Sunday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday

Sunday, July 8

6:30 AM – 2:00 PM
Golf Tournament
Seperate Fee Required, See Registration Form

12:30 PM – 4:30 PM
CRA Exam
Separate fee and application required. (Click here) for more information

8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
CRA Prep Course
Seperate fee required, See Registration Form

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM

Operations Management

Luann Culbreth, MEd, RT(R)(MR)(QM), CRA, FSMR
Baylor Regional Medical Center, Plano, TX

Credits: 1.0

This session will cover key areas of operations management, including assessing customer satisfaction with imaging services using appropriate tools to enhance quality and serve the interest of stakeholders and responding to survey results using continuous quality improvement methods to enhance customer satisfaction and meet organizational objectives. The speaker will also discuss providing for the quality and appropriateness of patient care by coordinating the development and implementation of medical protocols to adhere to accepted standards of care and coordinating patient management by identifying and supplying necessary resources to provide optimal imaging services. Other topics include: establishing industry partnership by building alliances to leverage negotiating power, maximize resources, and developing opportunities; differentiating imaging services from those of competitors by developing marketing and public relations plans to maintain existing and attract new business; writing policies and procedures following federal, state, and other regulatory guidelines to comply with applicable standards and protect patients and other stakeholders; enforcing policies and procedures by monitoring compliance and providing feedback to uphold applicable standards; and developing a quality management program using process improvement tools to further enhance and complement the strategic goals of the organization.

You will learn to:

• Understand the major tasks involved with the domain of operations management.
• Give examples of the knowledge base needed for operations management.
• Give examples of the skills used in the performance domain of operations management.
  

9:00 AM – 10:00 AM

Communication and Information Management

Luann Culbreth, MEd, RT(R)(MR)(QM), CRA, FSMR
Baylor Regional Medical Center, Plano, TX

Credits: 1.0

This session will cover key areas of communication and information management, including fostering interdisciplinary communication and collaboration by eliciting the exchange of information to meet or exceed customer service expectations and achieve organizational objectives and developing action plans on a regular basis by identifying areas that are compliant/noncompliant with predetermined measures to achieve organization objectives. The speaker will also discuss managing business and patient information by putting electronic and /or manual systems in place to ensure its integrity, confidentiality and security, and identifying opportunities to enhance involvement in the community by participating in volunteer activities to enhance public healthier awareness and promote the organization’s presences in the community.

You will learn to:

• Understand of the major tasks involved with the domain of communication and information management.
• Give examples of the knowledge base needed for communication and information management.
• Give examples of the skills used in the performance domain of communication and information management.
  

10:00 AM – 11:00 AM

Human Resource Management

Winnie Grieshaber, CRA
Community Health Systems, Shelbyville, TN

Credits: 1.0

This session will consist of an hour of human resources review for participants planning on taking the CRA exam. We will discuss labor laws, scope of practice, staffing ratios, supervision principles, job classifications, coaching, and negotiations. An individual attending this session will get an understanding of general information that will be in the domain of human resource management on the CRA exam.

You will learn to:

• Understand the domain of human resource management as it relates to radiology administration.
• Understand a broad range of human resource management topics including recruitment, retention, and performance evaluations, technical competence and skill development, leadership development, and recognition.
• Define important human resource management concepts and terms.
  

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Fiscal Management

Bruce W. Hammond
Diagnostic Health Services, Addison, TX

Credits: 1.0
This session is generously sponsored by Diagnostic Health Services.

This session will consist of an hour review for participants on fiscal management. We will touch on basics such as understanding financial statements, fundamental accounting equations, financial ratio analysis and budget preparations. But we will not be limited to basics. After all, what would fiscal management be without forecasting for future business, development of a strategic plan for your department or creating business plans? Next areas for review will be generating revenue with proper coding, billing, payor sources, pricing and collection. Attendees will get an understanding of expected information that will be in the domain of fiscal management on the CRA exam.

You will learn to:

• Review the domain of fiscal management as it relates to radiology administration.
• Understand financial principles used in day-to-day operations.
• Understand budgeting, productivity and planning for the future.
  

1:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Asset Resource Management

Bruce W. Hammond
Diagnostic Health Services, Addison, TX

Credits: 1.0
This session is generously sponsored by Diagnostic Health Services.

This session will consist of an hour of asset management review for participants planning on taking the CRA exam. We will discuss RFIs, RFPs, equipment life expectancy, needs assessment, forecasting, capacity analysis, modality appropriateness, service maintenance programs, and project teams. An individual attending this session will get an understanding of general information that will be in the domain of asset management on the CRA exam.

You will learn to:

• Understand the domain of asset management as it relates to radiology administration.
• Understand a broad range of asset management topics, including capital equipment business plan, selection process, project management, equipment maintenance, and inventory management.
• Define important asset management concepts and terms.
  

2:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Test Taking Tips

Carole South-Winter, MEd, RT(R), CNMT
Minnesota West Community and Technical College
Luverne, MN

Credits: 1.0

There are some common sense approaches to studying and test taking that can reduce anxiety and improve test performance. Preparation is the key to success. In this session we will discuss ways to prepare for the exam weeks and even months prior to sitting for the certification exam. In addition, candidates will learn to “think like an item writer” and understand the psychometrics involved in certification exam construction. Discussion on preparing yourself the day before and the day of the exam will also be covered.

You will learn to:

• Recognize variables in a certification exam.
• Identify physical, emotional and mental strategies to increase test performance.
• Compare methods of test writing.
• Strategize personal approaches to successful certification.
  

3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Mock CRA Exam
Carole South-Winter, MEd, RT, CNMT
Reclaiming Youth International, Lennox, SD

Credits: 0

8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Workshop
Seperate Fee Required, See Registration Form

Radiology Coding, Compliance and Documentation

Melody W. Mulaik, MSHS, CPC, CPC-H, RCC
Coding Strategies, Inc., Powder Springs, GA

Credits: 4.0
This session is generously sponsored by Coding Strategies, Inc.

This exciting workshop will uncover the key coding, compliance and documentation issues that every radiology management professional should know and understand. Incorrect coding and documentation practices can result in lost revenue and increased compliance risk. This session will address the key areas for both diagnostic and interventional radiology services. Bring your questions and quest for knowledge and be prepared to walk away with key information that will benefit you and your organization.

You will learn to:

• Review key coding and reimbursement issues by modality.
• Discuss compliance concerns related to diagnostic services.
• Gain answers to your specific questions through interactive Q&A.
  

1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Breakout Sessions

CR Quality Analysis

Susan M. Einerwold, RT(R)
Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center, LaCrosse, WI

Credits: 1.0

One of the biggest challenges with any new technology is ensuring quality. The speaker will walk attendees through the development of a CR quality program at her facility. The process begins with a solid understanding of CR principles, a thorough training program, and the setting of ground rules to enhance old practices. In the past, the most common quality measure for the speaker’s facility was the repeat/reject analysis, but with the transition to CR, the department chose to concentrate efforts on the quality of images being sent through for interpretation. Three critical focus areas were selected for image analysis: technique accuracy, positioning accuracy, and marker accuracy. A numeric value system was developed to create measures. The value system is based on quality goals that have evolved as staff demonstrated expertise with CR technology. An overall summary report is generated for the workgroup and each technologist receives an individualized report of his or her image review. The overall review is also used to identify trends and direct education to areas that need improvement. With technologists achieving success in CR quality and embracing the evolution of the department’s goals, quality measures are now being integrated into annual performance reviews.

You will learn to:

• Understand critical focus areas for CR quality.
• Develop a method for CR quality analysis.
• Incorporate CR quality measures into staff development.
  

I Want That: Capital Equipment Purchasing

Robin Loebach, BSRT(R)
Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago, IL

Credits: 1.0
This session repeats on Sunday at 4:30 pm.

Your department wants a piece of capital equipment. What is your planning process? This session will discuss the capital buying process at a large facility with a focus on the collaboration between the Material Management and Radiology Departments. Capital planning, market research, request for purchase, ROI analysis, contracting and the final purchase will all be explored. The speaker will also discuss opportunities for driving down costs and vendor relationships. How do you balance clinical requirements with budget dollars and compare new technology with existing technology? The speaker will also identify models for incorporation of utilization and service cost, and will discuss buying groups and contracting.

