text:
Not Using Imaging
Imaging guidance and localization for facet injections is included in the code descriptors and is required. Fluoroscopy and CT guidance are not separately billable. If ultrasound guidance is used, use category three codes.
Mistake #2:
Reporting bilateral injection rather than an add on code for unilateral multi-level procedures
When you report these codes, remember to append the 50 modifiers when the physician injects both the right and left side at the SAME spinal level.
Mistake #3:
Billing multiple units of 64492 or 64495.
These codes are only billable once per day, regardless if more than three levels were performed.
Mistake #4:
Coding 64494 for L2-L3 since that is the second facet joint in the lumbar region or second block for the patient.
64493 is the first code to report, 64494 and 64495 are merely add on codes for additional levels performed. 64491, 64492 must be billed in conjunction with 64490. 64494, 64495 must be billed in conjunction with 64493.
*Disclaimer: Information provided in this presentation was accurate at the time of release in October 2016. Due to constant coding changes, it is recommended to verify the information at time of use.
Avoid getting a negative 4% payment adjustment from Medicare and START NOW!
What is the Quality Payment Program?
The Quality Payment Program implements provisions of the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorizations Act of 2015 (MACRA) and improves Medicare payment to focus care quality for patients. This combines and replaces three separate Medicare related programs with a single system where Medicare providers can be paid more for higher quality of care. Most of the measures are clinician-oriented, ensuring that physicians are being rewarded for what matters more to them and their patients.
Who participates in the program?
You are part of the MIPS track of the Quality Payment Program if you:
* Bill Medicare Part B more than $30,000 as an individual clinician
* Provide care for more than 100 Medicare Part B patients during the determination period and are a Physician, PA, NP, Clinical Nurse Specialist or Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist.
Who DOES NOT participate in the program?
You do NOT participate in MIPS if you are in your first year as a Medicare provider, below the low-volume threshold listed above, or are above the threshold for significantly participating in an Advanced APM.
When does it start?
You can choose to start anytime between January 1,2017 and October 2, 2017.
How Will the Quality Payment Program Affect Payments?
* If you decide to participate in an Advanced APM, you may earn an incentive payment through Medicare Part B.
* If you decide to participate in MIPS, you will earn a performance-based payment adjustment- up, down or nothing- based on the data you submit.
The first payment adjustments based on performance in 2017 go into effect on January 1, 2019
In 2017, you can assess your readiness and decide how and when you will participate in MIPS.
Your options are:
* Submit the minimum amount of 2017 data required to Medicare and avoid a negative payment adjustment
* Submit a minimum of 90 days of 2017 data to Medicare to earn a neutral to positive payment adjustment
* Submit up to a full year of data to earn a positive payment adjustment.
Do you qualify for a hardship exemption? Visit the Quality Payment Program Website at https://qpp.cms.gov/about/hardship-exception to find out more.
Denials can be overwhelming, here are some tips to help know if you need to appeal and the process to get it done effectively.
Tip #1: Understand the denial
Verify the information initially provided on the claim, and ask yourself…
• Does the documentation justify the CPT and ICD codes billed?
• Were the modifiers appropriate or missing?
• Are the TOS (type of service) and POS (place of service) codes correct?
• Was this bundled with another procedure, either in the post op period or the same day?
• Did you verify that you are following LCDs, NDC or medical policy guidelines for the payer?
Truly understanding your denial will guide you to your next step!
Tip #2: Gather Supporting Documentation
What to include:
• Notes for procedure as well as other supporting documentation (past treatment notes showing what has been tried and failed)
• Referral or authorization from payer
• Original claim number assigned by payer
• Proof of timely filing, if necessary
What is NOT needed:
• New claim form
• Copy of insurance card
• Documentation that has already been submitted for review
• Copy of denial
Level 1: 120 days after date of initial date of determination
Level 2: within 180 days of the date of the Redetermination decision.
Level 3: within 60 days of the reconsideration decision
Level 4: within 60 days of the ALJ's decision
Level 5: within 60 days of the DAB decision
1. Be direct and intentional with your first sentence.
2. Clear description of issue and expected outcome
3. Give supporting information about coding, coverage expectations pertinent to that payer.
4. Quote coverage policy and give policy # in letter.
5. If you are appealing an "unlisted" procedure (ex 64999), give comparable procedure and the rate you expect it to be paid.
