A Publication of NYCHSRO/MEDREVIEW VOLUME 17, NO. 2 NYCHSRO/MedReview 40th JulyAnniversary - December 2014 www.medreview.us

NYCHSRO Celebrates NYCHSRO/MedReview40th Anniversary 40th Anniversary YCHSRO/MedReview, the old- est health care peer review Norganization in , celebrated its 40th anniversary on Sep- NYCHSRO/MedReview 40th Anniversary tember 15th at the Down Town Associa- tion near Wall Street. Hundreds of well- wishers joined a celebratory reception in honor of the occasion. The Organiza- (Above): Spencer Young (left), Senior Vice President for Clinical Operations at Health Data Insights, speaks at the reception; at right is MedReview CEO and President tion honored longtime employees, 11 Joseph Stamm. of whom worked there for more than 20 (Above): Spencer Young (left), Senior (Left,Vice President l-r): New for ClinicalYork State Operations Assembly at Health Members Richard Gottfried, Steven Cymbrowitz, Data Insights, speaks at the reception;Alec at Brook-Krasny right is MedReview and CEO Denny and President Farrell present Stamm with a proclamation. years and another 25 who had been Joseph Stamm. (Left, l-r): New York State Assembly Members Richard Gottfried, Steven Cymbrowitz, there for more than 10 years. Joseph Alec Brook-Krasny and Denny Farrell present Stamm with a proclamation. Stamm, the organization’s CEO and butions towards ensuring that President, stated MedReview evaluates (Above): Spencer Young (left), Senior Vice Presidentbutions for towards Clinical Operations ensuring at Health that New Yorkers receive the quality Data Insights, speaks at the reception; at right is MedReview CEO and President the cost and quality of health services Joseph Stamm. New Yorkers receive the quality health care they deserve.” health care they deserve.” The reception was attended by a (Left, l-r): New York State Assembly MembersThe Richard reception Gottfried, was Steven attended Cymbrowitz, by a paid for by Alec Brook-Krasny and Denny Farrell present Stamm with a proclamation. wide range of elected officials; a wide range of elected officials; a its clients, number of them presented the number of them presented the who in- “We have laid a solid, organization with proclamations. organization with proclamations. They included New York State They included New York State clude labor Assemblybutions towards Members ensuring Alec Brook- that strong, sustainable Krasny,New Yorkers Steven Cymbrowitz, receive the qualityDenny Assembly Members Alec Brook- Fhealtharrell, care Gottfried, they deserve.” Rhoda Jacobs Krasny, Steven Cymbrowitz, Denny union, gov- The reception was attended by a and Linda Rosenthal. Also in atten- Farrell, Gottfried, Rhoda Jacobs foundation and are wide range of elected officials; a ernment dance were Borough and Linda Rosenthal. Also in atten- Presidentnumber of Eric them Adams; presented Queens the agencies ready to start building Boroughorganization President with Melinda proclamations. Katz; dance were Brooklyn Borough CityThey Council included Members New York David State President Eric Adams; Queens and man- Assembly Members Alec Brook- Greenfield, Andy King and Mark Borough President Melinda Katz; Levine;Krasny, Steven former Cymbrowitz, State and Denny City aged-care for the next 40 years.” (Clockwise from above): Mitra Behroozi, director of Local 1199 SEIU’s National Benefit Fund, with Stamm; Dr. Arnold Saperstein, president and CEO of MetroPlus Health ComptrollersFarrell, Gottfried, H. Carl Rhoda McCall Jacobs and City Council Members David Plan, with Stamm; Richard N. Gottfried, Chair of the New York State Assembly Committee on Health, with Stamm; Dr. Eran Bellin speaks at the event; and and Linda Rosenthal. Also in atten- musical performance by Nina Bogomas. Bill Thompson; and former City Greenfield, Andy King and Mark compa- dance were Brooklyn Borough To p r o w : (L-R) NYS Ass e m b ly m e m b e r s Ri c h a r d Go t t f r i e d , St e v e n Cy m b r o w i t z , Al e c Br o o k -Kr a s n y Councilmana n d De n n Michaely Fa r r eC.ll . Nelson. Levine; former State and City (Clockwise from above): Mitra Behroozi, director of Local 1199 SEIU’s National Benefit Fund, with Stamm; Dr. Arnold Saperstein, presidentPresident and CEO Eric of Adams; MetroPlus Queens Health nies. It now Sp e n c e r Yo u n g , Se n i o r VP a t HDI. Mi d d l e r o w : (L-R) Mi t r a Be h r o o z i , Di r e c t o r a t Lo c a l 1199Additional SEIU ’sproclamations NBF, were Comptrollers H. Carl McCall and Plan, with Stamm; Richard N. Gottfried, Chair of the New York State Assembly Committee on Health, with Stamm; Dr. Eran receivedBorough Bellin speaks from President NYS at Melinda the Comptroller event; Katz; and operates in 15 states and has saved musical performance by Nina Bogomas. Dr. Ar n o l d Sa p e r s t e i n , Pr e s i d e n t a n d CEO o f Me t r o Pl u s . TCityom DiNapoli Council and Members NYC Public David Bill Thompson; and former City Bo t t o m Ro w (L-R): Mu s i c a l p e r f o r m a n c e b y Ni n a Bo g o m a s , Dr. Er i n Be ll i n , Ass e m b ly m a n Ri c AdvocatehGreenfield, a r d G Letitiao tAndy t f rJames. i e dKing. and Mark Councilman Michael C. Nelson. its clients more than $1 billion “post- Levine; former State and City (Clockwise from above): Mitra Behroozi, director of Local 1199 SEIU’s National Benefit Fund, with Stamm; Dr. Arnold Saperstein, president and CEO of MetroPlus Health Among the numerous individuals Comptrollers H. Carl McCall and Additional proclamations were review” since 1974. Plan, with Stamm; Richard N. Gottfried, Chair of the New York State Assembly Committee on Health, with Stamm; Dr. Eran Bellin speaks at the event; and recognizing MedReview’s “leader- received from NYS Comptroller musical performance by Nina Bogomas. ship,Bill Thompson; commitment and and former dedication City Stamm dedicated the evening’s cel- toCouncilman improving Michaelthe quality C. and Nelson. cost Tom DiNapoli and NYC Public effectivenessAdditional proclamationsof health care” were were Advocate Letitia James. ebration in memory of Dr. Lowell Bellin, U.S.received Senators from Charles NYS Schumer Comptroller and Tom DiNapoli and NYC Public Among the numerous individuals Kirsten Gillibrand of New York recognizing MedReview’s “leader- who was the NYC Commissioner of andAdvocate Mark WarnerLetitia James.of Virginia; many membersAmong ofthe Congress;numerous Newindividuals York ship, commitment and dedication Health and Chairman of the School recognizing MedReview’s “leader- YCHSRO/MedReview, the dent, stated, “We have laid a solid, celebration in memory of Dr. Behroozi, director of Local 1199 Mayor ; New York to improving the quality and cost ship, commitment and dedication of Public Health at Columbia Univer- Noldest health care peer review strong, sustainable foundation and Lowell Bellin, who was the NYC SEIU’s National Benefit Fund; State Senate Majority Co-Leader, effectiveness of health care” were organization in New York, celebrat- are ready to start building for the Commissioner of Health and Spencer Young, Senior Vice Deanto improving Skelos; the New quality York and State cost effectiveness of health care” were U.S. Senators Charles Schumer and sity. Dr. Erin Bellin, Lowell’s son, told ed its 40th anniversary on Sept. next 40 