PROVIDER NEWS
Your insight into reminders, training requirements and developments. 

Feb 4, 2022
IN THIS ISSUE
  • Examinee History
  • WalkME
  • QTC Provider Portal Enhancement
  • Medical Records Webinar Recap
  • New Required MDE Course
  • Updated DBQ forms
  • What are you interested in?
  • Gulf War
  • MST Recap
  • Top 5 Resource Documents
Examinee History Reminders
Although QTC encourages all examinees to complete their history forms prior to their C&P appointment, it is not mandatory for examinees to do so. Completion of these forms by examinee in advance of the appointment is voluntary. The provider is ultimately responsible for obtaining all necessary historical information for the completion of each DBQ. If the examinee reports to their appointment without completing these forms:
  • Do NOT turn the examinee away nor delay the exam

Provider should obtain all historical information verbally for DBQ completion OR offer examinee the opportunity to complete history forms either:
  • While waiting for exam if time permits (with or without staff assistance) OR
  • After the exam
Gulf War Regulations for GERD & Obstructed Sleep Apnea
QTC has recently received the following guidance regarding GERD and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) as it relates to the rating of these conditions as Gulf War contentions.
VA rating criteria would prohibit GERD and OSA to be rated presumptively as Gulf War conditions Category 1 (an undiagnosed illness) or Category 2 (a medically unexplained chronic multi-symptom illness) since these are structural and/or diagnosable diseases. Therefore, GERD and OSA, could only be classified as either Category 3 (Diagnosable with partially explained etiology) or Category 4 (Diagnosable with a known etiology). As such, GERD & OSA may still be considered to be determined as “at least as likely as not due to environmental hazards from service in Southwest Asia” based on a direct service connection basis provided that the examiner provides a case-specific and robust rationale.
Timeliness
WalkMe to Great Quality!

WalkMe is an interactive guidance that helps users navigate our MEP forms. It provides instant access to training points, best practices and resources to help achieve high quality, complete reports. To see the contextual advice on a specific section, simply click on the colored buttons to start the walk through experience. 
Helpful tips on how to complete the section.
Important guidance from the VA.
Crucial information for completing the section.
QTC Provider Portal Enhancement

In response to feedback from providers, we have new key enhancements we would like you to see

Click on the button below to learn more about these enhancements



Medical Records Webinar

If you missed our instructor-led webinars on the medical record files and techniques that make a difference in finding the documents needed for the case, you can access the recordings in the eLearning Center. Click the links to the webinars in the Top 5 eLearning Documents.

We will continue to offer instructor-led webinars on important topics to improve your experience with QTC as well as the entire examination process.

Coming Soon: Medical Opinions Best Practices
DBQ Changes Coming in the 1st Quarter of 2022
General Medical
Musculoskeletal, Skin and Foot DBQs:
  • Musculoskeletal: Separate questions and rephrase others for consistency and clarity.
  • Foot: Currently when evaluating plantar fasciitis, the pes planus section also opens. With the upcoming VA-prescribed change the pes planus section will no longer open and providers will only have to address the plantar fasciitis section.
 
Audiology
Hearing Loss and Tinnitus DBQ:
  • Several minor changes are being made, most notably the removal of the pre-questions for Stenger and Bone Conduction testing.
 
The above changes are currently in the development stage and will be tested and released in the New Year. Release details will be provided in future email correspondence from the Provider Liaison Team.
Increasing Availability for General Medicine Examinations
QTC is expecting an increase in GEN MED exams due to pending actions (either VA administration decisions or congressional legislation) on presumptive conditions for veterans that were exposed to toxic particles during their military service. Decisions on new presumptive conditions will allow veterans to submit GEN MED claims for these conditions which will lead to additional QTC referrals for GEN MED exams over the next few years.
Although we are unable to determine exactly when these pending actions will take place, it is expected in calendar year 2022, and as a result, we will be asking our current providers to
  1. add additional QTC exam availability,
  2. add additional providers to their practices; and
  3. help refer new providers to the QTC network.
  4. complete mandated course VBA MDE Assessing Deployment Related Environmental Exposures. More details to come. 
 
Please contact QTC if you are willing to increase your exam availability and/or add providers to your practice.
eLearning Center
DMA Military Sexual Trauma
As part of the ongoing efforts to ensure high quality exams, the VA has recently conducted a special focused audit on Military Sexual Trauma (MST). As a result, they have compiled feedback and provided additional supplemental training. QTC is eager to extend this valuable training to all of our Mental Health providers.
This training addresses the following topics:
  • Expanding understanding of MST related mental health requirements
  • Recognizing best practices for successful completion of initial PTSD DBQ where MST is the claimed stressor
  • The Four "Rs" of a Trauma-informed approach to examinations and DBQ completion of MST
  • Formulating a sound Medical opinion for MST related claims
  • Increasing familiarity with and sharing VA resources specific to MST for Veterans who have experienced MST

QTC is committed to bringing more awareness to Military Sexual Trauma and ensuring high quality of exams and reports for Veterans and Service Members with MST claims. You can review this training at your own pace and at any time by clicking on the button below.
Instructions to Access Expired Courses

  • To log into the eLearning Center click on this link: https://qtcm-provider.sabacloud.com (Google Chrome recommended)
  • Once you log in, click “ME” located at the very top left, under the QTC logo.
  • Click “In Progress” in the Learning & Certifications box under the colored circle.
  • Scroll down to the DMA Certification Renewals and see “Recertification required by” dates.
  • Click “REGISTER and or LAUNCH” to begin the courses.
eLearning Center Questions or Forgot Password
Do you need additional guidance on something or need to re-certify on CPEP/DMA? Please remember you can login to our eLearning Center if you need instruction anytime.

