| final_sunrise_review_recommendations_on_optometric_midwifery_scope | Final Sunrise Review Recommendations on Optometric, Midwifery Scope | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/January_28/final_sunrise_review_recommendations_on_optometric_midwifery_scope | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/january/eye-exam-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="patient receiving eye exam" /></div>
<h5>January 28, 2022</h5>
<h2>Final Sunrise Review Recommendations on Optometric, Midwifery Scope </h2>
<p>Earlier this week, the Washington State Department of Health released three highly anticipated sets of recommendations on sunrise reviews requested by optometrists, midwives, and anesthesiologists.</p>
<p>Sunrise reviews are the process by which the DOH considers proposals that would create new health professions or amend the practices of regulated health professions. These reviews offer opportunities for feedback from physicians and the wider public and bear watching as they can prompt future legislation impacting the practice of medicine.</p>
<h3>Optometry scope of practice</h3>
<p>The Optometric Physicians of Washington is seeking to increase the optometrist scope of practice. Proposed changes include expanding scope of practice to allow optometrists to diagnose and treat some surgical conditions without comprehensive medical training, as well as the use of injections, scalpels, and lasers on the eyes and tissues surrounding the eyes without specifying any additional education or training requirements. The proposal also would grant sole authority to determine what constitutes the practice of optometry to the Board of Optometry.</p>
<p>In its <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2022/2021-optometry-sunrise-final.pdf]">final recommendation</a>, the DOH determines that certain aspects of the proposal meet the sunrise criteria, but the bill as written is too broad and does not adequately describe what procedures would be allowed. The DOH recommends specific changes to ensure patient safety.</p>
<p>The WSMA is concerned with this recommendation and opposed the corresponding legislation, <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5542&amp;Year=2021&amp;Initiative=false">Senate Bill 5542</a>, when it was heard in the Senate Health and Long Term Care committee earlier this week.</p>
<h3>Midwifery scope of practice</h3>
<p>The Midwives Association of Washington is seeking to increase the midwifery scope of practice. The proposal would grant licensed midwives limited prescriptive authority for "medications and therapies for the prevention and treatment of common prenatal and postpartum conditions and hormonal and nonhormonal family planning methods."</p>
<p>In its <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2022/2021-midwifery-sunrise-final.pdf]">final recommendation</a>, the DOH supports the concept of the proposal because it would increase access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services. However, the DOH does not support the proposal under review and recommends additional parameters to clarify the application of the proposed prescriptive authority and the required additional education and training.</p>
<p>Corresponding legislation, <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5765&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2021">Senate Bill 5765</a>, was also heard in the Senate Health and Long Term Care Committee earlier this week. The WSMA was on hand to share our support of DOH's recommendations.</p>
<h3>Anesthesia assistants</h3>
<p>The DOH <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2022/2021-anesthesiologist-assistant-sunrise-review-final.pdf]">recommended in favor</a> of a proposal from the Washington State Society of Anesthesiologists to create a license for anesthesia assistants if certain changes are made to address safety. The WSMA is pleased with this recommendation and will support corresponding legislation during the 2022 legislative session.</p>
</div> | 1/27/2022 4:35:27 PM | 1/27/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| hhs_releases_$2_billion_in_new_provider_relief_fund_payments | HHS Releases $2 Billion in New Provider Relief Fund Payments | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/January_28/hhs_releases_$2_billion_in_new_provider_relief_fund_payments | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/january/physician-money-illustration-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="illustration of physician with a dollar sign arrow" /></div>
<h5>January 28, 2022</h5>
<h2>HHS Releases $2 Billion in New Provider Relief Fund Payments</h2>
<p>The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, through the Health Resources and Services Administration, is making more than $2 billion in Provider Relief Fund Phase 4 payments to more than 7,600 physicians and providers across the country this week.</p>
<p>These payments come on the heels of the nearly $9 billion in funding that was already released by HHS in December. Like the payments allocated in December, the newly announced payments will be based on lost revenues and increased expenses due to COVID-19 and will be made to physicians who previously applied for relief funds. HHS will reimburse a larger share of losses and increased expenses for smaller providers and a portion of the payments will be based on the amount and type of services provided to Medicare, Medicaid, or CHIP patients. To mitigate disparities due to varying Medicaid reimbursement rates, HHS is using Medicare reimbursement rates in calculating these payments. Physician practices that receive more than $10,000 in payments will be required to report on their use of the funds. Visit the <a href="https://www.hrsa.gov/provider-relief">HRSA Provider Relief Fund dedicated webpages</a> for more information.</p>
</div> | 1/25/2022 11:22:43 AM | 1/27/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| insurance_commissioner_kreidler_to_join_2022_wsma_legislative_summit | Insurance Commissioner Kreidler to Join 2022 WSMA Legislative Summit | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/January_28/insurance_commissioner_kreidler_to_join_2022_wsma_legislative_summit | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/january/2022-legislative-summit-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="2022 WSMA Legislative Summit logo" /></div>
<h5>January 28, 2022</h5>
<h2>Insurance Commissioner Kreidler to Join 2022 WSMA Legislative Summit</h2>
<p>Join Washington state's physicians and physician assistants for the 2022 WSMA Legislative Summit, Monday, Feb. 7 at 5:30 p.m. via Zoom. This event is free for WSMA members and serves as a unique opportunity to gain insight into how we translate WSMA policy into action.</p>
