| change_the_outcome_ama_and_cdc_launch_new_diabetes_effort | Change the Outcome: AMA and CDC Launch New Diabetes Effort | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/November_24/change_the_outcome_ama_and_cdc_launch_new_diabetes_effort | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/November/prediabetes-psa-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="“Do I Have Prediabetes†campaign ad" /></div>
<h5>November 24, 2021</h5>
<h2>Change the Outcome: AMA and CDC Launch New Diabetes Effort</h2>
<p>November is National Diabetes Awareness Month, and on Nov. 4, the American Medical Association and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in collaboration with the Ad Council, launched a timely new suite of public service advertisements under the theme of "Change the Outcome." There is a companion <a href="https://prediabetes.adcouncilkit.org/">toolkit</a> for organizations that want to leverage the multimedia campaign.</p>
<p><strong>New PSA assets</strong></p>
<p>An evolution of the national "Do I Have Prediabetes" campaign, which has helped over 3.7 million people learn their risk for prediabetes since 2016, the new "Change the Outcome" PSAs focus on the importance of early prediabetes diagnosis in partnership with your doctor.</p>
<p>By comparing highly unlikely scenarios, like being attacked by a shark or getting struck by lightning, to the risk of prediabetes, the new PSAs highlight that many things in life are unknown or irreversible, but if caught early, prediabetes does not have to be one of them.</p>
<p>Available in English and Spanish, the new creative assets encourage Hispanic and Black adults ages 40 and up to visit <a href="https://doihaveprediabetes.org/">DoIHavePrediabetes.org</a> (<a href="https://podriatenerprediabetes.org/">PodriaTenerPrediabetes.org</a> in Spanish) where they can take a one-minute risk test to know where they stand, then share their results with their doctor to help support early diagnosis and prevention of type 2 diabetes.</p>
<p><strong>Why now</strong></p>
<p>This campaign is more timely than ever, given the growing number of U.S. adults with type 2 diabetes. Through this critical effort, the AMA, CDC, and Ad Council aim to help improve health outcomes for the more than 1 in 3 U.S. adults with prediabetes, 84% of which don't know they have it.</p>
<p><strong>PSA assets</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://youtu.be/Via2m-xZ-to__;!!AI0rnoUB!vJMcfKTivRwxQJcbeNsuPMmssD-fdHR41QoashGsxZknO4Nv5q999w-GZM2SfTIuRIVl$">Change the Outcome :15 | Type 2 Diabetes Prevention</a></p>
<p><a href="https://youtu.be/Ob9Y5C8KLMI__;!!AI0rnoUB!vJMcfKTivRwxQJcbeNsuPMmssD-fdHR41QoashGsxZknO4Nv5q999w-GZM2SfW8iyXJv$">Change the Outcome :30 | Type 2 Diabetes Prevention</a></p>
<p><a href="https://youtu.be/-bxJAckvR5g__;!!AI0rnoUB!vJMcfKTivRwxQJcbeNsuPMmssD-fdHR41QoashGsxZknO4Nv5q999w-GZM2SfSChRfvA$">Cambiar el resultado :15 | Type 2 Diabetes Prevention </a></p>
<p><a href="https://youtu.be/paFvCsfnWAo__;!!AI0rnoUB!vJMcfKTivRwxQJcbeNsuPMmssD-fdHR41QoashGsxZknO4Nv5q999w-GZM2SfVCclFm6$">Cambiar el resultado :30 | Type 2 Diabetes Prevention</a></p>
</div> | 11/23/2021 12:53:09 PM | 11/18/2021 4:25:42 PM | 11/24/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| provider_relief_fund_reporting_grace_period_ends_nov_30 | Provider Relief Fund Reporting Grace Period Ends Nov. 30 | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/November_24/provider_relief_fund_reporting_grace_period_ends_nov_30 | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/November/physician-money-illustration-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="physician money illustration" /></div>
<h5>November 24, 2021</h5>
<h2>Provider Relief Fund Reporting Grace Period Ends Nov. 30</h2>
<p>The 60-day grace period for the Provider Relief Fund Reporting Period 1 ends Nov. 30. Non-compliant physicians and providers still have time to complete their reporting requirements by submitting their report at the reporting portal by Nov. 30. Physicians who fail to meet this deadline will be required to return their Provider Relief Fund payments by Dec. 30.</p>
<p>By keeping your PRF payment, you attested to <a href="https://www.hrsa.gov/provider-relief/past-payments/terms-conditions">terms and conditions</a> which includes a requirement to report on the use of the payment to comply with the legal requirements of the CARES Act, which establishes that recipients of PRF payment must submit reports and maintain relevant documentation. </p>
<h3>What happens if I don't meet the Nov. 30 deadline? </h3>
<p>Non-compliant physicians and providers who fail to submit a completed report by the end of the 60-day grace period will be subject to further enforcement actions such as repayment or exclusion from receiving or retaining future PRF payments, including any applicable Phase 4/ARP rural payments.</p>
<h3>Next steps</h3>
<p>Physicians with outstanding reporting requirements should go to the <a href="https://prfreporting.hrsa.gov/">PRF reporting portal</a> and submit their report on use of funds no later than Nov. 30 at 11:59 pm ET, at which point you will be deemed in compliance with the reporting requirement.</p>
<p>After submitting your report, your organization should return any unused funds by Dec. 30, 2021. For more information on returning all or a portion of your payments via ACH or check, visit the <a href="https://prfreporting.hrsa.gov/">PRF reporting portal</a> or refer to the new <a href="https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/provider-relief/returning-funds-fact-sheet.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">returning funds fact sheet</a> for more details and instructions on returning funds to HRSA. </p>
<h3>Where can I find my payment information?</h3>
<p>Please check your banking records or ask your accountant. If you received your PRF payment by automated clearing house deposit, the addenda description will include *HHS.GOV*866-569-3522. The ACH settlement date is the day of the deposit. If you received and deposited a paper check, you will need the exact payment amount and the check number to register in the reporting portal.</p>
<h3>More information</h3>
<p>Several resources are also available to assist with submitting a report, including:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/provider-relief/prf-lost-revenues-guide.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Lost revenues guide</a> </li>
<li>Learn the purpose of <a href="https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/provider-relief/patient-metrics-fact-sheet.pdf?">patient metrics</a> and how they help to measure the impact of PRF funds on various provider types</li>
<li>Understand <a href="https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/provider-relief/independent-audit-requirement-fact-sheet.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">audit requirements</a> for federal, non-federal, and commercial organizations</li>