6. Don't overdo it. Be clear but not too "wordy".
7. Include some medical backing for why you think this should be paid-for example "The patient had 90% relief with diagnostic MBB".
#2: Do your homework. Start by reviewing the numbers and your payer mix. Calculate revenue per visit and CPT comparisons.
#3: Decide which companies to start with. Determine what your breaking even point is (average monthly expenses divided by average number of patients per month) then what companies fall below this point are the ones to start with.
#4: Read your contracts thoroughly.
#5: Arrange a meeting.
#6: Know your alternatives to the negotiated agreed upon rates and what leverage you have. (i.e. If you see a large volume of patients of a certain company). Depending if you have leverage or not, you can decide how aggressive to be with the company.
#7: Prepare. Write letters to the insurance company stating your case and why you feel your rates should be better.
#8: Present your case.
If you have a contracts in place and need to re-negotiate – keep these tips in mind:
Before you begin, know that this is a project that will take approximately 6 months and 100+ man hours to complete.
Try to focus on overall rate increase, not selected codes- ideally a percentage of Medicare.
Avoid increases based on RVU rates
Know your area and what your competitors are receiving.
Don't forget important codes like labs or flouro or drugs.
Avoid forever renewing contracts. 2-3 years is ideal.
Make sure they send you a signed version of the new contract.
Consider the impact that dropping a contract could have on key referring physicians.
Check your EOBs to make sure they have converted to the new fee schedule once the contract is in place.
Don't be tricked by CPT specific adjustments. (I.e. A 15% increase on E/M codes but a 5% cut in procedures could be worse than your current contract).
Start with a smaller insurance (in your payor mix).
Develop relationships with all your insurance reps.
Fees are not the only thing to negotiate (also can work on authorization process, period allowed for denials, period for submitting claim).
Questions to ask as you get started with credentialing:
· In-Network vs. Out of Network? Consider the pros and cons.
· Is the insurance company part of an IPA?
· Are you credentialing as a group or individually?
· Is the panel open or closed?
· Is the provider already contracted under another entity? Can you add your entity to their existing contract?
· If you are credentialing a midlevel, what insurances will contract with midlevel?
**Keep in mind, every area, insurance company, and situation varies**
Information from CE Medical Group
The following tips will help to manage your front desk to be as effective and efficient as possible.
Educate your staff
Make sure your staff are trained and educated to do their job correctly. Train them to know what information to collect and why it is important. Obtaining the correct information and ensuring accuracy initially will increase the entire business efficiency and prevent issues later. Incorrect entry of any demographic or insurance information will delay payment, many employees do not understand the "domino effect" of a small error. Provide support- even after training, make sure your team knows they have support when needed and be willing to step in and help when they need it.
Prioritize customer service
It may seem like common sense, but it is important to make sure your staff understands what your expectations for customer service are. Everyone has a little different idea of what "good" customer service is.
• Greet patients warmly and sincerely
• Listen to patients
• Use names- staff introduce themselves and call the patient by name
• Always show respect to everyone, patients and coworkers
• Set policies on what time frame calls are to be returned and if calls should be going to voicemail or always answered by live person, set clear expectations
Build positive office culture
A happy office is an efficient office. If you set the culture of the working environment to be one that promotes team work, excellence and respect, this will reflect in the work. Hiring people that fit the culture, will make it so your employees always put the patient first and are focused on providing the best customer experience possible. Providing praise and appreciation for all your employees do is not just about being a nice boss, it is about getting employees to give their best, which most will do when they feel appreciated.
Establish or revamp office policies and protocols
The current way to do things may not be the best way. Don't let old habits dictate the way the office runs. Work with your team to determine if there is a faster, more efficient way to run the front desk. After reviewing current policies and determining if there is a better way, get everyone on the same page.
