| ama_practice_guidance_for_transition_to_new_e_m_codes | AMA Practice Guidance for Transition to New E/M Codes | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191113/ama_practice_guidance_for_transition_to_new_e_m_codes | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
November 13, 2019
</h5>
<h2>AMA Practice Guidance for Transition to New E/M Codes</h2>
<p>The revised coding guidelines for outpatient evaluation and management (E/M) services included in the final Medicare fee schedule represent the first significant overhaul of these codes in decades. While the revised codes aren't effective until 2021, don't wait to prepare your practice. Use the following AMA guidance to ensure a smooth transition.</p>
<ul>
<li>Learn more about the code set revisions by visiting the AMA's <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/practice-management/cpt/cpt-evaluation-and-management">CPT Evaluation and Management webpage</a>.</li>
<li>Follow this 10-step checklist to help your practice transition to the new guidelines: <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/practice-management/cpt/10-tips-prepare-your-practice-em-office-visit-changes">10 steps to prepare your practice for E/M office visit changes</a>.</li>
<li>Learn more on the new policies with this on demand continuing education module: "<a href="https://edhub.ama-assn.org/module/2736085">Office Evaluation and Management (E/M) CPT Code Revisions</a>."</li>
</ul>
<p>The AMA also offers a detailed <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/system/files/2019-06/cpt-office-prolonged-svs-code-changes.pdf">description of the code and guideline changes</a> and a <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/system/files/2019-06/cpt-revised-mdm-grid.pdf">table illustrating revisions related to medical decision-making (MDM) documentation</a>.</p>
</div> | 11/13/2019 2:36:41 PM | 11/11/2019 2:22:08 PM | 11/13/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| cms_offers_new_mips_cme | CMS Offers New MIPS CME | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191113/cms_offers_new_mips_cme | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>
November 13, 2019
</h5>
<h2>CMS Offers New MIPS CME</h2>
<p>The Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services has posted six new CME modules on the Merit-based Incentive Payment System, covering subjects such as eligibility, participation, and reporting options and scoring details for the individual performance categories.</p>
<p>The new MIPS CME modules include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Quality Payment Program 2019 Overview - Provides information on the origin and objectives of the program as well as an overview of the MIPS and Advanced Alternative Payment Models.</li>
<li>Quality Payment Program Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS): Participation in 2019 – Details MIPS eligibility and participation options, including the new opt-in policy, and how to report MIPS data.</li>
<li>Quality Payment Program Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS): Quality Performance Category in 2019 – Explains the requirements, data submission, and collection types, and scoring for the Quality performance category.</li>
<li>Quality Payment Program Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS): Promoting Interoperability Performance Category in 2019 – Provides information on reporting requirements, measures, and reweighting for the Promoting Interoperability performance category.</li>
<li>Quality Payment Program Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS): Improvement Activities in 2019 – Explains the requirements, reporting steps, and scoring for the Improvement Activities performance category.</li>
<li>Quality Payment Program Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS): Cost Performance Category in 2019 – Provides information on new measures, attribution, and scoring for the Cost performance category.</li>
</ul>
<p>Access the modules by logging into your <a href="https://learner.mlnlms.com/Default.aspx">Medicare Learning Network account</a> (to create an account, start <a href="https://learner.mlnlms.com/Default.aspx">here</a>). Once logged in, type the name of the module into the search bar at the top of the website to find it.</p>
</div> | 11/13/2019 2:57:16 PM | 11/11/2019 2:22:11 PM | 11/13/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| cms_releases_medicare_2020_physician_fee_schedule_final_rule | CMS Releases Medicare 2020 Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191113/cms_releases_medicare_2020_physician_fee_schedule_final_rule | <div class="col-md-12">
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</div>
<h5>
November 13, 2019
</h5>
<h2>CMS Releases Medicare 2020 Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule</h2>
<p>The Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services has finalized the 2020 Medicare physician fee schedule, updating payment policies for the federal insurance program as well as reporting and participation requirements for the Medicare Quality Payment Program Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) and alternative payment models (APM).</p>
<p>Key provisions of the rule effective Jan. 1, 2020:</p>
<ul>
<li>A final 2020 conversion factor of $36.09, a slight increase above the 2019 conversion factor of $36.04.</li>
<li>New telehealth service codes to describe a bundled episode of care for treatment of opioid use disorder.</li>
<li>Updated requirements for physician supervision of PAs to give PAs greater flexibility.</li>
<li>Modifications to medical record documentation policies to reduce duplication and burden.</li>
<li>Increased payment for transitional care management services.</li>
<li>Implementation of a new Medicare Part B benefit for opioid use disorder treatment services provided by opioid treatment programs.</li>
</ul>
<p>Key evaluation and management (E/M) provisions effective Jan. 1, 2021:</p>
<ul>
<li>Five levels of office/outpatient E/M coding for established patients; office/outpatient E/M visits for new patients are reduced to four levels by deletion of level 1; code definitions are revised.</li>
<li>Revises the times and medical decision-making process for all CPT codes, and requires performance of history and exam only as medically appropriate; allows clinicians to choose the E/M visit level based on either medical decision-making or time.</li>