years.” Chairman of the School of Public President for Clinical Operations at Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver; 15th at the Down Town Association MedReview evaluates the cost Health at Columbia University. HDI (Health Data Insights); NewU.S. Senators York City Charles Council Schumer Speaker and Kirsten Gillibrand of New York the gathering that his father had been near Wall Street. Hundreds of well- and quality of health services paid Dr. Eran Bellin, Lowell’s son, told Arnold Saperstein, M.D., president MelissaKirsten Mark-Viverito; Gillibrand of New York York and Mark Warner of Virginia; many and Mark Warner of Virginia; many wishers joined a celebratory recep- for by its clients, who include the gathering that his father had and CEO of MetroPlus Health City Comptroller Scott Stringer; members of Congress; New York inspired to fight Medicaid fraud when tion in honor of the occasion. The labor unions, government agen- been inspired to fight Medicaid Plan; and Rabbi Joseph Potasnik of andmembers various of other Congress; State New and YorkCity organizationYCHSRO/MedReview,YCHSRO/MedReview, honored longtime the ciesdent, the andstated, managed-caredent, “We havestated, laid compa-“Wea solid, havefraudcelebration laid when a solid, hein readmemorycelebration a patient’s of Dr. theBehroozi, in New memory York director Board ofof of LocalRabbis. Dr. 1199Behroozi,electedMayor officials. Billdirector de Blasio; of Local New York 1199 Mayor Bill de Blasio; New York he read a patient’s chart and found the employees,NNoldestoldest health 11 health of care whom peercare worked review peer nies.reviewstrong, It now sustainablestrong, operates foundation sustainable in 15 states and foundationchartLowell and Bellin, found and who that Lowellwas the the doctor NYC Bellin,SEIU’sRichard who National was N. Gottfried, the Benefit NYC Chair Fund;SEIU’s of StateA congratulatoryNational Senate Majority Benefit journal Co-Leader, Fund; of State Senate Majority Co-Leader, organization in New York, celebrat- are ready to start building for the Commissioner of Health and Spencer Young, Senior Vice Dean Skelos; New York State thereorganization forInside more than in New 20 yearsThis York, and celebrat- andIssue.... has savedare ready its clients to start more buildinghad prescribed for thean expensiveCommissioner set of the New of York Health State and AssemblySpencermore than Young, 135 letters Senior was present- Vice Dean Skelos; New York State doctor had prescribed an expensive set ed its 40th anniversary on Sept. next 40 years.” Chairman of the School of Public President for Clinical Operations at Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver; anothered its 25 40thwho had anniversary been there for onthan Sept. $1 billionnext 40 “post-review” years.” orthotics for “foetidaChairman pedibus” — ofCommittee the School on of Health,Public said,Presidented to all for in Clinicalattendance. Operations at Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver; more15th watthan theNYCHSRO 10 Down years. Town Joseph Association Stamm,CelebratessinceMedReview 1974. 40th evaluates Anniversary...1 the cost LatinHealth for at“smelly Columbia feet.”w University.Joseph Stamm“JosephHDI (Health Stamm CEO and Data Honoredhis executive Insights); byNewFor YorkNY more City information, Council Speaker visit of orthotics for “foetida pedibus”,Latin thenear15th organization’s Wall at theStreet. Down Hundreds CEO Town and of presi- well-AssociationandStamm quality dedicated ofMedReview health the services evening’s paid evaluatesDr.Other Eran the speakersBellin, cost Lowell’s includedHealth son, Mitra told at ColumbiateamArnold have Saperstein, made University. enduring M.D., president contri-HDIwww.medreview.us. Melissa (Health Mark-Viverito; Data New Insights); York Council Speaker wishers joined a celebratory recep- for by its clients, who include the gathering that his father had and CEO of MetroPlus Health City Comptroller Scott Stringer; 14near w JEWISH Wall Street.WORLD Hundreds• OCTOBER 10-16,of well- 2014 and quality of health services paid Dr. Eran Bellin, Lowell’s son, told Arnold Saperstein, M.D., president Melissa Mark-Viverito; New York for “smelly feet”. tion in Healthcarehonor of the occasion. Headline The labor Summaries....2 unions, government agen- been inspired to fight Academy Medicaid Plan; of and Medicine...4 Rabbi Joseph Potasnik of and various other State and City Other speakers included Mitra Beh- organizationwishers joined honored a celebratory longtime ciesrecep- and for managed-care by its clients, compa- fraud who when include he readthe a patient’sgatheringthe thatNew York his Board father of hadRabbis.and elected CEO officials. of MetroPlus Health City Comptroller Scott Stringer; employees,tionw inCongressional honor 11 of of whom the occasion. worked Ceremonynies. The It nowlabor operatesHonoring unions, in 15 states governmentchart and agen- found thatbeenw Special the doctorinspired Anniversary Richard to fight N. Gottfried, Medicaid Supplement...5-15 ChairPlan; of andA congratulatoryRabbi Joseph journalPotasnik of of and various other State and City roozi, Director of Local 1199 SEIU’s thereorganization for more than honored 20 years and longtimeand has savedcies its and clients managed-care more had prescribed compa- an expensivefraud set when of the he New read York a patient’s State Assemblythe Newmore Yorkthan 135 Board letters of was Rabbis. present- elected officials. anotheremployees, Raoul 25 who had 11Wallenberg...3 been of whomthere for workedthan $1 nies. billion It “post-review”now operatesorthotics in 15 for states “foetidachartw pedibus” NYCHSRO/MedReview and — foundCommittee that onthe Health, doctor Hosts said,Richard Letitiaed to all N. inJames...16 attendance. Gottfried, Chair of A congratulatory journal of National Benefit Fund; Spencer Young, more than 10 years. Joseph Stamm, since 1974. Latin for “smelly feet.” “Joseph Stamm and his executive For more information, visit thethere organization’sw  for more CEO than and 20 presi- yearsStamm and dedicatedand has the saved evening’s its clientsOther speakers more includedhadw prescribed Mitra team an have expensive made enduring set of contri-the www.medreview.us. New York State Assembly more than 135 letters was present- Senior Vice President for Clinical Op- 14another JEWISHPolitical 25 WORLDwho Roundup...4had • OC beenTOBER there 10-16, for2014 than $1 billion “post-review” orthoticsOrganization for “foetida Bids pedibus” Farewell — Committee to Rhoda onJacobs...17 Health, said, ed to all in attendance. erations at HDI (Health Data Insights); morew Newsthan 10 inyears. Review Joseph Profile:Stamm, sinceAnnevictoria 1974. Palumbo...5 Latinw 2014 for “smellySummer feet.” Outing...17“Joseph Stamm and his executive For more information, visit Arnold Saperstein, M.D., President and the organization’s CEO and presi- Stamm dedicated the evening’s Other speakers included Mitra team have made enduring contri- www.medreview.us. 14 w Bill JEWISH Thompson WORLD • Joins OCTOBER NYCHSRO 10-16, 2014 BOD...3 w Year End Holiday Party 2014...18 CEO of MetroPlus Health Plan; and Rabbi Joseph Potasnick of the New York w Joseph Stamm CEO Invited to White House...4 w 2014 Year in Review...19

