across insurers, ranging from 0% to 57%. Following P2P, 32/55 were overturned (58.2% UID). The insurers most likely to have a UID were Aetna (100%), Anthem (77.8%), and Cigna (50.0%). UID was most common for gastrointestinal (58.9%) and endocrine (58.3%) cancers. Average P2P was 33.5 min (interquartile range 28-40). CONCLUSIONS The majority of imaging studies initially denied were overturned after P2P. If all UIDs were eliminated, this would represent 108 less P2P discussions with an estimated time-savings of 60.3 h annually within a high-volume surgical oncology practice. Combined personnel costs to the health systems and stress on patients with cancer due to image-associated PAs and P2P appear hard to justify.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer R Merrill
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Madelyn A Flitcroft
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Tracy Miller
- Enterprise Registration, Froedtert Health, Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin
| | - Brien Beichner
- Enterprise Registration, Froedtert Health, Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin
| | - Callisia N Clarke
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Ugwuji N Maduekwe
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Tracy S Wang
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Sophie Dream
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Kathleen K Christians
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - T Clark Gamblin
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Douglas B Evans
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Anai N Kothari
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
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Silvestre J, Smith JR, Nasef KE, Wilson LL, Kelz RR. Application and Match Rates in the Complex General Surgical Oncology Match. Ann Surg Oncol 2022; 29:8094-8098. [PMID: 35999416 PMCID: PMC9398039 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-022-12428-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background The Society of Surgical Oncology collaborates with the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) to facilitate the Complex General Surgical Oncology (CGSO) Match. Objective The purpose of this study was to understand trends in CGSO Match outcomes. We hypothesized that (1) match rates would increase with time; (2) US allopathic graduates would have higher match rates than non-US allopathic graduates; and (3) most applicants would match at one of their top three ranked choices. Methods The NRMP provided applicant and program data from the CGSO Match (2014–2021). Chi-square tests elucidated temporal trends and match rates by applicant archetype. Results The annual number of applicants decreased from 103 to 90 (13% decrease), while the annual number of fellowship positions increased from 56 to 67 (20% increase) from 2014–2021. The annual percentage of applicants who did not match decreased from 46% to 26% (p < 0.05). Annual match rates increased from 54% to 74% (p < 0.05). US allopathic graduates had higher match rates than non-US allopathic graduates but this disparity narrowed over time (84% vs. 55% in 2021; p < 0.001). Approximately half of all applicants matched at one of their top three choices (first, 29%; second, 12%; third, 8%). Applicants matching at one of their top three choices increased from 36% to 50% (p < 0.05). Conclusions CGSO Match rates have increased over the past decade, thus primarily benefiting non-US allopathic graduates. Most applicants match at one of their top three choices. More research is needed to understand disparities in match rates by applicant and residency program characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kindha E Nasef
- Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Lori L Wilson
- Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
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Givi B, Gordon AJ, Park YS, Lydiatt WM, Tekian A. Needs assessment in head and neck surgical oncology training: A qualitative study of expert opinions. Head Neck 2022; 44:2528-2536. [PMID: 35920353 DOI: 10.1002/hed.27158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few studies have investigated the needs of head and neck surgery trainees and areas for improvement of fellowship programs. METHODS We conducted a qualitative study by interviewing a nationally representative sample of program directors and national leaders in head and neck surgery. We asked about the current state and strengths of training; and areas for further improvement. All interviews were independently coded and analyzed by two reviewers. RESULTS All experts (100%) believed that the current training provides a strong foundation and furthermore, a standardized curriculum is beneficial. Multidisciplinary training (80%), participation in tumor boards (75%), and a syllabus (60%) were the most frequently mentioned components. Most believed that a formal certification process would be beneficial (73%), though there was no consensus on the format. CONCLUSION Experts in head and neck surgery are generally in favor of a standardized curriculum. Further discussions of a formal certification process might be warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babak Givi
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, NYU Langone Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Alex J Gordon
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, NYU Langone Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Yoon Soo Park
- Department of Medical Education, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - William M Lydiatt
- Head and Neck Surgical Oncology, Methodist Estabrook Cancer Center, Nebraska Methodist Hospital, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Ara Tekian
- Department of Medical Education, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Yeo H, Qadan M. Preparation for the complex general surgical oncology boards-Level I evidence and best sources of acquiring knowledge. J Surg Oncol 2020; 122:21-24. [PMID: 32488883 DOI: 10.1002/jso.25934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Heather Yeo
- Department of Surgery, Weill-Cornell Medicine, New York City, New York
| | - Motaz Qadan
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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Lee AY, Delman KA, Berman RS. Development of a surgical oncology training curriculum for accreditation. J Surg Oncol 2020; 122:15-20. [PMID: 32424822 DOI: 10.1002/jso.25933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Revised: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
In 2011, the American Board of Surgery announced a new specialty board certification for Complex General Surgical Oncology. The development of a 2-year fellowship training curriculum was based on the core values of multidisciplinary care, surgical management of oncologic disease, education in basic research and clinical trial design, community outreach, patient counseling, and leadership in oncology. This article highlights the elements necessary for developing a fellowship training program in the context of these core values.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Y Lee
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, NYU Langone Health, New York City, New York
| | - Keith A Delman
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Russell S Berman