You will learn to:

• Understand the capital planning process.
• Discuss research prior to purchasing.
• Analyze technology.
• Explore cost reduction opportunities.
• Incorporate utilization and service cost in planning.

Implementing a Patient-Centered Care Program in the Medical Imaging Department

Julie Mathewson, MRT(N)
University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada

Corwin Burton, MRT(R)
New Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada

Credits: 1.0

Patient-Centered Care (PCC) is an approach that consciously adopts the patients’ perspective about what matters. The speakers’ hospital began this program in an effort to improve the patients’ experience by finding out what their needs and values are, then tailoring care to meet those expectations. This is done by listening more, asking more open-ended questions, and respecting the patient as a leader in their care. After a number of staff had attended a comprehensive course in PCC, shorter sessions were planned for everyone else in the department. This presentation will share the speakers’ experiences in planning, holding and following up on half-day workshops for staff. These workshops combined group discussion with brainstorming, sharing of personal experiences and exchange of views using theoretical scenarios. The session will cover changes made to practice in the department based on patient feedback and resulting changes in patient satisfaction based on compliments and complaints made to patient relations. The speakers will also discuss resulting changes in staff satisfaction.

You will learn to:

• Identify what is encompassed by Patient-Centered Care (PCC)
• Identify how PCC can be easily incorporated into daily practice in medical imaging.
• Plan a PCC workshop for staff.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of your PCC program.
  

Entrepreneur Road: From Technologist to Owner of an Outpatient Center in a Competitive Market

Colleen J. Payne-Nabors, RT(N), RSO
MCI Diagnostic Center, Tulsa, OK

Credits: 1.0

This session will cover key components in starting your own outpatient center in a competitive market. The speaker will discuss: how start-up capital was raised to open a diagnostic center; what was involved with the initial process of owning and operating a full-service diagnostic clinic from a marketing standpoint; how managers were able to maximize resources to develop opportunities for branding the company; differentiating the company from other imaging centers; and how the company secured major contracts with large vendors. The speaker will also cover issues such as addressing policies and procedures in human resources, marketing, billing and how the company was continuously re-invented in an ever-changing competitive market. The speaker will also discuss how to manage a business while simultaneously growing it.

You will learn to:

• Determine whether or not entrepreneurship is right for you.
• Understand the basic principles of what is needed to start an outpatient imaging center.
• Understand the best practices for an outpatient center from marketing, billing, HR and hiring of physicians and staff.
  

The Real Cost of Managing Clinical Repositories

Henry Schaffer, CPA
InSiteOne, Wallingford, CT

Credits: 1.0
This session is generously sponsored by InSiteOne.

New digital imaging modalities and the emergence of digital medical records are producing data sets that are increasing in size and requiring new management tools to audit access while the length of retention continues to increase. The convergence of data requirements with rapidly changing technology creates new challenges for understanding the total costs of managing a clinical archive that is HIPAA-compliant and enterprise accessible. In light of the clinical retention requirements and regulatory issues, the complexity of disaster recovery of vast archives create new challenges for clinical imaging sites that have various levels of IT sophistication. This presentation will briefly review the latest developments in archive technology and disaster recovery scenarios. Based on a case study, the presentation will describe a methodology for identifying and quantifying the total cost of long-term archiving and storage with disaster recovery alternatives. The case study will compare and contrast internally managed solutions as well as storage service provider models that continue to emerge in the market.

You will learn to:

• Plan for digital data management.
• Understand the benefits of a solution that separates clinical software and imaging applications from the underlying data management technology.
• Ask vendors to explore the real costs of their solutions.
  

The Ins, Outs, Ups, Downs and Whys of Lease Financing

Richard W. Scown
RS Capital Corporation, Las Vegas, NV

This session is generously sponsored by RS Capital Corporation.

Credits: 1.0

In today’s marketplace, facilities of all types and sizes are under enormous pressure to succeed. In order to remain competitive and compliant, hospitals, clinics and medical practices must continue to invest in state-of-the-art equipment and information systems. Often, capital budget constraints limit the facility’s ability to obtain important new equipment or information systems. This session will describe and explore lease financing options and explain why, when and how to use them to make these acquisitions while remaining within established capital budget guidelines. A better understanding of lease vs. buy decisions in the acquisition of new equipment, RIS and PACS will help business-oriented facility administrators make the appropriate financial decisions for acquisition. This session will help them determine whether lease financing may afford a better option to acquire the needed equipment or system and preserve capital for other uses.

