| Video_Legislative_Session_Week_1_in_Brief | Video Legislative Session Week 1 in Brief | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2020/January/Video_Legislative_Session_Week_1_in_Brief | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/News/2020-Leg-Update-Video-Still-Play-Button.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Legislative Update Video Week 1" /></div>
<h5>January 14, 2020</h5>
<h2>Video: Legislative Session Week 1 in Brief</h2>
<p>
To kick-off our weekly legislative update series, WSMA CEO Jennifer Hanscom previews WSMA’s top three policy priorities for physicians and physician assistants as the state legislative session gets underway. <a href="https://vimeo.com/384585974" target="_blank">Watch the one-minute video</a>.</p>
<p>
Stay tuned for more updates and tips on how you can help our legislative advocacy as session unfolds. And thank you for your membership in the WSMA—together we will make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care. </p>
<p>
If you haven’t yet renewed your WSMA membership for 2020, <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Membership/Join_Renew/WSMA/Membership/Join_Renew/Join_Renew.aspx?hkey=37a820cf-9d05-4812-b9dd-c29b9a75356d" target="_blank">do so today</a>—your membership powers our work on your behalf and on behalf of medicine in Washington state. </p>
<p>
Not yet a WSMA member? Join the WSMA and join more than 11,000 physicians and physician assistants working to make Washington the best place to practice medicine and receive care. <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Membership/Why_Join_the_WSMA/WSMA/Membership/Why_Join_the_WSMA_/Why_Join_the_WSMA.aspx?hkey=de6b7c3d-8b5a-420d-a55e-db6e2faf5715" target="_blank">Learn more and join us!</a></p>
</div> | 1/14/2020 12:06:21 PM | 1/14/2020 1:54:35 PM |
| hca_accepting_public_comments_on_public_option_procurement_standards | HCA Accepting Public Comments on Public Option Procurement Standards | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200108/hca_accepting_public_comments_on_public_option_procurement_standards | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/images/Logos/Washington-State-Evergreen.jpg" class="pull-right" />
</div>
<h5>
January 9, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
HCA Accepting Public Comments on Public Option Procurement Standards
</h2>
<p>
</p>
<p>
Washington state officials have <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191223/court_decision_prolongs_aca_uncertainty_washington_moves_ahead_with_public_option">unveiled the standard plan designs for Cascade Care</a>, the "public option" plans that will hit the state health insurance market in 2021. The Health Care Authority is now seeking public comment on thequality, value, and affordability standardsfor the plans. This feedback will help inform the public option procurement process, which will occur in February. To review the procurement standards and provide feedback to the state, <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LTBRF7C">click here</a>. HCA's public comment period ends on Friday, Jan. 17. The WSMA is in the process of developing formal comments, which we will make available to members once submitted. As a reminder: The WSMA remains opposed to the reimbursement caps that are the primary cost-control feature of the Cascade Care plans. Artificially capping provider reimbursement rates at a percentage of Medicare will jeopardize provider participation in the plan, resulting in health plans with extremely limited provider options. We will continue to highlight our concerns in our comments to the HCA, as well as voice our support for those elements of the plans that we believe will be beneficial to patients and physicians. For a copy of our formal comments once finalized, email Sean Graham at <a href="mailto:sean@wsma.org">sean@wsma.org</a>.
</p>
</div> | 1/6/2020 10:38:08 AM | 1/9/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_practice_guidance_on_washingtons_balance_billing_ban | WSMA Practice Guidance on Washington’s Balance Billing Ban | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200108/wsma_practice_guidance_on_washingtons_balance_billing_ban | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Concepts/invoice_645x425.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="invoice" />
</div>
<h5>
January 9, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
WSMA Practice Guidance on Washington's Balance Billing Ban
</h2>
<p>
</p>
<p>
Due to years of work by the WSMA and the state hospital association, Washington state's new law not only protects patients from unexpected bills, but also preserves the ability for physicians and providers to negotiate fair reimbursements from insurers in the state. Washington's Balance Billing Protection Act (BBPA) is now in effect, and the WSMA has you covered, with detailed guidance to help your practice or organization understand the law. Visit our <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Resources/Practice_Management/Balance_Billing/Balance_Billing.aspx">balance billing page on the WSMA website</a> to learn more about scope of prohibition, reimbursement, determining patient eligibility, dispute resolution, network adequacy, enforcement, and more.