Policies/protocols to review:
• Check in/out processes, collecting demographic data (make sure this is done at every visit to eliminate delayed payments)
• Patient copay and balance collection policy
• Patient scheduling policies
• Employee breaks and lunches- overworked and stressed out staff promotes chaos
• Phone etiquette policies
Learn More About Our Consulting Services at www.cemedicalgroup.com
Information provided by CE Medical Group: The Pain Medicine Business Experts
Social Media Promotion
Stats: 40% of consumers say that information found on social media affects the way they deal with their health, 90% of 18-24-year old people say they would trust medical information shared by others on their social media networks. Advantages of Social Medical Marketing:
Lower marketing costs
Finely tuned targeted marketing
Helps generate better SEO rankings
Higher conversion rates
Improved loyalty
Custom Website
Build a custom website that attracts more patients. Your website should be professional, informative and most importantly, be mobile friendly. Mobile internet access is the new norm. Smartphone and tablets account for 60% of all digital media time spent. Consumers want to be able to even schedule appointments from their mobile device.
Newsletters & Infographics
While it is essential to be online, you need to have a well-balanced approach and still have other marketing tools for your practice.
Patient Education Seminars
Posters and Brochures
Newspaper ads
Marketing to existing patients
Search Engine Optimization and Marketing
77% (8 in 10) of online health seekers say they began their search at a search engine. 52% of US adult smartphone owners say they have used their phone to look for medical or health information online. SEO can help increase the page's visibility in a search engine's free, organic search results.
Animated Videos & Testimonials
Using a video online can increase conversion by up to 80%. Using animated videos can help develop a connection with the audience and will get them more engaged with your message. A marketing video is a very powerful resource for your SEO strategy because it helps gain presence in Google. It is proven that explainer videos boost a website's average visit time from 8 seconds to 2 minutes on average.
Learn more about our consulting services at www.cemedicalgroup.com.
Information provided by CE Medical Group
How to Handle A DEA Investigation: The DEA Is in Your Lobby, Now What?
By: Nathan Crane, Attorney with Snow, Christensen & Martineau in SLC, Utah
Four years ago, a pain management physician contacted me and told me that two agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration ("DEA") showed up unannounced at his clinic. The agents told the physician he was under investigation for over-prescribing and that things would go better for him if he voluntarily surrendered his DEA registration. The agents told the doctor he can always apply for a new registration at any time. The DEA agents pulled out a form and he signed it. The physician then called me and proudly told me that he had voluntarily surrendered his DEA registration heading off the investigation. Unfortunately, I had to burst his bubble. This physician did everything you should not do. Within a couple of weeks, the physician was facing criminal charges and after four years of trying, has not been able to get his DEA Registration reinstated.
The hard lesson, DEA agents (including all law enforcement officers) do not have to tell you the truth.
Each of you has a property interest in your DEA registration. This means the DEA cannot take your registration from you without due process—right to have notice of the DEA's intended action and right to a full hearing before a neutral judge. If the judge finds against you, that determination is appealable to a higher court.
DEA agents ask physicians to voluntarily surrender their registrations because by doing so the physician waives their right to due process (notice and a hearing).
If DEA agents ask you to voluntarily surrender your registration tell them no or that you want some time to think about it. They cannot force you to surrender your registration and they cannot penalize you for not surrendering your license. There may be times when it is appropriate to surrender a DEA registration, but do so only after careful consideration and consultation with an attorney.
Nathan Crane is a shareholder at Snow, Christensen & Martineau in their Salt Lake City, Utah office. He represents doctors across the country in licensing matters before the DEA, State licensing boards, and in criminal prosecutions.
To learn more about our consulting services visit www.cemedicalgroup.com
Information presented by CE Medical Group: The Pain Management Business Experts
Challenging work
Employee involvement
Respect for boss
The 7 C's of Hiring by Alan Hall, Forbes Contributor
Competent: Has the necessary skills, experience and education to be successful
Capable: Employee has the potential for growth and ability to take on more responsibility
Compatible: Willingness to be harmonious with their boss and co-workers
Commitment: Consistent and stable work history, serious about working long term
Character: Do their values align with yours? Team player?
Culture: Does the worker reflect your company's culture?
Compensation: Competitive pay for the positions- don't over or under pay
With the right tools and training, most people will rise to whatever level of expectation and challenge you present them. People thrive with responsibility, give them the opportunity to do so.
A simple THANK YOU can have a lot more impact than money. Sometimes money can be seen by employees as part of their compensation, recognition that is separate from compensation is valued more by employees.
Examples of inexpensive ways to motivate employees:
Gift cards, employee spotlight, in-house massages, pot luck lunches, team meetings, pedicures at lunch, surprise shopping spree, early out Fridays.