<p>Washington Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler will join us as a guest speaker, sharing his perspective on pending legislation around balance billing and network access, as well as other priority issues of his office. Also on the agenda will be Health Care Authority Director Sue Birch, who will provide an update on the Health Care Cost Transparency Board, primary care transformation, and other issues of relevance.</p>
<p><a href="[@]WSMA/Events/Legislative_Summit/WSMA/Events/WSMA_Legislative_Summit/Legislative_Summit.aspx?hkey=795731a5-79ba-45b0-b78b-b9dfbfc336e5">Register for the 2022 Legislative Summit</a>.</p>
<h3>Legislative issue briefs</h3>
<p>Issue briefs on WSMA's key legislative priorities for the 2022 legislative session are now available:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2022/wsma-2022-issuebrief-network-adequacy.pdf]">Network access</a> </li>
<li><a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2022/wsma-2022-issuebrief-optometric-scope.pdf]">Optometry scope of practice expansion</a> </li>
<li><a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2022/wsma-2022-issuebrief-naturopaths.pdf]">Naturopath scope of practice expansion</a> </li>
<li><a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2022/wsma-2022-issuebrief-arnps.pdf]">ARNP reimbursement mandate</a> </li>
<li><a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2022/wsma-2022-issuebrief-medicaid.pdf]">Medicaid reimbursement</a> </li>
</ul>
<p>If you plan to meet with your local legislators, we recommend reading the issue briefs beforehand so you're familiar with the details of the proposals. The issue briefs can also be shared with your legislators via email.</p>
</div> | 1/27/2022 4:36:08 PM | 1/27/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| new_cme_health_equity_m_and_m_webinar_series | New CME: Health Equity M&M Webinar Series | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/January_28/new_cme_health_equity_m_and_m_webinar_series | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/january/mm-equity-webinar-series-2022-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="Health Equity M&amp;M Webinar Series" /></div>
<h5>January 28, 2022</h5>
<h2>New CME: Health Equity M&amp;M Webinar Series</h2>
<p>The WSMA and WSMA Foundation are excited to launch their latest educational program: the Health Equity M&amp;M Webinar Series. Think "morbidity and mortality," but with a focus on health equity. Edwin Lindo, JD, will facilitate case-based discussions presented by attendees. Lindo is the assistant dean for social and health justice in the office of health care equity and acting assistant professor within the department of family medicine at the University of Washington School of Medicine. He teaches, presents, and writes on issues of race and racism within the field of medicine and greater society. He is internationally recognized as a conscious voice for racial and social justice.</p>
<p>These Health Equity M&amp;M discussions will provide a framework for recognizing and examining our own biases and identifying the ways systemic racism exists in our organizations. You'll have new tools to think critically and identify when to advocate for patients from historically marginalized communities, ensuring they receive the highest quality clinical care. The Health Equity M&amp;M discussions serve as one of many mechanisms to address forms of systemic marginalization of patients.</p>
<p>This series will foster a space conducive to building a community of professionals focused on achieving health equity, allowing for discussions of charged but necessary topics. Each webinar is protected under WSMA's CQIP as recognized by the WA DOH and pursuant to RCW 70.225.040. By registering, you agree to maintain the confidentiality of the cases discussed pursuant to RCW 43.70.510, RCW 70.41.200, and RCW 4.24.250.</p>
<p>Free for WSMA members, these webinars will be held on the second Friday of every other month at noon, beginning on Feb. 11. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Creditâ„¢.&nbsp;</em><a href="[@]WSMA/Education/Upcoming_Webinars/WSMA/education/Upcoming_Webinars/Upcoming_Webinars.aspx?hkey=b760d6bd-1833-412d-b681-babf251792a8">Register online</a>.</p>
</div> | 1/25/2022 11:22:56 AM | 1/27/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| session_update_wsma_members_testify_on_priority_bills | Session Update: WSMA Members Testify on Priority Bills | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/January_28/session_update_wsma_members_testify_on_priority_bills | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/january/testimony-4-photos-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="four images of physicians testifying virtually" /></div>
<h5>January 28, 2022</h5>
<h2>Session Update: WSMA Members Testify on Priority Bills</h2>
<p>Nearly three weeks into the 60-day "short" state legislative session, WSMA's legislative advocacy-powered by your membership, as well as the hard work of our lobbying team and volunteer WSMA members providing direct testimony-is at full-strength. Here's a brief look at several bills of note to the physician community.</p>
<p><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5704&amp;Year=2021&amp;Initiative=false">Senate Bill 5704</a>, which would require health insurance carriers to reimburse advanced registered nurse practitioners at the same rate as physicians for the "same services," had a public hearing in the Senate Health &amp; Long Term Care Committee on Jan. 17. WSMA President-Elect Katina Rue, DO, was joined by WSMA member and medical student Reilly Bealer and Ashlin Mountjoy, MD, as well as WSMA contract lobbyist Katie Kolan to testify in opposition to this legislation, noting the fundamental differences in education and training between physicians and ARNPs. The WSMA also sent out an action alert to physicians statewide urging them to contact their state senator and share their perspective on the issue.</p>
<p>WSMA priority legislation <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1889&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2021">House Bill 1889</a>, concerning network adequacy, was heard on Monday, Jan. 24 in the House Health Care &amp; Wellness Committee. WSMA members Erik Penner, MD, and Dominique Coco, MD, joined WSMA Director of Government Affairs Sean Graham to testify in support.</p>
<p>Two scope of practice bills were heard in the Senate Health &amp; Long Term Care Committee on Wednesday, Jan. 26. WSMA joined the Washington Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons to testify in opposition to <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5542&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2021">Senate Bill 5542</a>, which would expand the scope practice of optometrists to include surgical procedures that utilize scalpels, lasers, and injections, among other provisions. Among the physicians testifying against SB 5542 were WSMA Past President Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD, and WSMA members Aaron Weingeist, MD, and Rachel Reinhardt, MD. WSMA Associate Director of Legislative Affairs Alex Wehinger was on hand to testify as "other" for <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5765&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2021">Senate Bill 5765</a>, which would grant licensed midwives limited prescriptive authority.</p>