</p>
</div> | 1/6/2020 10:38:11 AM | 1/9/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| a_look_at_wsma_advocacy_priorities_on_eve_of_legislative_session | A Look at WSMA Advocacy Priorities on Eve of Legislative Session | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200108/a_look_at_wsma_advocacy_priorities_on_eve_of_legislative_session | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Concepts/State.Capitol.Olympia_2015-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="State Capitol, Olympia" />
</div>
<h5>
January 9, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
A Look at WSMA Advocacy Priorities on Eve of Legislative Session
</h2>
<p>
</p>
<p>
The 2020 state legislative session begins on Monday. Repealing the B&amp;O tax increase on independent physicians, promoting a sensible alternative to prior authorization, and advocating for telemedicine payment parity will lead WSMA's advocacy efforts during session, with many more priorities filling out our agenda. The WSMA is your proxy and your voice in Olympia, and our efforts are made stronger with your participation. Here's what you need to know as we head into session - and a request for your help.
</p>
<p>
The primary duty of the Legislature during this "short" 60-day session will be to negotiate <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191223/governor_releases_supplemental_budget_proposal">a supplemental budget package</a> making adjustments to the two-year budget passed in 2019. Lawmakers will also consider legislation on an array of topics, with WSMA's legislative staff carefully reviewing all health care-related policy that stands to impact physicians, patients, and the practice of medicine.
</p>
<p>
<strong>WSMA's priority legislative items</strong>
</p>
<p>
<strong>Repeal the B&amp;O tax surcharge on independent physician practices –</strong> During the 2019 session, legislation was adopted imposing a 20% surcharge on the B&amp;O tax paid by independent (i.e. non-hospital affiliated) physician practices, among other health care providers and businesses.
</p>
<p>
<em>WSMA ask: Repeal the tax on physicians and health care providers under&nbsp;</em><em><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=2158&amp;Year=2019&amp;Initiative=false">House Bill 2158</a>&nbsp;</em><em>from 2019</em> <strong>.</strong>
</p>
<p>
<strong>Prior authorization –</strong> Insurance carriers impose prior authorization requirements on patient care before covering services in some circumstances, delaying care and creating administrative burden.
</p>
<p>
<em>WSMA ask:</em> <em>Collect data on insurer prior authorization practices and promote appropriate use criteria in lieu of prior authorization.</em>
</p>
<p>
<strong>Telemedicine payment parity –</strong> <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5385&amp;Year=2019&amp;Initiative=false">Senate Bill 5385</a> requires services delivered via telemedicine to be reimbursed at the same rate as if they were delivered in person. It was approved by the Senate in 2019 by a vote of 47-2 but died in the House.
</p>
<p>
<em>WSMA ask: Pass Senate Bill 5385 to increase utilization of telemedicine.
</em></p>
<em>
</em>
<p>
<strong>We need your help</strong> – Do you have stories you can share with our advocacy team about egregious examples of prior authorization requirements? The impact of the B&amp;O tax surcharge on your practice? Problems incorporating telemedicine due to low reimbursement? Your stories, particularly specific instances that negatively impacted your ability to provide optimal care, can help inform our advocacy. Email your experiences to Sean Graham, WSMA's government affairs director, at <a href="mailto:sean@wsma.org">sean@wsma.org</a>.
</p>
<p>
<strong>Staying informed and how to engage in direct advocacy during session</strong>
</p>
<p>
During session, we'll keep you posted on developments via our communications channels. You can also visit our <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/News_Publications/Latest_News/Advocacy_Report/WSMA/News_Publications/Newsletters/WSMA_Advocacy_Report.aspx?hkey=fbce906b-dbfb-4af3-8790-11f84275cf1e">online Advocacy Report page</a> for breaking news. For weekly "insider" email updates from our legislative staff, email Alex Wehinger at <a href="mailto:alex@wsma.org">alex@wsma.org</a> to be added to her distribution list.
</p>
<p>
If you'd like to help support our advocacy more directly, come to Olympia on Feb. 25 for the 2020 WSMA Legislative Summit. There you'll join your like-minded colleagues and peers from across the state as we take our advocacy message directly to legislators. We need WSMA members from all of Washington's 49 legislative districts to attend, to ensure lawmakers throughout the state hear our message on behalf of physicians and patients. The event is free for members—learn more and register <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Events/Legislative_Summit/WSMA/Events/Legislative_Summit/Legislative_Summit.aspx">online</a> today.
</p>
<p>
And be sure to check out this month's issue of WSMA Reports, which features a special focus on WSMA's advocacy and how to be a good physician advocate. The publication should be in your mailbox now.
