We met this week with Sen. Stabenow (D-Mich.) at her staff’s request to review how the College might develop a demonstration project around payment incentives for improved quality. While our strategy still is evolving -- it will be one of the big topics at the ACC Health System Reform Summit in Washington next week (Feb. 1 & 2) -- we need to get something on the table, even if we later ask for it to be amended. The Senator understands that we’re ready to pull ourselves out of the SGRrrrr muck and start working on real payment reform -- reform that will improve patient care and quality. It’s good to have a champion like her, and she is moving with our 7 – 10 percent payment increase for adherence to guidelines and improved quality concept. ACC President Doug Weaver, also a constituent, has really helped her become interested in this concept. More to come!