Bonuses should not be a given- stretch goals may not always be met
Help them understand the reasons for the reward (i.e. we had a great month/year, you did exceptionally well at…)
By: Dan Crane, MBA with CE Medical Group
The days of single physician practices without ancillary services are nearly extinct. Physicians are working harder than ever to maintain similar income they received 5-10 years ago.
Potential Opportunities to Expand
PA/NP Support
Strategic marketing plan
Strategic partnerships
Group Alliances/MSOs
Diagnostic testing services
Ultrasound diagnostic services
PT or Massage Therapy or other complimentary services
Regenerative Medicine- Stem Cell & PRP Therapy
Other cash pay services- Aesthetics
Holistic treatments and vitamins
More sophisticated procedures
DME- Back braces or knee braces
Expanding treatment areas- headaches, knees or other joints
ASC ownership
Step 1: Increase volume
To support any expansion of services or capitalize on ancillary services, you need volume!
Recommendation before you start expanding in other areas:
Expand volume with mid-level support
Consider using a scribe
Step 2: It pays to be efficient
Streamline the processes in your office. If you can make room for even one more new patient per day, in a pain practice would mean, on average, an extra $50,000 per year!
In most situations, with simple adjustments, one can increase volume without additional staff or additional hours without sacrificing quality of care. Once running efficiently, you are ready to expand!
Step 3: Focus on your strengths and passions as you expand
It is much easier to build off your strengths and passions than to try and change your practice entirely.
Perform a SWOT analysis to determine what services would be best suited for your practice. Take into consideration your payer mix, demographic of your patients and commonly performed procedures. Also think about your passions a a provider and your goals for your personal life.
Does it comply with anti-kickback and stark regulations?
Is the billing and coding strategy sound?
Does it fit into the practice's scope and philosophy?
Is it good for the patient?
Can you afford it?
Can your staff give it the attention it requires to be successful?
To learn more about our consulting services visit www.cemedicalgroup.com
Information provided by CE Medical Group: The Pain Management Business Experts
By: Dan Crane, MBA with CE Medical Group
Credentialing and contract negotiations can be very challenging. Here are some tips to help you get started!
8 Steps to Successful Insurance Contract Negotiations
#1: Start- decide you are going to do it, and follow through! Don't avoid it just because it can seem intimidating. If you don't have the resources in house to accomplish it, outsource it.
#2: Do your homework. Start by reviewing the numbers and your payer mix. Calculate revenue per visit and CPT comparisons.
#3: Decide which companies to start with. Determine what your breaking even point is (average monthly expenses divided by average number of patients per month) then what companies fall below this point are the ones to start with.
#4: Read your contracts thoroughly.
#5: Arrange a meeting.
#6: Know your alternatives to the negotiated agreed upon rates and what leverage you have. (i.e. If you see a large volume of patients of a certain company). Depending if you have leverage or not, you can decide how aggressive to be with the company.
#7: Prepare. Write letters to the insurance company stating your case and why you feel your rates should be better.
#8: Present your case.
If you have a contract in place and need to re-negotiate – keep these tips in mind:
Before you begin, know that this is a project that will take approximately 6 months and 100+ man hours to complete.
Try to focus on overall rate increase, not selected codes- ideally a percentage of Medicare.
Avoid increases based on RVU rates
Know your area and what your competitors are receiving.
Don't forget important codes like labs or flouro or drugs.
Avoid forever renewing contracts. 2-3 years is ideal.
Make sure they send you a signed version of the new contract.
Consider the impact that dropping a contract could have on key referring physicians.
Check your EOBs to make sure they have converted to the new fee schedule once the contract is in place.
Don't be tricked by CPT specific adjustments. (I.e. A 15% increase on E/M codes but a 5% cut in procedures could be worse than your current contract).
Start with a smaller insurance (in your payor mix).
Develop relationships with all your insurance reps.
Fees are not the only thing to negotiate (also can work on authorization process, period allowed for denials, period for submitting claim).
Questions to ask as you get started with credentialing:
In-Network vs. Out of Network? Consider the pros and cons.
Is the insurance company part of an IPA?
Are you credentialing as a group or individually?
Is the panel open or closed?