Co n t i n u e d o n p a g e 5 w Client Relation Activities...20 Bracing for the Falls of an Aging Nation – reading, computer work, playing video games, that having the genes associated with lifelong NY- Times 10/30/2014 - As the population and using tablets and smartphones, is contrib- low vitamin D increases the risk of cancer ages and people live longer in bad shape, uting to the increase. A number of other studies death by more than 40 percent and the risk the number of older Americans who fall and show that children who spend time outdoors of death from any cause by more than 30 per- suffer serious, even fatal, injuries is soaring. In are less likely to develop high myopia. Beyond cent. They found no effect on cardiovascular response, the retirement communities, assisted corrective eyeglasses and contact lenses, there disease death. living facilities and nursing homes where mil- has been little parents can do for nearsighted lions of Americans live are trying to balance children. Now optometrists are offering a treat- Antibiotics May Not Raise Asthma Risk-NY safety and their residents’ desire to live as they ment called orthokeratology- ortho-k, for short. Times – 12/8/2014 - Studies have suggested choose. Myopia occurs when the eyeball elongates. that antibiotic use in pregnancy and childhood Those who study and manage retirement Ortho-k contact lenses apply pressure to the may increase the risk for asthma, but a large facilities and nursing homes say there is height- cornea, flattening it. After wearing the lenses Swedish study has found strong evidence that ened attention to preventing falls. Trying to all night, patients have clear vision that lasts for there is no such connection. anticipate hazardous conditions, retirement one full day, after which the cornea returns to Researchers followed 493,785 children, in- facilities like The Sequoias hire architects and its natural shape. The lenses have been around cluding 180,894 siblings, from the start of their interior designers, some of whom wear special since the 1940s but caught on only recently in mothers’ pregnancies to school age. More than glasses that show the building as an old per- the , partly because of long-term 20% had been exposed to antibiotics in utero son would see it. The dangers are real. The clinical trials demonstrating that they may slow and 62% during childhood. Overall, 6% had number of people over 65 who died after a fall down the progression of myopia. Ortho-k is asthma. reached nearly 24,000 in 2012, the most re- not just for children: adults can wear the lenses The study, published in BMJ, initially found cent year for which fatality numbers are avail- too, but the long-term benefits are limited. Be- an apparent link between antibiotic use and able — almost double the number 10 years cause myopia tends not to progress after pa- later asthma, but the association disappeared earlier, according to the Centers for Disease tients reach their early 20s, the lenses are not when researchers looked at siblings. They Control and Prevention really preventive. found no difference in asthma development be- The rate of severe falls has been increasing But some clinicians are skeptical of the lens- tween siblings who had taken antibiotics and for Americans over the age of 65. Researchers es and worry that the risks may not be worth- those who had not, suggesting that other envi- say that there has also been a rise in diseases while. “The studies do show that it seems to ronmental or genetic factors are at work. linked to falls: diabetes, heart disease, stroke, slow the progression, but it’s not a slam dunk,” Asthma, they write, may be misdiagnosed arthritis and Parkinson’s disease. In some said Dr. David Hunter, an ophthalmologist at as a respiratory disease and then treated with cases, the medication to treat the disease can Harvard University and Boston Children’s Hos- antibiotics. When asthma later appears, the increase the risk of falling. More than 2.4 mil- pital, “especially in young children, where the antibiotics are incorrectly identified as the cause. lion people over 65 were treated in emergency risk of infection is high.” departments for injuries from falls in 2012 Poor Sleep Tied to Brain Changes of Dementia alone, an increase of 50 percent over a de- Low Vitamin D Tied to Higher Death Risk - NY – NY Times – 12/15/2014 - Poor sleep in old- cade. All told, in the decade from 2002-2012, Times – 11/24/2014 - Many observational er adults may be linked to brain changes asso- more than 200,000 Americans over 65 died studies suggest that low vitamin D levels are as- ciated with dementia, a new study has found. after falls. Falls are the leading cause of injury- sociated with an increased risk for disease, but Researchers studied 167 men who underwent related death in that age group. it is not clear if low vitamin D is a cause or an sleep tests in 1999 and died by 2010. The According to the Centers for and effect of poor health. Now a new study, using study in Neurology recorded sleep duration, Medicaid Services, nearly 17 percent of nurs- a technique called Mendelian randomization, periods of waking up and episodes of apnea, ing home residents in the United States, or provides persuasive evidence that low serum and used pulse oximetry to measure oxygen 220,000 people, experience a fall. Of those, vitamin D itself increases the risk of death. saturation of their blood. 70,000 are injured. Medicare currently will For the study, published in BMJ, research- On autopsy, they found that those in the not pay to treat an injury resulting from a fall ers used data from Danish government health highest one-quarter for duration of sleep at ox- in a hospital, and many health policy experts records on 95,766 subjects. All were tested for ygen saturation of less than 95% were almost believe the agency should institute the same a genetic variant that reduces their vitamin D 4x as likely to have higher levels microinfarcts, policy for nursing homes. levels, and 35,334 also had their vitamin D small areas of dead tissue caused by depriva- serum levels measured. There were 10,349 tion of blood supply, as those in the lowest A Debatable Fix for Young Eyes With Myopia deaths over the course of the study, from 1981 one-quarter. Compared with those in the lowest – NY Times – 11/3/2014- Myopia has be- to 2013. 25% for duration of slow-wave (deep) sleep, come something of a minor epidemic: More By studying two large populations, of which those in the highest one-quarter were about a than 40 percent of Americans are nearsighted, one has the genetic variant for low vitamin D third as likely to have moderate or high levels a 16 percent increase since the 1970s. People and the other does not, researchers were able of generalized brain atrophy. with so-called high myopia - generally, blurry to virtually eliminate the impact of confounding “Prior studies have shown an association vision beyond about five inches - face an in- factors like other diseases, habits and behav- between certain types of sleep disturbance and creased likelihood of developing cataracts and iors that might be contributing to poor health. dementia,” said the lead author, Dr. Rebecca glaucoma, are at higher risk for retinal detach- These traits would be evenly distributed in the P. Gelber, an epidemiologist with the Veterans ments that can result in blindness. populations studied, leaving only the genetic Administration in Hawaii. “These lesions may Some research indicates that “near work”: difference between them. The scientists found help explain the association.” 2 Joe Stamm Attends Congressional Ceremony News In Review Profile: Honoring Raoul Wallenberg Annevictoria Palumbo, RN,BSHS,CCM YCHSRO/MedReview CEO, Joseph Stamm, attended a ceremony at the U.S. Capitol Our News where Leaders of the U.S. House and Sen- In Review Pro- N file this edition ate posthumously presented a Congressional Gold Medal to Raoul Wallenberg in honor of his heroism features NYCH- during the Holocaust. SRO’s Director A luncheon was held prior to the ceremony, at- of Utilization tended by Senators Blumenthal, Cardin, Cruz, Management, Franken, Gillibrand, Graham, Isakson, Kirk, Levin, Annevictoria and Members of Congress Goodlatte, Harper, Hult- Palumbo. Ms. gren, McDermott, McGovern, Meeks, Paulsen, Pit- Palumbo joined tenger, Schakowsky, Schneider and Van Hollen. NYCHSRO/MedReview in 2013, serv- The ceremony was attended by House Speaker ing as the Assistant Director of Utilization Boehner, Majority Leader Cantor, Senate Majority Management. A little over a year into Leader Reid, Republican Leader McConnell, and her tenure, she was promoted to Director. Democratic Whip Hoyer. Nina Lagregen, Raoul As Director, Ms. Palumbo is responsible Wallenberg’s sister accepted the medal on his be- for overall operations of NYCHSRO/ half. MedReview’s URAC accredited Health Mr. Joseph Stamm CEO noted that “It was a mov- Utilization Management program. This ing ceremony, and afforded people the opportunity includes supervising and managing the to see Raoul Wallenberg’s remaining family, and staff of UM and Case Management nurs- some of the survivors that were saved by Wallen- es, performing quality assurance of all de- berg. His legacy is that at great risk to himself, he partmental activities, working closely with did the right thing and saved tens of thousands of clients, reviewing and monitoring appeals lives.” and participating in Quality Management The Raoul Wallenberg Centennial Celebration activities. Commission was established by Ezra Friedlander, Annevictoria received her RN de- CEO of The Friedlander Group which advocated for gree from St. Vincent’s Medical Center of the Bill’s passage. Richmond - School of Nursing and subse- quently earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Human Services (BSHS) from Thomas Edison State College. Her role as Director of Utilization Management puts her in the William (Bill) Thompson Joins the Board of Directors of center of NYCHSRO/MedReview’s URAC accreditation activities. Her attention to NYCHSRO/MedReview Inc. detail and close supervision help the orga- YCHSRO/MedReview Authority, a position he held nization maintain the outstanding quality is proud to announce until 2012. He also serves as standards required by URAC. Nthe election of former a Trustee Emeritus at Tufts Uni- Prior to coming to NYCHSRO/ New York City Comptroller, versity, and was a Board Mem- MedReview, Ms. Palumbo served as the William C. Thompson, Jr. to its ber of the Bedford-Stuyvesant Manager of Utilization Management for Board of Directors. Bill Thomp- Restoration Corporation. Gov- Healthfirst. Her previous experience also son is a dedicated advocate for ernor Andrew Cuomo selected included serving as the Assistant Director innovation, diversity and prog- Mr. Thompson to Chair his of Case Management at Staten Island Uni- ress in the public and private MWBE (Minority and Wom- versity Hospital and working as the Clini- sectors – a proven Chief Execu- en-Owned Business Enterpris- cal Manager for Medical management tive with a long-term record of es) Task Force and to serve on at Touchstone Health. Since assuming success leading complex orga- the New York State Gaming the position of Director, Ms. Palumbo has nizations in finance, Board and Facility Location Board. Born revamped staff training and processes to government roles. He joined the in Brooklyn, Mr. Thompson re- ensure that the program continues to meet Board of Directors of NYCH- sides in Harlem with his wife, quality standards as it undergoes a period SRO/MedReview at the end of Elsie McCabe Thompson, and of growth. The organization looks forward 2014. Mr. Thompson has served their children. to the continued growth of the Utilization as an active member on a number of for profit, “Bill’s experience in profit, nonprofit and Management program under Annevicto- not-for-profit and government Boards. In Febru- government will be an enormous asset to ria’s guidance. ary 2010, New York State Governor David Pa- NYCHSRO/MedReview Inc. We’re honored terson named him to serve as Chairman of the to have him join our board.” said Mr. Joseph Board of The Hugh L. Carey Battery Park City Stamm, President and CEO. 3 NYCHSRO/MedReview CEO Invited to Chanukah Party at the White House n Wednesday, December 17, the Congress, academics, musicians, authors, The President allowed men in attendence President and Mrs. Obama wel- and other prominent members of the Jewish to use the Red Room for afternoon prayer Ocomed members of the American community. The President and Mrs. Obama services. Mr. Stamm summed up the special Jewish community including NYCHSRO/ joined guests in the Grand Foyer for the cer- event noting “It was a special and unique MedReview C.E.O. Joseph Stamm, to the emonial candle lighting program on the first opportunity to be a part of the Chanukah cel- White House to celebrate Chanukah. Guests day of Hanukkah. The President delivered re- ebration in the White House, participating at the ceremony represented the breadth marks celebrating the story of Hanukkah. The with such an esteemed gathering and light- of the Jewish community, including leaders President took the opportunity to announce ing Chanukah candles with the President of from a wide range of local and national Jew- that in the spirit of Hanukkah miracles, U.S. the United States. It was a memorable event ish organizations, state and local elected of- aid worker Alan Gross had been released for all who attended.” ficials, Administration officials, Members of after five years in a Cuban prison.