You will learn to:

• Get the technology you want while preserving your facility’s capital reserves and remaining within your allocated budgets.
• Understand the trade-offs between capital expenditure and lease financing for new RIS, PACS or other new equipment.
• Understand leasing terms, conditions, advantages and disadvantages and when, why and how to use lease financing to leverage available capital.

1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Expanded Sessions

Determining Your Personality Type: How to Use it Effectively as a Manager

Eugene D. Frank, MA, RT(R), FASRT, FAEIRS
Riverland Community College, Austin, MN

Credits: 3.0
This session repeats on Monday at 2:30 PM.

In this workshop you will determine your personality type using the Myers-Briggs Personality Type Indicator (MBTI). Knowledge of your specific “type” will enable you to function more effectively by understanding your strengths and, more importantly, your weaknesses. A manager with knowledge of his or her personality type will relate more positively with other managers and superiors and with the employees in their department. The speaker is a licensed Myers-Briggs facilitator who will administer the MBTI to attendees and help you identify your personality type.

Attendance is limited to 40 people. There is a $20 fee for this session to cover the cost of the MBTI workbook. Pre-registration is required for this session—see registration form.

You will learn to:

• Understand various personality types.
• Appreciate the strengths and weaknesses of your personality type.
• Recognize how different personality types interrelate within the radiology department.
  

Quality Management for Managers: Establishing and Measuring Medical Imaging Indicators

Andrea Stevens, MS, RT(R)(QM)
The Medical Center of Central Georgia, Macon, GA

Credits: 3.0

Quality management is a term that’s used to encompass quality control, quality assurance, and quality improvement/performance improvement. This presentation will be divided into two 90-minute segments. The first segment will explore the development and use of medical imaging indicators. The second segment will focus on the basic tools that quality managers will need to effectively perform their quality improvement/performance improvement jobs. During the first 90 minutes of this presentation the participants will learn about the 3 Ms of quality indicators, questions that need to be asked prior to the development and selection of indicators, how indicators are generally established, the types of indicators, the importance of grouping indicators into specific categories, and the use of a balanced scorecard. The second 90 minutes of the presentation will discuss types of data, data collection methods, and the basic tools (non-statistical and statistical tools) that are found in the quality management toolbox.

You will learn to:

• Identify indicators that are appropriate for your facility.
• Understand the importance of selecting indicators that are manageable, meaningful and measurable.
• Organize and analyze the data that is collected during normal operations in the imaging services department.
  

2:30 PM – 4:00 PM
Breakout Sessions

The Outpatient Availability Score: An Alternative Approach to Measuring Demand

Benjamin Asfaw, MHSA
Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA

Credits: 1.5
This session is generously sponsored by Massachusetts General Hospital.

Radiology business managers are challenged daily to maximize access, improve utilization, and enhance efficiency of very costly resources. They rely on a variety of reports, metrics, and indicators to make operational decisions. Among the many metrics managers track today, one of the more inexact is the determination of outpatient appointment availability. The Outpatient Availability Score (OAS) was developed to improve how we predict access to our resources at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) Radiology by accounting for patient preference. OAS uses a range of predictors (thresholds) to determine the low, medium, and high likelihood that patients will find an appointment suitable for them. OAS can be customized to fit individual operations by adjusting these thresholds as fluctuations in demand dictate. OAS used in conjunction with other measures for availability affords managers a clearer picture of access and the ability to deal proactively with demand in order to run more efficient operations.

You will learn to:

• Define what the Outpatient Availability Score (OAS) is.
• Apply the OAS methodology to your operations.
• Critically evaluate availability and patient preference as it relates to demand.
  

Unifying Your Marketing and Operational Divisions: The Crucial First Step of Growth

Martin J. Farrell
Epic Management Group LLC, Ronkonkoma, NY

Credits: 1.5
This session is generously sponsored by Epic Management Group LLC.