<p>These are just a few examples of our advocacy at work in Olympia. Thank you to all of the physicians who testified on the above issues and the many more who have testified recently on other health-care-related legislation. And thank you to all who responded to our call to action.</p>
<p>Important dates ahead:</p>
<ul>
<li>Feb. 3: Policy committee cutoff</li>
<li>Feb. 7 at 5:30 p.m.: WSMA Legislative Summit - register <a href="https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_euSsj0qaQqGRwDqVyuiarA">here</a></li>
</ul>
<p>Visit the WSMA website for more details on our session advocacy. For weekly updates, WSMA members may subscribe to receive the WSMA Outreach &amp; Advocacy Report by emailing <a href="mailto:shelby@wsma.org">shelby@wsma.org</a>.</p>
</div> | 1/25/2022 11:22:41 AM | 1/27/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| state_legislature_passes_delay_of_long_term_care_act | State Legislature Passes Delay of Long-Term Care Act | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/January_28/state_legislature_passes_delay_of_long_term_care_act | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/january/spring-wa-capitol-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Washington state capitol building in spring time" /></div>
<h5>January 28, 2022</h5>
<h2>State Legislature Passes Delay of Long-Term Care Act</h2>
<p>Legislation to delay implementation of the state's long-term care act and associated payroll tax increase to July 1, 2023 has passed both the state Senate and House of Representatives, and now awaits Gov. Jay Inslee's signature.</p>
<p><a href="https://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/biennium/2021-22/Pdf/Bills/House%20Bills/1732.pdf?q=20220104221807">House Bill 1732</a>, passed on Wednesday, delays to July 1, 2023 implementation of the state's long-term care services and supports trust program; directs that any premiums collected from employees prior to July 1, 2023 must be refunded to employees within 120 days of collection; makes minor changes to program eligibility requirements; and contains an emergency clause, so it takes effect immediately upon being signed by the governor.</p>
<p>Also passed by lawmakers was <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1733&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2021">House Bill 1733</a>, which allows certain groups who may have pre-existing coverage and who don't stand to benefit from the program to opt out.</p>
<p>At the time of this writing, the WSMA expects the governor to sign the bills into law.</p>
</div> | 1/27/2022 3:59:12 PM | 1/27/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| 2022_legislative_session_update_week_3 | 2022 Legislative Session Update: Week 3 | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2022/2022_legislative_session_update_week_3 | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://vimeo.com/669531466"><img src="/images/Newsletters/latest-news/2022/january/2022-legislative-update-wk-3-645x425px.png" alt="Legislative Update logo for the week of January 24, 2022" /></a>
</div>
<h5>January 24, 2022</h5>
<h2>2022 Legislative Session Update: Week 3</h2>
<p>Alex Wehinger, WSMA's associate director of legislative and political affairs, shares what to expect at this year's virtual WSMA Legislative Summit, taking place Monday, Feb. 7 at 5:30 p.m. <a href="https://vimeo.com/669531466">Watch the video</a>.</p>
</div> | 1/24/2022 3:44:30 PM | 1/24/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| 2022_legislative_session_update_week_2 | 2022 Legislative Session Update: Week 2 | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2022/2022_legislative_session_update_week_2 | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://vimeo.com/666370354"><img alt="Legislative Update logo for the week of January 17, 2022" src="/images/Newsletters/latest-news/2022/january/2022-legislative-update-wk-2-645x425px.png" /></a>
</div>
<h5>January 17, 2022</h5>
<h2>2022 Legislative Session Update: Week 2</h2>
<p>Sean Graham, WSMA's director of government affairs, reports out on what to expect this week in session, including a call to action on SB 5704 on ARNP reimbursement "parity." <a href="https://vimeo.com/666370354">Watch the video</a>.</p>
</div> | 1/18/2022 10:33:22 AM | 1/17/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| governor_responds_to_crisis_facing_overwhelmed_eds_and_hospitals | Governor Responds to Crisis Facing Overwhelmed EDs and Hospitals | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/January_14/governor_responds_to_crisis_facing_overwhelmed_eds_and_hospitals | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/january/inslee-press-conf-1-13-22.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Washington Governor Jay Inslee" /></div>
<h5>January 14, 2022</h5>
<h2>Governor Responds to Crisis Facing Overwhelmed EDs and Hospitals </h2>
<p>Following urging by the WSMA and the Washington Chapter of American College of Emergency Physicians, as well as additional outreach by the Washington State Hospital Association, Gov. Jay Inslee yesterday announced critical efforts to help address a capacity and staffing crisis in our emergency rooms and hospitals.</p>
<p>Joined by Secretary of Health Umair Shah, MD, the governor announced the following efforts to be implemented as soon as possible:</p>
<p>One hundred National Guard troops will be deployed to eight facilities to assist with non-clinical duties. To help some of our state's emergency departments, troops will be deployed to Providence Regional Medical Center in Everett, Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital, Confluence Health's Central Washington Hospital in Wenatchee, and Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane. The governor said those personnel would be in place by Jan. 24 for approximately one month. The remaining troops will be deployed to facilities to serve as testing teams at testing centers to be established at Providence St. Peter Hospital in Olympia, Kadlec Regional Medical Center in Richland, Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, and MultiCare Tacoma General Hospital.</p>
<p>Also to assist in testing capacity, two FEMA high throughput mass testing sites will be set up in King and Snohomish counties.</p>
