Clarifications

In the first two installments of a series on Medicare rates and malpractice reform, several statements attributed to Dr David Kloth require clarification.

Dr Kloth’s practice, Connecticut Pain Care, PC, handles 40,000 patient visits per year, its four physicians and physician’s assistant do not handle 40,000 separate patient treatments.

A potential malpractice premium increase from $30,000 to $70,000 annually for two particular pain management procedures was quoted to a practice in another state, not Dr Kloth’s practice in Connecticut.

Also, the assertion that Medicare will further reduce reimbursement by 10–15 percent was based on a number of estimated increases and reductions to achieve a “budget neutral” status, and does not reflect a uniform or comprehensive cut.

The final installment of the series appears in this issue of The Newtown Bee.