| governor_inslee_proclaims_april_16_healthcare_decisions_day-19_Vaccines_to_R | Governor Inslee Proclaims April 16 Healthcare Decisions Day | Latest_News | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2021/governor_inslee_proclaims_april_16_healthcare_decisions_day-19_Vaccines_to_R | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>April 16, 2021</h5>
<h2>Governor Inslee Proclaims April 16 Healthcare Decisions Day</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE - Gov. Jay Inslee has proclaimed April 16, 2021, as Healthcare Decisions Day in Washington - a day to recognize the importance of advance care planning and encourage individuals to discuss and record choices about future healthcare decisions.
</p>
<p>
<a href="https://www.honoringchoicespnw.org/">Honoring Choices Pacific Northwest</a> (HCPNW), a joint initiative between the Washington State Hospital Association and the Washington State Medical Association Foundation for Health Care Improvement, is part of this national effort to highlight National Healthcare Decisions Day. In honor of Healthcare Decisions Day HCPNW is hosting <em>Whaddya Know</em>, an original game show, where the points don't matter - but the answers do!
</p>
<p>
<em>Whaddya Know</em> challenges players to match guesses to answers to irreverent and fun questions about future healthcare planning, death, and dying. Played with one partner or teams either together or at different locations, <em>Whaddya Know</em> is a live event, free, and open to the public; registration is required and most appropriate for participants 13 and older.
</p>
<p>
To participate in <em>Whaddya Know The Game Show</em> on April 16:
</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.celebratenhdd.online/the-game-show">Learn more</a></li>
<li><a href="https://bit.ly/31viiQ4">Register to play</a></li>
<li><a href="http://evite.me/T8VPGbW6Kd">Invite others to join with an evite</a></li>
<li><a href="https://bit.ly/39rWbhz">Get the Game Kit, including practice questions</a></li>
</ul>
<p>
Inspiring conversations about the care people want at the end of life, HCPNW helps to inform the public on available treatment options and supports health care organizations and community groups in discussing, recording, and honoring the expressed wishes of individuals on their choices for care should they be unable to speak for themselves. HCPNW's vision is that everyone will receive care that honors personal values and goals at the end of life.
</p>
<p>
HCPNW partners with healthcare and community organizations throughout Washington state, and many have local events to promote National Healthcare Decisions Day. Additional information can be found at HCPNW's website, <a href="https://www.honoringchoicespnw.org">www.honoringchoicespnw.org</a>, which includes a free advance directive to download and videos explaining advance care planning.
</p>
<p>
<strong>For more information, contact:</strong>
</p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
Washington State Medical Association<br />
206.956.3633 <br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<p>
Emily Pate<br />
Washington State Hospital Association<br />
206.216.2894<br />
<a href="mailto:emilyp@wsha.org">emilyp@wsha.org</a>
</p>
<h4>About Honoring Choices Pacific Northwest</h4>
<p>
Honoring Choices Pacific Northwest is a joint initiative of the Washington State Hospital Association and Washington State Medical Association Foundation for Health Care Improvement. We use a variety of approaches to inspire conversations about the care people want at the end of life, including an advance care planning program, community engagement, physician education, and advocacy. We help the public make informed choices about end-of-life care and help health care organizations and community groups discuss, record, and honor end-of-life choices. We are a philanthropic endeavor so all who want to participate can.
</p>
<h4>About the Washington State Medical Association Foundation for Health Care Improvement</h4>
<p>
At the WSMA Foundation, we believe in a future where physicians are healthy and fulfilled; where physicians, the health care team, and patients are partners; and where all Washingtonians experience quality care that aligns with their needs, goals, and values. Fulfilling that quest depends upon transformational change at all levels - individual, organizational, and statewide. We believe that change is possible, and that physicians and patients can thrive in health care settings that support them. The WSMA Foundation is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Visit <a href="[@]foundation">www.wsma.org/foundation</a> for more information.
</p>
<h4>About the Washington State Hospital Association</h4>
<p>
The Washington State Hospital Association advocates for and provides value to members in achieving their missions and improving the health of their communities. WSHA represents more than 100 hospitals and health systems in the state, including those that are non-profit, investor-owned, and county, state, and military hospitals. The Quadruple Aim guides our members and our work as we strive to reduce the cost of health care and improve the patient experience, the clinician experience and the health of our communities. Visit <a href="https://www.wsha.org">www.wsha.org</a> for more information.
</p>
</div> | 4/16/2021 11:29:14 AM | 1/1/0001 12:00:00 AM |
| ppe_reimbursement_bill_signed_into_law | PPE Reimbursement Bill Signed Into Law | Latest_News | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2021/ppe_reimbursement_bill_signed_into_law | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/April/Spring-WA-Capitol-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Washington cap" />
</div>
<h5>April 16, 2021</h5>
<h2>PPE Reimbursement Bill Signed Into Law</h2>
<p>
With the 2021 legislative session slated to adjourn on April 25, WSMA's legislative priorities are in strong shape, with one major win for the physician community coming in mere moments. Senate Bill 5169, requiring commercial insurance carriers to begin reimbursing for PPE costs during the pandemic, will be signed into law by Gov. Jay Inslee today, April 16. The bill will take effect immediately upon signature, and Washington will become the first state in the country to require reimbursement for PPE in this way. The WSMA and other supporters believe this important legislation will help spread the increased costs of delivering care during the pandemic and ensure everyone is paying their fair share.