</ul>
<p>Key provisions for MIPS and APMs include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Increased performance threshold for the 2020 performance period.</li>
<li>Increased the MIPS payment adjustment to +/- 9 percent.</li>
<li>Maintains the (up to) 10 percent exceptional performance bonus and current MIPS performance category weights from the 2019 performance period.</li>
<li>Increased reporting flexibility for APM entities and MIPS-eligible clinicians participating in APMs.</li>
</ul>
<p>For more information on the final rule:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2019/11/15/2019-24086/medicare-program-cy-2020-revisions-to-payment-policies-under-the-physician-fee-schedule-and-other">CMS final rule</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/trump-administration-strengthens-medicare-reducing-provider-burden-and-valuing-time-spent-patients">CMS press release</a> (general)</p>
<p><a href="https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/trump-administration-takes-steps-expand-access-treatment-opioid-use-disorder">CMS press release</a> (opioid use disorder provisions)</p>
<p><a href="https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/finalized-policy-payment-and-quality-provisions-changes-medicare-physician-fee-schedule-calendar">CMS Fee Schedule fact sheet</a></p>
<p><a href="https://qpp-cm-prod-content.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/737/2020%20QPP%20Final%20Rule%20Fact%20Sheet.pdf">CMS Quality Payment Program fact sheet</a></p>
</div> | 11/13/2019 2:37:47 PM | 11/11/2019 2:22:04 PM | 11/13/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| guidance_for_physicians_on_reducing_or_discontinuing_long_term_opioid_analgesics | Guidance for Physicians on Reducing or Discontinuing Long-Term Opioid Analgesics | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191113/guidance_for_physicians_on_reducing_or_discontinuing_long_term_opioid_analgesics | <div class="col-md-12">
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</div>
<h5>
November 13, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Guidance for Physicians on Reducing or Discontinuing Long-Term Opioid Analgesics</h2>
<p>To support physicians and other health care professionals caring for patients on long-term opioid therapy, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services now offers "<a href="https://www.hhs.gov/opioids/sites/default/files/2019-10/Dosage_Reduction_Discontinuation.pdf" target="_blank">HHS Guide for Clinicians on the Appropriate Dosage Reduction or Discontinuation of Long-Term Opioid Analgesics</a>." Based on CDC and VA chronic pain guidelines as well as peer-reviewed literature, the guide provides advice to clinicians who are contemplating or initiating a reduction in opioid dosage or discontinuation of long-term opioid therapy for chronic pain.</p>
<p>Whether or not opioids are tapered, safe and effective nonopioid treatments should be integrated into patients' pain management plans based on an individualized assessment of benefits and risks considering the patient's diagnosis, circumstances, and unique needs. <a href="https://www.hhs.gov/opioids/sites/default/files/2019-10/Dosage_Reduction_Discontinuation.pdf" target="_blank">Download the guide</a> for more information, including links to accessible, affordable nonpharmacologic and nonopioid pharmacologic treatments.</p>
<p>Related:</p>
<p><a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190925/doh_issues_new_clarification_on_state_opioid_rules_for_chronic_opioid_therapy">DOH Issues New Clarification on State Opioid Rules for Chronic Opioid Therapy</a></p>
<p><a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191009/member_question_can_i_prescribe_buprenorphine_to_treat_chronic_pain">Member Question: Can I Prescribe Buprenorphine to Treat Chronic Pain?</a></p>
</div> | 11/13/2019 2:37:36 PM | 11/11/2019 2:22:24 PM | 11/13/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| how_will_changes_to_the_reporting_of_notifiable_conditions_impact_your_practice | How Will Changes to the Reporting of Notifiable Conditions Impact Your Practice? | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191113/how_will_changes_to_the_reporting_of_notifiable_conditions_impact_your_practice | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
November 13, 2019
</h5>
<h2>How Will Changes to the Reporting of Notifiable Conditions Impact Your Practice?</h2>
<p>Rulemaking is underway at the Washington State Department of Health to update requirements for the reporting of notifiable conditions. As part of the rulemaking process, the state is required to analyze the probable costs of complying with new rule requirements and the impacts the new requirements may have on small businesses.Your participation in the following cost survey will help the DOH understand the impact of the changes under consideration and help the department decide what will be included in the final proposed rule.</p>
<p>
<a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2019/Cost Questionnaire - Providers and Facilities - FINAL.doc]">Download the cost survey</a> . Submit your survey responses via email to <a href="mailto:notifiableconditions@sboh.wa.gov">notifiableconditions@sboh.wa.gov</a> with the subject line "Notifiable Conditions Cost Questionnaire" no later than Friday, Nov. 22. For more information on the rulemaking, visit the <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/ForPublicHealthandHealthcareProviders/NotifiableConditions/RuleMaking">DOH rulemaking webpage</a>. For questions, contact Vicki Bouvier at <a href="mailto:VickiBouvier@doh.wa.gov">VickiBouvier@doh.wa.gov</a> or 360.701.8092.</p>
</div> | 11/13/2019 2:37:36 PM | 11/11/2019 2:22:21 PM | 11/13/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| uw_launches_statewide_telepsychiatry_consultation_program | UW Launches Statewide Telepsychiatry Consultation Program | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191113/uw_launches_statewide_telepsychiatry_consultation_program | <div class="col-md-12">
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</div>
<h5>
November 13, 2019
</h5>
<h2>UW Launches Statewide Telepsychiatry Consultation Program</h2>
