A view from the ABPN
The American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology is experiencing a number of transitions, including the phasing out of the traditional two-part exam with its live-patient and vignette sections, and a more profound change related to Maintenance of Certification (MOC). Current graduates are the last group of psychiatry trainees who will sit for the traditional "oral boards"; however, it is likely that all psychiatrists, even those of us with "lifetime certificates" from the ABPN, will untimately be engaged in MOC. To read the complete Part 1 of a multi-part series refer to the latest issue of OPPA's quarterly publication, Insight Matters.   
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A review of the OPPA for the first decade of the 2000s - Happy 60th!
The OPPA in 2010 is a strong and vital organization with a strong central office, excellent and capable staff, and dedicated elected officers and council members. Over the past decade, the OPPA has been successful on many fronts through advocacy, education and service to improve the care and treatment of Ohio's mentally ill. OPPA members are indeed "healing minds for a healthier Ohio!" To read the complete article, refer to the latest issue of Insight Matters.
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Health Care Reform Passes - Now What?
Wonder how the health care reform bill will affect you and your patients? To help members better understand the Federal health reform legislation that was signed into law by President Obama on Tuesday, March 23, 2010, the OPPA has compiled a list of state and national resources where additional information can be obtained!

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ODJFS moves forward to carve-out pharmacy benefits
Beginning with date of service Feb. 1, 2010, prescription drug coverage for members of Medicaid Managed Care Plans (MCPs) transferred back to the Medicaid fee-for-service (FFS) program. This change means that all Medicaid patients will have the same list of covered drugs and same prior authorization policy. Medicaid MCPs are no longer responsible for prescription drug coverage for their members. Additional information is available in Medical Assistance Letter (MAL) 561, available by clicking on this link.
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ODRC limits mental health formulary
The Dept. of Corrections made changes to its pharmacy benefits plan that significantly impacts incarcerated individuals with mental illnesses. Effective Oct. 1, 2009, brand name psychotropic medications were removed from the formulary now requiring a Requuest for Medications Approval form (prior authorization) be obtained for use of Abilify, Geodon, Cymbalta and Effexor XR. Members who experience problems or delays in individuals not receiving the most appropriate medication in a timely fashion are encouraged to contact the OPPA!