<p>As expected, the governor announced a temporary pause of all "non-urgent" surgeries and procedures <strong>in hospitals</strong> for the next four weeks. Restrictions are outlined in a new proclamation, <a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-24.3%20-%20Restrictions%20On%20Non-Urgent%20Medical%20Procedures%20%28tmp%29.pdf?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=govdelivery">Proclamation 20-24.3</a> and again they pertain to the hospital setting specifically. In conversations with the WSMA, the governor emphasized that physician discretion is still permitted to facilitate access to care in situations where delays may result in harm to patients (for specific language detailing criteria to weigh against when considering potential harm to a patient's health and well-being, see <a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-24.3%20-%20Restrictions%20On%20Non-Urgent%20Medical%20Procedures%20%28tmp%29.pdf?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=govdelivery">the bottom of page 2 into page 3 of the proclamation</a>).</p>
<p>Reflecting the resolved supply chain issues, under the governor's order all hospitals are required to use personal protective equipment at the conventional level ("conventional PPE status") and PPE should not be rationed. If any facility or medical group has trouble procuring PPE they are encouraged to contact <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/AboutUs/ProgramsandServices/EmergencyPreparednessandResponse/PPEBackstop">the state</a>.</p>
<p>The governor urged hospitals and long-term care facilities in Washington to avail themselves of existing third-party contract workers through <a href="https://acifed.com/">ACI Federal</a>. There has been some confusion about the number of personnel available through ACI. At the press conference, Secretary Shah clarified there are currently more than 100 medical personnel available through this contract. The governor mentioned they may seek an expansion of the ACI contract if the need is there.</p>
<p>With regard to difficult to discharge patients in the hospital, the governor is expanding state-contracted staffing in long-term care and skilled nursing facilities, as well as increasing social service staff to conduct assessments in hospitals. They include deploying more staff to work with patients on transition plans and contracting with local Area Agencies on Aging to help handle the transition from hospital to rehab for non-Medicaid patients.</p>
<p>He is also putting resources into increasing the number of certified public guardians to address the transfer of individuals out of hospitals into more appropriate care settings.</p>
<p>Finally, the governor made an urgent plea for retired health care workers to assist in whatever capacity they can, particularly over the next four weeks. You can do so by registering with the <a href="https://www.waserv.org/">Washington State Emergency Registry of Volunteers</a>. </p>
<p>Additionally, the Washington State Hospital Association is reporting that many of the state hospitals are operating under crisis staffing models. In a <a href="https://www.king5.com/article/news/local/hospitals-crisis-staffing-care-covid-omicron/281-85715efd-f10c-4d2d-8b10-f0139884455e">KING 5 report</a>, WSHA clarifies that the models are under the guidance of the Washington State Department of Health and the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/images/hcp/WorkRestrictionsHCP.jpg">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</a> and "pertain to how quickly hospital staff can return to work after testing positive for COVID-19 and which patients they can care for."</p>
<p>The WSMA is grateful to the governor for addressing our concerns and remain hopeful the steps he announced today help alleviate our emergency departments and hospitals so they can continue to provide critical care to our patients.</p>
<p>We also want to share our thanks and gratitude to the National Guard who we know have been helping our state in so many ways, most recently in response to weather events such as flooding and snowstorms, and throughout the pandemic with testing sites and food deliveries.</p>
<p>Please continue to help us spread the word to patients that if they want to be tested for COVID-19, they should <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Emergencies/COVID19/TestingforCOVID19/TestingLocations">go to a local testing site</a> or use an at-home test (soon to be available through <a href="https://www.king5.com/article/news/health/coronavirus/gov-inslee-update-covid-response/281-64846150-4dd4-4dfc-871f-d92a2ef36f71">state</a> and <a href="https://www.npr.org/2022/01/13/1072730868/biden-announces-plans-to-buy-500-million-more-covid-tests-and-to-offer-free-mask">federal</a> efforts), and urge patients to mask up and to <a href="https://vaccinelocator.doh.wa.gov/?language=en">get vaccinated and boosted</a>.</p>
</div> | 1/14/2022 9:09:35 AM | 1/15/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| 2022_short_legislative_session_promises_bills_of_interest_to_physicians | 2022 'Short' Legislative Session Promises Bills of Interest to Physicians | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/January_14/2022_short_legislative_session_promises_bills_of_interest_to_physicians | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/january/spring-wa-capitol-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Washington capitol in springtime" /></div>
<h5>January 14, 2022</h5>
<h2>2022 'Short' Legislative Session Promises Bills of Interest to Physicians</h2>
<p>The 2022 Washington state legislative session convened on Monday for what looks to be a mostly virtual 60-day "short" session. Legislators will spend the majority of these first few weeks of their working session in virtual committee hearings, which will be streamed live and archived on <a href="https://www.tvw.org/">TVW</a>. The 2022 session will likely be focused on making tweaks to the budget and policy bills that passed last session, as well as COVID-19 response efforts, the environment, and more.</p>
<p>The Senate and House both made changes to the format of session in light of the omicron variant and continued rise in COVID-19 cases in Washington state. The House announced it will be transitioning to a fully virtual setting for the first two weeks of session and reassess its operations every two weeks to make adjustments as conditions warrant. Generally speaking, the <a href="https://leg.wa.gov/Senate/Documents/2022%20Session%20Plan%20Detailed.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Senate</a> has adopted a hybrid model: A limited number of legislators will be allowed to participate in person on the chamber floor and committee hearings will remain fully remote. Both chambers have suspended in-person meetings and members of the public will not be allowed in Capitol campus buildings.</p>
<p>As a reminder, the WSMA's Outreach &amp; Advocacy Report, containing updates about WSMA's advocacy efforts and opportunities for engagement, will be disseminated on a weekly basis during session, typically each Friday. WSMA members who would like to opt in to receive the WSMA OA Report may email <a href="mailto:shelby@wsma.org">shelby@wsma.org</a>.</p>
<h3>Important dates to keep in mind</h3>