One of the most pressing questions that most imaging centers ask is “How can I increase my scan volume?” This question is often a hard one to easily answer and is usually left to the sales and marketing force to figure out alone. That kind of pressure on the sales force tends to create unnecessary frustration between the sales and operational divisions. Most imaging centers experience a common problem—a disconnect between the sales and operational divisions. This is because the objectives and skills of the two departments can sometimes be polar opposites of each other. The breakdown causes the sales force to feel stranded in the field without the support from operations. The typical feeling of the sales force is “operations doesn't do anything with the feedback I bring them,” while the operational force feels “sales doesn't like when I tell them how to do their jobs better.” This disconnect usually occurs because there are no easy or logical lines of communication to unite the two divisions. The sales force has their goals and objectives each month and the operations force has theirs—and they are often times not aware of the other. The question that needs to be asked is, “How can we unite the sales and operational divisions in a tangible way?” When imaging centers focus on finding common tools and communications to unite the two divisions, a noticeable increase in volume and customer service levels usually occur at the respective centers.

You will learn to:

• Define 3 key methods to unify the operations and marketing division’s objectives and strategies by utilizing various data-based functions.
• Understand the importance of developing a comprehensive database of referral sources and competition in a 10 mile radius.
• Define how the scheduling and billing database can reveal critical information to develop a marketing strategy.
• Understand the importance of developing a program that will establish mutual accountability and reward for the operations and sales staffs.
  

Considerations for Replacing Your PACS

John Griffith, BS, CRA, RT
EPIC Imaging, Portland, OR

Credits: 1.5
This session is generously sponsored by EPIC Imaging and Dynamic Imaging.

The early majority adopters of PACS in the marketplace may now be considering making a switch to a new vendor, or a current vendor may not be meeting expectations. Basic PACS topology and methodology have changed from 5 to 10 years ago and your current vendor may not have kept up with the pace of hardware and software technology. New standards in DICOM storage such as JPEG2000 combined with cheaper storage have now made it feasible to keep all studies online 100% of the time. There will be focus on designing an RFI/RFP that is tailored to your organization’s workflow and needs. Other topics will include: data migration strategies, Web-based vs. Web-enabled, spinning disk technologies, and reusing hardware when possible. The speaker’s real-life experience of replacing and implementing a new PACS with migration of 15 terabytes of data will be discussed.

You will learn to:

• Understand the considerations for creating a custom RFI for your particular practice.
• Define what to look for in different PACS topologies and how to distinguish what is important in a new PACS.
• Plan for data migration prior to and during the actual event.
• Define steps for implementing a software-only solution in your organization.
  

DR in the ER: Saving Time and Steps

Sheila M. Sferrella, MAS, CRA, RT(R), FAHRA
Saint Thomas Health Services, Nashville, TN

Cathleen Story, BS, RT(R), CRA
Lehigh Valley Hospital, Allentown, PA

Credits: 1.5
This session repeats on Tuesday at 8:00 AM.

There is very little data in the literature on actual time and motion studies for film vs. CR vs. DR. This presentation will provide data from actual studies as well as process changes to implement DR successfully in the emergency room environment. Previous studies and literature have captured average exam time differences only. The measurement data will include process workflows before and after implementation of DR, actual measure of the number of steps between the 3 environments, the time each step takes and the time savings for film vs. CR vs. DR. This data can be used to justify DR in any environment. The presentation will also include a training and competency guide for technologists in implementing DR technology.

You will learn to:

• Understand the workflow in a film, CR and DR environment.
• Use time and motion studies to identify potential savings in a DR environment.
• Determine productivity savings in a DR environment over film or CR.
• Understand how to manage both CR and DR in the same environment and how to maximize both models.
• Develop a competency model in a DR environment.
  

Unintentional Harassment: Keeping Your Organization and Yourself Out of Trouble

Sam Splear, AA, BA
Presentations By Splear, Milan, IL

Credits: 1.5
This session is generously sponsored by EPIC Imaging and Dynamic Imaging.