<li>Learn what a parent organization is and how to complete <a href="https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/provider-relief/prf-parent-subsidiary-reporting-fact-sheet.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">parent subsidiary reporting</a></li>
</ul>
<p>For questions on reporting or how to return unused funds, you may call 866.569.3522, for TTY dial 711. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday.</p>
</div> | 11/23/2021 1:27:51 PM | 11/23/2021 1:27:27 PM | 11/24/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| washington_medical_commission_accepting_applications_for_vacant_seats | Washington Medical Commission Accepting Applications for Vacant Seats | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/November_24/washington_medical_commission_accepting_applications_for_vacant_seats | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/November/rod-of-asclepius-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Rod of Asclepius" /></div>
<h5>November 24, 2021</h5>
<h2>Washington Medical Commission Accepting Applications for Vacant Seats </h2>
<p>The Washington Medical Commission is currently accepting applications to fill upcoming vacancies. The commission helps make sure physicians and physician assistants are competent and provide quality medical care. The commission is looking for people willing to study the issues and make decisions in the best interest of the public. Member selection reflects the diversity of the profession and provides representation throughout the state.</p>
<p>On July 1, 2022 the commission will have openings for the following positions:</p>
<ul>
<li>One physician representing Congressional District 3 </li>
<li>One physician representing Congressional District 5 </li>
<li>One physician representing Congressional District 9 </li>
<li>One physician-at-large </li>
<li>One physician assistant </li>
<li>Three public members </li>
</ul>
<p>To determine what congressional district you live in, you may visit the <a href="https://www.house.gov/">U.S. House of Representatives webpage</a> and enter your ZIP code. Applications are due to the commission on Friday, March 25<strong>.&nbsp;</strong>For additional information on the commission's application process, see the official <a href="https://wmc.wa.gov/sites/default/files/public/Notice%20of%20Recruitment%202022.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">recruitment notice</a>.</p>
</div> | 11/23/2021 2:16:47 PM | 11/18/2021 4:25:39 PM | 11/24/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| american_medical_association_telehealth_use_survey | American Medical Association Telehealth Use Survey | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/November_12/american_medical_association_telehealth_use_survey | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/November/pediatric-telemedicine-visit-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="pediatric telemedicine appointment via laptop" /></div>
<h5>November 12, 2021</h5>
<h2>American Medical Association Telehealth Use Survey</h2>
<p>The American Medical Association is conducting a survey to assess the current landscape and use of telehealth among physicians and other health care practitioners. Survey results will help inform future telehealth research and advocacy, resource development, and continued support for physicians, practices, and health systems. The survey will close on Dec. 31, 2021, at 8:59 p.m. <a href="https://survey.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4ISlXX4EEtNtIoe">Take a moment and fill out the survey</a>.</p>
<p>The WSMA is supporting the AMA's Telehealth Immersion Program, which leverages EHR-integrated telehealth tools to support improved patient, physician, and care team experience with virtual care. Find out what it's all about and take advantage of AMA's powerful resources and advocacy in the telehealth space during a Telehealth Immersion Program mini-boot camp from 2-4 p.m. on Dec. 7. <a href="https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJUofuuqrDkjHNZd6Wy2ovQ6te1VqA3n0aGa">Register online for the free session</a>.</p>
</div> | 11/11/2021 12:20:51 PM | 11/8/2021 3:40:45 PM | 11/12/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| covid_19_vaccine_for_children_resources_for_physicians_and_practices | COVID-19 Vaccine for Children: Resources for Physicians and Practices | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/November_12/covid_19_vaccine_for_children_resources_for_physicians_and_practices | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/November/boy-with-mask-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="boy wearing mask" /></div>
<h5>November 12, 2021</h5>
<h2>COVID-19 Vaccine for Children: Resources for Physicians and Practices</h2>
<p>Last week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices and the Western States Scientific Safety Review Workgroup voted unanimously to recommend the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for ages 5 to 11. This is a much-anticipated step in our state's efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19.</p>
<p>The following are resources to help you and your practice or organization protect kids with the COVID-19 vaccine.</p>
<h3>Guidelines for physicians and providers</h3>
<ol>
<li>If your practice or facility has Pfizer pediatric COVID-19 vaccine in stock, you may begin administering it to children ages 5 to 11. The pediatric formulation is different than the existing formulation. You cannot give the formulation approved for adolescents and adults to anyone age 11 and under.</li>
<li>Review the Washington State Department of Health's <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Emergencies/COVID19/HealthcareProviders/VaccineInformationforHealthcareProviders/ToolkitandResources#VaccineAges5to11">pediatric COVID-19 vaccine guidance</a>. It has helpful tips like how to easily schedule second-dose appointments, making the clinic accessible to parents, and more.</li>
</ol>
<h3>Toolkits, flyer</h3>
<p>The Washington State Department of Health offers toolkits to help you communicate about the vaccine to parents and guardians.</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/1600/coronavirus/825-013-PediatricVaccine-Flyer.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">What Parents/Guardians Should Know about Pediatric COVID-19 Vaccine (PDF)</a></li>
<li><a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2021/825-011-pediatricvaccine-providertoolkit.pptx]">COVID-19 Vaccines: Pediatric Vaccine Toolkit for Providers</a> (PowerPoint)</li>
<li><a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2021/825-012-pediatricvaccine-schooltoolkit.pptx]">COVID-19 Vaccines: Pediatric Vaccine Toolkit for Schools</a> (PowerPoint)</li>
</ul>
<p>The toolkits and flyer are posted <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Emergencies/COVID19/HealthcareProviders/VaccineInformationforHealthcareProviders/ToolkitandResources#heading65952">online</a>. The flyer is also posted on the DOH <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Emergencies/COVID19/ResourcesandRecommendations#vaccines">resources/recommendations</a> page.</p>