<ul>
<li>Feb. 3: Policy committee cutoff</li>
<li>Feb. 7 at 5:30 p.m.: WSMA Legislative Summit - register <a href="https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_euSsj0qaQqGRwDqVyuiarA">here</a>!</li>
<li>Feb. 7: Fiscal committee cutoff </li>
<li>Feb. 15: House of origin cutoff </li>
<li>Feb. 24: Policy committee cutoff - opposite house </li>
<li>Feb. 28: Fiscal committee cutoff - opposite house </li>
<li>Mar. 4: Opposite house cutoff </li>
<li>Mar. 10: Last day of session </li>
</ul>
<h3>WSMA legislative priorities </h3>
<p>While the WSMA will engage on a variety of issues impacting the house of medicine during the 2022 session, here is a small preview of pending priority legislation expected to be considered:</p>
<p>Balance billing (<a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1688&amp;Year=2021&amp;Initiative=false">House Bill 1688</a>) and network adequacy </p>
<ul>
<li>The WSMA will seek to preserve important protections in the state's balance billing law, and is proposing network adequacy legislation to ensure a level playing field for contracting and to increase transparency and accountability around insurance carrier contracting practices.</li>
</ul>
<p>Scope of practice</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Naturopaths: </strong><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5088&amp;Year=2021&amp;Initiative=False">Senate Bill 5088</a> would increase the naturopathic scope of practice to include increased prescriptive authority and allowance to conduct "minor office-based procedures" without specifically stipulating additional education and training.</li>
<li><strong>ARNPs: </strong><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5704&amp;Year=2021&amp;Initiative=false">Senate Bill 5704</a> would require health carriers to reimburse advanced registered nurse practitioners at the same rate as physicians in the same service area.</li>
<li><strong>Optometrists: </strong><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5542&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2021">Senate Bill 5542</a> would increase the scope of practice for optometrists to include potentially dangerous surgical procedures, including those that utilize scalpels, lasers, and injections, and would increase their prescriptive authority without specifically stipulated additional education and training.</li>
</ul>
</div> | 1/11/2022 3:12:37 PM | 1/14/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| house_democrats_introduce_bill_to_delay_long_term_care_act | House Democrats Introduce Bill to Delay Long-Term Care Act | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/January_14/house_democrats_introduce_bill_to_delay_long_term_care_act | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>January 14, 2022</h5>
<h2>House Democrats Introduce Bill to Delay Long-Term Care Act</h2>
<p>
House Democratic leadership has introduced legislation to delay implementation of the state's long-term care act to July 1, 2023.
</p>
<h3>An overview</h3>
<p>
<a href="https://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/biennium/2021-22/Pdf/Bills/House Bills/1732.pdf?q=20220104221807">House Bill 1732</a> would delay to July 1, 2023 implementation of the state's long-term care services and supports trust program; directs that any premiums collected from employees prior to July 1, 2023 must be refunded to employees within 120 days of collection; makes minor changes to program eligibility requirements; and contains an emergency clause, so takes effect immediately upon being signed by the governor.
</p>
<p>
For more on the legislation, see this <a href="https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/politics/washington-state-democrats-propose-delaying-wa-cares-payroll-tax-until-2023/">Seattle Times article</a>. Bill provisions are subject to change. The WSMA will monitor the bill as session progresses and will keep you apprised of major developments on the issue.
</p>
</div> | 1/13/2022 2:24:57 PM | 1/14/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_joins_amicus_brief_in_support_of_lawsuit_challenging_no_surprises_act_rule | WSMA Joins Amicus Brief in Support of Lawsuit Challenging No Surprises Act Rule | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/January_14/wsma_joins_amicus_brief_in_support_of_lawsuit_challenging_no_surprises_act_rule | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/january/bill-oxford-oxghu60nwxu-unsplash-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="gavel" /></div>
<h5>January 14, 2022</h5>
<h2>WSMA Joins Amicus Brief in Support of Lawsuit Challenging No Surprises Act Rule</h2>
<p>The WSMA, sharing concerns over a critical—and unfavorable to physicians—federal interpretation of the independent dispute resolution process, has signed onto an amicus brief in support of a lawsuit filed by the American Medical Association and the American Hospital Association over the federal No Surprises Act final rule.</p>
<p>The AMA and AHA filed a <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/system/files/ama-v-hhs-as-filed-complaint.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">complaint</a> and <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/system/files/ama-v-hhs-as-filed-stay-motion-and-brief.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">motion to stay</a> against the federal No Surprises Act on Dec. 9. As a reminder, federal agencies have been working on rulemakings to implement the federal No Surprises Act, which went into effect on Jan. 1, 2022. The <a href="https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/what-you-need-know-about-biden-harris-administrations-actions-prevent-surprise-billing-september">latest set of rules</a> released by federal agencies dramatically favored insurance carriers, directing independent dispute resolution entities to assume the qualified payment amount as a reasonable out-of-network rate, potentially skewing the impact of the law on physicians and shifting even more leverage and profits to insurers. The WSMA shares concerns over this interpretation of the independent dispute resolution provision and <a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/aaos-files-amicus-brief-in-support-of-lawsuit-challenging-no-surprises-act-rule-301458735.html">has signed onto an amicus brief</a> in support of the <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/press-center/press-releases/ama-and-aha-file-lawsuit-over-no-surprises-act-final-rule">lawsuit from the AMA/AHA</a>.</p>
<h3>Implementation of the No Surprises Act</h3>
<p><a href="https://meetingregistration.ama-assn.org/mtgregcvent/register/search?ECODE=2deba16e-2fe2-43d0-8797-aba7d0b03527">Register</a> to join the AMA for a webinar on Thursday, Jan. 20, at 10 a.m. PT, <a href="https://meetingregistration.ama-assn.org/mtgregcvent/register/search?ECODE=2deba16e-2fe2-43d0-8797-aba7d0b03527">Implementing the No Surprises Act</a>. The No Surprises Act, which aims to protect patients from the financial impact of surprise medical billing, became law on Jan. 1. Attend this webinar to learn what physicians need to do immediately to comply with the new law. AMA experts will also address enforcement challenges and the interaction between state and federal surprise billing requirements.</p>