</p>
</div> | 1/6/2020 10:38:05 AM | 1/8/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| cultivate_the_skills_to_run_for_office_at_the_2020_ampac_candidate_workshop | Cultivate the Skills to Run for Office at the 2020 AMPAC Candidate Workshop | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191223/cultivate_the_skills_to_run_for_office_at_the_2020_ampac_candidate_workshop | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
December 23, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
Cultivate the Skills to Run for Office at the 2020 AMPAC Candidate Workshop
</h2>
<p>
Ever wonder how doctors get elected to Congress or the state legislature? Considering a run for office yourself? Then the AMPAC Candidate Workshop - held Feb. 28-March 1 in Washington, D.C. - is for you.
</p>
<p>
The one-and-a-half-day workshop will provide you with the skills and strategic approach you will need to make a run for public office. Some of the topics include: How and when to make the decision to run; the importance of a disciplined campaign plan and message; the secrets of effective fundraising; what kinds of media advertising are right for your campaign; how to handle the inevitable crises that emerge for every campaign; the role of your spouse and your family; and how to become a better public speaker.
</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.ampaconline.org/political-education/ampac-candidate-workshop/">Registration is now open</a>. The deadline to register is Feb. 3—the program fills up quickly, so don't delay. The registration fee is $250 for AMA members ($1,000 for non-members). The fee is waived for students/residents; however, there are limited slots and the AMPAC Board will review and select from the pool of qualified applicants.
</p>
<p>
For more information visit <a href="http://www.ampaconline.org/get-involved/political-education/">AMPAC online</a>.
</p>
</div> | 12/23/2019 2:38:48 PM | 12/23/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| icymi_washingtons_balance_billing_ban_goes_into_effect_jan_1 | ICYMI: Washington's Balance Billing Ban Goes Into Effect Jan. 1 | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191223/icymi_washingtons_balance_billing_ban_goes_into_effect_jan_1 | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
December 23, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
ICYMI: Washington's Balance Billing Ban Goes Into Effect Jan. 1
</h2>
<p>
Starting in January, Washington's Balance Billing Protection Act (BBPA) will prohibit balance billing for emergency services and for certain procedures performed by out-of-network physicians working in in-network facilities. BBPA will apply to fully insured health plans in Washington, as well as self-insured health plans that opt to comply with the law. For an overview of the BBPA, a recent Office of the Insurance Commissioner webinar specifically designed for physicians and providers is <a href="https://vimeo.com/375038359">available for viewing on demand</a>. The WSMA is preparing a comprehensive summary of the BBPA for our members, which will be available shortly on the WSMA website. For questions, contact Sean Graham, WSMA's government affairs director, at <a href="mailto:sean@wsma.org">sean@wsma.org</a>.
</p>
</div> | 12/23/2019 12:30:05 PM | 12/23/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| us_house_passes_bold_bill_to_lower_drug_costs | U.S. House Passes Bold Bill to Lower Drug Costs | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191223/us_house_passes_bold_bill_to_lower_drug_costs | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Concepts/Prescription%20with%20Money.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Prescription with money" />
</div>
<h5>
December 23, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
U.S. House Passes Bold Bill to Lower Drug Costs
</h2>
<p>
Democrats in the U.S. House of Representatives have taken a bold step toward addressing the skyrocketing costs of prescription medications by passing H.R. 3 - "The Lower Drug Costs Now Act." The legislation would allow Medicare to negotiate prices with pharmaceutical companies and set price caps based on international prices, among other provisions. The WSMA remains alarmed at the crisis of soaring drug costs, which has become one of the primary drivers of health care spending in the U.S. and puts many life-saving medications increasingly out of reach for the average patient. And there are hidden costs for the physician community as well, with private and public payers relying on prior authorizations or slashing reimbursements to offset the high costs of medications. With the Republican-led Senate and President Donald Trump having expressed their opposition to the legislation, Democratic lawmakers and candidates are expected to use the bill as a campaign issue in 2020.