Harassment charges are growing in every organization. Although only a small percentage of people might be characterized as “intentional” harassers, most (if not all) of us have been guilty of “unintentionally” hurting others’ feelings that can and have resulted in charges of harassment. These charges can also result in both organizational and personal liability suits—even if you never intentionally meant to hurt anyone! What actions can your organization take to prevent harassment? What actions can you take to prevent finding yourself on the defensive side of charges? How do you grow a culture of respect with so much diversity in today's global workforce? In this interactive presentation, we will examine the make-up of the three groups of people affected by harassment, understand the difference between harassment and inappropriate behavior, increase our understanding of today's laws regarding harassment and learn a two-step process that each of us can use to assist us in preventing harassment in our workplace.

You will learn to:

• Develop increased awareness of how our personal words and actions might be labeled as harassment in today's diverse workforce.
• Learn personal methods to use in preventing harassment charges from occurring in the workplace.
• Understand how respect is the key to building working relationships in a diverse world.
  

Recent Developments and Key Legal Issues Impacting Radiology Practices

Adrienne Dresevic, Esq
PWachler & Associates, PC, Royal Oak, MI

Credits: 1.5
This session is generously sponsored by Wachler & Associates, PC.

This presentation will address recent developments and key legal issues impacting radiology practices and diagnostic imaging providers. On August 22, 2006, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) published its proposed rule regarding changes to the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule. Several of these proposed changes, if adopted, would impact radiology practices and diagnostic imaging providers. For example, the proposed changes include not only changes to the fee schedule, but also changes to the reassignment rules, Stark regulations, and conditions of participation for independent diagnostic testing facilities. The speaker will outline the changes that are adopted by the final rule and address the key legal issues of which radiology practices must always be mindful. Important legal issues impacting radiology and diagnostic imaging providers include federal statutes and regulations, such as the Federal Stark law and Federal Anti-kickback statute. Radiology practices also must be cognizant of the legal implications of joint ventures. Further, there are other general compliance concerns of which all healthcare providers must be aware, such as documentation, coding and billing. The presentation will also address the latest developments and enforcement trends regarding corporate practice of medicine doctrine.

You will learn to:

• Understand the recent developments in federal laws and regulations impacting radiology practices and diagnostic imaging providers, as described in the 2007 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule.
• Discuss important legal issues facing radiology and diagnostic imaging providers, such as the Federal Anti-kickback statute, Federal Stark law, joint ventures and corporate practice of medicine.
• Understand other compliance concerns.
  

4:30 PM – 5:30 PM

I Want That: Capital Equipment Purchasing

Robin Loebach, BSRT(R
Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago, IL

Credits: 1.0

Your department wants a piece of capital equipment. What is your planning process? This session will discuss the capital buying process at a large facility with a focus on the collaboration between the Material Management and Radiology Departments. Capital planning, market research, request for purchase, ROI analysis, contracting and the final purchase will all be explored. The speaker will also discuss opportunities for driving down costs and vendor relationships. How do you balance clinical requirements with budget dollars and compare new technology with existing technology? The speaker will also identify models for incorporation of utilization and service cost, and will discuss buying groups and contracting.

You will learn to:

• Understand the capital planning process.
• Discuss research prior to purchasing.
• Analyze technology.
• Explore cost reduction opportunities.
• Incorporate utilization and service cost in planning.

Cardiac CTA Contrast Administration

David J. Piazzo, BS, RT
E-Z-EM, Norwood, MA

This session is generously sponsored by E-Z-EM.

This course will offer an easy to understand look at the different ways to inject IV contrast for cardiac CTA. Multiple strategies for the injection of IV contrast during Cardiac CTA will be compared. The two primary types of cardiac imaging, coronary studies alone and coronaries with cardiac function, will be reviewed. Different types of injections produce different results in each of the types. Additionally, high Iodine Flux contrasts have changed contrast injection as well.

The following types of injection strategies will be reviewed: single contrast bolus followed by saline; two phase contrast bolus, followed by saline, both Phasing and Dual Flow; and contrast bolus followed by blends or contrast and saline, then saline. Exams from key sites around the country utilizing these different types of injections will be reviewed.

You will learn to:

• Understand opacification goals in cardiac CTA and how contrast injection plays a part.
• Differentiate between a timing bolus and bolus tracking strategies.
• Describe how different types of injections provide different opacification in the heart.
• Understand what scanner manufacturer applications teams teach about contrast and imaging.
• Make a good decision about your next cardiac capable injector.
• Identify today’s experts and what types of strategies are they using.