<p>The AMA has also released a <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/system/files/ama-nsa-toolkit.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">No Surprises Act Toolkit</a>, which serves as guidance for physicians on implementation of the No Surprises Act, including many of the provisions that are now in effect.</p>
</div> | 1/11/2022 3:12:49 PM | 1/14/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| 2022_legislative_session_update_week_1 | 2022 Legislative Session Update: Week 1 | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2022/2022_legislative_session_update_week_1 | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://vimeo.com/manage/videos/664371043"><img src="/images/Newsletters/latest-news/2022/january/2022-legislative-update-wk-1-645x425px.png" alt="WSMA Legislative Update logo - Week of January 10, 2022" /></a>
</div>
<h5>January 10, 2022</h5>
<h2>2022 Legislative Session Update: Week 1</h2>
<p>As the 2022 legislative session begins, WSMA Director of Government Affairs Sean Graham gives an overview of what to expect during this mostly virtual 60-day session and likely areas of focus for the Legislature. <a href="https://vimeo.com/manage/videos/664371043">Watch the video</a>.&nbsp;</p>
</div> | 1/11/2022 10:24:00 AM | 1/10/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| ama_files_suit_against_regulators_over_implementation_of_no_surprises_act | AMA Files Suit Against Regulators Over Implementation of No Surprises Act | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/December_22/ama_files_suit_against_regulators_over_implementation_of_no_surprises_act | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/December/gavel-steth-book-645x425.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Gavel, stethoscope, and book" /></div>
<h5>December 22, 2021</h5>
<h2>AMA Files Suit Against Regulators Over Implementation of No Surprises Act</h2>
<p>Earlier this month, the American Medical Association and the American Hospital Association, along with two individual hospital and two individual physician plaintiffs, filed a lawsuit against federal regulators over implementation of a narrow but critical provision of a September interim final rule implementing the No Surprises Act.</p>
<p>When Congress enacted patient protections from surprise medical bills under the No Surprises Act, a reform strongly supported by the AMA, it also established a process for health plans and health care providers to settle payment disputes through an independent dispute resolution process. The IDR process created by Congress requires arbiters to consider factors relevant to determining a fair payment, including the median in-network rate, the acuity of the patient and complexity of the case, the market dominance of both parties, contracting history, and the teaching status of the hospital. However, in the September interim final rule, federal regulators directed arbiters, during the IDR process, to presume that the median in-network rate is the appropriate out-of-network rate and significantly limited when and how the other factors come into play.</p>
<p>The lawsuit argues that the regulations are a clear deviation from the statute and all but ensure that physicians and other providers will routinely be undercompensated by commercial insurers. More importantly, the rule will result in narrower networks and patients having fewer choices for access to in-network care. The lawsuit does not attempt to delay or undercut any of the patient protections from surprise medical bills in the No Surprises Act.</p>
<p>While the publication of an interim final rule relieves federal regulators from the obligation of reviewing and responding to public comments, a public comment period was available through Dec. 6. The AMA submitted a detailed set of comments to the departments addressing the IDR process, including the imbalance created by anchoring the arbiter's decision to the median in-network rate, and urged the departments to revise those provisions in a final rule. The AMA's comments also expressed concern with the implementation of several administrative requirements, including provisions requiring a scheduling provider to collect from other providers and deliver to self-pay or uninsured patients a good faith estimates about the cost of care. The AMA submitted <a href="https://searchlf.ama-assn.org/letter/documentDownload?uri=%2Funstructured%2Fbinary%2Fletter%2FLETTERS%2F2021-12-6-Letter-to-Yellen-Walsh-Becerra-re-IFR-Comments-v3.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">comments</a> on the September interim final rule. Learn more about <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/patient-support-advocacy/implementation-no-surprises-act">other letters and summaries of the No Surprises Act rules</a>.</p>
<p>The WSMA plans to sign onto an amicus brief in support of the lawsuit.</p>
<p><em>This update courtesy of the American Medical Association.</em></p>
</div> | 12/21/2021 4:46:06 PM | 12/21/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| physician_advocacy_helps_avert_medicare_cuts | Physician Advocacy Helps Avert Medicare Cuts | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/December_22/physician_advocacy_helps_avert_medicare_cuts | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/December/medicare-blocks-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Series of wooden blocks spelling Medicare" /></div>
<h5>December 22, 2021</h5>
<h2>Physician Advocacy Helps Avert Medicare Cuts</h2>
<p>Responding to advocacy from the WSMA and the physician community, Congress recently took swift action to pass legislation that will prevent Medicare reimbursement cuts that were slated to take effect on Jan. 1, 2022. The full text of the legislation can be found <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/610">here</a> and a summary is below.</p>
<ul>
<li>A delay in resuming the 2% Medicare sequester for three months (Jan. 1- March 31, 2022), followed by a reduction to 1% for three months (April 1-June 30, 2022).</li>
<li>A one-year increase in the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule of 3% (0.75% less than the conversion factor boost provided for 2021).</li>
<li>A one-year delay in the cuts to the clinical lab fee schedule.</li>
<li>A one-year delay in the Medicare radiation oncology demonstration.</li>
</ul>
<p>Additionally, the bill will erase the 4% Medicare PAY-GO cut and prevent any additional PAY-GO cuts through 2022. President Joe Biden is expected to sign the bill into law soon.</p>