</p>
<h3>What SB 5169 means for physician practices</h3>
<p>
As soon as the bill is signed into law and for the duration of the federal public health emergency, any physician or health care provider treating patients in state-regulated commercial health plans who has incurred costs for PPE will be able to bill the newly created CPT code 99072 and be reimbursed $6.57 per patient encounter as recommended by the AMA's RUC committee.
</p>
<p>
Given that it can be difficult to know whether a health plan is fully insured and subject to state regulation, or self-insured and generally exempt from state laws, the WSMA recommends billing the code liberally in appropriate circumstances as those health plans which are not subject to the law may opt to reimburse the code. More guidance on the use of the code can be found in <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/system/files/2020-09/cpt-assistant-guide-coronavirus-september-2020.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">this edition of the AMA CPT Assistant</a>. (If your practice experiences any implementation issues with insurers, please reach out to WSMA's policy department at <a href="mailto:policy@wsma.org">policy@wsma.org</a>.)
</p>
<p>
The WSMA conducted several surveys last year to assess the impact of the pandemic on physician practices. One recurring theme we heard was that PPE was increasingly difficult to procure, and when available, the costs were much higher compared to pre-pandemic rates. Based on this feedback, the WSMA helped develop and introduce SB 5169 as one way to ensure support for physician practices. We want to thank everyone that took the time to respond to these surveys during an incredibly stressful time.
</p>
<p>
In developing and advancing this legislation, the WSMA also worked closely with the Washington State Medical Group Management Association, as well as a host of health care provider organizations. We appreciate their input and partnership in this work. Finally, we want to thank Sen. David Frockt (D-North Seattle) for sponsoring the bill and prioritizing it to help support the physician and provider community during this challenging time.
</p>
<h3>Other practice sustainability policies poised to pass</h3>
<p>
That's not the only good news to report from Olympia. As it stands, all of WSMA's priority issues are faring well, including:
</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Medicaid reimbursement:</strong> Budget writers in Olympia have proposed investing up to $160 million over the next two years in Medicaid reimbursement rate increases for primary care, behavioral health, and certain pediatric services. These rate increases are a longstanding priority for your WSMA and represent a positive first step in addressing Medicaid reimbursement more broadly. Budget negotiations are ongoing, but we are optimistic that funds will be included in the final budget.</li>
<li><strong>Audio-only telemedicine:</strong>, <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1196&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2021">HB 1196</a> Generally requires that insurers provide the same coverage and reimbursement for audio-only telemedicine services as they would for care delivered in person or via audio/visual telemedicine. The bill has passed both the House and Senate, but the House will need to agree with changes adopted in the Senate before the bill heads to the governor's desk.</li>
<li><strong>COVID-19 liability protections</strong>, <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5271&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2021">SB 5271</a>: Establishes that the context in which care was delivered during COVID-19 will be taken into account in malpractice actions. The bill would help ensure courts will consider the difficult regulatory and logistical landscape physician practices were operating under during the pandemic. The bill has passed both the House and Senate and now heads to the governor's desk. SB 5271 will take effect immediately upon being signed.</li>
</ul>
<p>
For more information regarding WSMA's legislative advocacy, please visit our <a href="[@]WSMA/Advocacy/Legislative___Regulatory/WSMA/Advocacy/Legislative_Regulatory/Legislative_Regulatory.aspx?hkey=c0dc6e7c-4385-497a-99db-4a6b6f4e56bd">Legislative &amp; Regulatory
page</a> or reach out to WSMA Government Affairs Director Sean Graham at <a href="mailto:sean@wsma.org">sean@wsma.org</a>.
</p>
</div> | 4/16/2021 12:00:00 AM | 1/1/0001 12:00:00 AM |
| weekly_rounds_april_16_2021_five_things_to_do_while_celebrating_spring | Weekly Rounds: April 16, 2021 - Five Things to Do While Celebrating Spring | Latest_News | Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2021/weekly_rounds_april_16_2021_five_things_to_do_while_celebrating_spring | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/Weekly%20Rounds/Weekly-Rounds-Article-Graphic-2021-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Weekly Rounds logo" width="645" height="425" /></div>
<h5>April 16, 2021</h5>
<h2>Five Things to Do While Celebrating Spring</h2>
<p>Jennifer Hanscom, Executive Director/CEO</p>
<p>
What a delight to see spring arriving in the Pacific Northwest. Judging by our members' Facebook posts, I see that many of you are taking time to enjoy the onset of a welcome season by hiking, gardening, barbecuing, and more. I'm right there with you on those activities and have a few more things to suggest as you contemplate the beauty around us.