If you have any issues logging into the eLearning Center, please click forgot password on login screen or contact VACertifications@qtcm.com to reset your password.
Top 5 Documents eLearning Center Documents
System Information
Support Ticket Tip
 
When ever reaching out for support, always make sure to include your Provider ID and best method of contact (Current phone or Email) to ensure support can respond in a timely manner.
Support Hours of Operation
If you have general questions or other issues please contact our Provider Hotline for immediate assistance!

Hours of Operation:
Monday-Friday: 7 a.m.- 11 p.m. EST
Saturday: 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. EST
Have you visited our Provider Page on the QTC website? Visit here to learn about our network needs and details to refer a colleague.
System Maintenance
Sun – Fri: 10:00 pm to 4:00 am (PT), Sat 6:00 pm to 4:00 am (PT)

*You may experience some slowness, delayed response time or temporary medical record and/or worksheet unavailability during these hours.
What would you like to see in the newsletter?
Is there a topic YOU would like to see here in this seasonal newsletter? Share your thoughts and recommendations for the Spring 2022 Newsletter topics.
Dr. Brenda Rigsby
NPR
Saraland, AL

“Doctor Rigsby was very professional and also very caring of my medical problems. She explained her responsibility for conducting a fair and non-partial exam. Thought she did a great job.”
Dr. Cassandra Frieson
GEN
Birmingham , AL

"Dr. Frieson was very professional in her work. Her bedside manner was beyond reproach. In proud to know that VA has such skilled personal working for us. Keep up the good work"
Dr. Bridget Bethea
GEN
Scottsdale, AZ

“Dr Bethea was very professional and polite during the examination. She explained the examination process, thoroughly reviewed the medical documentation I brought to the appointment, and asked thoughtful follow-up questions.”
Dr. Brian Andres
PSC
El Dorado Hills, CA

“Dr. Andres was understanding and asked all the right questions and I felt like I was being taken care of with respect, care, and dignity throughout appt.”
Dr. Lynda Truong
GEN
Wildomar, CA

“The staff that welcomes you and checks you in was very professional, friendly and organized. The PA I saw was great, friendly and attentive. thank you all very much for a great experience.”
Dr. Darren Moffitt
GEN
Denver, CO

“The examiner took all the time needed to fully investigate my claims and the issues I had to insure all documentation that was needed was completed fully. I felt like he really cared about my concerns and health issues I am seeking to claim.”
Dr. Amanda Ramsey
GEN
Conway, FL

“This was a far better experience than the previous ones I’ve had with a different contractor. Professional, respectful, uplifting and happy to provide their services to veterans on a Saturday morning. They more than reach expectations.”
Dr. Jessica Whitaker
GEN
Savannah, GA

“I cant say enough about the staff and nurse practitioner J. Whitaker. Very helpful, listened while I described my ailments, asked thorough questions, showed empathy towards them and seemed genuinely concerned. I really appreciate this kind of service.”
Dr. Tamara Faye Bethel
GEN
Boise, ID

“Outstanding sub-contractor! You must use Tamaka Bethel again. Conscientous and very professional. I highly recommend her for any future appointments.”
Dr. Erika Pallie
FAM
Morgantown, WV

“Dr. Pallie was outstanding in all my years going to the VA she was the only Doctor who listened to me and didn't talk at me, but to me she made me feel valued as a person”
Dr. Samuel Nokuri
INT
Baltimore, MD

“Dr. Nokuri and his staff were very attentive to my needs and concerns. They are an awesome and friendly staff. I really enjoyed my visit and experience with them. The waiting room was nice too...stocked with drinks and snacks for us. :-)”
Dr. Scott Mahar
AUD
Grand Rapids, MI

“Dr. Mahar greeted me as I entered the door, introduced himself, explained in great detail the procedures. He's the BEST!”
Dr. Brenda Gottuso
NPR
Florissant, MO

“Brenda was very informational and was willing to help and provide information to me that I have not been able to receive! She went above and beyond to help me out with my situation! I wish more VA doctors and nurses were like Brenda”
Dr. Alessandra Goetz
GEN
Saraland, SC

“Mrs. Goetz was very professional, attentive, and caring for my health issues and concerns. She took the time to understand my issues and made me feel welcomed to include thanking me for my service. She definitely represents QTC in a positive light.”
Dr. Kristopher Inman
NPR
Culpeper, VA

“Excellent examiner - very professional and knowledgeable, and showed a clear understanding of the nature of my claim. Also very personable and friendly, which actually applies to all staff at the facility with whom I interacted.”
Dr. Alisha Weinzimer
AUD
Portland, OR

“Alisa and staff were extremely friendly & professional. Even if I get my claim denied I would still go back and hug them”