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, NYU Langone Health, New York City, New York
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Liu A, Reed S, Mahan JD, Wallihan R. Exploring Pediatric Resident Attitudes and Preferences for Board Exam Preparation. Cureus 2020; 12:e8022. [PMID: 32528761 PMCID: PMC7282358 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.8022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The American Board of Pediatrics Certifying Exam (ABP CE) is a high stakes exam and is important for employment and fellowship opportunities in pediatrics. Although research has suggested interventions which may improve scores, little research has focused on resident perception of preparation for the ABP CE. In this study, we aimed to better define pediatric residents' attitudes and preferences regarding preparation for the ABP CE. Methods Pediatric residents from one residency program were invited to participate in focus groups to discuss their attitudes and preferences on board exam preparation for the ABP CE. Focus groups were audio recorded and transcribed. Conventional content analysis was used to analyze qualitative data. From the transcripts, authors developed codes through an iterative process, which were then organized into categories. These categories were then grouped into themes. Results Nineteen residents participated in three focus groups. Focus group transcription analysis resulted in 49 codes, which were sorted into 26 categories. The categories were then grouped into four key themes: 1) the ABP CE is not immediately important early in residency; 2) more personalized guidance is preferred; 3) consistent board preparation focus from the residency program is valued; 4) learning format is important. Conclusions Residents believe preparation for the ABP CE increases in importance as they progress through residency, and they desire more personalized, consistent, and structured focus from their training program related to ABP CE preparation. Attention to these perceptions can help guide pediatric residency program leadership in developing effective board exam preparation strategies and curricula for their residents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Liu
- Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, USA
| | - Suzanne Reed
- Pediatric Oncology, The Ohio State University, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, USA
| | - John D Mahan
- Pediatric Nephrology, The Ohio State University, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, USA
| | - Rebecca Wallihan
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, USA
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Lillemoe HA, Scally CP, Adams CL, Bednarski BK, Balch CM, Aloia TA, Gershenwald JE, Lee JE, Grubbs EG. Complex General Surgical Oncology Fellowship Applicants: Trends over Time and the Impact of Board Certification Eligibility. Ann Surg Oncol 2019; 26:2667-2674. [DOI: 10.1245/s10434-019-07420-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Ruff S, Ilyas S, Steinberg SM, Tatalovich Z, McLaughlin SA, D'Angelica M, Raut CP, Delman KA, Hernandez JM, Davis JL. Survey of Surgical Oncology Fellowship Graduates 2005-2016: Insight into Initial Practice. Ann Surg Oncol 2019; 26:1622-1628. [PMID: 30761439 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-019-07220-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite burgeoning interest in Complex General Surgical Oncology (CGSO) fellowship training, little is reported about postgraduate employment. The goal of this study was to characterize CGSO graduates' first employment and to identify factors that influenced this decision. METHODS The National Cancer Institute (NCI) and Society of Surgical Oncology developed and distributed an electronic survey to CGSO fellows who graduated from 2005 to 2016. RESULTS The survey response rate was 47% (237/509). Fifty-seven percent of respondents were first employed as faculty surgeons at a university-based/affiliated hospital, with 15% returning to their residency institution. The distribution of respondents' current employment across the United States mirrored the locations of their hometowns. Eighty-five percent of respondents care for patients across at least three disease types, most commonly hepatopancreatobiliary (81%), esophagus/gastric (75%), and sarcoma (74%). Twenty-seven percent of respondents spend the majority of their time in one area of surgical oncology; melanoma, breast, and head/neck were the most common. Two-thirds of respondents (67%) reported that they performed either clinical or basic science research as part of their current position. Multiple factors influenced the decision of first faculty position. CONCLUSIONS Most CGSO graduates are employed at academic medical centers across the country in proximity to NCI-designated centers, treat a variety of disease types, and spend a percentage of their time dedicated to clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Ruff
- Surgical Oncology Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sadia Ilyas
- Surgical Oncology Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Seth M Steinberg
- Surgical Oncology Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Zaria Tatalovich
- Surgical Oncology Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Jonathan M Hernandez
- Surgical Oncology Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jeremy L Davis
- Surgical Oncology Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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Qadan M, Davies AR, Polk HC, Allum WH, Brennan MF. Cancer care in the developed world: A comparison of surgical oncology training programs. Am J Surg 2017; 215:1-7. [PMID: 28619263 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2017.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Revised: 05/01/2017] [Accepted: 05/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Motaz Qadan
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Andrew R Davies
- Department of Surgery, Guy's and St. Thomas NHS Foundation Trust, London, England, UK
| | - Hiram C Polk
- Department of Surgery, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA; Kentucky Department of Public Health, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - William H Allum
- Department of Surgery, Royal Marsden Hospital, London, England, UK
| | - Murray F Brennan
- Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
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CORR Insights ®: Are Recently Trained Tumor Fellows Performing Less Tumor Surgery? An Analysis of 10 Years of the ABOS Part II Database. Clin Orthop Relat Res 2017; 475:229-231. [PMID: 27785674 PMCID: PMC5174052 DOI: 10.1007/s11999-016-5086-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2016] [Accepted: 09/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
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Berman RS, Posner MC. Attitudes and Perceptions of Surgical Oncology Fellows: The Right Voice at the Almost Right Time. Ann Surg Oncol 2015; 22:3761-3. [PMID: 26183838 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-015-4692-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Russell S Berman
- Surgical Residency Training Program, Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Mitchell C Posner
- Section of General Surgery and Surgical Oncology, University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
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