</p>
</div> | 12/23/2019 12:29:52 PM | 12/23/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| walmart_delays_epcs_mandate | Walmart Delays EPCS Mandate | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191223/walmart_delays_epcs_mandate | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Concepts/Rx_bottle_doctor_laptop_645x425.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Doctor with pill bottle working at laptop" />
</div>
<h5>
December 23, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
Walmart Delays EPCS Mandate
</h2>
<p>
Walmart will <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2019/12/11/electronic-prescriptions-walmart-take-paper-rx-2021/4380115002/">delay its decision to only accept electronic prescriptions for controlled substances (EPCS)</a>, scheduled to go into effect Jan. 1. The retail giant delayed the mandate in response to concerns from the AMA and others in the medical community, who warned that the stringent policy, which would not allow exceptions, would lead to significant disruptions in patient care. The AMA detailed its concerns in <a href="https://searchlf.ama-assn.org/undefined/documentDownload?uri=%2Funstructured%2Fbinary%2Fletter%2FLETTERS%2F2019-11-26-Letter-to-Van-Gilder-Walmart-EPCS.pdf" target="_blank">a letter to Walmart</a>, noting that fewer than half of U.S. physicians had the proper technology and certification to adopt EPCS and that major regulatory barriers still stand in the way of widespread adoption. Among its recommendations, the AMA said it believed Walmart should not require EPCS in a state unless that state's legislature or regulatory boards have approved the policy. The AMA noted that some states have already begun implementing EPCS, usually with exceptions and hardship waivers available to ensure access to care isn't disrupted. (With its recently passed opioid omnibus bill, House Bill 5380, Washington is one such state—and the WSMA was instrumental in securing an exemption process that <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191211/practice_impact_new_laws_taking_effect_jan_1">considers economic hardship, technological limitations, or other exceptional circumstances</a>.) Walmart did not indicate if or when it would schedule a new implementation date or whether it would adjust the policy. In a statement welcoming the decision, AMA President Patrice Harris, MD, emphasized the importance of physician involvement in policymaking, saying that the policy "was not developed in consultation with the nation's physicians, who support electronic prescribing of controlled substances, but want to see it implemented in a manner that supports—rather than disrupts—patient care."
</p>
</div> | 12/23/2019 12:29:58 PM | 12/23/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| webinar_on_maternal_mortality_in_washington_state | Webinar on Maternal Mortality in Washington State | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191223/webinar_on_maternal_mortality_in_washington_state | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Concepts/arteida-mjeshtri-3SDP4zc_z9w-unsplash-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Pregnant woman" />
</div>
<h5>
December 23, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
Webinar on Maternal Mortality in Washington State
</h2>
<p>
Gain a better understanding of maternal mortality in Washington, the issues that impact women, and how to improve maternal care in the state by attending a free webinar hosted by the Washington State Health Care Authority on Wednesday, Jan. 15, from 9-10:30 a.m. The webinar will provide an overview of the <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/Pubs/141-010-MMRPMaternalDeathReport2014-2016.pdf" target="_blank">recently released maternal mortality review legislative report</a>, which covers maternal deaths from 2014-16, and will share the recommendations and activities for implementation outlined in the report as well as tools developed by partners at the Washington State Perinatal Collaborative. Register <a href="https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/582820730837323009">online</a> to attend this free session. Note: The webinar recording will only be available to those who register.
</p>
</div> | 12/23/2019 12:30:09 PM | 12/23/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| call_to_action_demand_a_better_federal_balance_billing_solution | Call to Action: Demand a Better Federal Balance Billing Solution | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191211/call_to_action_demand_a_better_federal_balance_billing_solution | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Concepts/Megaphone-Evergreen-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="megaphone graphic" />
</div>
<h5>
December 11, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
Call to Action: Demand a Better Federal Balance Billing Solution
</h2>
<p>
</p>
<p>
<a href="https://www.modernhealthcare.com/politics-policy/surprise-billing-tweaks-fail-win-provider-support">News broke this week</a> of a potential compromise in Congress on federal legislation banning balance billing. The proposal, while protecting patients from surprise bills, would set initial reimbursement from insurance carriers at the median in-network rate paid for the service in the geographic area. A similar proposal in here in Washington was opposed by the WSMA due to concerns about the power that would shift to carriers in contract negotiations. The legislation under consideration also sets a $750 threshold for independent dispute resolution and does not allow for claims bundling - therefore eliminating recourse for any payment from carriers that's below $750.
</p>
<p>
Details of the legislation are still being negotiated, and as of the time of this writing, Sen. Patty Murray (the lead Democrat on the Senate committee where the bill is being considered) has not yet lent her support. If this issue is important to you and your practice, contact your congressional representatives today. The primary concerns of the physician community in the draft compromise bill are the rate-setting provision and the threshold for independent dispute resolution.
</p>
<p>
Contact Sen. Murray and other members of your congressional delegation using the <a href="https://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm">Senate</a> and <a href="https://www.house.gov/representatives">House</a> websites or the <a href="https://physiciansgrassrootsnetwork.org/be-heard?vvsrc=%252fcampaigns%252f67405%252frespond%253futm_source%253dAction%252520Alert%2526utm_medium%253dPGN%2526utm_campaign%253dSurprise%252520Billing%2526utm_content%253dSurprise%252520Billing">AMA Grassroots Action Center</a>. When sending a message, be sure to reference Washington's balance billing legislation, <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1065&amp;Year=2019&amp;Initiative=false">House Bill 1065</a>, as a model. Learn more about that bill <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2019/weekly_rounds_apr_15_2019_taking_action_makes_a_difference">here</a>.
