PCPA has become aware of Act 44, which was signed into law on December 23, 2003 and establishes the Health Care Provider Retention Program. This program will provide for an abatement of the 2003 and 2004 Medical Care Availability and Reduction of Error Fund (Mcare) assessments for health care providers who meet the eligibility requirements contained in the law. Health care providers will be required to complete an online application and must send any support documents (postmarked) by February 12.
A physician who resides in or practices in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and who participates in Mcare may apply for the abatement. Other requirements are included in the application information available online. According to the information on the web site, psychiatrists would be eligible for a 50% abatement and the employing agency may complete the application. The psychiatrist, however, is personally responsible for its accuracy and must sign the application form and the certification of retention pledge. More information can be obtained by going to www.mcare.state.pa.us. Questions regarding the abatement may be directed to Rebecca May Cole at the Association.