Joseph Stamm Honored by The New York Academy Of Medicine

n November 6, 2014 NYCHSRO/MedReview CEO, Joseph attended by many of NYCHSRO/MedReview’s senior staff and Board Stamm was honored as a 30 Year Fellow by the New York members. The program also featured a keynote address on “The OAcademy of Medicine at its Annual Meeting of the Fellows State of the Academy” by Dr. Boufford, discussing the institution’s and the 167th Anniversary Discourse and Awards. future direction and the substantial progress in the strategic planning The presentation recognized Mr. Stamm for reaching this milestone process. A reception followed the award and thanked him for all of the support that he provided to NYAM over ceremony. the years. In response Mr. Stamm thanked Academy President, Jo Ivey Boufford, MD and The New York Academy of Medicine for the special honor. He also thanked Dr. Boufford for her contributions to the organization, suggesting that she and her administration are the soul of the organization, and ended by saying that “I am honored to be a 30 year fellow of this prestigious organization and I reaffirm my commitment to the organization and its’ guiding principles of: • reducing racial disparities in health care, • disease prevention and • creating an environment that is sensitive to healthy aging.” The program was held at the magnificent NYAM auditorium and

(L-R) Ke y St a f f w i t h Jo s e p h a n d An n e St a m m . Dr. Jo Iv e y Bo u f f o r d a n d Jo s e p h St a m m . NYCHSRO Bo a r d Me m b e r s w i t h Jo s e p h St a m m . Jo s e p h St a m m Re c e i v i n g h i s a w a r d . 4 special supplement