</p>
</div> | 12/9/2019 10:58:55 AM | 12/11/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| health_systems_form_alliance_to_address_health_impacts_of_climate_change | Health Systems Form Alliance to Address Health Impacts of Climate Change | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191211/health_systems_form_alliance_to_address_health_impacts_of_climate_change | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Logos/WA-Healthcare-Climate-Alliance-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Washington Health Care Climate Alliance logo" />
</div>
<h5>
December 11, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
Health Systems Form Alliance to Address Health Impacts of Climate Change
</h2>
<p>
</p>
<p>
To protect Washington communities from the worst health impacts of climate change and advocate for policy solutions, eight of the state's leading health systems have formed the Washington Health Care Climate Alliance. The new effort was announced during a <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191127/dec_7_forum_in_seattle_on_climate_change_and_public_health">climate and health educational symposium for health professionals</a> in Seattle on Dec. 7 organized with assistance from the WSMA.
</p>
<p>
Participating health systems are:
</p>
<ul>
<li>CHI Franciscan</li>
<li>Kaiser Permanente</li>
<li>MultiCare</li>
<li>Providence St. Joseph Health</li>
<li>Seattle Children's</li>
<li>Swedish Health Services</li>
<li>UW Medicine</li>
<li>Virginia Mason Medical Center</li>
</ul>
<p>
The new alliance was launched in collaboration with Health Care Without Harm, a broad-based international coalition of health care organizations and professionals dedicated to reducing health care's impact on climate change. Learn more about the Washington Health Care Climate Alliance on the <a href="https://noharm-uscanada.org/washington-health-care-climate-alliance">Health Care Without Harm website</a>.
</p>
</div> | 12/9/2019 10:58:40 AM | 12/11/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| register_for_the_2020_wsma_legislative_summit_feb_25_in_olympia | Register for the 2020 WSMA Legislative Summit, Feb. 25 in Olympia | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191211/register_for_the_2020_wsma_legislative_summit_feb_25_in_olympia | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Events/2020-Leg-Summit-Article-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="2020 WSMA Legislative Summit logo" />
</div>
<h5>
December 11, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
Register for the 2020 WSMA Legislative Summit, Feb. 25 in Olympia
</h2>
<p>
</p>
<p>
Physicians have a unique voice in politics - one that legislators respect. When united, that voice can have a real, positive impact on policies passed by our elected officials. Come help amplify the voice of the physician community on Tuesday, Feb. 25, when we take our advocacy message to the Capitol during the 2020 WSMA Legislative Summit, "doctors' day on the Hill." Don't miss this opportunity to share your perspective with your local legislators and help amplify WSMA's legislative priorities - and don't forget to wear a white coat! The meeting is free for members - <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Events/Legislative_Summit/WSMA/Events/Legislative_Summit/Legislative_Summit.aspx?hkey=ec5e0510-cee2-4aa9-b549-905d63952454">register online</a>.
</p>
</div> | 12/9/2019 10:59:05 AM | 12/11/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| sen_oban_announces_bill_to_repeal_b_and_o_tax_increase_on_health_care | Sen. O'Ban Announces Bill to Repeal B&O Tax Increase on Health Care | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191211/sen_oban_announces_bill_to_repeal_b_and_o_tax_increase_on_health_care | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Advocacy/NoToBO-Graphic-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="No to B&amp;O logo" />
</div>
<h5>
December 11, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Sen. O'Ban Announces Bill to Repeal B&amp;O Tax Increase on Health Care</h2>
<p>
Repealing the B&amp;O tax surcharge on independent physician practices is a key priority for the WSMA as we look toward the 2020 state legislative session. To that end, we're pleased to report that Sen. Steve O'Ban (R-Pierce County) has announced a bill that he is sponsoring for the legislative session that would <a href="http://steveoban.src.wastateleg.org/oban-fights-repeal-business-tax-increase-health-care-providers/">repeal the tax surcharge</a>. The WSMA appreciates the support Sen. O'Ban has provided on this issue, which has included an excellent <a href="http://steveoban.src.wastateleg.org/watch-video-series-bo-tax-increase-will-affect-family-budget-health-care/">video interview series with WSMA members</a> on the impact of the tax increase on their patients and businesses. However, support for repeal will need to come from all corners of the Legislature; if you haven't yet done so, contact your senator and representatives this week and urge them to prioritize patient access to care and physician practice viability by exempting health care from this misguided tax increase when they return to work in 2020. <a href="https://takeaction.wsma.org/no-bo-tax-increase-on-health-care/">Send a message today</a>. #NoToBandO
</p>
</div> | 12/9/2019 10:59:02 AM | 12/11/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| washingtons_balance_billing_ban_what_you_need_to_know | Washington's Balance Billing Ban - What You Need to Know | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191211/washingtons_balance_billing_ban_what_you_need_to_know | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Concepts/invoice_645x425.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="invoice" />
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<h5>
December 11, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
Washington's Balance Billing Ban - What You Need to Know
</h2>
<p>
After years of negotiations between the WSMA, stakeholders, and lawmakers, legislation banning balance billing in our state was passed by the Legislature earlier this year. Effective Jan. 1, the Balance Billing Protection Act (BBPA) will prohibit balance billing for emergency services and for certain procedures performed by out-of-network physicians working in in-network facilities. BBPA will apply to fully insured health plans in Washington, as well as self-insured health plans that opt to comply with the law. A webinar overview of BBPA designed for physicians is now available on demand, and two major steps toward implementation - rulemaking and defining a dataset to inform arbitration - have been finalized.