<p>The University of Washington recently launched a new service to help physicians and other clinicians in Washington treating adult patients with mental health and/or substance abuse disorders.</p>
<p>Funded by the Legislature, the new <a href="https://sharepoint.washington.edu/uwpsychiatry/ClinicalServices/ConsultationandTelepsychiatry/Pages/pcl.aspx">UW Psychiatry Consultation Line (PCL)</a> connects clinicians to psychiatrists at the University of Washington. Clinicians can call 877.WA.PSYCH (877.927.7924), and after a short intake with a UW health navigator, they will be connected to a UW psychiatrist. At the conclusion of the conversation, the UW psychiatrist sends a brief written documentation of the recommendations to the caller via email.</p>
<p>The consultation line is open 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and is ramping up to be 24/7 beginning July 1, 2020. If calling outside of business hours, physicians may leave a message, which will be returned within one working day.</p>
<p>The PCL complements two existing mental health consultation lines: the <a href="https://www.seattlechildrens.org/healthcare-professionals/access-services/partnership-access-line/">Partnership Access Line (PAL)</a>, for questions regarding children or adolescents experiencing a mental health or substance use condition, and <a href="https://www.mcmh.uw.edu/ppcl">PAL for Moms</a>, for questions regarding pregnant or new moms experiencing a mental health or substance use condition. Together, these three consultation lines help address the severe shortage of mental health professionals in Washington state by leveraging mental health experts to provide consultation when and where physicians need it.</p>
</div> | 11/13/2019 2:37:36 PM | 11/13/2019 2:24:09 PM | 11/13/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| vitamin_e_acetate_linked_to_vaping_illnesses_doh_takes_action | Vitamin E Acetate Linked to Vaping Illnesses; DOH Takes Action | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191113/vitamin_e_acetate_linked_to_vaping_illnesses_doh_takes_action | <div class="col-md-12">
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</div>
<h5>
November 13, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Vitamin E Acetate Linked to Vaping Illnesses; DOH Takes Action</h2>
<p>Following a new study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention linking vitamin E acetate to the recent outbreak of vaping-related lung injuries, the Washington State Department of Health has asked Washington vapor product processors to stop adding vitamin E acetate to vapor products and to stop distributing products that contain it. The DOH has also asked all retailers to immediately stop selling vapor products that contain the ingredient.</p>
<p>The CDC study found vitamin E acetate in 29 of 29 patients with vaping-associated lung injuries, though no single ingredient or compound has been determined to be the definitive cause of the outbreak.</p>
<p>The DOH has identified 14 cases of vaping-associated lung injuries in Washington. In response to the outbreak, the DOH issued an emergency rule at the request of Gov. Jay Inslee temporarily banning the sale of flavored vapor products and imposing <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191023/new_rules_require_physicians_to_report_lung_injuries_within_three_days">new reporting rules</a> on physicians and other clinicians. The WSMA House of Delegates voted unanimously in October to <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2019/October/king_county_medical_society_and_washington_state_medical_association_endorse_ban_on_flavored_e_cigar.aspx?WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">support a permanent ban on the sale of flavored e-cigarettes in the state</a>, an issue we expect to be addressed in the upcoming state legislative session.</p>
<p>At the federal level, President Donald Trump has promised a crackdown on vaping, and the Food and Drug Administration is expected to issue details this week on a ban to restrict sales of flavored e-cigarettes and raise the age of sale for some tobacco products from 18 to 21. At the time of this writing, details have not yet been released.</p>
</div> | 11/13/2019 2:46:11 PM | 11/11/2019 2:22:17 PM | 11/13/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| watch_wsma_members_highlight_problems_with_bando_tax_increase_on_independent_physicians | Watch - WSMA Members Highlight Problems with B and O Tax Increase on Independent Physicians | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191113/watch_wsma_members_highlight_problems_with_bando_tax_increase_on_independent_physicians | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>
November 13, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Watch: WSMA Members Highlight Problems with B&amp;O Tax Increase on Independent Physicians</h2>
<p>Chelsea Unruh, MD, and Sung-Won Kim, MD, are the latest WSMA members to join Sen. Steve O'Ban (R-Pierce County) in a video series to discuss the 20 percent business and occupation (B&amp;O) tax increase, passed during the 2019 legislative session, and its impact on their ability to practice and provide care. <a href="http://steveoban.src.wastateleg.org/video-series-continues/">Watch their three-part series and the previous video series</a> featuring WSMA members and independent practice physicians Teresa Girolami, MD, and Brianna Label, MD. Learn more about the issue and how you can help the WSMA work to exempt physicians from the tax increase by visiting <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Advocacy/Legislative_Regulatory/No_to_B_and_O/no_to_b_and_o_.aspx?hkey=d5807781-a824-4b2c-a8f4-70ed597ddfa8&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">the WSMA website</a>. #NoToBandO</p>
</div> | 11/13/2019 2:52:34 PM | 11/11/2019 2:22:14 PM | 11/13/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| you_belong_with_us_its_time_to_pay_your_membership_dues | You Belong With Us! It's Time to Pay Your Membership Dues | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191113/you_belong_with_us_its_time_to_pay_your_membership_dues | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>
November 13, 2019
</h5>
<h2>You Belong With Us! It's Time to Pay Your Membership Dues</h2>