Is the provider already contracted under another entity? Can you add your entity to their existing contract?
If you are credentialing a midlevel, what insurances will contract with midlevel?
** **Keep in mind, every area, insurance company and situation varies**
To learn more about our credentialing services visit www.cemedicalgroup.com
Information provided by CE Medical Group
If it is not documented, it didn't happen.
Documentation provides evidence of the clinical service provided to the patient. It is used to communicate to other clinicians, billing and coding, insurance companies and other healthcare entities.
Why it matters:
• Provide the best patient care
• Ensure consulting physicians have accurate information
• Justify level of service and necessity of ancillary services
• Obtain appropriate reimbursement
• Protect your practice from audits
New Patient vs. Established patient
• New patient visits require 3 of the 3 components to be documented
• Established patient visits require 2 of the 3 components documented
Common mistakes in physical exam documentation:
• A new patient needs a least 6 bullet points to code a 99202
• We often down code to a 99201 because 5 or less exam bullets are documented
• Copied or duplicated notes from prior visits
• Not reporting negative findings
o If you examine a body area, mention it even if it is normal.
o Documentation of benign finding is important as it allows the biller to assign additional diagnosis codes.
Questions or concerns about your documentation? Contact CE Medical Group today to learn more about auditing and consulting services. Email: email@example.com
Thinking of Switching EMR System?
By CE Medical Group
Choosing and converting to an EMR system can be over whelming. Here are 8 tips for choosing a new EMR system.
Knowing the purpose of your new EMR system first is key. Knowing specifics on how you need it to operate will help in the over decision of choosing your EMR system. Are you a specialty clinic such as Pain Management, Dermatology, or Neurology? The needs of these specialties are unique and require specific software characteristics to be efficient. Customized EMR systems give you specialty-specific features and customized templates that will help immensely with your practice workflow.
2. Make a List
Start by making a list of all requirements your practice needs. This may include: automatic billing, scheduling features, e-Prescribing, patient portal, and lab integration to name a few.
It is important when choosing a new EMR/EHR system to involve all the physicians and staff in the office in the development of making the list. This ensures that all aspects of office flow have been considered. A decision like this, however, requires leadership and understanding of the needs of the practice. It is advised that a physician oversee the overall decision.
3. Budget
Besides the initial cost for the EMR system, which can be costly, there is also hardware, implementation, training, integration, and maintenance expenses to consider when purchasing a new system. The benefits of an EMR system long term, however, will help your practice save money.
4. Systems Structure
The system architecture of the EMR software, web-based or client/server, is something that also should be considered. One type is not better than the other, yet, one may be better for your practice. Ease of use, performance, utilization, and reliability is important. When choosing an EMR software you will need to consider which will best exemplify these characteristics for the needs of your practice's workflow.
In addition, make sure that whichever EMR system you choose to go with has been certified as an ONC-Authorized Testing and Certification Body ("ONC-ATCB").
5. Get advice
The best way to know if an EMR system may be the right one for your practice workflow is to see in use. If possible, you may want to visit a practice that is currently using the EMR software you are considering using. Talking to physicians and the staff will help you better understand the EMR you are considering and spot if there are any potential issues you will run into.
Having an understanding of what type of support you will be receiving with the EMR software is important. You may need support after-hours, or even weekends, if your practice has irregular office hours. A majority will offer 24/7 support. The extent of support you will receive should be understood. Not only is the technical assistance crucial, but in the future, you may want additional help in installing new features, upgrades, and fixing software bugs. These should questions should be asked before purchasing the EMR.
7.Review the Agreement
Purchasing an EMR is a big commitment. Having a lawyer to review the agreement to ensure that the contact includes everything that was promised can ease your mind. They will be able to help you understand the costs, and any additional fees that could be associated the purchase of the EMR Software. Also, be sure to review the cancellation terms, in case it is does not meet your expectations.
8. Transition and Installation
After initial installation of the new electronic medical records system, transitioning your medical records on to it can take a lot time and effort. Do not underestimate the time that will be necessary. Manually scanning or inputting paper records onto the new system most likely will be necessary. Hiring additional help may be needed during this time as it can be time-consuming and be disruptive to daily work flow. It is recommended that fewer scheduled appointments be made during this process.