Clients and Friends Acknowledge NYCHSRO/MedReview on its 40th Anniversary “NYCHSRO/MedReview is a key leader in with services is exemplary and a model for oth- strong enough to adequately THANK YOU. You keeping down health care cost and protecting the ers.” have set the tone for cost effective, quality care benefits of working men and women. Mr. Joseph -Gary Klein, Managing Attorney in the New York marketplace and beyond. Your Stamm, president of MedReview, is an innovator WEITZ & LUXENBERG forward thinking and action has truly impacted deploying strategic audits often saving thousands our world in the most positive of ways.” of dollars for families who have been hit with un- “During these past 40 years, NYCHSRO -Joel Landau, Chairman, CARE TO CARE reasonable hospital charges.” and MedReview have worked hard to establish -Lou Gordon, Director of BALCONY a sterling reputation and to be respected for its “Since the earliest days of the Professional countless activities over the years that have en- Standards Review Organization enabling legisla- “Teamster Center Services congratulates our hanced the quality of health care in our country. tion and implementation, the New York County partners at NYCHSRO/MedReview on the cele- It is an accepted fact that the health care industry Health Services Review Organization (NYCH- bration of your 40th anniversary. Congratulations is no longer a small and modest enterprise. These SRO) has served as a national exemplar of the on 40 years of clinical excellence in helping your challenges have to be met with hard work and highest standards and practice of clinically based clients keeping their medical cost down while dedication to doing what’s right. NYCHSRO/ medical review services that have protected indi- never compromising care.” MedReview has raised the bar for the health care vidual patients and assured the responsible pay- -Andy Johnson, Fund administrator community by delivering, competent, honest and ment of health benefit dollars. The organization’s TEAMSTER CENTER SERVICES caring results.” record of steady growth and achievement and -Arthur Jerry Kremer, President its reputation for unassailable integrity assure a “Over the years we have seen your organi- Empire Gov’t Strategies bright future.” zation morph forward to keep abreast with the -Michael R. McGarvey, MD, changing technologies that so rapidly occur and “The word CONGRATULATIONS would Board of Directors to provide timely and accurate services to meet generally be the appropriate sentiment for your our needs. Your company’s ability to provide us contribution to the Healthcare arena, but truly not NYCHSRO Celebrates 40th Anniversary Co n t i n u e d f r o m p a g e 1 New Yorkers receive the health care they de- Greenfield, Andy King, and Mark Levine; former New York and Mark Warner of Virginia; many serve.” State and City Comptrollers H. Carl McCall and members of Congress; NY Mayor Bill deBlasio; The reception was attended by a wide range Bill Thompson; and former City Councilman Mi- New York Senate Majority Co-Leader Dean Ske- of elected officials; a number of them present- chael C. Nelson. Additional proclamations were los; New York State Assembly Speaker Sheldon ed the organization with proclamations. They received from NYS Comptroller Tom DiNapoli Silver; New York City Council Speaker Melissa included NYS Assemblymembers Alec Brook- and NYC Public Advocate Letitia James. Mark-Viverito; New York City Comptroller Scott Krasny, Steve Cymbrowitz, Denny Farrell, Rich- Among the numerous individuals recogniz- Stringer; and various other State and City elect- ard Gottfried, Rhoda Jacobs and Linda Rosen- ing MedReview’s leadership, commitment and ed officials. thal. Also in attendance were Brooklyn Borough dedication to improving the quality and cost A congratulatory journal of more than 135 President Eric Adams, Queens Borough Presi- effectiveness of health care were U.S. Sena- letters were presented to all in attendance. For dent Melinda Katz, City Councilmembers David tors Charles Schumer and Kristen Gillibrand of more information visit www.medreview.us.

5 NYCHSRO/MedReview Staff

NYCHSRO The following NYCHSRO/MedReview staff members have Early Days served for 10 years or more with the organization.

EmployEE yEar of Service

Joseph Stamm, CEO/President 37 Linda Patterson, SVP/COO 36 Helen Mutchler, EVP/CFO 31 Rudolph Moise, Assistant Director 29 Louisa Noel, Bookkeeper 26 Deborah Greenberg, DRG Reviewer 25 Edward Prunier, Local Medical Director 24 Robert Stoller, Local Medical Director 24 Patricia Black, Receptionist 22 Irwin Katz, Sr. Director 21 Danielle Moise, Administrative Assistant 20 Deborah Coyne, Sr. Director 19 Robert Rosenbloom, Vice President 19 Marina Shamis, Sr. Programmer 19 Martin Bharath, Local Medical Director 19 Mildred Lecoin, Assistant Director 19 Cesar Reyes, Local Medical Director 19 Patricia Butler, Supervisor 18 Rafaela Rosario, Assistant Director 16 Anita Aisner, Medical Director 15 Margaret Mitchell, Vice President 15 “Congratulations to you and the entire NYCHSRO/MedReview or- Sylvia Tillery, Administrative Assistant 15 ganization on the celebration of your 40th Anniversary! What a re- Harriet Starr, Vice President 14 markable landmark representing years of pioneering work and accom- plishments in evaluating the quality and monitoring the cost of medical Denise Patterson-Kerr, Director 13 care. You initiated processes that are the standard in the industry and Marian Cohn, Report Coordinator 13 have developed a model of honesty, integrity and excellence unsur- Mary Jones, Administrative Assistant 13 passed.” -Anthony C. Mustalish, MD, MPH, Board of Directors Diane Raghunanan, Document Coordinator 12 “As an observation, your company is well known for instilling confidence in each employee. As a result, your entire team wants to Debra Poenisch, Supervisor 12 pursue excellence in everything they do, by completing the job well, Juanita Evereteze, VP/Medical Director 11 and on time; in a positive environment of teamwork, and energizing by Rita Fredell, Nurse Investigator 11 a can-do approach. In fact, for forty years, in an industry with constant shifting and rules changes, you are a steady model for success. You Nancy Garcia, Nurse Investigator 11 personally commit that everyone in your company reflects an intrinsic Angela Puglisi, Social Worker Inspector 11 high character, with a focus on values. This formula works, and stands Mariya Safyanovskaya, Bookkeeper 11 the test of time.” -Patrick L. O’Malley, President, VEE TECHNOLOGIES USA Steven Rush, Physician Reviewer 11 Joan Winstock, Director 11 “For the last four decades, NYCHSRO/MedReview has been a leader in the fight to maintain high-quality healthcare services while Lesli Cutler, Social Worker Investigator 10 controlling cost. Through innovative programs such as ambulatory pre- Rosalind Marcus, Review Clerk 10 certification review, coding validation, and readmission review NYCH- Susan Mejias, Special Review Nurse 10 SRO/MedReview has saved its client over $1 billion dollars. This dis- tinguished record has improved both healthcare outcomes and cost Ihab Girgis, Supervisor 10 savings.” -Scott M. Stringer, NEW YORK CITY COMPTROLLER 6 NYCHSRO 1980S

“The oldest health-care peer-review organization in New York, the NYCHSRO/MedReview has saved “NYCHSRO and MedReview continue to devel- labor unions and other organizations more than $1 op new services to address the needs of a rapidly billion since 1974, by monitoring the cost and quality changing industry, while striving to maintain their of the health-care services they pay for.” reputation for integrity and innovation.” -Thomas P. DiNapoli, -Neal Tepel, Publisher of LABORPRESS NEW YORK STATE COMPTROLLER

7 NYCHSRO 1990S

“The contribution of you and your team of dedicated professionals has profoundly impacted the healthcare experi- ence of millions of people not only in New York, but across “NYCHSRO/MedReview has conducted well our great country. I can only imagine all of the individual over 1 million chart reviews for our Medicaid, lives your services have touched through your numerous au- HIV SNP, Medicare and other lines of business. dits and medical reviews, and how that interaction has ben- They have also assisted us by providing Concur- efited our health system through the improvement of quality, rent Review Services, Coding Validation Audits, enhancement of access, and management of costs. Your and Cost Outlier evaluation services.” - company has truly made a positive difference. -Dr. Saperstein, -Joel Portice, Division President , HMS President /CEO, MetroPlus Health Plan

8 NYCHSRO/ MedReview 2000S

“Over the years, the Benefit Funds have utilized many of the professional services provided by NYCHSRO/ MedReview and we have consistently received criteria- “As NYCHSRO/MedReview celebrates based, clinically sound reviews that help us ensure that our this milestone anniversary, its reputation for quality, fairness and integrity is truly well members receive the highest quality of care while preserv- deserved. I wish you continuing success in ing their benefit dollars.” the years to come.” -Richard N. Gottfried, -Mitra Behroozi, Executive Director, Chair of New York State Assembly, 1199SEIU BENEFIT AND PENSION FUNDS Committee on Health