<p>WSMA members will receive their 2020 membership renewal notice in the mail this month. Along with your notice, you'll find our <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Membership/Why_Join_the_WSMA/Our_Impact/WSMA/Membership/Why_Join_the_WSMA_/Our_Impact.aspx?hkey=4cbb82b9-b1fe-4983-8e98-9208c0f6fe95">2019 Impact Report</a>, showing how the WSMA worked to protect you, your profession, and your patients this year. With your membership, we can do even more next year - renew today!</p>
<p>Your dues dollars facilitate the work the WSMA does on your behalf to shape the future of medicine and advance quality care in our state. In return, the WSMA ensures your voice is heard, advocates for the profession, influences the public and civic leaders, seeks meaningful change at system and regulatory levels, and provides you with tools to cope and thrive within the ever-changing health care environment.</p>
<p>Your membership fuels this work. Although the costs associated with advocacy work rise each year, your membership dues have remained stable for 10 years. Please renew your membership <a href="http://www.wsma.org/renew">online</a> or by mailing in your dues statement on receipt. If you have CME and/or employee benefit funds, we encourage you to use those resources to cover your membership dues.</p>
<p>Members who are covered by Physicians Insurance A Mutual Company need to maintain their WSMA membership in order to retain the $300 annual discount on their liability insurance premium. For personal assistance, email <a href="mailto:membership@wsma.org">membership@wsma.org</a>. To pay dues by phone call 206.441.9762.</p>
<p>We are stronger and better together. Thank you!</p>
</div> | 11/13/2019 2:42:26 PM | 11/11/2019 2:22:01 PM | 11/13/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| call_for_nominations_2020_ama_mss_meeting_scholarships | Call for Nominations: 2020 AMA-MSS Meeting Scholarships | memo | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2019/November/call_for_nominations_2020_ama_mss_meeting_scholarships | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>November 11, 2019</h5>
<h2>Call for Nominations: 2020 AMA-MSS Meeting Scholarships</h2>
<p>
The WSMA is accepting nominations for three medical student scholarships to attend the 2020 AMA Medical Student Section's annual (June 4-6 in Chicago) and interim (Nov. 12-14 in San Diego) meetings.
</p>
<p>
The scholarships provide funding to support three WSMA medical student members, one each from the University of Washington School of Medicine, the Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine at Washington State University, and the Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences, to attend both meetings. The funding allocation is up to $1,000 per student, per meeting.
</p>
<p>
To qualify, nominees must:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Be an active WSMA and AMA member medical student in good standing at the time of nomination</li>
<li>Have the support of the WSMA's Medical Student Section governing council. </li>
<li>Demonstrate a strong interest and involvement in health care policy.</li>
<li>Possess excellent communication skills and willingness to advocate for patients and the profession.</li>
<li>Be committed and able to attend both meetings as a representative of the WSMA.</li>
<li>Be willing to provide a written report to the WSMA's executive committee and verbal report to WSMA Early Career Sections' governing councils about their experience at the AMA meetings.</li>
</ul>
<p>
Nominate yourself or a colleague using the online survey tool at the link below. You'll be prompted for a personal statement of interest and your CV; letters of recommendation are welcome but not required. The deadline for nominations is Wednesday, Nov. 27.
</p>
<p>
The WSMA Medical Student Section governing council will review all submissions and submit a slate of nominees to the WSMA executive committee for consideration and final decision at its February 2020 meeting.
</p>
<p><a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/X63MV9C">Click here to apply</a></p>
</div> | 11/13/2019 2:31:44 PM | 11/11/2019 2:14:42 PM | 11/11/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| winter_wsma_leadership_courses_now_enrolling | Winter WSMA Leadership Courses Now Enrolling | memo | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2019/November/winter_wsma_leadership_courses_now_enrolling | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>November 6, 2019</h5>
<h2>Winter WSMA Leadership Courses Now Enrolling</h2>
<p>
Applications are now being accepted for two of our core leadership trainings scheduled for this winter: The popular WSMA Physician Leadership Course, our hybrid online/in-person education designed for busy physicians and physician assistants who want to learn more about leadership, and the WSMA Dyad Leadership Course, a three-day workshop for physicians and their administrative partners.
</p>
<h3>Physician Leadership Course</h3>
<p>
The <a href="[@]WSMA/Resources/Physician_Leadership/Physician_Leadership_Course/Physician_Leadership_Course.aspx">WSMA Physician Leadership Course</a> is a 40+ hour hybrid-distance leadership skills-development course for physicians and physician assistants who want to know more about health care leadership. Designed with a physician's busy schedule in mind, only three in-person classes are required; the remainder of the course is conducted online.
</p>
<p>
The winter 2020 Physician Leadership Course will be held Jan. 31-April 17. The in-person classes will be held Friday and Saturday, Jan. 31 and Feb. 1 in Seattle. Course participants will then have eight weeks of online instruction and interaction, finishing with a third in-person session on Saturday, April 17.
</p>
<p>
This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Creditâ„¢</em>. Deadline for enrollment is Nov. 29.
</p>
<h3>Dyad Leadership Course</h3>
<p>
The <a href="[@]WSMA/Resources/Physician_Leadership/Dyad_Leadership_Course/Dyad_Leadership_Course.aspx">WSMA Dyad Leadership Course</a> is our three-day, in-person educational workshop for physicians and their administrative dyad partners who wish to improve team function and achieve greater operational success within their clinical system. The course is adapted to fit the specific clinical culture of participating teams.