<p>The WSMA is grateful for Congress taking action to avoid these cuts, particularly as we know that physician organizations in our state continue to recover from the economic impact of the pandemic. While our most recent member survey showed that patient volumes are improving, we also know that 69% of practices report having eight weeks or less of "cash on hand" when industry standard would be 18 weeks.</p>
<p>We will continue to advocate for appropriate Medicare payment and broader measures to ensure physician organizations remain viable.</p>
</div> | 12/21/2021 4:57:19 PM | 12/21/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| provider_relief_fund_reporting_period_2_begins_in_january | Provider Relief Fund Reporting Period 2 Begins in January | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/December_22/provider_relief_fund_reporting_period_2_begins_in_january | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/December/physician-money-illustration-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="Illustration of physician and dollar sign arrow" /></div>
<h5>December 22, 2021</h5>
<h2>Provider Relief Fund Reporting Period 2 Begins in January</h2>
<p>The federal Health Resources and Services Administration's Provider Relief Fund reporting portal will open for Reporting Period 2 on Jan. 1, 2022.</p>
<h3>Deadline to use Period 2 funds </h3>
<p>Physicians and other health care professionals have until Dec. 31 to use federal relief payments received between July 1 and Dec. 31, 2020. Funds can be used by any physicians or provider of health care services, and support in a medical setting, at home, or in the community towards health care-related expenses attributable to coronavirus that another source has not reimbursed and is not obligated to reimburse. These may include general and administrative or health care-related operating expenses. Reference the <a href="https://www.hrsa.gov/provider-relief/faq/reporting?field_faq_category_tid=775&amp;combine=">reporting FAQs</a> and fact sheets such as <a href="https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/provider-relief/allowable-expenses-one-pager.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">examples of allowable expenses</a>and <a href="https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/provider-relief/prf-fact-sheet-recruit-retain-personnel.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">personnel recruitment and retention fact sheet</a> for additional details and guidance.</p>
<h3>Attestation</h3>
<p>You may have recently received a payment as part of the American Rescue Plan rural distribution. Within 90 days of receiving a payment, recipients must sign an attestation confirming receipt of the funds and agreeing to the terms and conditions of payment by re-entering the <a href="https://cares.linkhealth.com/#/">Provider Relief Fund application and attestation portal</a>. Should a recipient choose to reject the funds, they must also complete the attestation to indicate this and return the funds within 15 calendar days.</p>
<h3>Upcoming webcasts</h3>
<p>HRSA will host two recorded webcasts to provide technical assistance on reporting requirements for fund recipients and interested stakeholders.</p>
<ul>
<li>Jan. 12 at noon PT (<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTEyMjAuNTA2MDQxOTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3dlYmV4LndlYmNhc3RzLmNvbS9zdGFydGhlcmUuanNwP2VpPTE1MTk1NTgmdHBfa2V5PThlYzg2ZDRhMzYifQ.8QrDfHIXXgmW_dtgq3UtjWDrKbwkYe4WifaGKKWaSA4/s/1843863727/br/123438666945-l">register here</a>) for those new to the reporting process.</li>
<li>Jan. 13 at noon PT (<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTEyMjAuNTA2MDQxOTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3dlYmV4LndlYmNhc3RzLmNvbS9zdGFydGhlcmUuanNwP2VpPTE1MTk1NjImdHBfa2V5PTFjMGFhOGU2NmEifQ.sDHMczwEuSpE7En1-XGMuQW0s03uzpeMOSl2Za56rUY/s/1843863727/br/123438666945-l">register here</a>) for those who reported during Reporting Period 1.</li>
</ul>
<p>For individual support, call the support line at 866.569.3522, Monday thru Friday.</p>
</div> | 12/21/2021 11:14:51 AM | 12/21/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| washington_state_pauses_new_long_term_care_program | Washington State Pauses New Long-Term Care Program | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/December_22/washington_state_pauses_new_long_term_care_program | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/December/dominik-lange-vuoiqw4oeli-unsplash-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" /></div>
<h5>December 22, 2021</h5>
<h2>Washington State Pauses New Long-Term Care Program</h2>
<p>Gov. Jay Inslee joined with legislative leaders this week to announce a delay in the Washington Cares Fund premium assessment, slated to begin in January, to allow the Legislature to make adjustments to the new program during the 2022 state legislative session.</p>
<p>The governor issued the following statement:</p>
<p>"I have been in ongoing discussions with legislators about the long-term care bill, which is set to begin collecting funds in January. This bill will help provide much-needed care and coverage for Washingtonians as they age. However, legislators have identified some areas that need adjustments and I agree. We need to give legislators the opportunity to make refinements to the bill. Therefore, I am taking measures within my authority and ordering the state Employment Security Department not to collect the premiums from this program from employers before they come due in April. My actions mean that the state will not collect those funds until the Legislature sorts through these issues. While legislation is under consideration to pause the withholding of LTC fees, employers will not be subject to penalties and interest for not withholding fees from employees' wages during this transition."</p>
<p>Visit the <a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/news-media/inslee-billig-jinkins-statement-delaying-wa-cares-fund-premium-assessment">governor's webpage</a> for additional statements from legislative leaders.</p>
</div> | 12/21/2021 4:56:41 PM | 12/21/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| physician_advocacy_helps_avert_medicare_cuts | Physician Advocacy Helps Avert Medicare Cuts | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2021/physician_advocacy_helps_avert_medicare_cuts | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/latest-news/2021/December/medicare-barcode-645px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Medicare barcode" /></div>
<h5>December 14, 2021</h5>
<h2>Physician Advocacy Helps Avert Medicare Cuts</h2>
<p>
Responding to advocacy from the WSMA and the physician community, Congress took swift action this week to pass legislation that will prevent Medicare reimbursement cuts that were slated to take effect on Jan. 1, 2022. The full text of the legislation can be found <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/610">here</a> and a summary is below.
</p>
<ul>
<li>A delay in resuming the 2% Medicare sequester for three months (Jan. 1- March 31, 2022), followed by a reduction to 1% for three months (April 1-June 30, 2022).</li>
<li>A one-year increase in the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule of 3% (0.75% less than the conversion factor boost provided for 2021).</li>
<li>A one-year delay in the cuts to the clinical lab fee schedule.</li>
<li>A one year delay in the Medicare radiation oncology demonstration.</li>
</ul>
<p>
Additionally, the bill will erase the 4% Medicare PAY-GO cut and prevent any additional PAY-GO cuts through 2022. President Joe Biden is expected to sign the bill into law soon.
</p>
<p>
The WSMA is grateful for Congress taking action to avoid these cuts, particularly as we know that physician organizations in our state continue to recover from the economic impact of the pandemic. While our most recent member survey showed that patient volumes are improving, we also know that 69% of practices report having eight weeks or less of "cash on hand" when industry standard would be 18 weeks.
</p>
<p>
We will continue to advocate for appropriate Medicare payment and broader measures to ensure physician organizations remain viable.
</p>
</div> | 12/14/2021 1:09:19 PM | 12/14/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| hardship_waivers_for_epcs_pmp_ehr_integration_mandates | Hardship Waivers for EPCS, PMP-EHR Integration Mandates | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/December_10/hardship_waivers_for_epcs_pmp_ehr_integration_mandates | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/November/rx-bottle-doctor-laptop-645x425.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Physician holding a prescription bottle" /></div>
<h5>December 10, 2021</h5>
<h2>Hardship Waivers for EPCS, PMP-EHR Integration Mandates</h2>
<p>In 2019, the Washington State Legislature approved and Gov. Jay Inslee signed <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5380&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2019">Senate Bill 5380</a>, a measure aimed at curbing the opioid epidemic. Among the provisions outlined in the legislation are two IT mandates: a requirement that all prescriptions for controlled substances be transmitted electronically, and a requirement that practices with 10 or more prescribers integrate their electronic health records with the state prescription monitoring program. Both mandates take effect Jan. 1, 2022. WSMA successfully secured a hardship exemption for practices that are not able to comply with one or both of the mandates due to certain circumstances.</p>
<p>For the EPCS requirement, eligibility for an exemption includes economic hardship, technological limitations, and other exceptional circumstances. The Washington State Department of Health offers <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/ForPublicHealthandHealthcareProviders/HealthcareProfessionsandFacilities/OpioidPrescribing/WaiverAttestationForms#item112472">detailed information on eligibility</a>. Eligible practices can attest to their hardship using the <a href="https://fortress.wa.gov/doh/opinio/s?s=PrescriberWaiver">Electronic Prescribing Waiver Attestation Form</a>. </p>
<p>For the PMP-EHR integration mandate, eligibility for an exemption includes economic hardship, technological limitations outside the control of the practice, other exception circumstances, and unforeseen circumstances (this includes widespread health care emergencies). <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/ForPublicHealthandHealthcareProviders/HealthcareProfessionsandFacilities/OpioidPrescribing/WaiverAttestationForms#item112472">More information on eligibility is available here</a>. Please keep in mind that the PMP-EHR integration mandate is only applicable to practices with 10 or more prescribers. Eligible practices can attest to their hardship using the <a href="https://fortress.wa.gov/doh/opinio/s?s=PMPEHRWaiver">EHR/PMP Integration Waiver Attestation Form</a>.</p>
<p>Attestations for both the EPCS and PMP-EHR integration mandates last for one year and may be renewed two times for a total of three waivers, except in the case of other exceptional circumstance waivers. Other exceptional circumstance waivers may be submitted an unlimited number of times. Beginning in December, each year you may submit a waiver for the following year. Waivers submitted part way through the year are valid for that calendar year and will not be prorated.</p>
<p>If you have questions about your eligibility for these hardship exemptions or the attestation waivers, email <a href="mailto:policy@wsma.org">policy@wsma.org</a>.</p>
</div> | 12/6/2021 10:06:38 AM | 12/10/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| impacts_of_the_pandemic_on_medicare_physician_spending | Impacts of the Pandemic on Medicare Physician Spending | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/December_10/impacts_of_the_pandemic_on_medicare_physician_spending | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/November/medicare-barcode-645px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Medicare barcode" /></div>
<h5>December 10, 2021</h5>
<h2>Impacts of the Pandemic on Medicare Physician Spending</h2>
<p>A new report from the American Medical Association documents unprecedented changes in Medicare spending as people decided to delay or forgo health care services during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall spending in 2020 was down $13.9 billion (14%) and was still well below the pre-pandemic level at year-end. Reductions in cumulative spending for 2020 varied among specialties, ranging from a 4% decline for nephrologists to a 28% decline for physical therapists. Reductions in cumulative spending ranged from a 9% decline for Idaho, Oklahoma, and South Carolina to a 22% decline for Minnesota, with Washington state seeing a 16% decline. More details from the report including breakouts by state and by specialty on <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/practice-management/sustainability/covid-19-financial-impact-physician-practices?utm_source=SFMC&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_term=1232021&amp;utm_content=21-9997+Advocacy+Update+Newsletter+120321&amp;utm_campaign=Advocacy_Email_Newsletter_AdvocacyUpdate&amp;utm_uid=8809453&amp;utm_effort=">the AMA website</a>.</p>
</div> | 12/9/2021 12:41:18 PM | 12/10/2021 12:00:00 AM |