COVID-19 Updates

We DO Community

These are unprecedented times. The staff team at POMA is now conducting business virtually. Early on, the association’s technology was significantly upgraded to ensure that, at any time for any reason, the team could work remotely. Now we can help #FlattenTheCurve by working from home while continuing the work of the association. We will provide ongoing support and updated information relative to COVID-19. We remain your advocates while continuing to monitor the actions of the legislative, regulatory and executive branches. We are moving forward with alternatives to in-person education to help you meet licensure requirements. And we never take for granted the care you provide to your patients and the associated risks you take to care for the public health. We are here for you.

Be safe,
Diana M. Ewert, MPA, CAE
Chief Staff Officer

POMA is taking COVID-19 preventive measures for POMA's 112th Annual Clinical Assembly & Scientific Seminar. POMA20 is transitioning from live to virtual - visit the POMA20 Virtual page for more information. Weekly updates will be posted on Wednesdays so please check the COVID-19 page for more information.

COVID-19 Resources

CMS is holding a national stakeholder call TODAY, March 31 at 12:00 pm EST to discuss the temporary regulatory waivers and rules to equip the American healthcare system with flexibility to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. Join the webcast or read the press release and view additional waivers and guidance on the CMS COVID-19 flexibilities webpage. 

Coronavirus Situation Summary Website

The CDC is closely monitoring an outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a novel (new) coronavirus first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. Chinese authorities identified the new coronavirus, which has resulted in thousands of confirmed cases in China, including cases outside Wuhan City. Additional cases have been identified in a growing number of other international locations, including the United States. Because the outbreak of the virus is rapidly changing, please visit the CDC website for the most current information.

Important Practice Alert

New Requirements for Prescribing Opioids Are Now in Effect!
Immediate Action is Required by Physicians Who Prescribe Opioids!

Click here to read POMA's analysis of Act 112.

Act 112 of 2019 (Act 112) imposes significant, specific requirements on physicians before a first prescription for opioids may be issued. Mandated conduct was effective November 27, 2019 (the date Act 112 was signed into law).

POMA is aware that many osteopathic physicians already use some type of patient agreement, thus, the idea will not be new. However, the specific conduct required of prescribers and the detailed content requirements for patient agreements under Act 112 likely will require physicians to adjust their conduct and documents to comply with this statute.