| cms_seeks_stakeholder_input_on_proposed_epcs_rule | CMS Seeks Stakeholder Input on Proposed EPCS Rule | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200924/cms_seeks_stakeholder_input_on_proposed_epcs_rule | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2020/September/Rx_bottle_doctor_laptop_645x425.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Rx bottle in physician hand" />
</div>
<h5>September 24, 2020</h5>
<h2>CMS Seeks Stakeholder Input on Proposed EPCS Rule </h2>
<p>
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has issued a request for information on a proposed rule for electronic prescribing of controlled substances.
</p>
<p>
The rule generally requires that prescriptions for controlled substances covered under a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan or Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plan be transmitted by a health care practitioner electronically in accordance with an electronic prescription drug program beginning Jan. 1, 2021. The RFI seeks input from stakeholders about whether CMS should include exceptions to the EPCS and under what circumstances, and whether CMS should impose penalties for noncompliance with this mandate in its rulemaking, and what those penalties should be.
</p>
<p>
The WSMA submitted comments in response to the RFI, requesting exceptions and considerations that will help reduce the administrative and financial burden on participating prescribers.
</p>
<p>
Review the proposed rule and submit a comment on the <a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2020/08/04/2020-16897/medicare-program-electronic-prescribing-of-controlled-substances-request-for-information-rfi">Federal Register website</a> . The deadline is Oct. 5.
</p>
<p>
Earlier this year, the WSMA was successful in securing a delay of the state-level EPCS mandate from Jan. 1, 2021 to Oct. 1, 2021 and is currently engaged in a hardship waiver rulemaking at the Department of Health.
</p>
</div> | 9/23/2020 3:51:41 PM | 9/24/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| election_2020_updates_and_a_special_invitation | Election 2020: Updates and a Special Invitation | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200924/election_2020_updates_and_a_special_invitation | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2020/September/gov-inslee-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Gov. Jay Inslee" />
</div>
<h5>September 24, 2020</h5>
<h2>Election 2020: Updates and a Special Invitation</h2>
<p>
Read on for legislative and campaign updates impacting the physician community and an invitation to join Gov. Jay Inslee and other special guests at the WAMPAC Luncheon on Oct. 6.
</p>
<h3>Legislative and campaign updates</h3>
<p>
WSMA's government affairs and policy team will host an Advocacy Council webinar today at noon to provide updates on the legislative and campaign landscape. Joining our government affairs staff will be Senate Democratic Leader Andy Billig and House Republican Leader JT Wilcox, who will provide their insights on all things 2020. It's not too late to <a href="https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_-NWTv-qpQAu6Sn8xU8dLsA">register to attend</a>. The session will be archived and viewable on demand from the WSMA website soon after.
</p>
<h3>A few campaigns we're watching</h3>
<p>
WSMA CEO Jennifer Hanscom's latest Weekly Rounds provides a high-level look at a handful of key races in the general election. Two of note for WSMA members include:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Rep. Kim Schrier, the Issaquah pediatrician who's running for re-election for the first time. Support Rep. Schrier by visiting <a href="https://www.drkimschrier.com/">her campaign website</a>.</li>
<li>House Rep. Beth Doglio faces challenger Marilyn Strickland, former Tacoma mayor, to retain the 10th Congressional District seat. Rep. Doglio is married to WSMA member Dr. Eddy Cates.</li>
</ul>
<p>
Read <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2020/weekly_rounds_september_18_2020_your_voice_your_vote_it_all_matters">her newsletter</a> for more.
</p>
<h3>WAMPAC Legislator Report Card</h3>
<p>
Want to know how your state legislators supported the house of medicine before you decide whether to support them? WAMPAC can help. Each year, WAMPAC publishes a report card showing how legislators voted on WSMA's priority bills. Visit our <a href="[@]WSMA/Advocacy/WAMPAC/WSMA/Advocacy/WAMPAC/WAMPAC.aspx?hkey=269c3c03-cf72-4568-be5b-7893557300a7">WAMPAC page</a> to download the report card before filling out your ballot.
</p>
<h3>You're invited to the 2020 WAMPAC Reception featuring Gov. Jay Inslee</h3>
<p>
This year's WAMPAC Reception will be held via Zoom, beginning at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 6. We're pleased to be joined by <a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/">Gov. Jay Inslee</a>, who will provide an update on the state's pandemic response and work in the health policy arena before taking questions from attendees.
</p>
<p>
We'll also be awarding the WSMA Legislator of the Year award to retiring <a href="https://randibecker.src.wastateleg.org/">Sen. Randi Becker</a> (R-Olympia) for her leadership on telemedicine issues and her close work with the physician community during her legislative tenure. And we'll be joined by state House candidate Tracy Rushing, MD (D-White Salmon) to get her perspective on running for office as a physician during the pandemic.
</p>
<p>
Register to attend the 2020 WAMPAC Reception on the <a href="[@]WSMA/Events/WAMPAC_Reception_Featuring_Gov_Inslee/WSMA/Events/WAMPAC_Reception/wampac_reception.aspx">WSMA website</a>. WAMPAC Diamond Club members receive free admission to the reception (not a member? See our next item).
</p>
<h3>Special, limited-time $100 membership rate offer for WAMPAC Diamond Club</h3>
<p>
This special membership rate (typically costs $250) will be available for the duration of the election cycle. As a bonus, membership includes free admission to the WAMPAC Reception, a virtual event on Oct. 6 at 6:30 p.m. featuring Gov. Jay Inslee, and a WSMA swag bag (face mask and hand sanitizer) - a $50 value. You'll also receive all the typical Diamond Club perks like exclusive access to political information and events and opportunities to connect with elected officials and candidates. (All new club members as well as current members will receive the special election cycle bonuses.)
</p>
<p>
Since its inception in 2015, the Diamond Club has received more than 200 contributions totaling $90,000 - investments that help ensure WSMA's voice remains influential and effective. If you care about politics and policy, please consider joining your physician colleagues in the Diamond Club.
</p>
<p>
If you have questions about your membership or want to know more about supporting WAMPAC, contact Sean Graham, WSMA's director of government affairs, at 360.259.4184 or <a href="mailto:sean@wsma.org">sean@wsma.org</a>.