<h3>Pediatric-focused webpages</h3>
<p>You also can find information about vaccinating kids ages 5-17 on DOH's two Vaccinating Youth pages:</p>
<ul>
<li>Page for parents, guardians, and the public: <a href="http://vaccinatewa.org/kids">VaccinateWA.org/kids</a> (or look for the skateboarding tile on <a href="http://www.covidvaccinewa.org/">CovidVaccineWA.org</a>).</li>
<li><a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Emergencies/COVID19/HealthcareProviders/VaccineInformationforHealthcareProviders/VaccinatingYouth">"Vaccinating Youth" page for health care professionals</a> (or look for the skateboarding tile on <a href="http://www.doh.wa.gov/Covid19VaccineProvider">doh.wa.gov/Covid19VaccineProvider</a>).</li>
</ul>
<h3>Other resources</h3>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://shops3.directedje.com/VaccinateWA/login.asp">Order free stickers and buttons</a>, including kid-friendly and teen-friendly designs.</li>
<li>Sign up for the Power of Providers initiative at <a href="http://www.doh.wa.gov/POP">doh.wa.gov/POP</a> for free resources, such as conversation guides.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What you should know about COVID-19 vaccine for kids</h3>
<ul>
<li>Data showed that COVID-19 vaccines for ages 5 to 11 are not only effective, but safe, and adverse events are rare.</li>
<li>Initially the COVID-19 vaccine for children may be limited as supply builds. Supply is expected to level off and reach a consistent cadence within a few weeks.</li>
<li>The pediatric vaccine (orange cap) has the same ingredients as the adolescent/adult version (purple or gray caps), but it's one-third of the dosage. This vaccine needs diluent, which will be provided with the ancillary supplies.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>We know vaccination is the best protection available and want to be sure all children in Washington state can be served. While we recognize not all parents or guardians may choose vaccination immediately, we'll work with health care providers, community partners, schools, and other partners to support parents in their decision-making.</li>
<li>Families can use <a href="https://vaccinelocator.doh.wa.gov/">Vaccine Locator</a> to filter only locations offering pediatric vaccine.</li>
</ul>
<h3>More information</h3>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/planning/children.html">CDC's COVID-19 vaccination for children 5-11 years old</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-authorizes-pfizer-biontech-covid-19-vaccine-emergency-use-children-5-through-11-years-age">FDA's news release on Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine emergency use authorization for children 5-11 years old</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2021/s1102-PediatricCOVID-19Vaccine.html">CDC's news release on pediatric COVID-19 vaccine for children 5-11 years old</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/WesternStatesScientificSafetyReviewWorkgroupEUAPfizerVax5-1YO.pdf?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=govdelivery">Western States Scientific Safety Review Workgroup letter on Pfizer-BioNTech emergency use authorization for 5-11 years old</a></li>
</ul>
</div> | 11/11/2021 12:12:54 PM | 11/8/2021 3:40:52 PM | 11/12/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| oics_new_draft_balance_billing_legislation_a_step_backward | OIC's New Draft Balance Billing Legislation a Step Backward | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/November_12/oics_new_draft_balance_billing_legislation_a_step_backward | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="billing invoice" src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/November/billing-invoice-645x425.jpg" class="pull-right" /></div>
<h5>November 12, 2021</h5>
<h2>OIC's New Draft Balance Billing Legislation a Step Backward</h2>
<p>As anticipated, the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner has shared 2022 balance billing draft legislation intended to align the state and federal laws. Public feedback is now being sought on the bill, which represents a concerning step backward after WSMA's sustained advocacy to create a fair and balanced process in Washington state.</p>
<h3>Carriers will have more leverage under proposal</h3>
<p>The OIC is proposing to move away from Washington state's arbitration system and require physicians and facilities to utilize the federal independent dispute resolution system for disputes pertaining to emergency and ancillary health care services. The WSMA is disappointed with this development as the federal IDR system has not been established yet and has not proven to be effective, unlike the state system which has been up and running since 2020 and is generally working as designed.</p>
<p>As a reminder, federal agencies have been working on rulemakings to implement the federal No Surprises Act, which took a turn recently when the <a href="https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/what-you-need-know-about-biden-harris-administrations-actions-prevent-surprise-billing-september">latest set of rules</a> dramatically favored insurance carriers, potentially skewing the impact of the law on physicians and shifting even more leverage and profits to insurers.</p>
<p>This marks a key difference between the federal No Surprises Act and Washington state's Balance Billing Protection Act. Federal law will now defer to carriers to set initial payment rates and arbitrators will now assume the insurer's payment is appropriate.</p>
<h3>How to submit feedback to OIC</h3>
<p>For more information, you may review the OIC <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTExMDIuNDgyNzYyMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pbnN1cmFuY2Uud2EuZ292L21lZGlhLzEwNDg1P3V0bV9jb250ZW50PSZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9uYW1lPSZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5JnV0bV90ZXJtPSJ9.Ran-2K-ssmtoF1pvyxuiqIFe4Tl-Mzlw6vVuYCsGt_I/s/623777534/br/116404392382-l">proposed legislation</a>, a <a href="https://www.insurance.wa.gov/sites/default/files/documents/nsa-bbpa-request-%20legislation-%20table.pdf?utm_content=&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_name=&amp;utm_source=govdelivery&amp;utm_term=">summary table</a>, and an <a href="https://www.insurance.wa.gov/sites/default/files/documents/oic-fact-sheet-bbpa-nsa_0.pdf?utm_content=&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_name=&amp;utm_source=govdelivery&amp;utm_term=">issue brief</a>. The deadline to submit feedback to the OIC on the proposed draft legislation is Tuesday, Nov. 16 and can be submitted to <a href="mailto:rulescoordinator@oic.wa.gov">rulescoordinator@oic.wa.gov</a>. The WSMA is engaging with stakeholders and compiling feedback to share with the OIC.</p>