</p>
<p>
<strong>OIC webinar on BBPA for physicians and hospitals</strong>
</p>
<p>
The OIC recently presented a webinar on BBPA's implementation for members of the WSMA and the Washington State Hospital Association. The webinar has now been archived and <a href="https://vimeo.com/375038359">is available for viewing on demand</a>. The hour-long session covers BBPA's out-of-network provider payment and dispute resolution process, transparency provisions, enforcement, self-funded group health plan participation, and more. A Q&amp;A with physicians in attendance is featured toward the close of the session.
</p>
<p>
<strong>BBPA rulemaking finalized</strong>
</p>
<p>
OIC has adopted rulemaking required by the BBPA. The WSMA provided comment at multiple junctures on this rule, which generally implements the balance billing legislation. Most of <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191023/balance_billing_law_implementation_and_webinar">our concerns</a> were addressed through the rulemaking process. One exception is that we (and the hospital association) had requested a mechanism be stipulated for circumstances where an ERISA plan opts in to the law but does not comply; the OIC felt such a policy would jeopardize federal preemption. The final rule can be reviewed <a href="https://www.insurance.wa.gov/media/8671">here</a>; a summary of comments received from the WSMA and other stakeholders and responses from the OIC can be reviewed <a href="https://www.insurance.wa.gov/sites/default/files/2019-11/r-2019-04-ces.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.
</p>
<p>
<strong>Dataset for arbitration</strong>
</p>
<p>
The OIC has published the dataset, made up of commercial, fee-for-service claims data from the state's all-payer claims database, that will be used as a reference for arbitration during the balance billing dispute resolution process. The goal of the dataset is to set a reference point for billed charges and contracted amounts for services by region. As a participant of the work group in charge of developing the dataset, the WSMA continues to express concerns that some of the amounts reflected by the data are too low. While the dataset has now been published, the work group is ongoing, and we are currently reaching out to specialty groups for their input on the data. The dataset and information on the arbitration process can be found <a href="https://www.insurance.wa.gov/arbitration-and-using-balance-billing-protection-act-data-set?utm_content=&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_name=&amp;utm_source=govdelivery&amp;utm_term=">on the OIC website</a>.
</p>
<p>
The WSMA is preparing a comprehensive summary of the BBPA for members, which will be available shortly. For questions, contact Sean Graham, WSMA's government affairs director, at <a href="mailto:sean@wsma.org">sean@wsma.org</a>.
</p>
</div> | 12/9/2019 10:58:51 AM | 12/11/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| 2020_wsma_legislative_summit_registration_now_available | 2020 WSMA Legislative Summit Registration Now Available | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191127/2020_wsma_legislative_summit_registration_now_available | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/images/Events/2020-Leg-Summit-Article-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" />
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<h5>
November 27, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
2020 WSMA Legislative Summit Registration Now Available
</h2>
<p>
Looking to engage in the political process more directly and help support WSMA's legislative advocacy? Register today to attend the <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Events/Legislative_Summit/WSMA/Events/Legislative_Summit/Legislative_Summit.aspx?hkey=ec5e0510-cee2-4aa9-b549-905d63952454"> 2020 WSMA Legislative Summit</a> on Feb. 25 in Olympia and prepare to join your physician and physician assistant colleagues as we take our advocacy message directly to state lawmakers at the Capitol.
</p>
<p>
At the Summit, you'll receive an overview of the health care issues at play in the 2020 legislative session and have an opportunity to meet with your legislative representatives. WSMA staff will brief you on our priority advocacy issues—those legislative or budget policies where your direct advocacy with elected officials can make the greatest difference—and share expert tips on how to meet with legislators. We'll provide a continental breakfast as well as lunch and will help to schedule personal meetings with your legislators in the afternoon.