</p>
<h3>A taste of Chelan</h3>
<p>
While we unfortunately will not be hosting our annual Leadership Development Conference in beautiful Chelan, instead we will bring a taste of Chelan right to your doorstep. <strong>If you register before April 30 for the virtual conference (scheduled for May 14-15), we will ship to you your choice of a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, or Mèthode Champenoise Pink straight from Karma Vineyards. To make this event even more special, we'll include one of Karma's signature "do good" glasses (either wine or champagne).</strong> By <a href="[@]Shared_Content/Events/Event_Display.aspx?EventKey=LDC21&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=uxcX7www.nationalhealthcaredecisionsday.org">registering early for the event</a>, you'll be able to join your colleagues for a virtual wine and champagne tasting on Friday, May 14 at 5:15 p.m. with drinks courtesy of the WSMA.
</p>
<p>
Even if virtual, the LDC's quality programming is still designed to sharpen your leadership skills. This year's conference features nationally recognized speaker <a href="https://www.billeckstrom.com/about-bill">Bill Eckstrom</a>, who will kick off a conference agenda that will explore new trends in care delivery and quality improvement. Find out more about this year's speakers and learning opportunities on the <a href="[@]WSMA/Events/Leadership_Development_Conference/WSMA/Events/LDC/leadership_development_conference.aspx?hkey=c7532c38-057a-4568-8a3c-078182469222&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=wxcX7">conference webpage</a>.
</p>
<p>
We hope you'll join us and other physician leaders from across the state for this premier event.
</p>
<h3>Get the scoop on session</h3>
<p>
Hopefully, you received our email this week announcing the passage of WSMA's PPE reimbursement bill. A significant win for the physician community, <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5169&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2021">Senate Bill 5169</a> requires state-regulated commercial insurance carriers to begin reimbursing for PPE costs during the pandemic. The bill takes effect today, making Washington the first state in the country to require reimbursement for PPE in this way. More information can be found <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2021/ppe_reimbursement_bill_signed_into_law?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=10dX7">here</a>.
</p>
<p>
With this year's legislative session scheduled to conclude on April 25, be sure to mark your calendar for May 7 when your on-the-ground legislative team will host a session wrap-up. During this members-only lunchtime webinar, they'll give you an inside look at the outcome of WSMA's priority policies, both budget and legislative, for the physician community. Spoiler alert: There's a lot of good news to share, so you won't want to miss it. <a href="https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJArcu-tqDgsHNF_ASfe4cCORSiKzadx5YI1">Register for the meeting online</a>.
</p>
<h3>Step up to lead</h3>
<p>True to our slogan, the WSMA is both patient-focused and physician-driven. Our board of trustees is a critical way in which the WSMA is guided in its direction, strategies, and goals. Would you consider bringing your voice to the WSMA leadership table? The April 23 deadline for nominations is coming up quickly, and there are a variety of board positions available. I hope you'll take a moment to reflect on your leadership role within the WSMA. <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/March_11/nominations_for_wsma_leadership_deadline_april_23?_zs=A3aFd1&amp;_zl=N0pU7">Find out more here</a>.</p>
<h3>Nominate a winner</h3>
<p>
It's time to nominate worthy recipients for WSMA's third annual Apple Awards! There are several categories of awards including: <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PLVX2CR">Early Career Member of the Year</a>, <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PQPVYH3">Grassroots Advocate</a>, <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PC67G2M">Community Advocate</a>, <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PSQP3QJ">Wellness</a>, <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PDGZBNL">President's Unsung Hero</a>, and the <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JPQRS7S">William O. Robertson Patient Safety Award</a>. The deadline to nominate is June 4. Learn more and get started nominating your heroes at the links provided.
</p>
<h3>Help launch new Latinx Section</h3>
<p>
Thanks to the enthusiasm and efforts of the leadership at the University of Washington's Latino Center for Health, the WSMA is creating a Latinx Section within our membership. The launch of this section grew out of work done during the 2019 legislative session that allocated $150,000 in the 2019-21 state budget for the UW center to examine the Latinx physician workforce in Washington state. Among other actions, the center's advisory council recommended creating a Latinx physician cohort, which led to the 2020 WSMA House of Delegates passing policy establishing a Latinx Section within the WSMA. Objectives of the section will be to provide a forum in which Latinx physicians and PAs are able to gather, network, and support each other professionally, in addition to recruiting other Latinx physicians and developing advocacy strategies.
</p>
<p>
This work is just beginning. If you're interested in learning more, mark your calendars for an informational meeting on May 20 from 6-7:30 p.m. Keep an eye on your email for registration information or write Milana McLead at <a href="mailto:milana@wsma.org">milana@wsma.org</a> to let us know about your interest in the section.
</p>
<p>
I know this is a busy time, but I hope you'll be able to take advantage of these opportunities in addition to enjoying the lovely springtime.
</p>
</div> | 4/16/2021 12:00:00 AM | 1/1/0001 12:00:00 AM |