9 Congratulatory Letters - 40th Anniversary

NamE company NamE company

Alan Abramson Abramson & Morak Attorneys at Law Embelm Health Embelm Health Bruce D. Agins, MD, MPH NYS Dept. of Health AIDS Institute Eliot L. Engel The United States Congress Edgar Altcheck, MD Board Member Mathieu Eugene The New York City Council Tony Avella The New York Senate State Herman D. Farrell, Jr. The NY State Assembly Scott W. Barnes Intergrated Computing Services, LLC Daniel L. Feldman John Jay College of Criminal Justice Mitra Behroozi 1199 SEIU Benefit & Pension Funds Steven M. Fink The Fink Law Firm, P.C. Eran Bellin, MD Montefiore Information Technology John J. Flanagan The New York State Senate Peter Berg, MD Downstate Ophthalmology Associates Daniel R. Garodnick The New York City Council Keith Berkowitz, MD PC The Center for Balanced Health Kirsten Gillibrand The New York State Senate Robert J. Bishop Pitta Bishop Del Giorno & Giblin, LLC Terry Gipson The New York State Senate Richard J. Bonforte, M.D. Board Member Lou Gordon BALCONY Jo Ivey Boufford, MD The New York Academy of Medicine Richard N. Gottfried The New York State Assembly John G. Bowen Careers Nationwide, LLC David G. Greenfield The New York City Council Pamela Brier Maimonides Medical Center Aileen M. Gunther The New York State Assembly Christopher Burgher Sungard Availability Services Colleen W. Hanabusa The United States Senate Collwyn A. Butler Home Attendant Contract Services Dov Hikind The New York State Assembly Karim Camara The New York State Assembly D. Bernard Hoenig Hoenig and Hoenig Attorneys at Law Thomas H. Canty Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield David Hoos David Hoos, MD, MPH Pat Celli UnitedHealthCare of New York, Inc. Pascal James Imperato SUNY Downstate Medical Center Wm Lacy Clay The United States Congress Rhoda S. Jacobs The New York State Assembly James E. Clyburn The United States Congress Letitia James The NYC Public Advocate Andrew Cohen The New York City Council Andy Johnson Teamster Center Services Fund Joseph Crowley The United States Congress Melinda Katz Queens Borough President Michael J. Cusick The New York State Assembly Barbara Kelman Care to Care Holly Cunningham OPTUM Joe Kennedy III The United States Congress Steven H. Cymbrowitz The New York State Assembly Peter T. King The United States Congress Joseph E. Davis, MD, MPH Board Member Gary Klein Weitz & Luxenberg Bill de Blasio The Mayor of the City of New York Jeffrey D. Klein The United States Senate Charles H. Debrovner NYS Department of Health Brian M. Kolb The New York State Assembly Ruben Diaz Jr. Bronx Borough President Peter Koo The New York City Council Inez E. Dickens The New York City Council Karen Koslowitz The New York City Council Thomas P. DiNapoli The NY State Comptroller Arthur Jerry Kremer Empire Government Strategies David N. Dinkins Columbia University Norman H. Kupferstein,MD Norman H. Kupferstein, MD Daniel Dromm The New York City Council Joel Landau Care to Care Michael Eisner Medyear William J. Larkin, Jr. The New York State Senate

“Congratulations on NYCHSRO/MedReview, Inc. being recognized for their consistently high quality of service. We appreciate the opportunity we have had to “You and your team have been excellent col- do business with you over the years, and offer our best leagues and consistently demonstrated professional wishes for your continued success.” standards in your work, showing adaptability in managing a diverse portfolio of work in the HIV -Pat Celli, President/CEO, field.” UNITED HEALTHCARE -Bruce Agins, M.D. Medical Director COMMUNITY & STATE -Richard E. Birchard Admin. Director NY STATE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

10 Congratulatory Letters - 40th Anniversary

NamE company NamE company

Alan Levin Humana Neil J. Savasta Savasta and Company, Inc. Marvin Lieberman Board Member Diane J. Savino The United States Senate Nina M. Lowey The United States Congress Bradley S. Schneider The United States Congress Chad A. Lupinacci The New York State Assembly Michael D. Schoffman Michael D. Schoffman Att. at Law Carolyn B. Maloney The United States Congress Charles E. Schumer The United States Senate Melissa Mark-Viverito New York City Council Paul Shainheit Emvision Strategic Financial, LLC Stefanie Mazlish, MBA The Solution Lab, Inc. Sheldon Silver The New York State Assembly H. Carl McCall The State University of New York Michael Simanowitz The New York State Assembly John T. McDonald III The New York State Assembly Dean G. Skelos The New York State Senate Donovan Richards New York City Council David Smith TekScape Samuel D. Roberts The New York State Assembly David B. Snow, Jr. Cedar Gate Partners Michael R. McGarvey Board Member Daniel Squadron The New York State Senate Norman B. Medow, MD Montefiore Hospital Medical Center Toby Ann Stavisky The New York State Senate Mike Miller The New York State Assembly Kive I. Strickoff, CPA Strickoff Financial Services, LLC Lin H. Mo, MBA, MPH Mount Sinai Beth Israel Brooklyn Scott M. Stringer The New York City Comptroller Don L. Morchower DLM Associates Neal Tepel LaborPress Anthony C. Mustalish,MD Board Member Matthew J. Titone The New York State Assembly Michael C. Nelson The New York City Council Bill Thompson Siebert, Brandfork, Shank & Co. Michael New Sephardic Nursing & Rehab Center Les S. Thompson Les S. Thompson & Co. LLP Daniel O’Donnell The New York State Assembly Eric A. Ulrich The United States Congress Patrick L. O’Malley Vee Technologies USA Chris Van Hollen The United States Congress Kevin Parker The New York State Senate Mark R. Warner The United State Senate David A. Paterson Governor of the State of New York Jerry Weissman Omni Managed Health Amy R. Paulin The New York State Assembly David I. Weprin The New York State Assembly Richard N. Pierson, MD St. Luke’s Hospital Mark Weprin The New York City Council Joel Portice HMS Holdings, Inc. Robert Wittman The United States Congress Rabbi Joseph Potasnik New York Board of Rabbis (NYBR) Dorothy A Wolfe Health Benefits Program for NYC David C. Pulver, MD The IMA Group Spencer Young Health Data Insight (HDI) Kenneth E. Raske Greater NY Hospital Association Lee M. Zeldin The United States Senate Mark Ravesloot Commercial Real Estate Service (CBRE) Linda B. Rosenthal New York State Assembly Donald Rubin The Shelley & Donald Rubin Foundation C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger The United States Congress Alan J. Saperstein Four Seasons Nursing & Rehab. Center Arnold Saperstein, MD MetroPlus

“Over the years, I have seen firsthand how NYCH- SRO’s comprehensive services have helped your clients improve the appropriateness, quality, and cost-effec- “I applaud NYCHSRO and MedReview for its tiveness of their health care delivery services. And as strong commitment and dedication to providing health care assessment services that assist clients NYCHSRO’s Chief Executive Officer/President since in improving the appropriateness, quality, and 1985, you have played an indispensable role in the cost-effectiveness of health care.” organization’s remarkable growth and success.” -Kenneth E. Raske, President, - US State Senator Kirsten E. GREATER NEW YORK HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION GIllibrand

11 “NYCHSRO and MedReview have developed many outstanding services over the years and now operate in This is a formal acknowledgement to you 14 states, assisting a diverse client base that includes gov- and your dedicated staff for the special atten- ernment agencies, labor unions, and insurance compa- tion you have given over the years to ensure nies. With headquarters here in New York, these organi- quality services, in the appropriate settings, zations have also helped to strengthen the five boroughs, for the intended cost. creating jobs and other opportunities for our residents.” -Alan J. Saperstein, -Bill deBlasio, FOUR SEASONS Nursing & MAYOR OF NEW YORK CITY Rehabilitation Center

