ABSTRACT
The strict enforcement of laws governing Medicare fraud and abuse has led to the need for every hospital and other health care facility to develop a compliance program and to update that program periodically. Understanding the history of such enforcement, the regulations involved and the developments on the horizon are vital to avoid huge fines and other severe penalties. Compliance with federal and state regulations will not only avoid such fines and penalties but also will result in a more efficient health care facility.
Subject(s)
Facility Regulation and Control/organization & administration , Fraud/legislation & jurisprudence , Fraud/prevention & control , Guideline Adherence/organization & administration , Health Services Administration/organization & administration , Medicare/organization & administration , Efficiency, Organizational , Humans , Truth Disclosure , United StatesABSTRACT
This review will describe adult onset mucocutaneous/autoimmune diseases that involve defects in cell-to-cell, cell-to-matrix, or cell-to-basement membrane adhesion. Included in this group are pemphigus, cicatricial pemphigoid, linear IgA bullous dermatosis, epidermolysis bullosa acquisita, and bullous systemic lupus erythematous. Detection and treatment of blistering disorders that manifest early in the oral cavity may prevent widespread involvement of skin. During the past few years, targets of autoantibodies have been clarified and new targets have been identified, allowing better understanding of the pathophysiology involved in these diseases. New information about more effective regimens with fewer side effects has also been obtained, presenting new treatment options. Clinical manifestations and management of these disorders will be described as well as histopathologic, ultrastructural, and immunopathologic studies that distinguish each disorder and facilitate diagnosis and treatment.