</p>
<p>
The winter 2020 course will be held Feb. 14-March 13. The in-person classes will be held Friday and Saturday Feb. 14 and 15 in Seattle. Course participants will then have four weeks of online instruction and interaction, finishing with a third in-person session on Friday, March 13.
</p>
<p>
To enroll in the WSMA Dyad Leadership Course, physicians must first complete the WSMA Physician Leadership Course. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Creditâ„¢</em>. Deadline for enrollment is Dec. 13.
</p>
</div> | 11/13/2019 2:32:00 PM | 11/6/2019 2:58:32 PM | 11/6/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| 2019_annual_meeting_delegates_pass_proactive_policy_on_public_and_physician_health | 2019 Annual Meeting: Delegates Pass Proactive Policy on Public and Physician Health | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191023/2019_annual_meeting_delegates_pass_proactive_policy_on_public_and_physician_health | <div class="col-md-12">
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</div>
<h5>
October 23, 2019
</h5>
<h2>2019 Annual Meeting: Delegates Pass Proactive Policy on Public and Physician Health</h2>
<p>The final session of the House of Delegates adjourned last Sunday, with the pound of a gavel marking the close of the 130th Annual Meeting since the founding of the WSMA. An eye-opening number of policies were adopted during the final session, reflecting an activated House united in its resolve to take progressive stands on public health policy and to protect the health and well-being of physicians.</p>
<p>Policy adopted by delegates at the meeting typically fall into one of three categories:</p>
<ol>
<li>New policy (new policies are added to the <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/About_Us/Policies/Whats_Our_Policy/WSMA/About/Policies/Whats_Our_Policy/Policy_Index.aspx?hkey=f42b9a91-1f83-466f-ae3e-d58a7a6bd763">WSMA Policy Compendium</a> and help inform WSMA's advocacy in the legislature, in the media, and in the industry at large).</li>
<li>A reaffirmation of existing policy.</li>
<li>A directive to take action.</li>
</ol>
<p>Policies 'referred' by delegates go to WSMA leadership (the executive committee and board of trustees) for further consideration.</p>
<p>This year, delegates directed your WSMA to:</p>
<ul>
<li>Advocate to amend state law to exempt all physicians from the B&amp;O tax surcharge resulting from 2019 House Bill 2158.</li>
<li>Explore options for tracking physician suicides and report back to the House in 2020.</li>
<li>Support services to help assist physicians, residents, students, and PAs who are suffering symptoms of depression and burnout.</li>
<li>Pursue, with stakeholder input, an aggressive strategy to reduce administrative burden.</li>
<li>Support advocacy to eliminate the buprenorphine DEA waiver requirement.</li>
<li>Publicize the interspecialty statement on "<a href="https://annals.org/aim/fullarticle/2748085/firearm-related-injury-death-united-states-call-action-from-nation">Firearm-Related Injury and Death in the United States: A Call to Action From the Nation's Leading Physician and Public Health Professional Organizations</a>"</li>
</ul>
<p>Climate change was top of mind during the meeting, with delegates adopting policy to:</p>
<ul>
<li>Expand WSMA climate change policy (including directing the WSMA to divest from fossil fuels and encourage others in the health care industry to do the same).</li>
<li>Support legislative efforts to create a low-carbon fuel standard for Washington state.</li>
<li>Support the use of reusable isolation gowns.</li>
</ul>
<p>Public health, an ongoing concern of the House, was addressed by policy to:</p>
<ul>
<li>Endorse a ban on the sale of flavored e-cigarettes.</li>
<li>Reduce firearm-related injury and death, including supporting research and legislative policy based on proven public health practices.</li>
<li>Advocate for the removal of barriers to the immunization of "Mature Minors."</li>
<li>Support improvements to the state's immunization information system.</li>
<li>Support policy requiring pharmacies, when administering vaccines, to notify a patient's primary care provider when possible.</li>
<li>Support the reform of health care access and delivery in the criminal justice system.</li>
<li>Promote greater gender equity in medicine.</li>
<li>Support physician education on critical race theory in medicine to help address disparate health outcomes of black Americans.</li>
<li>Support investments to decrease racial inequities in cancer care.</li>
<li>Support evidence-based sexual education; encourage legislation to expand sexual education to include contraception options, condom use demonstrations, LGBTQ+ sexual health, STI education, and discussions of consent.</li>
<li>Support the rights of transgender and gender nonconforming patients, including opposing legislative or other efforts to limit access to gender-affirming health services and encouraging health care facilities that provide direct patient care to adopt gender-affirming practices.</li>
<li>Encourage better data-gathering on the victims of human trafficking; educate physicians on the issue and condemn the practice.</li>
<li>Support efforts to encourage the wearing of helmets when riding e-scooter and e-bikes.</li>
</ul>
<p>Other policy adopted by the House call on the WSMA to:</p>
<ul>
<li>Work with partners to support legislation calling for an increase in primary care spending as a proportion of total health care spending.</li>
<li>Support patients and referring clinicians knowing both the name and credentials of the clinicians to whom they are referred.</li>
<li>Acknowledge the public health threat of medical misinformation.</li>
<li>Oppose digital/online "coercion" of physicians and provide resources on managing one's online reputation.</li>
<li>Oppose unpaid heath care data collection and data mining work for insurance company purposes, unless the provider chooses to provide it for free without coercion.</li>
<li>Support establishing a statewide credentialing and onboarding process for medical and PA students from Washington state's medical schools.</li>