CE Medical Group (http://www.cemedicalgroup.com) specializes in practice management for Interventional Pain Management groups. Visit our website to learn more about our services.


text:
I recently spoke with a friend who attended a social gathering few weeks ago. During the cocktail party, she was greeted by a gentleman for light conversation. My friend, being a social butterfly that she was, thought it would be fun to make a new acquaintance. However, almost immediately she wished that she didn't. It wasn't because the conversation was uninteresting, but rather, she was put off by his poor oral hygiene. "His breath smelled like a melting onion…" said my friend, and that was the story of a modern Lady-Killer.
Aside from physical appearance and personality, oral hygiene also plays an important role in the impression you make on others. Unfortunately, it is often an aspect that is neglected by individuals. When it comes to Halitosis (bad breath) and oral hygiene, it is very difficult for individuals to detect the issue on their own.
For one, we don't usually pay conscious attention to our breath. And not many individuals tend to have fond memories when it comes to the dentist. However, with a little patience and consistency, it is easy to maintain good oral hygiene. As a dental practitioner, I believe that having good oral health will help bring out the best in my patients. So why not check out our tutorial section for some simple oral maintenance tips? I guarantee that you will be surprised just how much different you will feel when you can say goodbye to bad breath, and have a bright smile that you can be proud of.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Free UK delivery when you spend £60 or more
"Jewellery has the power to be this one little thing that can make you feel unique".
We believe in that too. You only need to find the jewellery that is perfect for you. What about Ghoya's Duo Collection?
Duo Ring No 2 has been carefully handcrafted in oxidized silver and set with exquisite Rose quartz stone.
Match it with other items from this collection to achieve a delicate and sexy look.
Material: Oxidized sterling silver 925
Element diameter: 1.5 cm (0.59 Inch)
Stone: Rose quartz
Please note, each piece is handmade to order. That means you may wait for your order for up to 3 weeks...but it's worth the wait


text:
Kos to Piraeus Ferry
New Email
New Mobile Number
Trailer / Caravan
Coronavirus ferry travel advice
Please note that the information provided is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time we have received the same information from the Ferry Operators. The situation is changing rapidly and we will try to keep the website updated as soon as we receive updates from the ferry companies.
Kos to Piraeus ferries. Compare ferries, times and prices
The Kos to Piraeus ferry connects the Dodecanese Islands to Greece and is operated by Blue Star Ferries.
Book a Kos to Piraeus ferry today with AFerry. Just use the form above and choose the route that you want. If nothing appears automatically, start typing Kos. You can also type the country or even the name of the ferry company you are interested in. When you have the route that you want, choose single or return and all the other options you want.
How we compare ferries, prices and times for Kos to Piraeus
If there is more than one ferry company operating on the Kos Piraeus route we will show you all the ferry companies, to make sure you get our best price. We'll also show you any routes similar to Kos to Piraeus so you have the complete picture when making your booking. And of course you'll also see a range of times just in case it's a bit cheaper earlier or later than your preferred booking time.
How you get your ticket and how you can make changes if you need to
Once you've chosen your perfect sailing and have made your booking we'll email you your booking confirmation for your Kos to Piraeus ferry. The majority of tickets have instant confirmation.
We will also email you details about how you can contact us using our messaging service, as well as details about how you can change your ticket. Most of the time you can do this by yourself. The vast majority of our customers give us a review of four or five stars showing that their very happy with our service and communication.
Below you can see the ferry company or companies that sail on the Kos to Piraeus route and the journey times. You might also see some recent prices our customers have found. The best way to find a cheap Kos to Piraeus ferry though is to use the form above today to see all of our possible choices.
Special Offers
Getting the best price for your Kos to Piraeus ferry
With AFerry we always give you our best prices for ferries from Kos to Piraeus. No matter which page you book from we always include all our special offers. And there is no need to look for a discount code. If we have an offer available, your ferry price will include the reduction or offer. There's no need to look at other websites.
If you're not sure if the Kos to Piraeus route is right for you or you can't decide between ferry companies, if there is more than one, you might also find it useful to read any reviews we have available. We ask all our customers to send us reviews for Kos to Piraeus ferries. Remember though, that the earlier you book, the cheaper prices normally are. So don't spend too long deciding! Kos to Piraeus is a popular route, so we advise you to book as soon as possible.