12 “NYCHSRO has effectively contributed to improving and strengthening health care services. In the past “For the past several years, I have been Medical Coordinator at the New York State Department of four decades those of us who manage hospitals and Health Office of Professional Conduct. I have person- provide healthcare services have witnessed revolu- ally utilized NYCHSRO and MedReview reports in tionary changes to the delivery or healthcare, and the course of my own investigations. I have found yet, we were always able to rely on NYCHSRO and them to be excellent and extremely helpful. MedReview to guide our delivery systems for care.” -Lin H. Mo, President -Charles H. Debrovner, MD MOUNT SINAI - BETH ISRAEL BROOKLYN Medical Coordinator, NYS DOH

13 NYCHSRO/ MedReview 2010S

“In my previous role at UnitedHealthCare, MedReview was the leading provider of cost contain- ment programs related to Coding Validation, Cost “Over the past four decades you have expand- Outlier Review and Readmission Reviews for the Med- ed your business capabilities, breadth of opera- icaid line of business. Your ability to provide these tions and geographical reach. You have built a services on both a prospective and retrospective basis world-class peer review organization- and you separated you from the other companies that perform have done this with determination, confidence work in this space.” and talent.” -Spencer Young, SVP Clinical Operations -Thomas H. Canty, VP and GM Health Data Insights Gov’t, Labor and Special Accounts EMPIRE BLUECROSS BLUESHIELD

14 NYCHSRO/ MedReview Current

“I’m writing to congratulate you and everyone at NYCHSRO on your 40th anniversary as the oldest health- “Congratulations NYCHSRO/MedReview on care services peer review organization in New York State. 40 years! Your collaboration & partnership with As the market and environment impacting health care de- UnitedHealth Group over the last 8 years speaks to livery evolves, the importance of high quality and effec- the level of excellence your organization represents. tive health care delivery cannot be underestimated. We As a valued vendor partner, we look forward to are happy to have you as our partner in these efforts and many more years of continued growth & success with look forward to our continued work together.” NYCHSRO/MedReview!” -Pam Brier, President, -Holly Cunningham, Manager Vendor Maimonides Medical Center Management,OPTUM

15 NYCHSRO/MedReview Year End n Holiday Party 2014 n

Once again, NYCHSRO/MedReview was determined to bring the year to a close on a high note. We had a lot to celebrate; the or- ganization was entering its 40th year, and the anniversary celebration was still fresh in our minds, and it was the end of another successful year. Unfortunately our regular party spot, Mo- ran’s, had a conflict and so we shifted venue to the very prestigious private club at the In- dia House (Garden View Room) at 1 Hanover Square, which also had the added advantage of being a five minute walk from the office. The event hit all the marks and was a rousing suc- cess. The India House hosts went out of their way to make the event special. The music was live- ly, the food was good and the ambiance was serene. They even had a fireplace to enhance the holiday spirit and remind us of Moran’s. As usual, the room was packed with staff members from the main office and all the City and State offices as well as clients and friends. NYCHSRO/MedReview guests included many of the organization’s-public service friends in- cluding Public Advocate Letitia James and the speaker of the Assembly Sheldon Silver. Also in attendance were State Senators Martin Golden, Kevin Parker, and Assemblymembers Steven Cymbrowitz, Rhoda Jacobs, Alec Brook- Krasny, and Walter Mosley as well as New York City Councilmen David Greenfield and Mike Nelson. While dinner was being served, and the drinks were flowing the D.J. kept the enter- tainment going and it wasn’t long before the dance floor was packed. A good time was had by all and we look forward to next year’s holiday party.

6 16 NYCHSRO/MedReview Bids farewell to Assemblywoman Rhoda Jacobs ssemblywoman Rhoda Jacobs recently retired The plaque read: after 36 years of representing her Brooklyn “On the occasion of your retirement from Acommunity, the 42nd Assembly District which the New York State Assembly after 36 years includes Flatbush, Ditmas Park and Midwood. of outstanding service to the community and Assemblywoman Jacobs said that she’s proud of your constituents. her role as a lawmaker who fought for issues includ- The organization recognizes your lead- ing health care, education, ership in the Assembly, serving as Assistant affordable housing and eco- Speaker, and thanks you for your initiatives, nomic justice. particularly in the healthcare arena that On behalf of NYCH- have improved the lives of all New York- SRO/MedReview, CEO, Jo- ers and for your friendship throughout your seph Stamm and Chairman years in public service.” Presented Decem- of the Board of Directors, Dr. ber 15th 2014 Norman Medow presented a Ms. Jacobs was a regular guest at the plaque to Assemblywoman NYCHSRO/MedReview offices and a regu- Jacobs on her retirement, lar attendee at organization events. She was recognizing her major con- always available to discuss the concerns of tribution to the Assembly, to our clients and address the critical healthcare related her constituents and to entire issues presented. The entire organization wishes her State of New York. Mr. Stamm expressed gratitude well in her retirement. She will be missed in Albany for her friendship over the last many years and for the but hopefully will continue to attend NYCHSRO/Me- special relationship she had with him personally and dReview events. Subsequently the community honored with the entire organization. Rhoda Jacobs for her years of service as well. Summer Outing 2014 uly 10th 2014,“We had a great time! The weather was beauti- decks where the buffet was served and where the entertainment was ful and everyone was very happy!” proclaimed Johanny Tor- provided. There was constant music and dancing with a DJ and when Jres, Director of HR and Summer Outing Coordinator. everyone was done eating and needed a break from dancing, the That was the consensus as the entire staff of NYCHSRO/ ship’s staff put on a show. When we returned to port, staff members MedReview returned to Chelsea Piers to circle lower for lined up for their photos and their chocolate chip cookies, already a luncheon cruise. The weather was ideal and the NYCHSRO/ anticipating next year’s outing. MedReview staff enjoyed it to the fullest. Once again the World Yacht team sang, danced and fed us for three hours. There was even a roving photographer provided disguised as Joe Stamm. The summer outing is always one of the bright spots for the NYCH- SRO/MedReview staff. We knew what to expect and we weren’t disappointed. The luncheon cruise allows us to have fun together away from the stress of a typical work day and is an invaluable way to build unity and morale. It also takes full advantage of the organi- zation’s home city of New York, allowing everyone to appreciate the spectacular views in and around New York. The staff experienced the full range of activities and services provided. Some people preferred sitting on the open air top deck to take full advantage of the beautiful weather and the spectacular New York City views. Others made themselves at home on one of the interior

17 NYCHSRO/MedReview Hosts Public Advocate Letitia James n October 28, 2014 NYCHSRO/ MedReview was honored to host a Olunch meeting featuring New York City’s Public Advocate, Letitia James. The lun- cheon was attended by numerous clients, board members and senior staff of the organization. NYCHSRO/MedReview CEO, Joseph Stamm thanked Ezra Friedlander, CEO of “The Fried- lander Group” for arranging the meeting, and welcomed the Public Advocate to the office. Mr. Stamm presented Ms. James’ biography, noting that she was born and raised in Brooklyn and began her career in public service, starting as a public defender in the Legal Aid Society. She was elected to the City Council in 2003 where she distinguished herself as a fearless and effec- tive advocate for social and economic justice. As a member of the New York City Council, Ms. James introduced and helped pass the Safe Housing Act, which became City law in 2007. This ground-breaking bill ensured that thousands of families in rental buildings receive prompt and full repairs to their apartments. Ms. James also helped preserve afterschool programs and childcare slots. In the General Election, Ms. James won the most votes of anyone running for office in New York, making her the fourth Public Advocate of New York City. Mr. Stamm then briefly introduced the orga- nization to Ms. James and touched on some of the organization’s highlights as it celebrates its 40th anniversary. Ms. James described her per- sonal history and then discussed her vision and dreams for New York City. She had time for questions and answers and for a few pictures before she left. The event was very warmly re- Pu b l i c Ad v o c a t e Le t i t i a Ja m e s w i t h NYCHSRO/Me d Re v i e w St a f f a n d Bo a r d Me m b e r s ceived by all in attendance.