</p>
</div> | 9/24/2020 3:04:21 PM | 9/24/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| help_wsma_advocacy_efforts_with_this_brief_survey | Help WSMA Advocacy Efforts with This Brief Survey | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200924/help_wsma_advocacy_efforts_with_this_brief_survey | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2020/September/doc_laptop_645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="doctor working at laptop" />
</div>
<h5>September 24, 2020</h5>
<h2>Help WSMA Advocacy Efforts with This Brief Survey</h2>
<p>
The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many traditional opportunities for WSMA's government affairs staff to connect with members to be cancelled or transitioned into virtual formats. As it is clear that we will have to continue this way for the foreseeable future in the interest of public safety, we want to solicit your feedback on what issues are most pressing to you and your practice, and how we can communicate with you most effectively during this time. Please take a few minutes to <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KKV5ZCN">complete this survey</a>. Thank you for your time and all you're doing for Washington's patients. Email Alex Wehinger at <a href="mailto:alex@wsma.org">alex@wsma.org</a> with any questions.
</p>
</div> | 9/23/2020 3:51:31 PM | 9/24/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_submits_final_comments_on_doh_draft_report_denying_psychologist_prescriptive_authority | WSMA Submits Final Comments on DOH Draft Report Denying Psychologist Prescriptive Authority | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200924/wsma_submits_final_comments_on_doh_draft_report_denying_psychologist_prescriptive_authority | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2020/September/Prescription-pad-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="prescription pad and pill bottle" />
</div>
<h5>September 24, 2020</h5>
<h2>WSMA Submits Final Comments on DOH Draft Report Denying Psychologist Prescriptive Authority</h2>
<p>
Earlier this month, the Washington State Department of Health released its <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/2000/PsyScopeSunrise-09-02-2020.pdf" target="_blank">draft report</a> regarding a proposal to add prescriptive authority (including all controlled substances) to psychologists' scope of practice. The DOH report found that the scope expansion proposal, submitted by the Washington State Psychological Association, did not meet its sunrise review criteria and therefore could not be supported by the agency. DOH concerns outlined in the report included educational requirements, lack of sufficient oversight, and problems with how prescriptive authority is defined.
</p>
<p>
The WSMA has submitted <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2020/WSMA psychololgy sunrise II_09172020.pdf]">final comments</a> supporting the DOH position and reaffirming our concerns with the scope proposal. Review our comment letter for details on our position. DOH will review all comments received on its draft report and determine if any changes need to be made. Once finalized, the DOH will submit its report to the Legislature. It will be useful if DOH's final recommendation aligns with our position, as sunrise reviews often serve as the basis for future legislation.
</p>
<p>
We would like to thank everyone who submitted a comment on the initial proposal, as well as the updated draft. According to the draft report, DOH received 308 comments in opposition to the proposal to grant psychologists prescriptive authority. Two-thirds of those comments were from WSMA members reaffirming our concerns. Your expertise and experience provided DOH with invaluable feedback that is reflected in the draft report.
</p>
</div> | 9/23/2020 3:51:38 PM | 9/24/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| doh_releases_draft_report_denying_psychologist_prescriptive_authority | DOH Releases Draft Report Denying Psychologist Prescriptive Authority | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200910/doh_releases_draft_report_denying_psychologist_prescriptive_authority | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2020/August/Prescription-pad-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Prescription pad" />
</div>
<h5>September 10, 2020</h5>
<h2>DOH Releases Draft Report Denying Psychologist Prescriptive Authority </h2>
<p>
The Department of Health has released its <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/2000/PsyScopeSunrise-09-02-2020.pdf" target="_blank">draft report</a> regarding the proposal to add prescriptive authority to psychologists' scope of practice, which finds that the proposal submitted by the Washington State Psychological Association does not meet the sunrise review criteria and is therefore not supported by DOH.
</p>
<p>
DOH cites the following as the rationale for its recommendation:
</p>
<ul>
<li>The applicants have not provided sufficient evidence the proposed education is sufficient to ensure safe prescribing by psychologists nor that the proposal would increase access to behavioral health care as they assert.</li>
<li>The definition of prescriptive of authority is problematic because it does not include sufficient safeguards like physician or other prescriber collaboration and does not include non-controlled legend drugs that are used to treat mental health conditions.</li>
<li>The proposal does not address the need for new expertise on the psychology board to provide oversight of prescribing providers nor investigate complaints regarding prescribing.</li>
</ul>
<p>
DOH will review all comments received on the draft report and determine if any changes need to be made to the report. Once the report is finalized, it will be submitted to the Legislature. It will be useful if DOH's final recommendation aligns with the WSMA's position, as sunrise reviews often serve as the basis for future legislation. As a reminder, WSMA opposes efforts to expand non-physician practitioners' prescriptive authority and any scope of practice increases that do not stipulate commensurate education and training to what a physician receives.
</p>
<p>
WSMA is pleased with DOH's draft report and will be submitting a comment to affirm our concerns with the proposal. We will share our comment once it is drafted. Comments on the draft report are due by Sept. 17 at midnight and should be emailed to <a href="mailto:sunrise@doh.wa.gov">sunrise@doh.wa.gov</a>. We would like to thank everyone who submitted a comment on the initial proposal; your expertise and experience provided DOH with important considerations. Should you have any questions, concerns, or feedback or if WSMA can be helpful to your organization on this issue, please reach out to Alex Wehinger at <a href="mailto:alex@wsma.org">alex@wsma.org</a>.
</p>
</div> | 9/8/2020 12:36:11 PM | 9/10/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| medical_commission_begins_rulemaking_to_define_physicians_role_under_a_cdta | Medical Commission Begins Rulemaking to Define Physician's Role Under a CDTA | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200910/medical_commission_begins_rulemaking_to_define_physicians_role_under_a_cdta | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2020/August/Generic_Rx_645px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="pill and bottles" />
</div>
<h5>September 10, 2020</h5>
<h2>Medical Commission Begins Rulemaking to Define Physician's Role Under a CDTA </h2>
<p>
The Washington Medical Commission has released a <a href="http://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/law/wsr/2020/16/20-16-008.htm">CR-101</a>, the first step in the rulemaking process, to create new rules to regulate the use of collaborative drug therapy agreements. Prompted by recent rules adopted by the Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission, the WMC is pursuing this rulemaking to define the roles and responsibilities of physicians and physician assistants who enter into a CDTA, among other issues. WSMA's government affairs and policy team will be engaged on this rulemaking on behalf of the physician community. We will keep you updated on any opportunities for public comment. To learn more about how the state's regulatory bodies conduct rulemaking, visit the <a href="[@]WSMA/Advocacy/Legislative___Regulatory/Understanding_the_Regulatory_Process/WSMA/Advocacy/Legislative_Regulatory/Understanding_the_Regulatory_Process/Understanding_The_Regulatory_Process.aspx?hkey=0695da42-202f-458b-8127-cbfc07207c56">Understanding the Regulatory Process webpage</a>.