</p>
<p>
The event is free for WSMA members—one of the many benefits made possible by your dues dollars. <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Events/Legislative_Summit/WSMA/Events/Legislative_Summit/Legislative_Summit.aspx?hkey=ec5e0510-cee2-4aa9-b549-905d63952454"> Register online today to reserve your spot</a>. If you have a white coat, wear it! The visual message of physicians, PAs, and medical students united in support of the profession and patients will be a powerful one. Help us turn advocacy into action while making the most of your membership with the WSMA— <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Events/Legislative_Summit/WSMA/Events/Legislative_Summit/Legislative_Summit.aspx?hkey=ec5e0510-cee2-4aa9-b549-905d63952454"> join us in Olympia on Feb. 25.</a>
</p>
</div> | 11/26/2019 10:40:29 AM | 11/27/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| ama_calls_for_ban_of_e_cigarette_and_vaping_product_sales | AMA Calls for Ban of E-Cigarette and Vaping Product Sales | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191127/ama_calls_for_ban_of_e_cigarette_and_vaping_product_sales | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/images/Concepts/vaping_store_645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" />
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<h5>
November 27, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
AMA Calls for Ban of E-Cigarette and Vaping Product Sales
</h2>
<p>
At its interim meeting this month, the AMA House of Delegates <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/public-health/ama-stop-sales-e-cigarettes-lack-fda-approval"> passed policy supporting a ban on the sale and distribution of all e-cigarette and vaping products</a> except those approved by the FDA for the purpose of tobacco-cessation and prescribed by a clinician. The action by the AMA HOD follows news of several states, including Washington, banning the sale of flavored vapor products as the number of vaping-related lung injuries in the U.S. continues to rise.
</p>
<p>
As of Nov. 20, <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/severe-lung-disease.html"> the CDC reports</a> 2,290 cases of vaping-related lung injury and 47 confirmed deaths in the U.S. In Washington, the tally of vaping-related lung injuries now stands at 18. Following a CDC study linking vitamin E acetate to the recent outbreak, the Washington State Department of Health asked local vapor product processors to stop adding vitamin E acetate to vapor products and to stop distributing products that contain it. The DOH has also asked all retailers to immediately stop selling vapor products that contain the ingredient. These moves follow an earlier emergency rule issued by the DOH temporarily banning the sale of flavored vapor products and <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Emergencies/VapingAssociatedLungInjury#providers-tribes"> imposing new reporting rules on physicians and other clinicians</a>.
</p>
<p>
The WSMA House of Delegates voted unanimously in October to support a <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2019/October/king_county_medical_society_and_washington_state_medical_association_endorse_ban_on_flavored_e_cigar.aspx?WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927"> permanent ban on the sale of flavored e-cigarettes in the state</a>, an issue we expect to be addressed in the upcoming state legislative session.
</p>
</div> | 11/26/2019 10:40:45 AM | 11/27/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| time_is_running_out_urge_congressional_action_on_macra | Time Is Running Out: Urge Congressional Action on MACRA | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191127/time_is_running_out_urge_congressional_action_on_macra | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
November 27, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
Time Is Running Out: Urge Congressional Action on MACRA
</h2>
<p>While what once seemed like a never-ending battle to rectify the deeply flawed Medicare Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) formula ended with the passage of MACRA, the fight for fair reimbursement from the federal insurance program is ongoing. Payment rates under MACRA have not kept up with inflation, and physicians under the program are facing zero percent payment increases for years 2020-25.</p>
<p>
With the end of year approaching, time is running out: Contact your congressional representatives today and urge them to stand with America's physicians and patients by supporting improvements to MACRA that will implement positive payment adjustments for physicians for at least the next two years. Visit the <a href="https://physiciansgrassrootsnetwork.org/be-heard?vvsrc=%2fcampaigns%2f67832%2frespond">AMA's Physicians Grassroots Network</a> to write your members of Congress today.
</p>
</div> | 11/26/2019 10:40:35 AM | 11/27/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_in_the_house_and_senate_representing_you_during_committee_assembly_days | WSMA in the House (and Senate) Representing You During Committee Assembly Days | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191127/wsma_in_the_house_and_senate_representing_you_during_committee_assembly_days | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/images/News/capitol_bldg_645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" />
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<h5>
November 27, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
WSMA in the House (and Senate) Representing You During Committee Assembly Days
</h2>
<p>
<em> </em>
</p>
<p>
State lawmakers returned to the Capitol last week for committee assembly days. With the start of the 2020 legislative session just around the corner, committee assembly days give legislators an opportunity to connect with other legislators, staff, agencies, and stakeholders - including your WSMA staff - on issues relevant to the upcoming session.