About Kos
Kos ferry fort is situated in Kos town, in the north-east of the island, and is a lively and bustling Port providing Ferry connections to many of the other Dodecanese islands. From here, there are regular connections to mainland Greece and other islands in the Dodecanese area.
Kos is the second largest of the Dodecanese islands, after Rhodes, and is reputed to be the birthplace of Hippocrates. The island's capital, also called Kos, is a popular tourist resort complete with restaurants, bars and nightclubs.
Kos is an island known for its beautiful villages and beaches and is a popular holiday destination with tourists from all over the world.
About Piraeus
Piraeus has been inhabited for over 4000 years and has seen history come and ago, including the incredible Ancient Greek Empire.
Book your ferry to the idyllic Greek islands from Athens' major port simply and securely with AFerry
11 Nov 2014Great way to travel and saves a nights hotel accommodation
Cabin very comfortable and absolutely spotless with walk in shower. Saving of 25% on normal ticket price.
Review by Guy
23 Jul 2013Checking in
Had a great trip and would definitely recommend. A great experience for the kids and the cabin was everything you need. But, my only comment would be that a bit more information on the journey would have been handy. I was nervous that all I had as confirmation of my booking was a piece of paper, and was not aware that I had to go to the Blue Star office to get tickets before we boarded the ship! Having done this once, I would know if future that is what I needed to do, but would have been helpful to have had a bit more information about checking in and tickets.
Review by Ms Sophie Kelley
16 Oct 2012Thoroughly enjoyed every minute. Like a floating 4 star hotel.
I chose the Blue star because internal Greek flights have skyrocketed and are never very convenient linking up with ferries and noone ever helps or is sympathetic to young families these days in fact people tend to despise you and your screaming kids and show it unreservedly. So instead of my kids and I being packed in like sardines on the plane and going through painful security checks through an airport. We had our very affordable and clean cabin in the blue star ferry. I was able to hook-up my lap-top with ease to entertain them with endless hours of cartoons and movies and my bag of food. The room had a fixed wall table and two chairs. Two fold down beds (bigger rooms available) and a small shower and toilet with mirror. Obviously small and a little cramped...but there are luxe cabins available and even allergy clean cabins! so My kids were able to scream and kick off and I didnt have the stress of them doing it in public! And when it got too much for me I could take them for a walk. Plenty of cafes on different levels and an open air one. Cafe snacks and fast food available as well as simple home food and restaurant food. A tourist shop....internet availabilities....child tv room (which didnt seem to be playing when I was there but I had the laptop anyway). The list was endless. But I was so impressed with the free valet service. You check in with reception to get your cabin key (so keep your ticket stubs) and a fellow appears immediately grabs your bags and whisks you away to your cabin and sets the room up for you. You often don't get that even in actual hotels. The whole ferry was immaculate...I didnt see a hint of any tired furniture or even cracks or marks or tarnishes anywhere. Not even a hint of frayed or stained carpet. And all the staff were friendly and lovely and helped me a lot (being on my own with baggage and two young grumpy little girls). I could imagine a childless couple enjoying themselves even more than I did! The only problem....don't necessarily rely on arriving bang on time if you need to make a connection. I went to Athens and back....each time arriving atleast 30mins late.
Review by Anon
Kos to Piraeus Popular Questions
Want to know more about your journey from Kos to Piraeus? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
How long does the ferry from Kos to Piraeus take?
The average journey time by ferry between Kos to Piraeus is 11 hrs 48 min. The journey time may vary, so use our booking engine on this page to search for a specific travel date.
How fast does the ferry from Kos to Piraeus travel?
The fastest journey time by ferry from Kos to Piraeus is 11 hrs 30 min, with Blue Star Ferries.
What time does the first ferry from Kos to Piraeus leave?
The first ferry from Kos to Piraeus leaves at 01:30 with Blue Star Ferries. Times may vary depending on the time of year.
What time does the last ferry from Kos to Piraeus leave?
The last ferry from Kos to Piraeus leaves at 22:55 with Blue Star Ferries. Times may vary depending on the time of year.
Which ferry companies operate between Kos to Piraeus?
Ferries travelling from Kos to Piraeus are operated by Blue Star Ferries.