</p>
</div> | 9/8/2020 12:37:53 PM | 9/10/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| telemedicine_other_priority_proclamations_extended_to_oct_1 | Telemedicine, Other Priority Proclamations Extended to Oct. 1 | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200910/telemedicine_other_priority_proclamations_extended_to_oct_1 | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2020/August/Telemedicine-Doc-On-Tablet-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="physician on tablet screen" />
</div>
<h5>September 10, 2020</h5>
<h2>Telemedicine, Other Priority Proclamations Extended to Oct. 1</h2>
<p>
Democrat and Republican leaders in the state House and Senate have again approved extending telemedicine payment parity <a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-29 Coronovirus OIC %28tmp%29.pdf?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=govdelivery">proclamation 20-29</a>, now through Oct. 1.
</p>
<p>
The proclamation implements <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5385&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2019">Senate Bill 5385</a>, requiring payment parity for state-regulated plans, ahead of the bill's Jan. 1, 2021 effective date. The WSMA continues to advocate for the policy to be extended through the end of the year. Help our advocacy on your behalf by writing to your state legislators on this issue. <a href="https://takeaction.wsma.org/urge-your-state-lawmakers-to-support-telemedicine-payment-parity-policies/">Click here to send a message</a>. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
Other WSMA priority proclamations extended through Oct. 1 include the following:
</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-32 - COVID-19 DOH Healthcare Worker Licensing %28tmp%29.pdf" target="_blank">Proclamation 20-32</a> concerning health care worker licensing requirements.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-27 - COVID-19 Notary %28tmp%29.pdf" target="_blank">Proclamation 20-27</a> concerning electronic notary.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-36 - COVID-19 - DOH Health Care Facilities-Hand Sanitizer %28tmp%29.pdf" target="_blank">Proclamation 20-36</a> concerning the Certificate of Need program.</li>
</ul>
<p>
During the pandemic, the Office of the Insurance Commissioner has issued several emergency orders. The following were extended:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Expires Sept. 15: <a href="https://www.insurance.wa.gov/sites/default/files/documents/emergency-order-20-02_3.pdf" target="_blank">Emergency order 20-02</a>, regarding health insurers expanding telehealth and other coverages.</li>
<li>Expires Sept. 27: <a href="https://www.insurance.wa.gov/sites/default/files/documents/emergency-order-number-20-01-extension-2.pdf?utm_content=&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_name=&amp;utm_source=govdelivery&amp;utm_term=">Emergency order 20-01</a>, which requires insurers to waive deductibles and copays for any consumer requiring COVID-19 testing and suspends prior authorization requirements for the testing and treatment of COVID-19.</li>
</ul>
</div> | 9/10/2020 3:35:48 PM | 9/10/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_delegates_and_members_training_available_prior_to_annual_meeting | WSMA Delegates and Members: Training Available Prior to Annual Meeting | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200910/wsma_delegates_and_members_training_available_prior_to_annual_meeting | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2020/August/2020-Annual-Meeting-Graphic.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="2020 WSMA Annual Meeting graphic" />
</div>
<h5>September 10, 2020</h5>
<h2>WSMA Delegates and Members: Training Available Prior to Annual Meeting </h2>
<p>
For this year's House of Delegates meeting, we will be using a combination of Zoom for audio and video connectivity and PC-Biz, a web platform designed to allow synchronous interactivity among meeting participants using parliamentary rules. Two training sessions will be offered for members of the House of Delegates (other meeting attendees are encouraged to attend as well). More details will be coming soon, but in the meantime, please save one of these dates: Thursday, Sept. 17 from 7-8 a.m. or Friday, Sept. 18 from noon-1 p.m. If you are not able to attend either training session, an on-demand recording of the training will be available after Sept. 18.
</p>
<p>
The 2020 WSMA Annual Meeting will take place online Sept. 26-27. Advance registration is required so if you haven't yet registered for the meeting, <a href="[@]WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/Annual_Meeting.aspx?hkey=fea49254-3815-4dc9-8710-53ff2e3a100f&amp;_zs=A3aFd1&amp;_zl=JdO47">do so today—it's free for members</a>.
</p>
</div> | 9/8/2020 12:37:59 PM | 9/10/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| your_input_can_help_guide_good_policy | Your Input Can Help Guide Good Policy | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200910/your_input_can_help_guide_good_policy | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2020/August/2020-Annual-Meeting-Graphic.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Annual Meeting graphic" />
</div>
<h5>September 10, 2020</h5>
<h2>Your Input Can Help Guide Good Policy</h2>
<p>
There are now 38 resolutions available in our password-protected virtual reference committees. WSMA's virtual reference committees give members an opportunity to discuss resolutions and other business that will be considered for action by the House of Delegates during its Annual Meeting on Sept. 26-27. WSMA members are encouraged to take a moment to review these proposals and provide input, which is crucial to shaping good policy. The virtual reference committees will be closed for comment at 5 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 21. <a href="http://www.wsma.org/WSMA/Membership/Discussion_Forums/Virtual_Reference_Committees/WSMA/Membership/Discussion_Forums/virtual_reference_committees.aspx?hkey=d674a5ae-4fb5-48d6-b969-16aab9b63647">Visit the virtual reference committees to get started</a>.
</p>
<p>
WSMA members may also provide testimony during the live reference committee sessions scheduled as part of the virtual 2020 Annual Meeting in September. <a href="[@]WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/Annual_Meeting.aspx?hkey=fea49254-3815-4dc9-8710-53ff2e3a100f">Learn more about the meeting, which is free for members, and register today</a>.