</div> | 11/11/2021 1:00:32 PM | 11/11/2021 1:00:00 PM | 11/12/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| wampac_launches_2021_22_election_cycle_campaign_mailer | WAMPAC Launches 2021-22 Election Cycle Campaign Mailer | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/November_12/wampac_launches_2021_22_election_cycle_campaign_mailer | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/November/stethoscope-ballotbox-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="stethoscope ballot box illustration" /></div>
<h5>November 12, 2021</h5>
<h2>WAMPAC Launches 2021-22 Election Cycle Campaign Mailer </h2>
<p>Next year's election has WAMPAC's attention and there's a lot at stake. To help prepare and ensure we have the resources we need to be relevant, WAMPAC launched a 2021-22 mailer, which has been sent to all WSMA members to raise funds for WAMPAC's campaign efforts. Every election cycle WAMPAC works to create and maintain lasting relationships with policymakers on the campaign trail whose priorities align with the house of medicine. This hard work translates into policy victories that make a difference for physicians and patients.</p>
<p>WAMPAC contributions are always welcome in any amount, and there are various contribution levels. A little support goes a long way, and a contribution of any size helps WAMPAC's efforts to stay relevant compared to the PACs of other professions. You may contribute $100, or any amount, to WAMPAC by visiting this <a href="[@]WSMA/Advocacy/WAMPAC/WSMA/Advocacy/WAMPAC/WAMPAC.aspx?hkey=269c3c03-cf72-4568-be5b-7893557300a7">webpage</a>. Alternatively, you may choose to join WAMPAC's <a href="[@]WSMA/Advocacy/WAMPAC/Give_to_WAMPAC.aspx">Diamond Club membership program</a>, which will earn you recognition, special election updates, and opportunities to connect with elected officials.</p>
<p>More details are in our <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2021/2021-wampac-campaign-mailer.pdf]">campaign mailer</a>. We welcome you to share this information with others who may not be on WSMA's mailing list.</p>
</div> | 11/11/2021 2:13:55 PM | 11/11/2021 12:40:00 PM | 11/12/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_submits_concerns_to_health_care_cost_transparency_board | WSMA Submits Concerns to Health Care Cost Transparency Board | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/November_12/wsma_submits_concerns_to_health_care_cost_transparency_board | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/November/stethoscope-dollar-sign-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="stethoscope dollar sign illustration" /></div>
<h5>November 12, 2021</h5>
<h2>WSMA Submits Concerns to Health Care Cost Transparency Board</h2>
<p>In 2020, <a href="https://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/biennium/2019-20/Pdf/Bills/Session%20Laws/House/2457-S2.SL.pdf?q=20200727153325">House Bill 2457</a> established a health care cost transparency board at the state level tasked with annually calculating total health care expenditures, health care cost growth, establishing benchmarks for health care spending, and making recommendations to the Legislature around lowering health care costs. The board recently advanced its work by releasing its benchmarks and a timeline for meeting them.</p>
<h3>Unrealistic expectations and unintended consequences</h3>
<p>Seeking to be an engaged and constructive partner in this important work, the WSMA submitted the attached comment letter to the board, sharing concerns with the final benchmark decision with respect to COVID-19's financial impact on the current health care market. The WSMA also expressed concerns over the potential negative impact this benchmark will have on small and rural practices, and other unintended consequences. Review our <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2021/wsma-comment-hcctb-10142021.pdf]">comment letter</a>. For background on the board and the WSMA's concerns in more detail, visit our <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/October_8/input_needed_on_health_care_cost_transparency_board_benchmarks">Health Care Cost Transparency webpage</a>.</p>
<h3>Help us help you: Your perspective needed</h3>
<p>Due to our concerns around this work to date, we need to hear from you now to make sure the state understands the perspective of all practice types and specialties that are potentially subject to the benchmark.</p>
<p>Real world examples are very helpful. For example, what actions would you need to take at your practice to come in under the 3.2% growth benchmark in 2022? What steps would you need to take to ensure your costs do not exceed 2.8% in 2026?</p>
<p>Send us your feedback at <a href="mailto:policy@wsma.org">policy@wsma.org</a>.</p>
</div> | 11/11/2021 12:51:20 PM | 11/11/2021 12:50:58 PM | 11/12/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| access_to_care_and_administrative_burden_identified_by_members_as_top_advocacy_issues | Access to Care and Administrative Burden Identified by Members as Top Advocacy Issues | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/October_22/access_to_care_and_administrative_burden_identified_by_members_as_top_advocacy_issues | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/October/state-capitol-olympia-2015-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Capitol building in Olympia Washington" /></div>
<h5>October 22, 2021</h5>
<h2>Access to Care and Administrative Burden Identified by Members as Top Advocacy Issues</h2>
<p>More than 100 physicians and physician assistants provided robust feedback in our recent advocacy survey, where we asked members to identify issue areas important to them and their ability to practice medicine and operate practices. Your feedback has already begun guiding us in identifying top legislative priorities and emerging issues as we look ahead to the 2022 legislative session.</p>
<p>Below are a few key highlights from your feedback: </p>
<ul>
<li>Asked to list their top three issue areas for legislative advocacy, respondents chose: access to care and health care reform (43%), administrative burden (42%), and mental/behavioral health (32%). </li>
<li>Out of 121 participant responses, 92% reported that prior authorization is an issue relevant to them and 67% reported that the impact of prior authorization requirements on their organization have increased and become more burdensome in recent years.</li>
<li>A solid majority of respondents treat patients via audio-visual telemedicine (84%) and audio-only telemedicine (73%). Only 9% of respondents expect fewer services to be delivered via telemedicine in the next year, and most were pleased with the current policy landscape for telemedicine, though many noted the importance of continuing coverage and payment policies permanently. </li>
</ul>