</ul>
<p>Referred policies (those issues needing additional study before further action) included:</p>
<ul>
<li>Policy advocating for the tracking of physicians sanctioned by the Washington Medical Commission and physician enrollees of the Washington Physician Health Program, with specific enumeration of physician suicides.</li>
<li>Policy encouraging the Washington Medical Commission to use peer review when passing judgement on standards of care.</li>
<li>Policy detailing standards for the prior authorization of prescription medication requests used by insurance companies regulated by the Office of the Insurance Commissioner.</li>
<li>Policy directing the WSMA to take immediate action on gender inequities.</li>
</ul>
<p>For details on the above policies, and for a look at all policies and actions from the 2019 Annual Meeting, download the Official Actions of the 2019 WSMA House of Delegates, available from <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/About_Us/Leadership/House_of_Delegates/WSMA/About/Leadership/House_of_Delegates/House_of_Delegates.aspx?hkey=e2c50002-384d-4ff7-9116-5ce7a51116e7">the WSMA website</a>.</p>
<p>Plan now to attend the 2020 WSMA Annual Meeting, Sept. 26-27 at the Historic Davenport, Autograph Collection in Spokane. To learn more about the Annual Meeting of the WSMA House of Delegates and its role shaping policy for the medical association, visit the <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/Annual_Meeting.aspx?hkey=fea49254-3815-4dc9-8710-53ff2e3a100f">meeting webpage</a>.</p>
</div> | 10/23/2019 3:10:29 PM | 10/21/2019 2:53:06 PM | 10/23/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| balance_billing_law_implementation_and_webinar | Balance Billing Law Implementation and Webinar | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191023/balance_billing_law_implementation_and_webinar | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Concepts/Steth-Calc-Money-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="stethoscope, calculator, and money" />
</div>
<h5>
October 23, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Balance Billing Law Implementation and Webinar</h2>
<p>After years of negotiations between the WSMA, stakeholders, and lawmakers, this spring's legislative session saw the unanimous passage of <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1065&amp;Year=2019&amp;Initiative=false">House Bill 1065</a>, legislation banning balance billing in our state. HB 1065 prohibits balance billing for emergency services and for certain procedures performed by out-of-network physicians working in in-network facilities. Regulatory work is now underway to implement the bill, which takes effect Jan. 1, with the WSMA engaged on several fronts. Here are the key takeaways:</p>
<ul>
<li>A work group was formed, with WSMA participation, to develop a dataset to inform arbitrator decision-making during dispute resolutions in instances where physicians and carriers cannot come to agreement on appropriate reimbursement for services delivered pursuant to the law. Comprised of claims from the state's all-payer claims database, the goal is to set a reference point for billed charges and contracted amounts for services by region. Draft iterations of the dataset have yielded contracted amounts that are concerningly low, which could have a negative impact on implementation of the law for the physician community.</li>
<li>A <a href="https://www.insurance.wa.gov/media/8055">consumer notice template</a> has been created to inform patients of their rights under the law. The notice must be disseminated to patients by physician groups, facilities, and health insurers under certain circumstances.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.insurance.wa.gov/balance-billing-protection-act-r2019-04">Omnibus rulemaking</a> has been initiated by the Office of the Insurance Commissioner to build out elements of the legislation that require more detail. WSMA's comments in response to the rulemaking highlighted, among other issues, the need for physician groups to be able to ascertain whether a patient's health plan complies with the law, as self-insured plans cannot be regulated by the state and may elect to not participate.</li>
</ul>
<p>Sean Graham, WSMA's government affairs director, has led WSMA's advocacy on this issue and maintains a listserv for updates to the physician community. To join the listserv and track the implementation process more closely, or for questions on the implementation, email Sean at <a href="mailto:sean@wsma.org">sean@wsma.org</a>.</p>
<p>Save the date: On Wednesday, Nov. 13, from noon-1:30 p.m., the Office of the Insurance Commissioner will host a webinar designed for physicians, providers, and practice staff on implementation of the law. The webinar will cover HB 1065's out-of-network provider payment and dispute resolution process, transparency provisions, enforcement, self-funded group health plan participation, and more. A link for registration is forthcoming; save the date for now.</p>
</div> | 10/24/2019 10:08:53 AM | 10/21/2019 2:52:59 PM | 10/23/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| bill_hirota_md_named_wsma_president_for_2019_20_other_election_highlights | Bill Hirota, MD, Named WSMA President for 2019-20; Other Election Highlights | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191023/bill_hirota_md_named_wsma_president_for_2019_20_other_election_highlights | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/News/GN5_129819-10-13-WSMA-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Bill Hirota MD" />
</div>
<h5>
October 23, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Bill Hirota, MD, Named WSMA President for 2019-20; Other Election Highlights</h2>
<p>Tacoma gastroenterologist William "Bill" Hirota, MD, was inaugurated as the new president of the medical association at the 2019 WSMA Annual Meeting in SeaTac. Affiliated with CHI Franciscan, Dr. Hirota practices at Franciscan Digestive Care Associates in Tacoma and sees patients at area CHI Franciscan hospitals. He's been active in organized medicine at the county and state levels for more than 12 years.</p>