</p>
</div> | 9/8/2020 12:37:56 PM | 9/10/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| telemedicine_other_priority_proclamations_extended_to_oct_1 | Telemedicine, Other Priority Proclamations Extended to Oct. 1 | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2020/August/telemedicine_other_priority_proclamations_extended_to_oct_1 | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Logos/COVID/COVID-19-Response-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="COVID-19 Response logo" />
</div>
<h5>September 2, 2020</h5>
<h2>Telemedicine, Other Priority Proclamations Extended to Oct. 1</h2>
<p>
Democrat and Republican leaders in the state House and Senate have again approved extending telemedicine payment parity <a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-29%20Coronovirus%20OIC%20%28tmp%29.pdf?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=govdelivery">proclamation 20-29</a> now through Oct. 1. The proclamation implements <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5385&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2019">Senate Bill 5385</a>, requiring payment parity for state-regulated plans, ahead of the bill's Jan. 1, 2021 effective date. While we are glad to see the proclamation extended again, the WSMA continues to advocate for the policy to be extended through the end of the year when SB 5385 takes effect. Please consider writing your local legislators and sharing how critical telemedicine is to providing care during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as requesting that the proclamation be extended through Dec. 31, 2020. If you'd like to get involved, <a href="[@]WSMA/Advocacy/Take_Action/WSMA/Advocacy/Take_Action/Take_Action.aspx?hkey=3598752c-64f4-4866-a95a-7610f4e1dd25">WSMA's telemedicine call to action</a> can help you identify your legislators to share your expertise and experiences from the physician perspective.
</p>
<p>
Other WSMA priority proclamations extended through Oct. 1 include:
</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-32%20-%20COVID-19%20DOH%20Healthcare%20Worker%20Licensing%20%28tmp%29.pdf" target="_blank">Proclamation 20-32</a> concerning health care worker licensing requirements.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-27%20-%20COVID-19%20Notary%20%28tmp%29.pdf" target="_blank">Proclamation 20-27</a> concerning electronic notary.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-36%20-%20COVID-19%20-%20DOH%20Health%20Care%20Facilities-Hand%20Sanitizer%20%28tmp%29.pdf" target="_blank">Proclamation 20-36</a> concerning the Certificate of Need program.</li>
</ul>
<p>
During the pandemic, the Office of the Insurance Commissioner has issued several emergency orders. The following were extended:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Expires Sept. 15: <a href="https://www.insurance.wa.gov/sites/default/files/documents/emergency-order-20-02_3.pdf" target="_blank">Emergency order 20-02</a>, regarding health insurers expanding telehealth and other coverages.</li>
<li>Expires Sept. 27: <a href="https://www.insurance.wa.gov/sites/default/files/documents/emergency-order-number-20-01-extension-2.pdf?utm_content=&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_name=&amp;utm_source=govdelivery&amp;utm_term=">Emergency order 20-01</a>, which requires insurers to waive deductibles and copays for any consumer requiring COVID-19 testing and suspends prior authorization requirements for the testing and treatment of COVID-19.</li>
</ul>
</div> | 9/2/2020 2:43:16 PM | 9/2/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| urge_congressional_action_to_halt_medicare_payment_cuts | Urge Congressional Action to Halt Medicare Payment Cuts | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2020/August/urge_congressional_action_to_halt_medicare_payment_cuts | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Logos/Megaphone-Evergreen-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="megaphone icon" />
</div>
<h5>September 2, 2020</h5>
<h2>Urge Congressional Action to Halt Medicare Payment Cuts</h2>
<p>
On Aug. 3, the Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services published the 2021 Medicare physician fee schedule proposed rule, comprising numerous payment policy proposals - some of which are deeply concerning to the house of medicine.
</p>
<p>
Most notably, CMS is restructuring and revaluing the office-based evaluation and management (E/M) codes, following broad changes made in 2019. While the proposal provides an increase in payments for primary care and other office-based services, the effect will result in drastic cuts - as high as 11% - to certain physician specialties. This is due to current law requiring any changes to the physician fee schedule to be budget neutral.
</p>
<p>
We need you to act today: <strong>Urge your congressional representative to waive the budget neutrality requirements stipulated in Section 1848(c)(2) of the Social Security Act before the final E/M code proposal is implemented on Jan. 1, 2021. </strong>This much-needed action by Congress, for inclusion in any forthcoming legislative package, will provide a critical reprieve for physicians and a broad scope of health care professionals facing substantial payment reductions in the coming months.
</p>
<p>
<a href="http://takeaction.wsma.org/urge-congressional-action-to-halt-medicare-payment-cuts/" class="TextButton">TAKE ACTION</a>
</p>
<p>
Your emails can make a difference. Please act today.
</p>
</div> | 9/2/2020 2:37:02 PM | 9/2/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| ama_president_susan_bailey_md_to_speak_at_annual_meeting | AMA President Susan Bailey, MD, to Speak at Annual Meeting | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200827/ama_president_susan_bailey_md_to_speak_at_annual_meeting | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2020/August/Annual_HODMeeting_2020_SusanBailey.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA Annual Meeting logo with Susan Bailey MD" />
</div>
<h5>August 27, 2020</h5>
<h2>AMA President Susan Bailey, MD, to Speak at Annual Meeting </h2>
<p>
Free registration is now open for the Annual Meeting of the WSMA House of Delegates, which will be held virtually on Sept. 26 and 27 via Zoom. Joining us at this year's meeting is AMA President Susan Bailey, MD, who will speak at the opening session of the meeting. Dr. Bailey will discuss the current activities of the AMA, including the health care environment from a national perspective, followed by a live Q&amp;A session.</p>
<p>The 2020 Annual Meeting will take place virtually over two days: the opening session of the House of Delegates and virtual reference committee hearings held on Saturday, Sept. 26, followed by the second meeting of the House of Delegates on Sunday, Sept. 27. <a href="[@]Shared_Content/Events/Event_Display.aspx?EventKey=ANNMTG2020">Register for the meeting online</a>. For a preliminary agenda and other meeting details, visit the <a href="[@]WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/Annual_Meeting.aspx">meeting webpage</a>.
</p>
<p>
Members planning to participate in the meeting should note that, while there are no educational sessions associated with this year's meeting, the WSMA offers many educational opportunities, both <a href="[@]WSMA/Education/Upcoming_Webinars/WSMA/education/Upcoming_Webinars/Upcoming_Webinars.aspx?hkey=b760d6bd-1833-412d-b681-babf251792a8&amp;_zs=A3aFd1&amp;_zl=PGd27">live</a> and <a href="[@]WSMA/Education/Webinars_OnDemand/WSMA/Resources/Practice_Management/OnDemand/Webinars_OnDemand.aspx?hkey=53a67f34-e7a8-4b79-9463-6f51e1418ff5&amp;_zs=A3aFd1&amp;_zl=QGd27">on demand</a>.