</p>
<p>
WSMA's legislative and government affairs team met with legislators throughout the week to review our 2020 priorities and hear what issues legislators are looking to work on in the health care arena. Legislators will be back in session (since it is an even-numbered year, it will be a "short" 60-day session) starting on Jan. 13. This work is made possible through your membership support, so please take a moment to renew your membership if you have not done so already. When physicians are united, the house of medicine is stronger— <a href="http://www.wsma.org/renew">renew today</a>.
</p>
</div> | 11/26/2019 10:40:25 AM | 11/27/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| your_feedback_sought_on_clinical_recommendations_for_reporting_risks_of_violence | Your Feedback Sought on Clinical Recommendations for Reporting Risks of Violence | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191127/your_feedback_sought_on_clinical_recommendations_for_reporting_risks_of_violence | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/images/News/wesley-tingey-9z9fxr_7Z-k-unsplash-gavel-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" />
</div>
<h5>
November 27, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
Your Feedback Sought on Clinical Recommendations for Reporting Risks of Violence
</h2>
<p>
The Dr. Robert Bree Collaborative is seeking input on newly released draft clinical recommendations for outpatient mental health professionals caring for patients at elevated risk for violence.
</p>
<p>
The draft recommendations are intended to address clinician uncertainty resulting from the 2016 Washington State Supreme Court decision in Volk v. DeMeerler, which held that a mental health professional who establishes a special relationship with a patient has a duty to protect any foreseeable victim from a patient's dangerous propensities. The decision was aggressively opposed by the WSMA and a large coalition of national and state partners due to its substantial expansion of clinician liability and the potential chilling effect on patient care.
</p>
<p>
As noted in the draft, the Bree Collaborative is concerned about setting actionable recommendations in light of the standards set out in Volk, and suggests that even with these recommendations, legislative action is needed to address the questions raised by Volk (recommendations to the Legislature are included in the draft).
</p>
<p>
Download and review the <a href="http://www.breecollaborative.org/wp-content/uploads/Bree-Risk-Violence-Others-DRAFT-19-1101.pdf" target="_blank"> Bree Collaborative's 'Risk of Violence to Others" recommendations</a>. To provide feedback, take the following <a href="http://www.surveymonkey.com/r/risk-violence-others"> brief online survey</a>. The deadline for feedback is 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 27.
</p>
<p>
Once final, Bree Collaborative recommendations provide guidance for clinicians seeking to engage patients in shared decision-making and help guide state purchasing for Medicaid and public employees. For more information, visit the <a href="http://www.breecollaborative.org/topic-areas/current-topics/risk-of-violence/"> Bree Collaborative website</a> or contact Ginny Weir at <a href="mailto:gweir@qualityhealth.org">gweir@qualityhealth.org</a> or 206.204.7377.
</p>
</div> | 11/26/2019 10:40:32 AM | 11/27/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| take_action_no_b_and_o_tax_increase_on_health_care | TAKE ACTION: No B&O Tax Increase on Health Care! | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2019/November/take_action_no_b_and_o_tax_increase_on_health_care | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Advocacy/NoToBO-Graphic-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="No to B&amp;O graphic" /></div>
<h5>November 19, 2019</h5>
<h2>TAKE ACTION: No B&amp;O Tax Increase on Health Care!</h2>
<p>
State lawmakers are gathering this week in preparation for the 2020 legislative session, which begins in January. During session, lawmakers will have an opportunity to make adjustments to policy passed in 2019 - including a 20% business and occupation tax increase on health care that goes into effect on Jan. 1 and that will cost the physician community an estimated $50 million over the next two years.
</p>
<p>
The WSMA is adamantly opposed to the B&amp;O tax increase on health care, which will:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Limit access to care for patients, particularly those covered by Medicaid.</li>
<li>Disproportionately harm private practices and independent medical clinics—about a third or more of our state's physicians.</li>
<li>Put a strain on many practices' ability to remain economically viable and competitive.</li>
<li>Increase the burden on our state's emergency departments, increasing health care costs for everyone.</li>
<li>Result in a loss of jobs, since independent practices run on tight margins.</li>
<li>Impact the ability of practices to invest in innovations that improve patient care.</li>
</ul>
<p>
<strong>Contact your state senator and representatives today and urge them to exempt health care from this unfair tax surcharge when they return to work in 2020.</strong> Let them know how the B&amp;O tax increase will impact your practice and burden the health care system in Washington—hearing personal appeals and stories from constituents can make a difference, so please act today!
</p>
<p><a href="https://takeaction.wsma.org/no-bo-tax-increase-on-health-care/">Click here to take action</a>.</p>
</div> | 11/19/2019 11:18:51 AM | 11/19/2019 12:00:00 AM |