Tag: BOC

OWINGS MILLS, Md. –The Board of Certification/Accreditation’s board of directors has named Judi L. Knott, MA, MBA, as the organization’s new president and CEO, effective Jan. 1, 2023.  Knott currently serves as BOC’s chief strategy and marketing officer. Current president and CEO Claudia Zacharias, MBA, CAE will retire at the end of this year.  “I am fortunate to inherit an organization with a solid balance sheet, excellent, long-tenured staff and a bright...

OWINGS MILLS, Md. – Claudia Zacharias has parlayed her skills as a process improver, solution finder and transformational leader over the past 10-plus years into streamlining BOC’s systems, creating the Certified Durable Medical Equipment Specialist certification and ensuring a global pandemic didn’t disrupt certifications.  “The industry continues to pivot,” said Zacharias, president and CEO, who has announced she will retire at the end of the year. “At...

WATERLOO, Iowa – For every $1 CMS invests in DME and supplies to prevent pressure sores, it will see a return of $38.54 in reduced or avoided treatment costs, according to an updated study from VGM Government Relations and Leitten Consulting.  DME and supplies to prevent pressure sores was one of three new categories included in the study. The others: catheters and related urological supplies, and diabetic test strips and monitors.  “As CMS forced prices down and treatment...

OWINGS MILLS, Md. – The Board of Certification/Accreditation (BOC) is seeking nominations for the Jim Newberry Award for Extraordinary Service. The award recognizes outstanding individuals who demonstrate extraordinary service to BOC. BOC created the award in honor and remembrance of longtime practitioner, BOC board member and leader Jim Newberry, Jr., who passed away in 2016. “We look forward to receiving nominations for professionals like Jim, whose commitment to BOC is showcased through...

OWINGS MILLS, Md. – The Board of Certification/Accreditation’s President and CEO Claudia Zacharias, MBA, CAE, has announced her plans to retire at the end of 2022. “It is an honor to conclude my professional career as BOC’s CEO,” she said. “I’m electing to retire in December, which aligns with my personal retirement goal timeline and enables a deliberate, thoughtful and disciplined transition for BOC. I am confident of the organization’s continued success...

OWINGS MILLS, Md. - The Board of Certification/Accreditation (BOC) has committed $30,000 to fund a study, “Racial Bias in Orthotics and Prosthetics,” the first of its kind in the O&P field.  The study is a recipient of a 2021 American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association (AOPA) and Center for Orthotic and Prosthetic Learning and Outcomes/Evidence-Based Practice (COPL) Pilot Grant.  "This research is an essential first step to reduce health disparities and improve racial...

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Food and Drug Administration obtained additional information during an inspection of a Philips’ manufacturing facility that was not previously available to the agency that showed the silicone-based foam used in a singular, similar device marketed outside the U.S. failed one safety test for the release of volatile organic compounds.  Similar testing provided by Philips to the FDA on devices authorized for marketing in the U.S. had demonstrated acceptable results.  “The...

OWINGS MILLS, Md. – The Board of Certification/Accreditation (BOC) has promoted Matthew Gruskin, MBA, BOCO, BOCPD, CDME, from credentialing director to COO. In his new role, Gruskin’s expanded responsibilities include oversight of BOC’s internal systems and external vendor relationships, as well as management of the organization’s operations staff. He retains all previous duties relevant to the direction, strategies, policies and day-to-day activities of BOC’s facility...

Q. In addition to accreditation, what else can I do to enhance the value and quality of my business?   A. Now that you’ve earned accreditation, your business is prepared to safely deliver DMEPOS products and, ultimately, drive positive health outcomes for your patients and community. You may be interested in continuing to explore ways to gain a competitive advantage and enhance the credibility of your business. Your accrediting organization can continue to be a trusted resource and...

Q. Should I be concerned if my accrediting organization requests additional information or corrective actions following my site survey?  A. Many businesses require some follow-up after the site survey is completed and before accreditation is awarded. The follow-up may include items such as: submitting additional documents, adding signage and moving supplies to a different location. When an AO requests corrective actions, don’t view it as failure. It is not unusual for a business to...