</p>
</div> | 8/25/2020 10:16:40 AM | 8/27/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| comments_on_proposed_updates_to_medicares_payment_policies_due_oct_5 | Comments on Proposed Updates to Medicare's Payment Policies Due Oct. 5 | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200827/comments_on_proposed_updates_to_medicares_payment_policies_due_oct_5 | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Concepts/Medicare_barcode_645px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Medicare barcode" />
</div>
<h5>August 27, 2020</h5>
<h2>Comments on Proposed Updates to Medicare's Payment Policies Due Oct. 5</h2>
<p>
Physicians, providers, and practice staff have until Oct. 5 to submit comments to the Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services on its proposed rule updating Medicare's physician fee schedule and Quality Payment Program for 2021. Most notably, CMS is moving forward with its overhaul of E/M office visit payment policies, which will require an 11% budget neutrality reduction in the conversion factor, "pitting the house of medicine against itself," as recently noted by WSMA CEO Jennifer Hanscom. The WSMA has joined the AMA and other's in organized medicine in <a href="https://www.mgma.com/getattachment/764a1f8b-32b3-4975-85b9-54fa4703a644/E-M-Sign-on-letter-to-HHS-Budget-Neutrality.pdf.aspx">urging HHS to waive budget neutrality requirements</a> for the new Medicare office visit payment policy and avoid payment cuts to non-primary care physicians. For more on WSMA's perspective on the proposed rule, including the provisions supported by your state medical association, read Jennifer's <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2020/weekly_rounds_august_7_2020_the_good_and_the_bad_of_proposed_new_cms_rule">Aug. 7 Weekly Rounds</a>. For an overview of the proposed changes, see this <a href="https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/proposed-policy-payment-and-quality-provisions-changes-medicare-physician-fee-schedule-calendar-year-4">CMS fact sheet</a>. We encourage you to review the rule and submit your comments, as well as read feedback submitted to date, at its <a href="https://beta.regulations.gov/document/CMS-2020-0088-0001">regulations.gov</a> webpage.
</p>
</div> | 8/25/2020 10:16:38 AM | 8/27/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| physicians_and_pas_using_covid_19_license_renewal_deferral_must_renew_by_mail_before_sept_30 | Physicians and PAs Using COVID-19 License Renewal Deferral Must Renew by Mail Before Sept. 30 | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200827/physicians_and_pas_using_covid_19_license_renewal_deferral_must_renew_by_mail_before_sept_30 | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2020/August/Stethoscope-on-table-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="stethoscope" />
</div>
<h5>August 27, 2020</h5>
<h2>Physicians and PAs Using COVID-19 License Renewal Deferral Must Renew by Mail Before Sept. 30</h2>
<p>
As we <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200827/physicians_and_pas_using_covid_19_license_renewal_deferral_must_renew_by_mail_before_sept_30">reported previously</a>, the Washington State Department of Health's online license renewal process will not be available, and mailed payments required, for physicians and PAs who elected to defer their license renewal due to the pandemic. Impacted practitioners should not delay in mailing their renewal fees before the Sept. 30 deadline.
</p>
<p>
Here's what we've learned since our last update:
</p>
<ul>
<li>The DOH online payment system for license renewals is not configured to handle deferred license renewal payments. While the agency has managed to provide a fix for certain health professions, there will not be a fix in place for physicians and PAs by the Sept. 30 deadline, and mailed payments required.</li>
<li>The Washington Medical Commission has clarified that if the envelope with the check is postmarked by Sept. 30, a late fee - $300 - will not apply.</li>
<li>The Medical Commission also advises impacted practitioners to act as soon as possible, given USPS issues with mail delivery.</li>
<li>The Medical Commission will be notifying impacted practitioners directly.</li>
</ul>
<p>
The Medical Commission is instructing impacted practitioners to send a check payable to the Washington State Department of Health at P.O. Box 1099, Olympia, Wash., 98507-1099.
</p>
<p>
The WSMA continues to express our concerns on the potential ramifications for our members in conversations with the Medical Commission. We have expressed our disappointment that a fix is not in the cards - and we are strongly advocating for a deadline extension and waiving of late fees. We will keep you posted as we learn more.
</p>
<p>
If you have questions, email the Medical Commission at <a href="mailto:medical.renewals@wmc.wa.gov">medical.renewals@wmc.wa.gov</a>.
</p>
</div> | 8/25/2020 10:16:27 AM | 8/27/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| resolutions_now_available_for_wsma_member_input | Resolutions Now Available for WSMA Member Input | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200827/resolutions_now_available_for_wsma_member_input | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2020/July/2020-Annual-Meeting-Graphic.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA Annual Meeting logo" />
</div>
<h5>August 27, 2020</h5>
<h2>Resolutions Now Available for WSMA Member Input</h2>
<p>
As a WSMA member, you have an opportunity to help shape the policy that guides your state medical association's advocacy. More than 30 resolutions are now available for your review in our password-protected <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Membership/Discussion_Forums/Reference_Committees_and_General_Discussion/WSMA/Membership/Discussion_Forums/Reference_Committees_and_General_Forum.aspx?hkey=d674a5ae-4fb5-48d6-b969-16aab9b63647">"virtual" reference committees</a>, and more will be added in the weeks to come in anticipation of the virtual 2020 Annual Meeting of the WSMA House of Delegates this September.
</p>
<p>
WSMA's online reference committees give WSMA members an opportunity to discuss and debate resolutions and other business that will be considered for action by the House. The discussion forums serve a key role in WSMA's policymaking process (learn more about the <a href="[@]WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/Annual_Meeting.aspx?hkey=fea49254-3815-4dc9-8710-53ff2e3a100f#about">role of the annual House of Delegates meeting in determining WSMA policy</a>).