<p>During his inauguration speech, Dr. Hirota outlined the reasons why the WSMA matters to our profession (and shared lessons he learned from his own health care experiences). For those who didn't attend the meeting, Dr. Hirota shared an amended version of his inaugural speech in a special edition of Weekly Rounds, <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2019/weekly_rounds_october_14_2019_together_we_will_do_more">published on the WSMA website</a>.</p>
<p>Also elected as officers at the meeting: <strong>Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD, MBA</strong>, Tacoma emergency physician, president-elect; <strong>Mika Sinanan, MD, PhD</strong>, Seattle surgeon, 1st vice president; <strong>Katina Rue, DO</strong>, Yakima osteopathic physician, 2nd vice president; <strong>Nariman Heshmati, MD</strong>, Mukilteo OB/GYN, secretary-treasurer; <strong>John Bramhall, MD, PhD</strong>, Seattle anesthesiologist, assistant secretary-treasurer. The seventh officer of WSMA's executive committee is past-president <strong>Tom Schaaf, MD, MHA</strong>, Spokane geriatrician, who will serve as committee chair.</p>
<p>Members newly elected to the board of trustees included: <strong>Monica Blykowski-May, MD</strong>, Spokane family physician; <strong>Rachel Reeg, MD</strong>, Wenatchee internist; and <strong>Teresa Girolami, MD</strong>, Redmond internist.</p>
<p>And as it does every year, the WSMA honored new inductees to the 50-Year Club, those members who have been practicing medicine for 50 years. Inductees included: <strong>Leonard C. Altman, MD</strong>, Seattle allergist; <strong>Richard E. Bensinger, MD</strong>, Seattle ophthalmologist; <strong>Thomas R. Boyce, MD</strong>, Seattle surgeon; <strong>William J. Bremner, MD</strong>, Seattle endocrinologist; <strong>Peter H. Byers, MD</strong>, Seattle clinical geneticist; <strong>Thomas S. Charbonnel, MD</strong>, Tacoma pediatrician; <strong>Sara A. Cuene, MD</strong>, Bellingham pediatrician; <strong>John A. Dilworth, MD</strong>, Everett infectious disease specialist; <strong>Gary K. Johnson, MD</strong>, Mount Vernon otolaryngologist; <strong>Shashi B. Kumar, MD</strong>, Everett physiatrist; <strong>Max M. Lee, MD</strong>, Seattle internist; <strong>Robert A. Margulies, MD, MPH</strong>, Pasco emergency medicine specialist; <strong>D. Janet Pavlin, MD</strong>, Seattle anesthesiologist; <strong>J. Douwe Rienstra, MD</strong>, Port Townsend preventative medicine specialist; <strong>Neil F. Schneider, MD</strong>, Mercer Island radiologist; <strong>James M. Squire, MD</strong>, Seattle addiction medicine specialist; <strong>Hisham K. Tamimi, MD</strong>, Seattle gynecologic oncologist; <strong>Surender K. Wadhwa, MD</strong>, Richland cardiovascular disease specialist.</p>
</div> | 10/23/2019 2:58:58 PM | 10/21/2019 2:53:09 PM | 10/23/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| comments_due_dec_1_on_changes_to_cms_stark_law_regulations | Comments Due Dec. 1 on Changes to CMS Stark Law Regulations | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191023/comments_due_dec_1_on_changes_to_cms_stark_law_regulations | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
October 23, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Comments Due Dec. 1 on Changes to CMS Stark Law Regulations</h2>
<p>The Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services has issued a proposed rule to update and clarify regulations that interpret the Medicare physician self-referral law (or "Stark Law"). According to CMS, the proposed rule aims to support the goals of its "Patients over Paperwork" initiative by reducing unnecessary regulatory burden while reinforcing the Stark Law's goal of protecting patients from unnecessary services and being steered to less convenient, lower quality, or more expensive services because of a physician's financial self-interest.</p>
<p>Additionally, CMS says the proposed rule opens additional avenues for physicians and other health care providers to coordinate care, to ensure patients receive the highest quality of care.</p>
<p>Public comments on the proposed rule are due by Dec. 31. To review the proposed rule and to comment, visit the <a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2019/10/17/2019-22028/medicare-program-modernizing-and-clarifying-the-physician-self-referral-regulations">Federal Register website</a>. For more information, see this <a href="https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/modernizing-and-clarifying-physician-self-referral-regulations-proposed-rule">CMS fact sheet</a> and read the <a href="https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2019/10/09/hhs-proposes-stark-law-anti-kickback-statute-reforms.html">HHS press release</a>.</p>
</div> | 10/23/2019 2:58:58 PM | 10/21/2019 2:53:03 PM | 10/23/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| department_of_health_adopts_fee_increases_for_mds_and_pas | Department of Health Adopts Fee Increases for MDs and PAs | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191023/department_of_health_adopts_fee_increases_for_mds_and_pas | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Concepts/doc_laptop_645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="doctor working at laptop" />
</div>
<h5>
October 23, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Department of Health Adopts Fee Increases for MDs and PAs</h2>
<p>The Department of Health has formally adopted rule amendments increasing license renewal and late renewal penalty fees for physicians (MDs) and physician assistants starting Feb. 1, 2020. While our opposition to the proposed increases did result in some concessions by the DOH, the increases remain substantial, as do our concerns about the impact on our members and the profession in Washington state.</p>
<p>Since announcing its intention to raise the fees during a meeting with the WSMA board of trustees in late 2018 (see <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181226/wsma_pushes_back_on_state_plans_to_raise_physician_licensure_fees">this Memo article for background</a>), the Washington Medical Commission has submitted three proposals, all opposed by the WSMA. The final of the three proposals was adopted earlier this month.</p>