<p>For a more detailed look at the survey results, <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2021/advocacy-survey-2021-results-wsma.pdf]">click here</a>. Thanks to our members who took time out of their day to share their thoughts. Member experiences and perspectives drive the work we do at the WSMA. If you have any questions or comments about the survey, reach out to WSMA Government Affairs and Policy Coordinator Shelby Wiedmann at <a href="mailto:shelby@wsma.org">shelby@wsma.org.</a> </p>
</div> | 10/21/2021 2:36:58 PM | 10/21/2021 2:36:36 PM | 10/22/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| exemption_eligibility_requirements_for_pmp_ehr_integration_mandate | Exemption Eligibility Requirements for PMP-EHR Integration Mandate | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/October_22/exemption_eligibility_requirements_for_pmp_ehr_integration_mandate | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/October/stock-image-2018-hands-and-computer-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="physician working at a laptop computer" /></div>
<h5>October 22, 2021</h5>
<h2>Exemption Eligibility Requirements for PMP-EHR Integration Mandate</h2>
<p>During negotiations around opioid-epidemic legislation <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5380&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2019">Senate Bill 5380</a> from 2019, the WSMA successfully secured a hardship waiver for practices facing economic or other difficulties to exempt them from the requirement to integrate their electronic health record with the state's prescription monitoring program by Jan. 1 (applicable to practices with 10 or more prescribers). The Washington State Department of Health has now <a href="https://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/law/wsr/2021/19/21-19-018.htm">finalized rulemaking</a> around the process.</p>
<p>The new DOH rule establishes hardship waiver eligibility requirements for practices unable to comply with the mandate due to circumstances including:</p>
<ul>
<li>Economic hardship</li>
<li>Technological limitations outside the control of the practice</li>
<li>Other exceptional circumstances</li>
<li>Unforeseen circumstances, such as widespread health care emergencies</li>
</ul>
<p>For details, <a href="https://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/law/wsr/2021/19/21-19-018.htm">review the final rule</a>. The WSMA is waiting on a response from the DOH regarding when and how practices may submit hardship waivers. We will keep you apprised of developments.</p>
</div> | 10/21/2021 2:20:40 PM | 10/21/2021 2:06:59 PM | 10/22/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| provider_relief_fund_application_closing_soon | Provider Relief Fund Application Closing Soon | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/October_22/provider_relief_fund_application_closing_soon | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/October/physician-money-illustration-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="illustrated physician and dollar sign arrow" /></div>
<h5>October 22, 2021</h5>
<h2>Provider Relief Fund Application Closing Soon</h2>
<p>The Biden administration recently announced it will <a href="https://www.hrsa.gov/provider-relief/future-payments">release the remaining $25 billion</a> of the $185 billion that was deposited into the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Provider Relief Fund to assist physician practices during the COVID-19 pandemic. Seventeen billion will go to physicians and providers, with an additional $8.5 billion to rural physicians and providers. The application is still open for <a href="https://www.hrsa.gov/provider-relief/future-payments">Provider Relief Fund (PRF) Phase 4 and American Rescue Plan (ARP) Rural payments</a>, but only until Oct. 26.</p>
<p>PRF Phase 4 is open to a broad range of physicians and health care providers who have been impacted by the pandemic. ARP Rural is open to Medicare, Medicaid, or Children's Health Insurance Program physicians who serve rural patients. You can <a href="https://cares.linkhealth.com/#/">apply here</a>. Applications must be submitted by Oct. 26, 2021 at 11:59 p.m. ET. Visit <a href="http://hrsa.gov/provider-relief">hrsa.gov/provider-relief</a> for more information including application resources and technical assistance webinars that offer guidance on the application process and portal.</p>
</div> | 10/21/2021 4:07:22 PM | 10/21/2021 2:49:22 PM | 10/22/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| share_your_workforce_issues_with_the_washingtons_health_workforce_sentinel_network | Share Your Workforce Issues with the Washington's Health Workforce Sentinel Network | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/October_22/share_your_workforce_issues_with_the_washingtons_health_workforce_sentinel_network | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/October/doc-child-mom-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Child getting medical exam by doctor" /></div>
<h5>October 22, 2021</h5>
<h2>Share Your Workforce Issues with the Washington's Health Workforce Sentinel Network </h2>
<p>Do you have enough health care workers with the skills you and your patients need? Has the pandemic's resurgence impacted your ability to provide health care in your corner of the state? Add your voice to the Sentinel Network to help workforce planners understand the health workforce needs in Washington state and craft relevant and appropriate solutions.</p>
<p>Take the Sentinel's latest survey <a href="https://uwfamilymedicine.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bCUvhGGN0726IEC">online</a>. The survey takes about 15 minutes and can be completed by a staff person at your practice or organization. Details you provide, including recruitment challenges, are confidential so you can share freely and securely.</p>
<p>The Sentinel Network is an initiative of Washington's Health Workforce Council, conducted collaboratively by Washington's Workforce Board and the University of Washington's Center for Health Workforce Studies. Funding to initiate the Sentinel Network came from the Healthier Washington initiative, with ongoing support from Gov. Jay Inslee's office. Visit the <a href="https://wa.sentinelnetwork.org/findings/">Washington's Health Workforce Sentinel Network website</a> to learn more about the network and access previous survey findings. Email <a href="mailto:healthworkforce@wasentinelnetwork.org">healthworkforce@wasentinelnetwork.org</a> with questions.</p>
</div> | 10/21/2021 2:23:44 PM | 10/21/2021 2:07:06 PM | 10/22/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| tell_congress_to_cancel_medicare_cuts | Tell Congress to Cancel Medicare Cuts! | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/October_22/tell_congress_to_cancel_medicare_cuts | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/September/medicare-barcode-645px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Medicare barcode illsutration" /></div>
<h5>October 22, 2021</h5>
<h2>Tell Congress to Cancel Medicare Cuts! </h2>
<p>In what amounts to a "perfect storm" of payment cuts going into effect on Jan. 1, physician practices face the following stack of Medicare financial hits amounting to a 9.75% cut. These include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Expiration of the current reprieve from the repeatedly extended 2% sequester stemming from the Budget Control Act of 2011. Congress originally scheduled this policy to sunset in 2021 but it will now continue into 2030.</li>
<li>Imposition of a 4% Statutory PAYGO sequester resulting from passage of the American Rescue Plan Act. Should lawmakers fail to act, it will mark the first time that Congress has failed to waive Statutory PAYGO.</li>
<li>Expiration of the congressionally enacted 3.75% temporary increase in the Medicare physician fee schedule (PFS) conversion factor to avoid payment cuts associated with budget neutrality adjustments tied to PFS policy changes.</li>
<li>A statutory freeze in annual Medicare PFS updates under the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act (MACRA) that is scheduled to last until 2026, when updates resume at a rate of 0.25% a year indefinitely, a figure well below the rate of medical or consumer price index inflation.</li>
</ul>
<p>These cuts, if allowed to go into effect, would lead to fewer primary care providers, limited access to specialists, a disruption in care, and additional barriers to life-saving treatment.</p>
<p>Now is the time to build on that momentum and demand that Congress take action to address these devastating Medicare cuts before it's too late. Please take a moment and <a href="https://physiciansgrassrootsnetwork.org/be-heard?vvsrc=%2fCampaigns%2f89064%2fRespond%3fvvcgUT%3dU2n8B9gDicI8Np0q9ql0_w%26unregistered%3dU2n8B9gDicI8Np0q9ql0_w%26vvcgRD%3dB9JMB6NAWfyggPQP%26vvsbr%3dzXUBtzqqnUZO0Xd9TjP4iQ">contact your senators and representative to tell them to cancel the cuts</a>.</p>
</div> | 10/21/2021 2:24:57 PM | 10/21/2021 2:06:57 PM | 10/22/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_calls_on_all_health_professions_to_condemn_covid_19_misinformation | WSMA Calls on All Health Professions to Condemn COVID-19 Misinformation | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/October_22/wsma_calls_on_all_health_professions_to_condemn_covid_19_misinformation | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/October/rod-of-asclepius-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Rod Of Asclepius" /></div>
<h5>October 22, 2021</h5>
<h2>WSMA Calls on All Health Professions to Condemn COVID-19 Misinformation</h2>
<p>Endorsing the Washington Medical Commission <a href="https://sharpepr.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=f8871e6faa510d5f0c8cd8709&amp;id=e28c2e7d30&amp;e=00bec3e7c9">COVID-19 misinformation position statement</a>, the WSMA has called on all health care professions to condemn the spread of COVID-19 misinformation and disinformation that erode public trust in the medical profession and endanger patients.</p>
<p>In a press release, WSMA President Mika Sinanan, MD, PhD, said, "Any health care provider, whether a physician, dentist, naturopath, or nurse, whose treatment for their patients, whether for COVID-19 or another condition, is based on misinformation or disinformation are putting the public at risk. It is unethical, unprofessional, and dangerous.</p>
<p>"The public puts its trust in our opinions as health care professionals. As physicians, our patients put their lives in our hands. We cannot compromise this trust by touting treatment options that are scientifically unproven or shown to be ineffective and dangerous."</p>
<p>Read the full release on the <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2021/washington_state_medical_association_calls_on_health_professions_to_condemn_covid_19_misinformation">WSMA website</a>.</p>
</div> | 10/21/2021 2:50:18 PM | 10/21/2021 2:49:56 PM | 10/22/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| 2021_house_of_delegates_concludes_with_new_policies_and_leadership | 2021 House of Delegates Concludes with New Policies and Leadership | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/October_8/2021_house_of_delegates_concludes_with_new_policies_and_leadership | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/October/sinanan-inaugural-speech-no-button-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA President Mika Sinanan, MD, PhD" /></div>
<h5>October 8, 2021</h5>
<h2>2021 House of Delegates Concludes with New Policies and Leadership</h2>
<p>More than 150 physician, resident, medical student, and physician assistant delegates, representing the full spectrum of organized medicine, met virtually this September for the 2021 Annual Meeting of the WSMA House of Delegates. The delegates determined policy, elected WSMA leaders, and conducted the business of your state medical association.</p>
<h3>New policies and directives adopted</h3>
<p>This year's meeting saw many new policies and directives adopted by delegates. Visit our <a href="[@]WSMA/About_Us/Leadership/House_of_Delegates/WSMA/About/Leadership/House_of_Delegates/House_of_Delegates.aspx?hkey=e2c50002-384d-4ff7-9116-5ce7a51116e7">House of Delegates page</a> to download and review The Official Actions of the 2021 House of Delegates. Check back on that page for a monthly update on the WSMA's progress implementing the actions of the House.</p>
<h3>2021-22 WSMA president inaugurated</h3>
<p>Mika Sinanan, MD, PhD, of Hoodsport was inaugurated as the 2021-22 WSMA president. Dr. Sinanan is a general surgeon at University of Washington Medical Center - Montlake in Seattle, the medical director for contracting and value-based specialty care at UW Medical Center, and a professor of surgery at the UW School of Medicine. Dr. Sinanan celebrated the art of medicine in his inaugural address as WSMA president during the meeting. Watch a <a href="[@]WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/Annual_Meeting.aspx?hkey=fea49254-3815-4dc9-8710-53ff2e3a100f">video</a>&nbsp;of his virtual address (or <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2021/weekly_rounds_september_30_2021_what_makes_us_physicians">read a transcript</a>).</p>
<h3>New officers elected</h3>
<p>Delegates adopted a new slate of officers and trustees, including Katina Rue, DO, Yakima family physician, president-elect; Nariman Heshmati, MD, Mukilteo OB-GYN, vice president; and John Bramhall, MD, PhD, Seattle anesthesiologist, for a second term as secretary-treasurer. The fifth officer of WSMA's executive committee is past-president Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD, MBA, Tacoma emergency physician, who will serve as committee chair. Newly elected to the board are Alan Urbina-Alvarez, MD, Lakewood gastroenterologist and Reilly Bealer, Spokane medical student. WSMA members elected to new board positions include Alexander Hamling, MD, MBA, Seattle pediatrician, trustee-at-large and Amish Dave, MD, MPH, Seattle rheumatologist, young physician trustee.</p>
<p>Visit the <a href="[@]WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/Annual_Meeting.aspx?hkey=fea49254-3815-4dc9-8710-53ff2e3a100f">meeting webpage</a> for videos of key moments of the 2021 WSMA Annual Meeting. And be sure to save the date: The 2022 WSMA Annual Meeting will take place at the Davenport Hotel in Spokane, Oct. 1-2, 2022.</p>
</div> | 10/7/2021 4:11:32 PM | 10/7/2021 4:11:10 PM | 10/8/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| federal_balance_billing_law_takes_surprise_turn_to_favor_insurers | Federal Balance Billing Law Takes Surprise Turn to Favor Insurers | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/October_8/federal_balance_billing_law_takes_surprise_turn_to_favor_insurers | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/October/billing-invoice-645x425.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="billing invoice" /></div>
<h5>October 8, 2021</h5>
<h2>Federal Balance Billing Law Takes Surprise Turn to Favor Insurers</h2>
<p>Late last year Congress passed the No Surprises Act, which bans balance billing at the federal level effective Jan. 1. The law applies to emergency care and out-of-network physicians and other practitioners treating patients at in-network facilities, generally prohibiting them from billing patients directly for care provided. Federal agencies have been working on rulemakings to implement the law, which took a turn last week when the <a href="https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/what-you-need-know-about-biden-harris-administrations-actions-prevent-surprise-billing-september">latest set of rules</a> dramatically favored insurance carriers, potentially skewing the impact of the law on physicians and shifting even more leverage and profits to insurers.</p>
<p>As passed by Congress, the federal balance billing law largely tracks with Washington state's Balance Billing Protection Act, which went into effect in 2020. In the event care is delivered by an out-of-network physician (or other practitioner) subject to the law, insurance carriers are directed to pay the physician, which the physician can contest through arbitration if the payment is insufficient. The difference between the two laws is that the federal law defers to carriers to set the initial payment rate based on their internal methodologies, and last week's rule instructs arbitrators to assume the insurer's payment is appropriate, stacking the deck against any physician who questions payment through arbitration.</p>
<p>The American Medical Association and national physician specialties were quick to criticize the rule, <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/patient-support-advocacy/how-latest-surprise-billing-rule-entrenches-health">noting in a statement</a> from AMA President Gerald Harmon, MD, that the rule "disregards the insurance industry's role in creating the problem of surprise billing at the expense of independent physician practices whose ability to negotiate provider network contracts continues to erode."</p>
<p>The Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner has indicated that it will be pursuing legislation in the 2022 session that begins in January to align elements of the state and federal laws, such as the services that are covered under state law and the calculation of patient cost-sharing. The WSMA was one of the principal negotiators of the state balance billing law-which is generally seen as one of the more physician-friendly balance billing laws across states-and will be working to ensure the negative elements of the federal law are not mirrored in state statute.</p>
</div> | 10/7/2021 12:43:53 PM | 10/4/2021 11:04:44 AM | 10/8/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| flu_resources_for_your_practice | Flu Resources for Your Practice | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/October_8/flu_resources_for_your_practice | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/October/doh-knockoutflu-bestdefense-social-3-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="DOH flu vaccine campaign" /></div>
<h5>October 8, 2021</h5>
<h2>Flu Resources for Your Practice </h2>
<p>The Washington State Department of Health has announced an updated Knock Out Flu partner toolkit is now updated for the 2021-2022 flu season.</p>
<p>The toolkit contains English and Spanish assets, such as:</p>
<ul>
<li>Sample blog posts</li>
<li>Newsletters for various audiences</li>
<li>Radio/on-hold phone script</li>
<li>Sample email reminders &amp; signatures</li>
<li>Posters</li>
<li>Customizable postcards</li>
<li>Social media graphics &amp; sample messages</li>
<li>Videos</li>
<li>Additional resources and links</li>
</ul>
<p>Practices may use and adapt this content for their channels. Feel free to add your logo or personalize the content with more specific local information. Access the toolkits by going to <a href="https://coronavirus.wa.gov/partner-toolkit/knock-out-flu">toolkits.knockoutflu.org</a>. The DOH will update the content throughout the flu season to be current with flu and COVID-19 activity.</p>
</div> | 10/7/2021 12:46:12 PM | 10/4/2021 11:04:51 AM | 10/8/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| input_needed_on_health_care_cost_transparency_board_benchmarks | Input Needed on Health Care Cost Transparency Board Benchmarks | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/October_8/input_needed_on_health_care_cost_transparency_board_benchmarks | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/October/stethoscope-dollar-sign-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Stethoscope in dollar sign shape" /></div>
<h5>October 8, 2021</h5>
<h2>Input Needed on Health Care Cost Transparency Board Benchmarks</h2>
<p>In 2020, <a href="https://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/biennium/2019-20/Pdf/Bills/Session%20Laws/House/2457-S2.SL.pdf?q=20200727153325">House Bill 2457</a> established a health care cost transparency board tasked with annually calculating total health care expenditures and health care cost growth, and establishing benchmarks for health care spending. Meeting monthly since February, the board has recently established these benchmarks-and an aggressive timeline for meeting them. Due to the troubling trajectory of this work, we need to hear from members on how these decisions may impact patient care at your practice.</p>
<h3>Quick summary of the issue</h3>
<p>To meet its goals of transparency and a reduction in the growth of costs, the health care cost transparency board will publicly identify health systems, physician practices, providers, and payers that exceed established total cost of health care benchmarks. Those benchmarks, as established by the board at its September 2021 meeting are:</p>
<ul>
<li>2022-2023: 3.2%</li>
<li>2024-2025: 3.0%</li>
<li>2026: 2.8%</li>
</ul>
<p>The board is required to review and consult with entities that exceed the benchmark before publicly identifying them. While there is no enforcement mechanism or penalty for those that exceed the benchmark, the WSMA expects the Legislature to give the board more "teeth" in future years.</p>
<h3>How you can help</h3>
<p>The WSMA is participating in an advisory capacity to the board. Due to our concerns around this work to date, we need to hear from you now to make sure the state understands the perspective of all practice types and specialties that are potentially subject to the benchmark. Real world examples are very helpful-for example, what actions would you need to take at your practice to come in under the 3.2% growth benchmark in 2022? What steps would you need to take to ensure your costs do not exceed 2.8% in 2026? Send us your feedback at <a href="mailto:policy@wsma.org">policy@wsma.org</a>. </p>
<p>For background on the board, details on its work, and details on WSMA's concerns around the benchmarks and accompanying timeline, visit our new <a href="[@]WSMA/Advocacy/health_care_cost_transparency/health_care_cost_transparency.aspx">Health Care Cost Transparency webpage</a> on the WSMA website under Advocacy.</p>
</div> | 10/7/2021 12:43:14 PM | 10/4/2021 11:04:41 AM | 10/8/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| washington_polst_best_practices_and_practical_tips_for_conversation | Washington POLST: Best Practices and Practical Tips for Conversation | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/October_8/washington_polst_best_practices_and_practical_tips_for_conversation | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/October/wa-polst-logo-fullblock-large-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="Washington POLST logo" /></div>
<h5>October 8, 2021</h5>
<h2>Washington POLST: Best Practices and Practical Tips for Conversation</h2>
<p>Join Sharmon Figenshaw, ARNP, Washington POLST Task Force co-chair and Honoring Choices<sup>®</sup> Pacific Northwest clinical advisor, for a free webinar on Friday, Oct. 22, from noon-1 p.m. on the POLST (Portable Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) form. Sharmon will outline best practices for the effective use of the form and provide communication techniques and a framework for holding goals-of-care conversations. Participants will be able to guide an individual in treatment options that match their stated goals, values, and preferences, and ultimately complete a POLST form that accurately and consistently reflects a patient's choices for end-of-life care. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Creditâ„¢</em>. Register for the webinar <a href="https://zoom.us/webinar/register/5716330360835/WN_RktSl0onStWrIfuRwCZPdA">online</a>.</p>
<h3>POLST form and patient brochure now available in 15 languages</h3>
<p>Visit <a href="[@]polst">wsma.org/POLST</a> to download the POLST form and patient education brochure in English and 14 other languages, including: Amharic, Arabic, Chinese (Simplified), Chinese (Traditional), Korean, Oromo, Punjabi, Russian, Somali, Spanish, Tagalog, Tigrinya, Ukrainian, and Vietnamese.</p>
<h3>Washington POLST Toolkit</h3>
<p>Honoring Choices® PNW recently released the <a href="https://www.honoringchoicespnw.org/polst-toolkit/">Washington POLST Toolkit</a> designed to assist health care teams identify who should be offered a POLST, how to apply clinical decision-making to know when and how to offer POLST, how to avoid pitfalls in the clinical use of POLST, and how to ensure a POLST reflects an individual's goals. This toolkit contains resource materials to explain how to use a goals-of-care conversation in conjunction with POLST to provide whole-person care and ensure individuals with serious illness receive care that is consistent with their values and goals.</p>
<p>For a video introduction to the toolkit, watch the WSMA Continuing Professional Development webinar, "The Washington POLST Clinician Toolkit: Best Practices to Ensure Person-Centered Care." This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Creditâ„¢.&nbsp;</em><a href="[@]WSMA/education/On_Demand_Webinars/washington_polst_clinician_toolkit.aspx">Watch video and claim CME credit</a>.</p>
</div> | 10/7/2021 4:12:34 PM | 10/7/2021 4:12:15 PM | 10/8/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_announces_2021_apple_award_winners | WSMA Announces 2021 Apple Award Winners | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/October_8/wsma_announces_2021_apple_award_winners | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/October/apple-awards-2021-all-glass-apples-medium-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="2021 Apple Award trophies" /></div>
<h5>October 8, 2021</h5>
<h2>WSMA Announces 2021 Apple Award Winners</h2>
<p>Seven physician members and two health care organizations received WSMA's Apple Awards for extraordinary leadership, service, and contributions to medicine and patient safety.</p>
<h3>2021 winners</h3>
<p>Chris Bundy, MD, MPH, of Seattle received the President's Unsung Hero Award, which recognizes the WSMA member who offers extraordinary service to the profession to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.</p>
<p>Yuan-Po Tu, MD, of Everett received the Community Advocate Award, which recognizes a member of the community who provides extraordinary support to, and advocacy for, the house of medicine.</p>
<p>Amish Dave, MD, MPH, of Seattle received the Early Career Member of the Year Award, which recognizes a WSMA member for their service to the association's early career members (physicians in their first 10 years of practice, resident physicians, and medical students).</p>
<p>UW Medicine-Valley Medical Center's Professional Satisfaction and Wellness Committee received the Wellness Award, which recognizes an organization that has worked to put the joy back in medicine for Washington physicians.</p>
<p>Four WSMA members received the Grassroots Advocate Award, which recognizes their advocacy efforts and activities supporting WSMA legislative priorities. They include:</p>
<p>Beth Harvey, MD, of Olympia for her advocacy on behalf of children with the Cascade Pacific Action Alliance and her instrumental support during the pandemic for the reopening of Thurston County schools; Anthony L-T Chen, MD, MPH, of Tacoma for his public health advocacy in Pierce County and support of WSMA's legislative priorities; Katina Rue, DO, of Yakima for her tireless advocacy in the Legislature in 2021 on behalf of WSMA priorities; and Leo Morales, MD, PhD, of Seattle for his efforts toward increasing the Latinx physician workforce and his advocacy on behalf of Latinx physicians and physician assistants at the WSMA.</p>
<p>This year, the William O. Robertson, MD, Patient Safety Award was given to the MultiCare Regional Cancer Center in Auburn.</p>
<p>Congratulations to our 2021 Apple Award winners! Learn more about the awards and this year's winners <a href="[@]WSMA/Membership/Awards_Program/WSMA/Membership/Awards_Program/Awards_Program.aspx?hkey=d0199dab-31de-45e7-b0b3-902ba07a209f">on the WSMA website</a>.</p>
</div> | 10/7/2021 12:49:44 PM | 10/4/2021 11:04:57 AM | 10/8/2021 12:00:00 AM |