MedReview Sponsors Agudath Israel Pre-Election Legislative Breakfast

edReview was co-sponsor of the with direct access to critical gynecological services. As November 2014 Agudath Israel an Assembly Member, she also served as Chair of the MPre-Election Legislative Breakfast. Assembly’s Urban Health Sub-committee, and was re- MedReview CEO, Joseph Stamm had the hon- sponsible for bills that increased penalties for various or and privilege to introduce a good friend of forms of domestic abuse. Melinda also sponsored and MedReview, Queens Borough President Me- passed the historic Kendall’s Law, which helps prosecu- linda Katz. tors pursue cases of long-term, repeated child abuse. Mr. Stamm told the attendees about the Mr. Stamm added that Melinda Katz served as outstanding record compiled by Ms. Katz, a City Council Member where she rose to Chair the noting that she has been a dedicated public influential Land Use Committee. As head of the Land servant for nearly 20 years, serving in key gov- Use Committee, she championed zoning measures that ernmental positions on both the city and state would pave the way for major redevelopment projects level. During her tenure, Melinda authored and in neighborhoods in all five boroughs, while safeguard- helped pass 16 laws, including requiring HMO’s to provide women ing communities from over development. 18 Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nebraska, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Washington and Wisconsin. A number of other memorable events occurred in 2014: Senior Executive staff participated in inaugural festivities for newly elected Mayor Bill de Blasio, Public Advocate Letitia James, and New York City Comptroller Scott Stringer. year in review Senior Executive staff were invited to attend several significant political events including: The State of the State address by New he year 2014 will undoubtedly go down in as one of the most York Governor Andrew Cuomo, the100 day in office Address memorable years in NYCHSRO/MedReview’s history. The year by NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio and a Town Hall meeting with Tincluded several unique special events which stand out: Councilman Jumaane Williams chaired by Joe Stamm. The celebration of the organization’s 40th anniversary- Hun- The organization gave a farewell tribute to retiring Assistant dreds of people including many notable dignitaries came to Speaker of the Assembly, Rhoda Jacobs at the company’s holi- pay tribute to this remarkable achievement (see News In Review day party. special 40th anniversary supplement). MedReview also participated in a number of NYCHSRO/MedReview’s President/CEO, trade shows and professional business organi- Joseph Stamm was invited to the White zation events in 2014 which included the IFEB, House by President Obama to celebrate (International Foundation of Employee Benefits the achievement of the Affordable Care Plans) in Boston, Massachusetts, the Teamsters Act and to join the President and First Lady Center Services Health Benefits Expo, The in celebrating the holiday of Hanukkah. LaborPress, and Balcony Business and Labor Congress paid tribute to Mr. Stamm at the Coalition featuring New York State Comptroller Jewish American Heritage Month event Tom DiNapoli. with a presentation being given to him by In keeping with its practice of maintaining United States Senator John McCain. a close, hands on relationship with its clients, NYCHSRO/MedReview held meetings with Mr. Stamm was invited to attend two ad- NYCHSRO/Me d Re v i e w ’s e x p a n s i o n ditional special events in the U.S. Con- c o n t i n u e d r e a c h i n g a t o t a l o f 25 St a t e s many client groups both in New York and gress- the presentation of two Congres- around the country. Among others, meetings sional Gold Medals, one to the President were held with 1199 National Benefit Fund, of Israel, Shimon Peres, and the second one posthumously to The New York City Office of Labor Relations/Municipal Labor Com- Raoul Wallenberg for the role he played in saving a hundred mittee and Optum Health in Minneapolis. thousand Jews in Europe. Additional meetings were held with City and State public officials The New York Academy of Medicine bestowed honors on Jo- to advocate on behalf of our clients. Key issues addressed included seph Stamm for becoming a 30 year fellow at this prestigious transparency in relation to healthcare review activity and attempts to institution. restrict utilization management reviews. NYCHSRO/MedReview was honored to host New York City Year 2014 could not officially end without the organization’s two Public Advocate Letitia James for a meet and greet luncheon in major events; its annual summer outing and of course its holiday the office. party. It will be hard to match a 40th anniversary celebration but In 2014, NYCHSRO/MedReview’s expansion continued, reach- 2015 is already shaping up to be an even greater year than 2014 ing a total of 25 States where the organization performs review if that is possible. activities. The states Alaska, Arizona, Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii,

19 NYCHSRO/MedReview Client Relations

lient Relations is always a critical concern at York area. NYCHSRO/MedReview also conducted an- NYCHSRO/MedReview. The second half of other raffle and awarded another Kindle Fire. C2014 saw a flurry of client activity which allowed Senior management continued its efforts to maintain the organization to introduce itself to potential new cli- ongoing contact with its client base. Meetings included ents as well as meet with existing clients to ensure that a field trip to Minneapolis, Minnesota to meet with Unit- their ongoing needs are being met. ed Health Group and Optum. There was also a local On October 12-14, 2014 NYCHSRO/MedReview meeting with New York City’s Office of Labor Relations participated in the 60th Annual Employee benefits Con- to reintroduce the organization to Claire Levitt, previously ference held by the International Federation of Employee of Alicare, who recently assumed the position of Deputy Benefits in the Convention Center in Boston, Massachu- Commissioner of Health Care Cost Management. setts. The conference brings together numerous health There were also meetings with key staff benefit fund leaders from across the country to discuss from 1199SEIU- National Benefit Fund, HDI, critical issues relating to the delivery of health care ben- MetroPlus, Care to Care and VNS. These meet- efits. NYCHSRO/MedReview had a booth at the event, ings are important to the clients and the orga- giving it the opportunity to meet with health benefit fund nization allowing us to keep in touch with their representatives in attendance. NYCHSRO/MedReview needs in the ever-changing healthcare environ- also conducted a raffle, awarding Kindle Fires to the ment. lucky winners, Michael W. Smith from the Great Plains NYCHSRO/MedReview also conducted its Labor District Council and Monette Carranceija from the 2014 Clients Survey. The organization was City of Los Angeles Department of Water and Power. pleased to once again receive scores from its On October 24, 2014 NYCHSRO/MedReview also clients on the survey that validated the efforts of participated in the 21st Annual Health Benefits Expo its review and administrative staff. The survey at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in New York City. The Expo has proven to be a useful tool for understand provides a forum for; Business, Labor, and Healthcare ing the issues and concerns that impact on cli- vendors to exchange current and new approaches to en- ents in normal review activity. hance the delivery of healthcare services. Once again, The past few months were busy but the fu- NYCHSRO/MedReview had a booth at the event, giving ture promises to be even busier as NYCHSRO/ it the opportunity to meet with representatives from lead- MedReview has a full slate of client meetings ing labor groups and insurance providers in the New and activities scheduled for 2015.

NYCHSRO/MEDREVIEW 199 Water Street, 27th Floor New York, NY 10035