</p>
<p>
All members are encouraged to take a moment to review and provide feedback on these resolutions via the links below. If adopted by the House, resolutions help to guide WSMA's advocacy efforts on behalf of its members, their patients, and the greater medical community in Washington. Your feedback can make a difference in helping to shape strong policy on behalf of Washington medicine. &nbsp;</p>
<p>
The resolutions are listed by title below. Click on the resolution title to read the full resolution, any comments from your colleagues, and to comment (you'll be prompted to enter your password to enter the secure forums). To track discussions on a topic, you can 'subscribe' to that topic and receive notifications when a member comments. &nbsp;</p>
<h3>Reference Committee B (professional and internal affairs)</h3>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=16beb6b4-6248-400c-b250-4c4766cf808f&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-1 - Racism as a Social Determinant of Health</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=2560de4e-267a-47dc-b738-14ca98e54bc8&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-2 - Advancing Gender Equity in Medicine</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=e4bb877a-44c9-4cd1-b5b9-53ef85162914&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-3 - Latinx Section at the WSMA</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=2a60cba3-fe41-4ac7-b320-04316020dfbc&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-4 - Protecting Emergency Reproductive Health Care Services</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=e8b81a08-8eeb-4d59-be07-c9ab77d1c36d&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-5 - Support Equal Employment of Physician Assistants</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=cc9b24fa-870e-4fc2-9a64-14b25fd86fe4&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-6 - Improving Obstetric Care in Rural Communities</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=344157f4-55b5-402a-862d-aa85eff3b144&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-7 - Corporate Practice of Medicine</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=35947856-5d5c-44a3-892f-f6ba83042a28&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-8 - Diversity and Inclusion in the Field of Medicine in Washington State</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=326622ab-4684-438d-8b1f-e8d4fb661756&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-9 - Racism is a Public Health Crisis</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=87cd0c41-e1cd-4f27-ae2c-b1726d484499&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-10 - Recognize the Society of Hospital Medicine</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=746d0cfc-b719-4f16-a4cb-7a68e00c7fe1&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-11 - A Call for Screening of Anxiety and Depression in Women Seeking Infertility Treatment</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=370a1b93-9b01-44ee-9ccf-22c8205ddaa5&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-12 - Social Determinants of Health</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=3b64818a-2909-43cf-9f36-0537060a15c4&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-13 - Reducing Racism and Discrimination in Law Enforcement</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=0135787f-5479-42f6-939e-4eda2a27e7ae&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-14 - Medication Prior Authorization- Peer-to-Peer Review</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=7b63f282-e8a0-49f6-83c6-295a87dc01b0&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-15 - WPHP Must Be ADA Compliant and Scientifically Validated</a></p>
<h3>Reference Committee C (legislative affairs and health care economics/reform)</h3>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=9a7b5da9-0a46-4133-9d75-580f69ee9fcf&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-1 Decoupling Health Care from Employment</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=02622105-9388-4ac6-a9c3-b3e45b7fd119&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-2 - Standard of Care Available to Those With Mental Illnesses</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=cf2cd328-db44-44c0-9c69-32fd908f7489&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-3 - Mentally Ill Being Treated as Criminals</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=84bcba12-9500-414b-9e80-22e9f6e3a4f0&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-4 - Opt-out From CPT-Based Payment Systems</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=e2048711-e0d6-4ff8-a5b3-8222f41945b2&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-5 - Promoting Healthy Competition Within Health Care System</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=c02cfe05-8626-45c8-8fbb-fff6ce25ea6c&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-6 - Barriers to Prescriptions Being Filled</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=57257772-ecdd-47b1-9bdc-a653fe3eb3fc&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-7 - Medicare Coverage During Health Care Emergencies</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=44257119-2a72-4aa2-b7b9-eda8cfdadf87&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-8 - Ending Limitations on Blood Donation by Men who have Sex with Men (MSM)</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=90ba3cbf-5364-4a2c-beba-a9fe5929a29e&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-9 - Expanding Use of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis to Reduce HIV infection</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=b3b69972-059d-4203-a057-31a9585f4137&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-10 - Improving Reproductive Health Care Access via Over-the-Counter Oral Contraceptive Pills</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=d0fb4f39-12e8-48e3-a395-42bfba22b8cc&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-11 - Ending Child Marriage in Washington State</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=3aeda833-d596-47eb-ba8e-0abf07c98da9&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-12 - Formation of a National Bureau for Firearm Injury Prevention</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=666ea7ae-f327-4cbc-a9d3-8c389c7191fe&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-13 - Improving Mental Health and Addiction Care Parity</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=3c7d84ea-e766-4b2a-9210-2c8226de0ae9&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-14 - Smart Guns and Office for Firearm Violence Prevention</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=09bab5f9-85aa-4b4a-8c62-62aefba9937e&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-15 - Broaden the Mandate of the State Office for Firearm Violence Prevention</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=0be00883-a867-423e-bab3-65b27a8e0370&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-16 - Telehealth for Patients in Nursing Homes and Long-term Care Facilities</a></p>
<p>
WSMA members may also provide testimony during the live reference committee sessions scheduled as part of the virtual 2020 Annual Meeting in September. <a href="[@]WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/Annual_Meeting.aspx?hkey=fea49254-3815-4dc9-8710-53ff2e3a100f">Learn more about the meeting, which is free for members, and register today</a>.
</p>
</div> | 8/27/2020 4:44:51 PM | 8/27/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| state_clarifies_high_risk_employee_categories_and_medical_verification_requirements | State Clarifies High-Risk Employee Categories and Medical Verification Requirements | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200827/state_clarifies_high_risk_employee_categories_and_medical_verification_requirements | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2020/May/COVID-19-Response-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="COVID-19 Response logo" />
</div>
<h5>August 27, 2020</h5>
<h2>State Clarifies High-Risk Employee Categories and Medical Verification Requirements </h2>
<p>
Gov. Jay Inslee has <a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/news-media/inslee-extends-high-risk-employee-proclamation">issued a proclamation</a> clarifying the categories of high-risk workers for which employers must make reasonable accommodations. Of note for physicians: Employers may now require, under certain circumstances, that an employee obtain verification from their physician or other medical provider that they are at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19. Such circumstances include when the employee falls within the CDC's "might be at an increased risk" category or seeks to use any leave where a state or federal law, collective bargaining agreement, or contractual obligation separately requires verification. Employers must not require verification from a medical provider when the employee either is 65 years or older or falls within the CDC's "at increased risk" category. For details, read the governor's <a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/proc_20-46.2.pdf?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=govdelivery">proclamation</a> and <a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/Memo on High Risk Worker Proclamation.pdf?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=govdelivery">guidance memo</a>. The proclamation will be in effect through the duration of the state of emergency.
</p>
</div> | 8/25/2020 10:16:35 AM | 8/27/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| a_prescription_for_better_politics_join_the_wampac_board | A Prescription for Better Politics? Join the WAMPAC Board! | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200813/a_prescription_for_better_politics_join_the_wampac_board | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2020/August/WAMPAC-Vertical-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="WAMPAC logo" />
</div>
<h5>August 13, 2020</h5>
<h2>A Prescription for Better Politics? Join the WAMPAC Board!</h2>
<p>
2020 is a major election year and things are heating up, with fewer than three months remaining until the general election on Nov. 3. Are you disappointed with the current political landscape? Aware of how important politics is to the delivery of health care but unsure about how to effectively engage? Consider helping direct WSMA's political activities by joining the board of WAMPAC, WSMA's political action committee.