Don’t Forget to Laugh!

Terry Stavang, MBA, CRA, RT(R)
Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, San Jose, CA

Credits: 1.0

In the quickly evolving world of imaging, changes occur every day. As imaging managers, we must be ready to change along with the latest technology, quickly make important decisions, manage a diverse staff, and show great leadership qualities along the way. We all know that staff as well as patients tend to follow the mood set by the manager. It is important for the manager to understand that a fun work environment is important to the mental health of the staff, and the mood of the patients. In healthcare, however, there is a delicate balance of humor in good taste, and humor that is in poor taste. The presenter will discuss the importance of bringing (or simply allowing) humor into the workplace and emphasize the importance of making the workday fun for their own sanity as well as motivation for their staff. Participants will be reminded of the importance of making laughter a part of the workday for our staff, our customers, and ourselves.

You will learn to:

• Understand the importance of creating a fun work environment.
• Define the benefits to staff, customers and managers of humor in the work place.
• Introduce and sustain fun at work.
  

Debt Collection from A to Z

David B. Feldstein, Esq.
FirstCollect, Inc., Sparks, MD

Tim Moore
FirstCollect, Inc., Seabrook, NH

Credits: 1.0
This session is generously sponsored by FirstCollect, Inc.

All revenue cycles have a beginning, middle and end. This presentation will examine the collection of past due debts. Even though we like to think that all patients will pay for services rendered there are a great deal who do not. Why should your practice have to write those charges off? This presentation will focus on the importance of utilizing a collection agency in your revenue cycle. It will give you the tools to effectively choose the right collection agency that fits your needs. It will tell you the important questions to ask when selecting a collection agency. The presenters will give you an understanding of the legal issues involved in collecting past due accounts, which will include a discussion of HIPAA, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) and other laws that govern the collection of past due medical debt. This session will break down the collection process from when to place an account to when the agency should close an account. Various methods of collecting will also be discussed. Participants will leave with a greater understanding of how a debt collection agency operates, the tools to help select an agency and how important an agency can be in your company's revenue cycle.

You will learn to:

• Understand the importance of using a collection agency to enhance your revenue.
• Effectively choose the right collection agency that fits your practice needs.
• Understand the legal issues involved in collecting past due accounts.
  

Radiology in the OR: Perfect Together

Karen Stewart, BSRT(R)(CV), CRA
Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, New Brunswick, NJ

Credits: 1.0

This presentation will discuss the design of new operating rooms at the presenter’s facility and how radiology played a major part. The speaker will cover the planning phase, creation of the planning team, the integration of PACS into each room and the radiology equipment's integration. Experiences both positive and negative as well as what has been done to correct these issues will also be discussed, along with how physicians communicate their findings with each other. Finally, staff training and troubleshooting radiology equipment will also be discussed.

You will learn to:

• Design an operating room suite that is both surgically friendly as well as radiology-friendly.
• Integrate PACS into the OR.
• Manage radiology's part of the OR suite.
  

RIS/PACS: Filmless, Paperless and Voice Recognition in Under One Year

Gerard A. Mullen, MSA, CRA, RT(R)
Cooper University Hospital, Camden, NJ

Tim Holtz, RT(R) (MR)
Cooper University Hospital, Camden, NJ

Credits: 1.0

In this session, the speakers will discuss their experience with their department’s deployment of a new RIS/PACS system in 9 ½ months. The department had been underinvested in for many years, with no CR and a nine-year old RIS system that was deployed without considering workflow. The RIS had been put into operation mirroring the manual processes that were in place at the time. Implementation of enterprise-wide CR was the segue into the “digital” arena, followed by selection of a PACS vendor. The speakers will discuss their quick deployment experience including workflow, staff and management buy-in and vendor relationships.

You will learn to:

• Understand the value of building a relationship with your IT department.
• Understand the value of utilizing a project manager for radiology.
• Develop a uniform vision and leadership for radiology.

6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
President’s Reception

Generously sponsored by Agfa Corporation, Inc.

Sunday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday