| contribute_to_new_ama_rand_research_on_behavioral_health_integration | Contribute to New AMA-RAND Research on Behavioral Health Integration | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190313/contribute_to_new_ama_rand_research_on_behavioral_health_integration | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
March 13, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Contribute to New AMA-RAND Research on Behavioral Health Integration</h2>
<p>
The RAND Corporation and the American Medical Association are conducting research to better understand and describe how physician practices in a variety of specialties and practice arrangements have integrated behavioral health care into the range of services they offer.
</p>
<p>
If you're in independent practice or part of an IPA or health system (or other practice arrangement) and you've integrated behavioral health care in your practice, whether well-established or at an early stage, your participation in this research can help. This phone interview-based research will enable the AMA to provide physicians with training and resources needed to effectively implement and manage behavioral health care in their practices. If you're interested and available to participate, please contact Mark Friedberg, MD, MPP, RAND senior physician policy researcher, at <a href="mailto:mfriedbe@rand.org">mfriedbe@rand.org</a>.
</p>
</div> | 3/13/2019 1:11:29 PM | 3/13/2019 12:42:19 PM | 3/13/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| have_your_patient_safety_initiative_recognized_submit_for_the_2019_william_o_robertson_award | Have Your Patient Safety Initiative Recognized - Submit for the 2019 William O. Robertson Award | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190313/have_your_patient_safety_initiative_recognized_submit_for_the_2019_william_o_robertson_award | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
March 13, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Have Your Patient Safety Initiative Recognized - Submit for the 2019 William O. Robertson Award</h2>
<p>
The WSMA established the William O. Robertson Patient Safety Award to recognize and help shine a light on patient safety initiatives being pioneered in ambulatory care settings throughout Washington state. The award was named after WSMA past president, William O. Robertson, MD, who was a champion for patient safety, risk management, and quality improvement throughout his long and distinguished career.
</p>
<p>
To have your patient safety initiative considered for the 2019 William O. Roberson Patient Safety Award, <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PYJ3C5R">submit your information online</a> by Wednesday, July 17. The award will be presented during the 2019 WSMA Annual Meeting in Seattle, Oct. 12-13.
</p>
<p>
If you have questions, contact Brendan Cox at <a href="mailto:brendan@wsma.org">brendan@wsma.org</a> or 206.956.3628.
</p>
</div> | 3/13/2019 1:11:29 PM | 3/13/2019 1:04:05 PM | 3/13/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| medicare_opioid_policies_for_fee_for_service_participants | Medicare Opioid Policies for Fee-for-Service Participants | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190313/medicare_opioid_policies_for_fee_for_service_participants | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
March 13, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Medicare Opioid Policies for Fee-for-Service Participants</h2>
<p>
CMS' Medicare administrative contractors recently mailed letters to all physician and provider participants in Medicare's fee-for-service program with an update on CMS's Medicare opioid policies.
</p>
<p>
The <a href="https://www.cms.gov/About-CMS/Story-Page/Opioid-Provider-Letter-Feb-2019.pdf" target="_blank">"Dear Provider" letter</a> provides information on:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Co-prescribing naloxone</li>
<li>New Medicare Part D opioid policies</li>
<li>A range of safe and effective pain treatments</li>
</ul>
<p>
CMS says it is committed to exploring and offering viable options to address the opioid crisis, sharing information on the data we collect with other agencies and organizations, and protecting beneficiaries and communities affected by the crisis.
</p>
</div> | 3/13/2019 1:11:29 PM | 3/13/2019 12:44:06 PM | 3/13/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| reducing_burnout_focus_of_2019_leadership_development_conference | Reducing Burnout Focus of 2019 Leadership Development Conference | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190313/reducing_burnout_focus_of_2019_leadership_development_conference | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/images/News/LDC-2019-Social-Graphic-645px.jpg" class="pull-right" />
</div>
<h5>
March 13, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Reducing Burnout Focus of 2019 Leadership Development Conference</h2>
<p>
<a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2019/March/dont_miss_latest_issue_of_wsma_reports_on_burnout_and_new_survey_findings">Data from a recent WSMA Foundation survey on burnout</a> are painting a picture familiar to most physicians - a house of medicine united in purpose but straining under the weight of professional burnout. The picture is clear, and the WSMA is acting. In our newest issue of <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/News_Publications/Latest_News/WSMA_Reports/WSMA/News_Publications/Newsletters/WSMA_Reports.aspx?hkey=b19e8949-47e1-4478-be31-53621de96ecc">WSMA Reports</a>, we're telling your story - the stories of physicians throughout Washington who have experienced burnout - and at this year's <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Events/Leadership_Development_Conference/WSMA/Events/LDC/leadership_development_conference.aspx?hkey=c7532c38-057a-4568-8a3c-078182469222">Leadership Development Conference</a>, May 17-18 at Campbell's Resort on Lake Chelan, we'll explore the changes needed at the organizational and leadership levels to create healthier, more fulfilled physicians.
</p>
<p>
The conference features a stellar lineup of participants to help guide and inspire attendees, including:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Social psychologist <strong>Ron Friedman, PhD</strong>, author of the best-selling book "The Best Place to Work: The Art and Science of Creating an Extraordinary Workplace." </li>
<li>Pediatrician and Gundersen Health System CEO Emeritus <strong>Jeff Thompson, MD</strong>, author of his inspiring book "Lead True: Live Your Values, Build Your People." </li>
<li>Author, speaker, consultant and coach <strong>Valerie Black, MBA</strong>, co-founder of Vera Whole Health, a national on-site clinic provider, and winner in 2014 of the Puget Sound Business Journal's Woman of Influence Award for her impact on the health care industry. </li>
</ul>
<p>
For a full lineup of faculty and agenda, <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Events/Leadership_Development_Conference/WSMA/Events/LDC/leadership_development_conference.aspx?hkey=c7532c38-057a-4568-8a3c-078182469222">visit the event webpage</a>.
</p>
<p>
All physicians, by nature, are leaders—whether of an organization, a care team, or an episode of care—and all physicians can benefit from the singular focus of this year's conference, as we seek to harness physicians' natural disposition (expertise, experience, knowledge, and vision) to put interventions in place to reduce burnout and increase professional satisfaction. <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Events/Leadership_Development_Conference/WSMA/Events/LDC/leadership_development_conference.aspx?hkey=c7532c38-057a-4568-8a3c-078182469222">
</a>. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™</em>. And don't forget to book your accommodations at Campbell's Resort on Lake Chelan soon—the deadline to receive the WSMA room discount is Tuesday, April 16.
</p>
</div> | 3/13/2019 1:11:29 PM | 3/13/2019 12:46:31 PM | 3/13/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| registration_now_available_for_spring_mindfulness_for_healthcare_professionals_online_training | Registration Now Available for Spring Mindfulness for Healthcare Professionals Online Training | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190313/registration_now_available_for_spring_mindfulness_for_healthcare_professionals_online_training | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
March 13, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Registration Now Available for Spring Mindfulness for Healthcare Professionals Online Training</h2>
<p>
Physicians, physician assistants, and other licensed providers in Washington are warmly invited to register for the upcoming teleconference series Mindfulness for Healthcare Professionals of Washington State. This four-week course, scheduled for Wednesday evenings beginning April 17, is presented by Mindfulness Northwest in partnership with the WSMA and the Washington Physicians Health Program. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit (TM)</em>.
</p>
<p>
Mindfulness training for physicians and other providers has been shown to help with:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Responding more skillfully in high-stress situations, reducing risk factors for burnout.</li>
<li>Creating positive peer support for mindful engagement in work and home situations that have previously triggered stress responses and unhelpful behaviors.</li>
<li>Identifying helpful vs. unhelpful thought patterns, problem solving, emotional regulation, and meaning-focused coping strategies.</li>
<li>Reconnecting with intentions and meaning in the health care profession.</li>
</ul>
<p>
For more information and to register, visit the <a href="https://www.mindfulnessnorthwest.com/event-3227465">Mindfulness Northwest website</a>.
</p>
</div> | 3/13/2019 1:37:53 PM | 3/13/2019 1:06:36 PM | 3/13/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| session_update_wsma_priority_bills_passing_out_of_houses_of_origin | Session Update: WSMA Priority Bills Passing Out of Houses of Origin | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190313/session_update_wsma_priority_bills_passing_out_of_houses_of_origin | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/images/Advocacy/Leg-Session-Updates-Graphic-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" />
</div>
<h5>
March 13, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Session Update: WSMA Priority Bills Passing Out of Houses of Origin</h2>
<p>
The state legislative session has passed the halfway mark, with its scheduled end, April 28, now on the horizon. Lawmakers in Olympia this week and last have been busy with "floor action," the process of debating and voting on bills, in anticipation of today's deadline for bills to be voted out of their house of origin. The following is a look at those priority bills that have passed out of their respective chambers in recent days.
</p>
<h3>Week eight (March 4-8) highlights</h3>
<p>
(HB = House bill; SB = Senate bill)
</p>
<p>
<strong>Whistleblower protections</strong> – WSMA priority legislation HB 1049 passed out of the House with a unanimous vote. The legislation would provide protections for employed and non-employed physician whistleblowers. <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190313/wsma_whistleblower_bill_passes_unanimously_out_of_house.aspx">Learn more about this bill</a> .
</p>
<p>
<strong>Balance billing</strong> – <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1065&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2019">HB 1065</a> passed out of the House with a vote of 84 to 13 with one excused. HB 1065 would prohibit balance billing in certain circumstances and set up a framework for physicians and insurance carriers to voluntarily come to agreement either on an acceptable rate of payment or a broader contract. While this bill is closer to what the WSMA hoped to see from legislation on this topic, we still have concerns with components of the legislation in its current form (see this recent <a href="http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2019/mar/10/washington-legislature-moves-to-address-surprise-b/">Spokesman-Review report</a> for details).
</p>
<p>
<strong>Vaccines</strong> – <a href="https://wsma.sharepoint.com/Shared Documents/Outreach and Advocacy/2019 OA Reports/OA Report for 02-15-2019.docx">HB 1638</a> passed out of the House with a vote of 57 to 40 with one excused. HB 1638 would remove the personal/philosophical exemption for children for the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine. The WSMA is strongly supporting this bill and SB 5841, which would remove the personal and philosophical exemption more broadly for all childhood vaccines, most recently penning an editorial on the issue co-authored by WSMA President Tom Schaaf, MD, Immediate Past President Donna Smith, MD, and WSMA board member Gary Goldbaum, MD, and published in the <a href="http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2019/mar/10/wsma-supports-stronger-immunization-policies/">Spokesman Review</a> and the <a href="https://www.kitsapsun.com/story/opinion/columnists/2019/03/11/your-turn-support-bills-strengthen-immunization-policy/3131177002/">Kitsap Sun</a>. At the time of this writing, <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5841&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2019">SB 5841</a> currently awaits a vote in the Senate.
</p>
<p>
<strong>Undetectable and untraceable firearms</strong> – <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1739&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2019">HB 1739</a> passed out of the House with a vote of 57-39 with two excused. HB 1739 would make it illegal to manufacture, own, buy, sell, loan, furnish, transport, or have in possession undetectable and untraceable (3D-printed) firearms. This bill is similar, but not identical, to <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5061&amp;Chamber=Senate&amp;Year=2019">SB 5061</a>, which would prohibit the manufacture, sale, or possession of untraceable or 3D-printed firearms. SB 5061 currently awaits a vote to pass out of the Senate. The WSMA supports both bills.
</p>
<p>
<strong>Public option (aka Cascade Care)</strong> – <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1523&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2019">HB 1523</a> passed out of the House with a vote of 57 to 41. HB 1523 would create a public option insurance plan procured by the Health Care Authority and offered to the public on the Washington Health Benefit Exchange. Reimbursement for the plan is capped at Medicare rates. Plan benefit design would be standardized to decrease cost-sharing requirements for enrollees. The WSMA shares the goal of finding a solution to universal coverage, but has serious concerns with this proposal, particularly with the rate-setting component. We are currently surveying members to gauge the proposal's potential impact on medical practice (if you haven't yet taken the survey, <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JZ5FZ3D">please do so today</a>).
</p>
<p>
<strong>Drug price transparency</strong> – <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5292&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2019">SB 5292</a> passed out of the Senate unanimously. SB 5292 would require issuers and drug manufacturers to report certain prescription drug pricing data to the Health Care Authority and would require a summary of the prescription drug pricing data be provided with reports to the Legislature and the HCA. The WSMA supports this legislation.
</p>
<p>
<strong>Opioid use disorder treatment</strong> – <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5380&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2019">SB 5380</a> passed out of the Senate with a vote of 47 to 0 with one absent and one excused. SB 5380 would make changes to treatment and access to care for opioid use disorder treatment. There are laudable components to this bill, but it also includes a mandate on groups of 10 or more providers to integrate the state's prescription drug monitoring program into EHRs. The WSMA supports this bill in its current form and will seek additional amendments to address several smaller issues in the opposite chamber.
</p>
<p>
<strong>Health care licensure fee setting</strong> – <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1753&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2019">HB 1753</a> would align all fee-setting related to rulemaking for health care professionals with all other rulemaking requirement timelines. This bill passed the House unanimously. The WSMA supports this legislation.
</p>
<h3>What's next?</h3>
<p>
Each bill that passes out of its house of origin by the March 13 deadline will then move to its respective opposing chamber for hearings. For a more comprehensive look at bills being tracked by the WSMA that survived today's cutoff (and some that didn't), check the online-only <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">WSMA Advocacy Report</a> next week and keep an eye on future WSMA communications.
</p>
<h3>Budget proposals coming soon</h3>
<p>
Physician priorities that are tied to the budget, such as the potential increase in the business and occupation (B&amp;O) tax on physician services and proposals related to the integration of mental and physical health (including an increase in Medicaid primary care reimbursement), are still very much alive. Legislative budget proposals are expected to be introduced by late March.
</p>
<p>
If you have a question on a bill you haven't seen covered, contact Hailey Hamilton at <a href="mailto:hailey@wsma.org">hailey@wsma.org</a>.
</p>
</div> | 3/13/2019 1:11:30 PM | 3/13/2019 12:36:35 PM | 3/13/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| trump_administration_moves_forward_with_rule_restricting_title_x_program | Trump Administration Moves Forward with Rule Restricting Title X Program | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190313/trump_administration_moves_forward_with_rule_restricting_title_x_program | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/images/Concepts/birth_control_pills_645px.jpg" class="pull-right" />
</div>
<h5>
March 13, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Trump Administration Moves Forward with Rule Restricting Title X Program</h2>
<p>
The Trump administration has announced a final rule which would seriously limit both access to Title X federal funding and physicians' ability to discuss reproductive health with their patients.
</p>
<p>
The <a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2019/03/04/2019-03461/compliance-with-statutory-program-integrity-requirements">final rule</a>, announced by the Department of Health and Human Services in February, would eliminate federal funding under the Title X program for facilities such as Planned Parenthood that offer abortion services or abortion referrals. While groups receiving Title X funds have for years been prevented from performing abortions using federal dollars, the new rule would go much further by eliminating funding for family planning and related preventive health services, such as birth control, screenings for cancer and sexually transmitted diseases, pregnancy tests, and other reproductive services.
</p>
<p>
Both the American Medical Association and the Washington State Attorney General's Office have filed separate lawsuits to block the rule. In a press release, AG Bob Ferguson pointed to the rule's <a href="http://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/ag-ferguson-files-lawsuit-yakima-over-trump-s-family-planning-gag-rule">disproportionate impact on women in Washington's rural communities</a> as among the potentially devastating consequences. AMA President Barbara McAneny, MD, <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/press-center/press-releases/ama-files-suit-block-administration-s-title-x-restrictions?&amp;utm_source=BulletinHealthCare&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_term=030619&amp;utm_content=NON-MEMBER&amp;utm_campaign=article_alert-morning_rounds_daily&amp;utm_uid=&amp;utm_effort=">denounced the administration's efforts</a> saying "The administration wants to allow Title X clinics not to provide full information to patients about all of their health care options and block physicians from providing appropriate referrals for care." The AMA and Washington state lawsuits join a number of other states and parties who have vowed to challenge the rule.
</p>
<p>
The rule is set to go into effect on May 3.
</p>
</div> | 3/13/2019 1:11:30 PM | 3/13/2019 11:48:31 AM | 3/13/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| unitedhealthcare_to_end_reimbursement_for_consultation_services | UnitedHealthcare to End Reimbursement for Consultation Services | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190313/unitedhealthcare_to_end_reimbursement_for_consultation_services | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
March 13, 2019
</h5>
<h2>UnitedHealthcare to End Reimbursement for Consultation Services</h2>
<p>
In its March news bulletin, UnitedHealthcare announced it is revising its consultation services policy and will no longer reimburse CPT codes 99241-99255. According to UHC, the new policy is intended to align with similar Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services policy.
</p>
<p>
UHC will take a phased approach to implementing its policy change, with initial changes effective June 1. For timeline and details, see the <a href="https://www.uhcprovider.com/content/dam/provider/docs/public/resources/news/2019/network-bulletin/March-Revised-Network-Bulletin-2019.pdf" target="_blank">UHC March bulletin</a>.
</p>
</div> | 3/13/2019 1:11:30 PM | 3/12/2019 11:21:25 AM | 3/13/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_whistleblower_bill_passes_unanimously_out_of_house | WSMA Whistleblower Bill Passes Unanimously Out of House | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190313/wsma_whistleblower_bill_passes_unanimously_out_of_house | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/images/News/whistleblower_Bill-Progress-Graphics.jpg" class="pull-right" />
</div>
<h5>
March 13, 2019
</h5>
<h2>WSMA Whistleblower Bill Passes Unanimously Out of House</h2>
<p>
<a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1049&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2019">House Bill 1049</a>, which would make it safer for physicians in Washington to speak up against wrongful actions, has passed out of the House with a unanimous vote, and now heads to the Senate.
</p>
<p>
The bill would provide the necessary protections and clarifications to make it easier for health care workers to speak out when they witness wrongdoing, without fear of retaliation and regardless of employment status or relationship to an organization. Provisions of HB 1049 would:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Ensure nonemployed physicians have the same protections regarding peer review and whistleblowing as employed physicians.</li>
<li>Provide protection of the identity of physician whistleblowers, protection from retaliation, and legal remedies, including the ability to file suit seeking damages and attorneys' fees. </li>
<li>Give physicians the ability to seek an injunction in some cases to regain a position or privileges in case a physician has been kicked off a medical staff in a process conducted improperly. </li>
<li>Amend the peer review chapter of the Washington statutes to require that any medical staff sanction process that may result in the revocation, suspension, or reduction of medical staff privileges or membership be conducted in accordance with medical staff bylaws.</li>
<li>Require that peer review be conducted according to criteria in the federal Healthcare Quality Improvement Act. The law was established in 1986 to encourage good faith professional review activities of health care entities. </li>
</ul>
<p>
The bill's provisions, written in response to resolutions from the 2016 WSMA House of Delegates meeting, were brought to legislators by the WSMA. Thanks to the many WSMA delegates and members for their support of this issue. We will continue to provide strong legislative advocacy as this priority bill moves through the Senate and keep you apprised of developments.
</p>
</div> | 3/13/2019 1:11:30 PM | 3/13/2019 11:43:23 AM | 3/13/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| be_on_the_lookout_for_mips_adjustment_errors | Be on the Lookout for MIPS Adjustment Errors | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190227/be_on_the_lookout_for_mips_adjustment_errors | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
February 27, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Be on the Lookout for MIPS Adjustment Errors</h2>
<p>
Contrary to federal law, several Medicare administrative contractors are applying Merit-based Incentive Payment System adjustments to Medicare Part B Drugs. The Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services is aware of the problem and is working to address the issue. Impacted clinicians should expect to see a correction. In instances where CMS overpaid a claim based on inclusion of the Medicare Part B drugs, a notification for recoupment will be issued from MACs on behalf of CMS. If you have been impacted by this error and have not received a correction from CMS or Noridian, please let the WSMA know by emailing the WSMA Director of Policy Jeb Shepard at <a href="mailto:jeb@wsma.org">jeb@wsma.org</a>.
</p>
</div> | 2/27/2019 2:07:36 PM | 2/27/2019 12:32:23 PM | 2/27/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| federal_government_proposes_comprehensive_health_it_rules | Federal Government Proposes Comprehensive Health IT Rules | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190227/federal_government_proposes_comprehensive_health_it_rules | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
February 27, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Federal Government Proposes Comprehensive Health IT Rules</h2>
<p>
The Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology and the Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services have released long-awaited proposals to implement provisions of the 21st Century Cures Act related to health information technology. The agencies are accepting public feedback on the proposals and have scheduled educational sessions to provide further information.
</p>
<p>
The rules (<a href="https://www.healthit.gov/topic/laws-regulation-and-policy/notice-proposed-rulemaking-improve-interoperability-health?utm_campaign=government-affairs&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=2.13.19%20Washington%20Connection&amp;elqEmailId=8321">here for ONC</a> and <a href="https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/cms-advances-interoperability-patient-access-health-data-through-new-proposals">here for CMS</a>) include provisions regarding: the prohibiting of data-blocking by physicians, providers, and EHR vendors; the development of application programing interface (API) standards; EHR developer certification; the ability of practices to export patient data from one EHR to another; patient access to data using APIs; health information exchange across health plans; and other critical topics.
</p>
<p>
Physicians and providers are encouraged to attend an educational session to learn more on the proposals. ONC is offering a webinar tomorrow (Thursday, Feb. 28) starting at 11 a.m. PST. <a href="https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/6899598589034038275">Register for the webinar</a>. CMS has scheduled a listening session, CMS Interoperability and Patient Access Proposed Rule, for 11 a.m. PST on March 5. <a href="https://blh.ier.intercall.com/details/366af3d5b6e04799bba1536f5446c067">Register for the session</a>.
</p>
<p>
ONC and CMS will accept comments on these proposals until mid-April. Email Jeb Shepard at <a href="mailto:jeb@wsma.org">jeb@wsma.org</a> with questions or concerns.
</p>
</div> | 2/27/2019 2:07:36 PM | 2/27/2019 10:03:09 AM | 2/27/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| heads_up_on_department_of_health_prescribing_reports | Heads Up on Department of Health Prescribing Reports | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190227/heads_up_on_department_of_health_prescribing_reports | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
February 27, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Heads Up on Department of Health Prescribing Reports</h2>
<p>
WSMA members should be on the lookout for prescribing reports from the Department of Health intended to allow self-assessment of their opioid prescribing practices compared to peers in their specialty. These reports are strictly educational and will not be used for disciplinary purposes. As recently stated by Alden Roberts MD, chair of the Washington Medical Commission: "We do not receive these reports, we do not wish to receive them, and the data alone doesn't provide enough information for a regulatory body to appropriately assess the care provided."
</p>
</div> | 2/27/2019 2:07:39 PM | 2/27/2019 12:29:50 PM | 2/27/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| health_industry_coalition_opposing_renewed_effort_to_expand_wrongful_death_liability | Health Industry Coalition Opposing Renewed Effort to Expand Wrongful Death Liability | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190227/health_industry_coalition_opposing_renewed_effort_to_expand_wrongful_death_liability | <div class="col-md-12">
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</div>
<h5>
February 27, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Health Industry Coalition Opposing Renewed Effort to Expand Wrongful Death Liability</h2>
<p>
The WSMA and a large coalition of health care and business leaders are again opposing legislative proposals to expand wrongful death liability in Washington state.
</p>
<p>
Similar to proposals successfully opposed by the WSMA and its partners last year, this year's legislation -&nbsp;<a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1135&amp;Year=2019&amp;Initiative=false">House Bill 1135</a> and its companion <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5163&amp;Chamber=Senate&amp;Year=2019">Senate Bill 5163</a>&nbsp;-&nbsp;would broaden the current legal standard for wrongful death liability from "financially dependent" to "substantial involvement" in the life of the decedent, greatly expanding who may sue and increasing the number of claims (by as much as 20 percent, according to state estimates). The legislation would expand awards beyond economic damages to include non-economic damages, with the resulting higher payouts ultimately passed on as cost increases to taxpayers—and as higher insurance premiums. The legislation would also apply the law retroactively, applying to pending lawsuits and those filed prior to the statute of limitations expiring.
</p>
<p>
By its nature, each wrongful death is a tragedy. Current standards and case law strike a delicate balance, providing justice and compensation for financially dependent family members affected by the tragedy of wrongful death, but including limits where there is no financial dependence. Passage of either HB 1135 or SB 5163 would undo this balance and destabilize our state's medical liability dynamic, with ramifications on our physician workforce and patient access to care, as some physicians reconsider treating complex patients or performing high-risk services.
</p>
<p>
The WSMA, Physicians Insurance, the Washington State Hospital Association, the Liability Reform Coalition, and others are opposing these bills, both of which remain in play in Olympia. For further details on our position, see <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2019/SB 5163 and HB 1135 Issue Brief.Feb. 6.pdf]">this brief</a> put together by our partners at the Liability Reform Coalition. And keep an eye out for calls to action on this issue.
</p>
</div> | 3/7/2019 12:30:56 PM | 2/27/2019 12:12:53 PM | 2/27/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| legislative_session_update_wsma_priority_bills_that_survived_the_feb_22_cutoff | Legislative Session Update: WSMA Priority Bills That Survived the Feb. 22 Cutoff | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190227/legislative_session_update_wsma_priority_bills_that_survived_the_feb_22_cutoff | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>
February 27, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Legislative Session Update: WSMA Priority Bills That Survived the Feb. 22 Cutoff</h2>
<p>The 2019 state legislative session has reached its first deadline: Friday, Feb. 22, the date when bills must be approved by the policy committee they have been assigned to. The following is a look at those priority WSMA bills that survived the deadline, and a few that didn't.</p>
<h3>
Priority legislation surviving the cutoff
</h3>
<p>
The following bills are supported by the WSMA, except where noted. (HB = House bill; SB = Senate bill)
</p>
<p>
Tobacco 21 – <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1074&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2019">HB 1074</a> and <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5057&amp;Chamber=Senate&amp;Year=2019">SB 5057</a> would increase the minimum legal age of sale of tobacco and vapor products from 18 to 21. HB 1074 was <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190227/tobacco_21_bill_moves_out_of_the_house_ahead_of_deadline.aspx">voted out of the House of Representatives</a> last week; SB 5057 has been referred to the Senate Ways &amp; Means Committee.
</p>
<p>
Vaccinations – <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5841&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2019">SB 5841</a> and <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1638&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2019">HB 1638</a> would eliminate the personal and philosophical exemption for childrens' vaccinations (the latter bill only for the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine). <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190227/wsma_continues_push_as_vaccine_exemption_bills_move_forward_in_the_legislature.aspx">Learn more about WSMA's efforts to support these bills</a>. Both bills have been referred to their respective chambers' rules committees.
</p>
<p>
Whistleblower protections – <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1049&amp;Year=2019&amp;Initiative=false">HB 1049</a>, a priority issue brought to lawmakers by the WSMA, would provide protections for employed and non-employed physician whistleblowers. The bill has been referred to the House Rules Committee.
</p>
<p>
Drug cost transparency – <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1224&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2019">HB 1224</a> and a similar bill, <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5292&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2019">SB 5292</a>, would require prescription drug manufacturers to report cost and use information to the state Office of Financial Management. HB 1224 has been referred to the House Appropriations Committee; SB 5292 is scheduled for executive session in the Senate Ways &amp; Means Committee this week.
</p>
<p>
Balance billing – <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1065&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2019">HB 1065</a> and <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5699&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2019">SB 5699</a> would prohibit balance billing in certain instances; the <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190213/balance_billing_negotiations_continue_in_olympia_feds_now_taking_an_interest_too">WSMA supports SB 5699 and has concerns with HB 1065</a>. The Senate bill has been referred to the Senate Ways &amp; Means Committee, and the House bill was approved by the House Appropriations Committee this week.
</p>
<p>
Wrongful injury or death – <a href="http://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?Year=2019&amp;BillNumber=1135">HB 1135</a> and <a href="http://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?Year=2019&amp;BillNumber=5163">SB 5163</a>, both <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190227/health_industry_coalition_opposing_renewed_effort_to_expand_wrongful_death_liability.aspx">opposed by the WSMA</a>, would greatly expand the number and size of wrongful death liability awards. The House bill is in the House Appropriations Committee, and the Senate bill was approved by the Senate Ways &amp; Means Committee this week.
</p>
<p>
Naturopath scope of practice – The WSMA opposes <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?Year=2019&amp;BillNumber=1630">HB 1630</a>, which would grant naturopaths the ability to prescribe and administer legend drugs and controlled substances contained in Schedules III through V of the Uniform Controlled Substances Act. In addition to this scope of practice expansion, the bill, as recently amended, would require physicians to supervise naturopaths. HB 1630 has been referred to the House Rules Committee.
</p>
<h3>
One notable bill that did not survive
</h3>
<p>
Physician assistant practice reform – <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5411&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2019">SB 5411</a> would have made changes to state law to allow PAs to practice under a modified practice agreement, which may be signed by more than one participating physician and would allow physician assistants to practice pursuant to the practice agreement without supervision from a physician. For questions on this issue, contact Katie Kolan at <a href="mailto:kak@wsma.org">kak@wsma.org</a>.
</p>
<h3>
Other priorities still in play
</h3>
<p>
Priorities that are tied to the budget, such as the potential increase in the business and occupation (B&amp;O) tax on physician services and proposals related to the integration of mental and physical health (including an increase in Medicaid primary care reimbursement), are still very much alive. Legislative budget proposals are expected to be introduced by late March.
</p>
<h3>
What's next
</h3>
<p>
The next deadline in the life of bills in Olympia is Wednesday, March 13, when bills must be voted out of their house of origin (with the notable exception of HB 1074 , each of the above bills await a vote on the floor of their respective house of origin in anticipation of the March 13 deadline).
</p>
<p>
See our <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2019/February/legislative_session_update_public_option_vaccines_tobacco_21_and_more">Feb. 25 session update</a> published in our online <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">Advocacy Report</a> for more session highlights, and be sure to watch our&nbsp;<a href="https://vimeo.com/319232393">legislative update video</a> with WSMA Director of Legislative Affairs Katie Kolan, JD, the first in a new series of key highlights from session.
</p>
</div> | 2/27/2019 3:57:49 PM | 2/27/2019 12:18:04 PM | 2/27/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| medical_commission_releases_timeline_and_workshop_for_proposed_fee_increases | Medical Commission Releases Timeline and Workshop for Proposed Fee Increases | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190227/medical_commission_releases_timeline_and_workshop_for_proposed_fee_increases | <div class="col-md-12">
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</div>
<h5>
February 27, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Medical Commission Releases Timeline and Workshop for Proposed Fee Increases</h2>
<p>
After stating its intention to raise license renewal fees for several health professions, including allopathic physicians and physician assistants, the Washington Medical Commission has now issued an anticipated timeline for rulemaking and announced a public workshop to share information with the affected professions.
</p>
<p>
The commission's proposed fee increase for MDs and PAs <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181226/wsma_pushes_back_on_state_plans_to_raise_physician_licensure_fees?WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">remains unchanged</a>: The proposal would raise physicians' renewal fees 54 percent (from $657 to $1012) and physician assistants' renewal fees 96 percent (from $202 to $396). The commission has explained that the fee increases are necessary to meet a state requirement that health professions be self-supporting, which includes correcting for budget deficits and covering program cost overruns.
</p>
<p>
To provide an overview of these costs, the Department of Health is inviting stakeholders and licensees to attend a public workshop this Thursday, Feb. 28, starting at 11:30 a.m. The MD/PA increase will be discussed from 11:50 a.m.-12:10 p.m. The workshop can be attended in person or remotely. See the <a href="https://wmc.wa.gov/sites/default/files/WMCFeeWorkshopEventInfoandCostDrivers_1.pdf" target="_blank">WMC announcement</a> for information on how to join the meeting. The WSMA's Jeb Shepard be in attendance representing the WSMA.
</p>
<p>
The commission has issued the following timeline for rulemaking (all dates 2019):
</p>
<ul>
<li>Feb. 28 – Stakeholder meeting to provide overview of program costs. </li>
<li>March (day TBD) – File proposed fee rules (CR-102).</li>
<li>April (day TBD) – Hold hearing on proposed fee rules.</li>
<li>June (day TBD) – Adopt final fee rules (CR-103).</li>
<li>Starting July – Send out renewal notices with new fee amount.</li>
<li>Oct. 1 – Effective date of new fees.</li>
</ul>
<p>
The WSMA continues to oppose the fee increases—see this recent <a href="http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2019/feb/24/doctors-physician-and-nursing-assistants-would-pay/">Spokesman-Review article</a> as well as <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181226/wsma_pushes_back_on_state_plans_to_raise_physician_licensure_fees?WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">our formal comment letter</a> to the commission for more on our position. Be on the lookout for calls to action on this issue once rulemaking is initiated in March
</p>
<p>
For questions on this issue, contact Hailey Hamilton in our Olympia office at <a href="mailto:hailey@wsma.org">hailey@wsma.org</a> or 360.352.4848.
</p>
</div> | 2/27/2019 2:07:40 PM | 2/27/2019 12:09:15 PM | 2/27/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| new_cms_resources_for_2019_promoting_interoperability_programs | New CMS Resources for 2019 Promoting Interoperability Programs | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190227/new_cms_resources_for_2019_promoting_interoperability_programs | <div class="col-md-12">
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</div>
<h5>
February 27, 2019
</h5>
<h2>New CMS Resources for 2019 Promoting Interoperability Programs</h2>
<p>
The Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services is updating its <a href="https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Legislation/EHRIncentivePrograms/index.html?redirect=/EHRIncentivePrograms/">Promoting Interoperability Programs website</a> to include new resources for the 2019 program year.
</p>
<p>
Changes and new resources include:
</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Legislation/EHRIncentivePrograms/index.html?redirect=/EHRIncentivePrograms/">Promoting Interoperability Program landing page</a>: Includes a general overview of the Medicare and Medicaid Promoting Interoperability Programs and important deadlines for the 2019 program year.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Legislation/EHRIncentivePrograms/2019ProgramRequirementsMedicare.html">2019 Program Requirements for Medicare</a>: Provides an overview on reporting requirements for the Medicare Promoting Interoperability Program in 2019.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Legislation/EHRIncentivePrograms/Downloads/Medicare_FactSheetFY2019IPPS.pdf" target="_blank">Fiscal Year 2019 Inpatient Prospective Payment System (IPPS) and Medicare Promoting Interoperability Program Overview Fact Sheet</a>: Provides an overview of the changes that were finalized for the Medicare Promoting Interoperability Program in the IPPS Final Rule for the 2019 program year.</li>
</ul>
<p>
Email Jeb Shepard at <a href="mailto:jeb@wsma.org">jeb@wsma.org</a> with questions or concerns.
</p>
</div> | 2/27/2019 2:07:41 PM | 2/27/2019 12:34:10 PM | 2/27/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| social_psychologist_ron_friedman_phd_to_keynote_2019_leadership_development_conference | Social Psychologist Ron Friedman, PhD, to Keynote 2019 Leadership Development Conference | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190227/social_psychologist_ron_friedman_phd_to_keynote_2019_leadership_development_conference | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>
February 27, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Social Psychologist Ron Friedman, PhD, to Keynote 2019 Leadership Development Conference</h2>
<p>
Ron Friedman, author of the best-selling book "The Best Place to Work: The Art and Science of Creating an Extraordinary Workplace," will keynote the 2019 WSMA Leadership Development Conference, May 17-18 at Campbell's Resort on Lake Chelan, kicking off a weekend dedicated to exploring organizational and leadership strategies to create healthier work environments for clinicians.
</p>
<p>
An award-winning social psychologist, Dr. Friedman will present the Thomas J. Curry Leadership Keynote Presentation, where he'll take conference attendees on a journey through the latest science of workplace excellence, providing insights into the conditions that help us work more effectively and with a higher level of satisfaction. He is a frequent contributor to Harvard Business Review, Forbes, and Psychology Today, and his observations on the modern workplace have appeared on NPR, and in the New York Times, Washington Post, and more.
</p>
<p>
Dr. Friedman joins an outstanding group of presenters at the conference, which is designed for physicians at all leadership levels, regardless of specialty or practice setting, and gives attendees a chance to enjoy prime learning, networking, and recreational opportunities in a beautiful lakeside resort setting. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Creditâ„¢</em>. <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Events/Leadership_Development_Conference/WSMA/Events/LDC/leadership_development_conference.aspx?hkey=c7532c38-057a-4568-8a3c-078182469222">Learn more about the Leadership Development Conference and register today</a>.
</p>
</div> | 2/27/2019 3:54:39 PM | 2/27/2019 12:11:30 PM | 2/27/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| succeeding_under_new_prescribing_rules_wsma_resource_roundup | Succeeding Under New Prescribing Rules: WSMA Resource Roundup | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190227/succeeding_under_new_prescribing_rules_wsma_resource_roundup | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>
February 27, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Succeeding Under New Prescribing Rules: WSMA Resource Roundup</h2>
<p>
New rules governing opioid prescribing are now in effect for most prescribing professions in Washington state (including physicians and physician assistants). Make sure you're taking advantage of the following resources designed to help you succeed under the new requirements.
</p>
<p><a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Resources/Clinical_Quality/Opioid_Clinical_Guidance/Preparing_for_New_Opioid_Prescribing_Rules_in_Washington_State.aspx">Preparing for New Opioid Prescribing Rules</a><br />
Completion of WSMA's one-hour webinar will fulfill the new state requirement for continuing medical education on opioid prescribing. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Creditâ„¢</em>.
</p>
<p><a href="https://www.informz.net/WSMA/data/images/Documents/FINAL_WSMA_CARETEAM_SLIDES.pptx">Preparing Care Teams for New Opioid Rx Rule</a><br />
The WSMA has put together this customizable PowerPoint template to help practice leaders educate their practice care teams, regardless of size, on the new rules.
</p>
<p><a href="https://www.informz.net/WSMA/data/images/Documents/WSMA_DotphrasesOpioids_Checklist.docx">WSMA Pain Management Rule Requirements Checklist</a> (Epic compatible)<br />
This checklist can be used to build prompts into your electronic health record (e.g. Epic dot phrase) in order to adjust practice workflow. Or use this PDF checklist for manual use.
</p>
<p><a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/ForPublicHealthandHealthcareProviders/HealthcareProfessionsandFacilities/OpioidPrescribing/HealthcareProviders/Toolkits">Patient handouts</a> (look under Public/Patient)<br />
The Department of Health offers patient handouts for all categories of pain patients (chronic, surgical, acute, and subacute) to satisfy a new state requirement for prescribers to inform patients of the risks, safe storage, and safe disposal of prescription opioids.
</p>
<p><a href="https://www.informz.net/WSMA/data/images/Documents/DOH-PMP-FAQ.pdf" target="_blank">FAQ on prescription monitoring program requirements</a><br />
The Department of Health is offering a downloadable FAQ to provide guidance to all providers who access the PMP through an electronic health record system or integrated method when prescribing opioids.
</p>
<p><a href="https://uw.cloud-cme.com/default.aspx?P=5&amp;EID=6150">Opioid prescribing 2019: How Washington State Bill 1427 Will Affect Your Practice</a><br />
Available both in-person and live streaming via webcast, this one-day CME course on Monday, April 15, sponsored by the UW School of Medicine Department of Anesthesiology &amp; Pain Medicine and the Washington State Health Care Authority, combines lectures, Q&amp;A presentations, case studies, and panel discussions to educate prescribers on the new opioid prescribing rules. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Creditâ„¢</em>.
</p>
<p>New DOH data reports<br />
Be on the lookout for prescribing reports from the Department of Health intended to allow self-assessment of your opioid prescribing practices compared to peers in your specialty. These reports are strictly educational and <strong>will not be used for disciplinary purposes</strong>, as recently stated by Alden Roberts MD, chair of the Washington Medical Commission "We do not receive these reports, we do not wish to receive them, and the data alone doesn't provide enough information for a regulatory body to appropriately assess the care provided."
</p>
<p>
More information:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Visit <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Resources/Clinical_Quality/Opioid_Clinical_Guidance/Opioid_Clinical_Guidance.aspx#rules">WSMA's Opioid Clinical Guidance webpage</a>.</li>
<li>The Washington State Department of Health <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/ForPublicHealthandHealthcareProviders/HealthcareProfessionsandFacilities/OpioidPrescribing">opioid prescribing webpage</a>.</li>
<li>The Washington Medical Commission <a href="https://wmc.wa.gov/resources/pain-management-resources">rules overview and resources</a> and <a href="https://wmc.wa.gov/sites/default/files/public/documents/Ruleswithcoverpage.pdf" target="_blank">rule text</a>.</li>
<li>Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/LicensesPermitsandCertificates/ProfessionsNewReneworUpdate/OsteopathicPhysician">rules overview and resources</a> and <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/2300/2018/WSR-18-20-087.pdf" target="_blank">rule text</a>.</li>
</ul>
</div> | 2/27/2019 2:43:55 PM | 2/27/2019 10:39:10 AM | 2/27/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| the_invisible_man_in_the_room_who_can_dictate_care_daily_herald_looks_at_dangers_of_step_therapy | The Invisible Man in the Room Who Can Dictate Care - Daily Herald Looks at Dangers of Step Therapy | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190227/the_invisible_man_in_the_room_who_can_dictate_care_daily_herald_looks_at_dangers_of_step_therapy | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
February 27, 2019
</h5>
<h2>The Invisible Man in the Room Who Can Dictate Care - Daily Herald Looks at Dangers of Step Therapy</h2>
<p>
ICYMI: The Daily Herald recently published a disturbing look at how step therapies used by insurers (the "<a href="https://www.heraldnet.com/news/when-doctor-says-yes-and-insurer-says-no-what-do-you-do/">invisible man in the room who can dictate care</a>") can interfere with needed treatment, shining a light on this burdensome and often overwhelming process. The WSMA is supporting a bill this session, <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1879&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2019">House Bill 1879</a>, to help reform these practices.
</p>
<p>
Insurers use step therapy, a form of prior authorization, to override a prescriber's recommendation for the best treatment. However, as the <a href="https://www.heraldnet.com/news/when-doctor-says-yes-and-insurer-says-no-what-do-you-do/">Daily Herald story illustrates</a>, the rules around step therapies can often be unclear and complex, with associated delays creating unnecessary and potentially harmful barriers to good care.
</p>
<p>
HB 1879 would help to regulate step therapy protocols and help ensure stability for patients relying on certain treatments. The bill would:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Require clinical review criteria used in step therapy protocols be based on clinical practice guidelines.</li>
<li>Require insurers to respond to patient appeals within 72 hours.</li>
<li>Require insurers to ensure the appeals process is clear to physicians and patients.</li>
</ul>
<p>
HB 1879 has been referred to the House Rules Committee.
</p>
</div> | 2/27/2019 2:51:55 PM | 2/27/2019 12:27:30 PM | 2/27/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| tobacco_21_bill_moves_out_of_the_house_ahead_of_deadline | Tobacco 21 Bill Moves Out of the House Ahead of Deadline | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190227/tobacco_21_bill_moves_out_of_the_house_ahead_of_deadline | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>
February 27, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Tobacco 21 Bill Moves Out of the House Ahead of Deadline</h2>
<p>
Bills currently being debated in the state Legislature must be voted out of their house of origin by March 13 or be considered "dead" for the remainder of session. In a promising development, <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1074&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2019">House Bill 1074</a>, a proposal to increase the minimum legal age of sale of tobacco and vapor products from 18 to 21, has been voted out of the House and is now headed to the Senate for consideration.
</p>
<p>
The final vote count in the House was 66 yeas and 30 nays, with two lawmakers absent for the vote. Tobacco 21's Senate companion bill, <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5057&amp;Chamber=Senate&amp;Year=2019">SB 5057</a>, has been referred to the Senate Ways &amp; Means Committee, and awaits a floor vote ahead of the March 13 deadline.
</p>
<p>
The WSMA identified tobacco 21 as a key <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Press_Releases/2019/Washington_physicians_in_Olympia_on_Feb._7_to_talk_to_lawmakers_on_behalf_of_patients_and_profession">advocacy priority for the 2019 WSMA Legislative Summit</a> and joins a large coalition of health care organizations in supporting the legislation. This will be the third—and hopefully final—year the Legislature has attempted to raise the purchase age for tobacco products. Keep an eye out for potential calls to action to help support these bills.
</p>
</div> | 2/27/2019 3:55:16 PM | 2/27/2019 12:26:08 PM | 2/27/2019 12:00:00 AM |