</p>
<p>
The WAMPAC board is made up of a dynamic group of physicians from across the state, each representing one of the state's 10 congressional districts, in addition to a medical school student. Members of the board work together to identify and support political candidates who share the house of medicine's policy priorities, build physicians' interest in campaigns, and help steer WSMA's general political engagement.
</p>
<p>
There are currently two vacancies on the WAMPAC board. The first is in the state's <a href="http://www.redistricting.wa.gov/assets/maps/FINAL_010112_Plans/Congressional/MapBook/CD_08.pdf" target="_blank">8th Congressional District</a>, which is represented by Rep. Kim Schrier (D-Issaquah) and runs along I-90 from Issaquah to Ellensburg and up to Wenatchee. The second is in the <a href="http://www.redistricting.wa.gov/assets/maps/FINAL_010112_Plans/Congressional/MapBook/CD_09.pdf" target="_blank">9th Congressional District</a>, represented by Rep. Adam Smith (D-Bellevue) and comprised of South Seattle and Bellevue, down through Kent and Federal Way and into Tacoma. Other districts will come open in the future, and if you're interested in engaging, now is the time to reach out.
</p>
<p>
The WAMPAC board meets roughly quarterly, with two meetings typically occurring in conjunction with regular WSMA events (the Annual Meeting and Leadership Development Conference) and other meetings held via webinar. (All meetings this year and for the foreseeable future will be held remotely.) The overall time commitment is less than an hour per month, and board members have opportunities to connect with elected officials, learn about the political landscape, and influence health care policy.
</p>
<p>
Interested in joining the WAMPAC board? Contact Sean Graham, WSMA's director of government affairs, for more information at <a href="mailto:sean@wsma.org">sean@wsma.org</a>.
</p>
</div> | 8/10/2020 10:04:38 AM | 8/13/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| analyzing_the_2020_primary_election_so_far | 2020 Primary Election Summary | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2020/August/analyzing_the_2020_primary_election_so_far | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/News/King-Co-Ballot-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="King County ballot" />
</div>
<h5>August 13, 2020</h5>
<h2>2020 Primary Election Summary</h2>
<p>
The 2020 election cycle hasn't been as advertised to date, with the pandemic justifiably diverting our attention from politics, but things did start to pick up heading into the Washington's Aug. 4 primary election with campaign ads dominating airwaves and mailboxes. The main event of Trump vs. Biden will have to wait until November, but there is plenty to analyze from last week's results.
</p>
<p>
At the Congressional level, <a href="https://www.drkimschrier.com/">Rep. Kim Schrier</a> (D-Issaquah), the Issaquah pediatrician who is running for reelection for the first time, bested a crowded field and will advance to the general election. She has a well-funded campaign, including contributions from the AMA's political action committee and several other federal-level physician organizations. While her opponent is not well known, Republicans picked up a strong portion of the vote in the district, so Rep. Schrier will need support to win her campaign. For more information on her campaign, visit <a href="http://www.drkimschrier.com/">drkimschrier.com</a>.
</p>
<p>
The rest of the state's congressional incumbents look to be cruising to reelection. The action is in the 10th Congressional District, centered on Olympia, where 19 candidates are seeking to replace Rep. Denny Heck (D-Olympia). Two Democrats will square off in the general election, former Tacoma mayor Marilyn Strickland and state House Rep. Beth Doglio (D-Olympia).
</p>
<p>
The governor's race - weighted down with nearly 40 candidates - was at the top of the ticket for statewide campaigns. Gov. Jay Inslee cruised to victory in the primary and figures to do the same in the general against Loren Culp, a conservative Republican from Ferry County. In other statewide races of interest to WSMA members and WAMPAC, WSMA's political action committee, Attorney General Bob Ferguson and Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler will similarly be heavy favorites in the general. And in the lieutenant governor race, Denny Heck will face off against fellow Democrat Marko Liias in November.
</p>
<p>
Washington's all-mail voting system means ballots are counted over the course of days or even weeks, and as the returns have been tallied, the state legislative picture has cleared. The consensus is that Republicans outperformed expectations, albeit working from something of a low bar as many Olympia insiders predicted another blue wave could be hitting the state's Capitol this year. The general election will have different variables, but based on the primary election, Republicans look poised to hold their current margin in the Senate and possibly pick up a seat or two in the House. Here are a few of the state legislative races WAMPAC is keeping a close eye on:
</p>
<ul>
<li>In Pierce County's 28th District, Sen. Steve O'Ban (R-University Place) trails Democratic challenger T'wina Nobles by around 250 votes. O'Ban is a moderate and the lead Republican on the Senate Health &amp; Long Term Care Committee.</li>
<li>In an intraparty Democratic contest in the Issaquah-area 5th District, Sen. Mark Mullet trails challenger Ingrid Anderson,, a nurse at Overlake's psychiatric department and the more progressive of the two candidates, by around 450 votes </li>
<li>Republicans look poised to potentially pick up a House and a Senate seat in southwest Washington's 19th Legislative District, and another House seat in Whatcom County's 42nd.</li>
</ul>
<p>
Legislative Democrats making the case for why they'll perform even better in the November general election will point to a historically unpopular Trump being at the top of the ticket (a recent statewide poll has him underwater by a margin of 62-28), and the fact that higher turnout in the general likely favors Democrats. Republicans would likely cite those economic indicators that remain strong as serving as a tailwind, along with residents of the state potentially wanting a check on Democratic control via a few more Republicans in the Legislature.
</p>
<p>
Many campaigns will be nail-biters and given everything that has already happened this year, the best bet is that our world will turn a few more times between now and the general election on Nov. 3. Another smart bet is helping amplify the voice of physicians in politics by joining WAMPAC. We're spending the rest of the election cycle working to identify and support candidates whose priorities align with the house of medicine. If you'd like to invest in that work, visit <a href="http://www.wsma.org/wampac">wsma.org/wampac</a>. And if you would like assistance with anything related to campaigns, contact WSMA Government Affairs Director Sean Graham at <a href="mailto:sean@wsma.org">sean@wsma.org</a>.