Looking for more information?
If you're looking for the return journey, check out Piraeus to Kos.


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Better known as flu, an acute infection, that frequently occurs in epidemics or occasionally in world-wide outbreaks known as pandemics. Three types of influenza virus, known simply as types A, B, and C, have been identified; A and B are responsible for nearly all epidemics. Unfortunately, each of the three types has a number of different strains, and the virus undergoes subtle biochemical changes on an ongoing basis. As a result, someone who catches the flu or is vaccinated this year usually will not be immune during next year's out-break. That is why those who need flu shots must get anew one each year. Influenza is typically seen in the United States and Canada in the fall and winter, usually involving strains that have been identified a few months earlier in Asia. These outbreaks develop quickly, spread rapidly, and may involve sizable numbers of people in a given community. While complications and mortality are uncommon in healthy individuals, influenza can be serious for children who have chronic illnesses.
Influenza Symptoms
Influenza is characterized by the sudden onset of chills, fever, muscle aches, headache, lack of appetite, and a dry cough. Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain some-times occur in younger children but are less common in adolescents or adults. (Acute gastroenteritis, often called stomach flu, is an entirely different type of infection.) In some children, influenza can appear to be a simple respiratory-tract infection or an illness with fever but without any cold or cough. Influenza does not cause a rash or intense inflammation of the throat (pharyngitis). If bacteria become involved as secondary invaders, complications such as bronchitis, sinusitis, middle-ear infection, and pneumonia could develop. Flu is spread via respiratory secretions that become airborne with coughing or are passed person to person by unwashed hands. A child or adult is most contagious for a period extending from 24 hours before the onset of symptoms through the time they show signs of resolving. The incubation period (the time from exposure to onset of symptoms) is one to three days.
Influenza Treatment
Treatment of influenza is usually focused on relief of symptoms. Acetaminophen (Tylenol and other brands) or ibuprofen (Children's Motrin and other brands) can be used to relieve fever and aches, but aspirin should be completely avoided because of the risk of Reye's syndrome. The child should drink a lot of fluids. (There is usually not much appetite for solids until symptoms begin to abate.) Until the fever, aches, and cough have calmed down for 24 hours, the child should remain at home and quiet. Antibiotics will have no effect on the course of the illness, although they can be helpful if secondary bacterial infections develop.
Two drugs, amantadine and rimantadine, may reduce the severity of symptoms if given within the first 48hours of the onset of a type A influenza virus infection. (The type of virus involved in a local epidemic may be identified by the local health department.) They can also prevent influenza from spreading to other family members. These drugs are not routinely given to children, since influenza normally resolves without treatment in two to five days. Your child's doctor can advise you whether one of these medications might be helpful or necessary.
A flu vaccine is developed each year and given every fall. It is not recommended for all children but should be considered annually for those with chronic conditions such as heart disease, asthma, kidney failure, and disorders of the immune system. For children with these and other long-term medical problems, influenza can be a much more serious (or even fatal) illness. Other family members in the home of a high-risk child should be vaccinated as well. Flu vaccine can be given to infants as young as six months of age, although it is less effective its younger children.
Some parents may choose to vaccinate children who do not have chronic illnesses to minimize the risk of their missing school or other important activities.


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Downtown Athletic Club v. S.M. Horman, an individual, aka Sid Horman; S.M. Horman and Sons, a partnership; and S.M. Horman and Sons Company : Brief in Opposition to Certiorari
Docket Number
Document Type
Legal Brief
Publication Date
Brief in Opposition to Petition for Writ of Certiorari
Original Brief Submitted to the Utah Supreme Court; digitized by the Howard W. Hunter Law Library, J. Reuben Clark Law School, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah; machine-generated OCR, may contain errors.
L.R. Gardiner, Jr., Esq.; Thomas R. Vuksinick, Esq.; Chapman and Cutler; Attorneys for Defendants and Respondents.
Lorin N. Pace, Esq.; Pace and Parsons; Attorneys for Plaintiff and Petitioner.
Public record document (some rights may be reserved).
Recommended Citation
Legal Brief, Downtown Athletic Club v. S.M. Horman, S.M. Horman & Sons, S.M. Horman & Sons Company, No. 870371.00 (Utah Supreme Court, 1987).