Karen Fountain, M.D., Chairperson

Additional applications for ACR Fellowship are being solicited by the Fellowship Committee from radiation oncologists and medical physicists so that NYSRS members may receive recognition for their contributions over the years. Members of the Committee will assist in the preparation of applications and submission of supporting letters of recommendation for candidates who meet the ACR criteria for Fellowship.

The Downstate and Upstate CAC representatives for radiation oncology under the leadership of Dr. Louis Potters have been involved with developing a national model policy on IMRT (intensity modulate~ radiation therapy). They are corresponding with CMS on the final APC rules and the physician fee schedule. The NYSRS is fortunate in having able representation at these discussions at a national level. Members with questions and comments regarding billing and coding issues are urged to contact Dr. Potters directly at pottersl@mskcc.org.  Concern has been expressed by several members regarding current and proposed reimbursement for radiation oncology codes.

Discussions are being held between the ACR and ASTRO about how RadPac can be used for radiation oncology issues or if ASTRO will develop its own political action committee at some point.

The Radiation Oncology Chair is the only elected committee chairman. He or she is also a member of the Executive Committee of the Society .The term is for three years, which may or may not be followed by a second three-year term. In October 2002, I will come to the end of my second term. Interested candidates for the position of Radiation Oncology Chair should communicate directly with the President or the Executive Committee of the Society, who will pass along all information to the Nominating Committee at the appropriate time. These applications are not "processed" through the regional societies, so that NYSRS members who do not belong to a local group are not overlooked.

It has been a pleasure and a privilege to work with such a distinguished and dedicated community willing to donate their time, talents, and weekends for the benefit of our patients and our profession.