</p>
</div> | 8/7/2020 2:48:04 PM | 8/13/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| aug_28_deadline_to_apply_for_provider_relief_fund_more_financial_relief_news | Deadline to Apply for Provider Relief Funds Extended to Sept. 13 | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200813/aug_28_deadline_to_apply_for_provider_relief_fund_more_financial_relief_news | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2020/May/COVID-19-financial-relief-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="COVID-19 Financial Relief logo" />
</div>
<h5>August 13, 2020</h5>
<h2>Deadline to Apply for Provider Relief Funds Extended to Sept. 13&nbsp;</h2>
<p>
<em>Article updated Aug. 26</em></p>
<p>The Department of Health and Human Services has set a new deadline - Sept. 13 - to apply for federal relief payments from the Provider Relief Fund. If you bill Medicare, Medicaid, Medicaid managed care, or CHIP, you are eligible to apply, provided you have not previously received 2% of your patient revenue from the fund. More information, and other financial relief news, in this update.
</p>
<h3>HHS reopens window for Provider Relief Fund, streamlines application</h3>
<p>HHS is redoubling its efforts to get financial relief - the $175 billion pool of federal monies included in the CARES Act - to health care professionals impacted by the pandemic. The federal agency has reopened its window to apply for funds, streamlined the application process, and widened eligibility requirements to allow more health professionals to access disbursements.
</p>
<p>
The latest phase of funding is <strong>now available through Sept. 13, 2020</strong>. Who is eligible:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Physicians and providers who bill Medicare, Medicaid, Medicaid managed care, or CHIP.</li>
<li>First-time or previous applicants may apply, as long as they haven't already received 2% of their patient revenue from the initial disbursement.</li>
<li>Physicians whose practice changed ownership in the last year if their initial allocation from the Medicare distribution was made to the prior owner of a practice.</li>
</ul>
<p>
To apply, <a href="https://www.hhs.gov/coronavirus/cares-act-provider-relief-fund/for-providers/index.html#6-step">follow the six-step application process</a>. If you encounter challenges with the application, call the Provider Support Line at 866.569.3522; for TTY, dial 711.
</p>
<p>
HHS officials offered several helpful clarifications during an educational session this week:
</p>
<ul>
<!--HIDE <li>Applicants need only to initiate the process, by submitting their TIN to the payment portal by Sunday, Sept. 13, at 9:59 p.m. (PDT), to meet the deadline. Validation of the TIN may take up to two weeks or more; simply initiating the process is all that is required to meet the deadline.</li>-->
<li>The "up to 2%" disbursement is across all payers and patient service revenue.</li>
<li>The payments do not need to be repaid, assuming recipients comply with the program's specified terms and conditions.</li>
<li>If you are in doubt on whether you received the full 2% during the initial disbursement, HHS recommends you resubmit your information.</li>
<li>If you have received PPP or other federal program funds, you are still eligible.</li>
<li>Allowable uses of provider relief funds are to cover lost revenue or increased expenses related to the coronavirus.</li>
</ul>
<p>
For those practices that have not been eligible for Provider Relief Fund disbursements to date (i.e. those that do not provide services to Medicare and Medicaid enrollees), HHS is working to formulate a distribution methodology, with further details forthcoming.
</p>
<p>
The WSMA wants to help ensure that all of our members receive the Provider Relief Fund monies they are eligible for. More information and resources on the Provider Relief Fund can be found on <a href="https://www.hhs.gov/coronavirus/cares-act-provider-relief-fund/for-providers/index.html">the HHS website</a>. If you have questions about prior or pending allocations, contact WSMA's policy team at <a href="mailto:policy@wsma.org">policy@wsma.org</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Reimbursement available from CMS for counseling patients to self-isolate at time of COVID-19 testing</h3>
<p>
The Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services announced that payment is now available to physicians and health care providers to counsel patients, at the time of COVID-19 testing, about the importance of self-isolation after they are tested and prior to the onset of symptoms. CMS will use existing evaluation and management payment codes to reimburse providers who are eligible to bill CMS for counseling services no matter where a test is administered, including doctor's offices, urgent care clinics, hospitals, and community drive-thru or pharmacy testing sites.
</p>
<p>
Further information and resources are available in the counseling checklist PDF <a href="https://www.cms.gov/files/document/counseling-checklist.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.
</p>
<h3>Telemedicine proclamation, other priority proclamations extended to Sept. 1</h3>
<p>
Washington's Democrat and Republican leaders in the House and Senate have again approved extending Gov. Jay Inslee's telemedicine payment parity p<a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-29 Coronovirus OIC %28tmp%29.pdf?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=govdelivery">roclamation 20-29</a>, now through Sept. 1. Proclamation 20-29 implements <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5385&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2019">Senate Bill 5385</a>, requiring payment parity for state-regulated plans, ahead of its Jan. 1, 2021 effective date. While we are glad to see the proclamation extended again, the WSMA continues to advocate for the policy to be extended through the end of the year when SB 5385 takes effect. If you'd like to assist in our efforts, please consider writing your local legislators and sharing how critical telemedicine is to providing care during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as requesting that proclamation be extended through Dec. 31, 2020. <a href="https://takeaction.wsma.org/urge-your-state-lawmakers-to-support-telemedicine-payment-parity-policies/">Click here to send a message to your state lawmakers</a>.
</p>
</div> | 8/10/2020 10:04:18 AM | 8/13/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_submits_comment_on_hca_multi_payer_primary_care_model | WSMA Submits Comment on HCA Multi-Payer Primary Care Model | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200813/wsma_submits_comment_on_hca_multi_payer_primary_care_model | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2020/August/Doctor-Patient-Exam-Room-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" />
</div>
<h5>August 13, 2020</h5>
<h2>WSMA Submits Comment on HCA Multi-Payer Primary Care Model</h2>
<p>
The WSMA, working with a newly formed value-based payment physician workgroup, has submitted formal comment on a new primary care transformation initiative under development by the state.
</p>
<p>
Last month, the Health Care Authority <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200723/hca_seeks_feedback_on_multi_payer_primary_care_model">solicited feedback</a> on its "Multi-payer Primary Care Transformation Model," a <a href="https://hca.wa.gov/about-hca/multi-payer-primary-care-transformation-model">new state effort at primary care payment and care delivery reform</a> undertaken with input from Washington's health plans and primary care providers. In its comment letter, the WSMA emphasized the importance of upfront investments from payers in transformation efforts, accurate and reliable data/measurables, and the Quadruple Aim among other priorities. Read WSMA's complete comment <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2020/HCA multipayer model draft_08062020_WSMA.pdf]">here</a>.
</p>
<p>
The work on the multi-payer primary care model is ongoing. Should you have comments or thoughts to share, email WSMA policy team at <a href="mailto:policy@wsma.org">policy@wsma.org</a>.
</p>
</div> | 8/10/2020 10:04:33 AM | 8/13/2020 12:00:00 AM |