<p>License Renewal Fee Increase* Proposal: Original proposal (Oct. 2018)<br />
MD: $1,132<br />
PA: $140</p>
<p>License Renewal Fee Increase* Proposal: Revised proposal (Apr. 2019)<br />
MD: $1,012<br />
PA: $396</p>
<p>License Renewal Fee Increase* Proposal: Final (adopted) increase<br />
MD: $956<br />
PA: $379</p>
<p>Late renewal penalties have also been increased with the DOH's rulemaking, from $262.50 to $300 for MDs and from $50 to $124 for PAs. *Note that the renewal fees include University of Washington HEAL-WA annual surcharge of $16 or Washington Physician Health Program annual surcharge of $50.</p>
<p>In its communications, the DOH identified high disciplinary and litigation costs as well as increased costs for credentialing, case management, and call center functions as the reason for the fee increases.</p>
<p>While our <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181226/wsma_pushes_back_on_state_plans_to_raise_physician_licensure_fees">pushback to the proposals</a> resulted in modest decreases in the final adopted amounts, in a meeting with WSMA staff, DOH representatives did commit to greater transparency in their budgeting processes going forward and promised to revisit the issue after two years to examine the possibility of reducing fees if the Medical Commission's budget outlook has stabilized.</p>
<p>We are grateful to our members, many working in primary care, in smaller practices, and those serving in professional shortage areas who made their voices heard over the past year by responding to our calls to action on the issue. Thank you for providing the Medical Commission with personal stories on how this dramatic increase in fees would impact your ability to practice good medicine—or to practice altogether.</p>
<p>The WSMA will be amplifying your stories and the voices of other physicians and PAs in the months ahead, as we continue to express our opposition to these fee increases. We remain deeply concerned regarding the impact of these fees on our members, the physician community at large, and on our state, where steep fee increases promise to exacerbate a growing physician shortage by putting Washington at a competitive disadvantage in matters such as physician recruitment and retainment.</p>
</div> | 10/23/2019 3:05:26 PM | 10/21/2019 2:52:45 PM | 10/23/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| new_rules_require_physicians_to_report_lung_injuries_within_three_days | New Rules Require Physicians to Report Lung Injuries Within Three Days | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191023/new_rules_require_physicians_to_report_lung_injuries_within_three_days | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
October 23, 2019
</h5>
<h2>New Rules Require Physicians to Report Lung Injuries Within Three Days</h2>
<p>The Washington State Board of Health has released new rules for physicians and health care providers related to the multistate outbreak of lung injury associated with vapor products. As of Oct. 15, almost 1,479 cases have been identified from 49 states, including 33 deaths. Twelve cases have been identified in Washington, with additional cases under investigation.</p>
<p>On Sept. 27, Gov. Jay Inslee issued Executive Order 19-03: <a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/exe_order/19-03%20-%20Addressing%20the%20Vaping%20Public%20Health%20Crisis%20%28tmp%29.pdf" target="_blank">Addressing the Vaping Use Public Health Crisis</a>, and the health board issued emergency rules on Oct. 9. Among other actions, the rules require health care providers to report cases of lung injury to local health authorities within three business days. This will help public health quickly learn of cases and work to identify the cause(s) of this lung injury. The Washington State Department of Health has released <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/1500/820-080-GuidelinesforCliniciansVapingLungInjury.docx">reporting guidelines for clinicians</a>, which will be updated as the agency learns more. In addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently issued <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/68/wr/mm6841e3.htm?s_cid=mm6841e3_w">interim guidance for evaluating and caring for patients with suspected e-cigarette, or vaping, product use associated lung injury</a>. Questions may be directed to <a href="mailto:vapingresponse@doh.wa.gov">vapingresponse@doh.wa.gov</a>.</p>
</div> | 10/23/2019 2:58:58 PM | 10/21/2019 2:52:51 PM | 10/23/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| reminder_changes_to_medicaid_opioid_prescribing_policy_effective_nov_1 | Reminder: Changes to Medicaid Opioid Prescribing Policy Effective Nov. 1 | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191023/reminder_changes_to_medicaid_opioid_prescribing_policy_effective_nov_1 | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
October 23, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Reminder: Changes to Medicaid Opioid Prescribing Policy Effective Nov. 1</h2>
<p>This Nov. 1, the Health Care Authority will update its Apple Health (Medicaid) opioid clinical policy to align the policy with the federal SUPPORT Act passed in 2018. Make sure your practice is aware of the changes coming.</p>
<p>While the prescribing policy remains largely unchanged, there are some significant new requirements, including: An attestation that chronic pain best practices are being followed when prescribing more than the acute policy limit within a 90-day period, and prior authorization on claims that exceed 120 morphine milligram equivalent (MME) limit. The expedited prior authorization provision, secured by the WSMA, remains in effect.</p>
<p>Visit <a href="https://www.hca.wa.gov/billers-providers-partners/programs-and-services/opioids">the HCA website</a> to review the changes</p>
</div> | 10/23/2019 2:58:59 PM | 10/21/2019 2:51:16 PM | 10/23/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_applauds_federal_decisions_blocking_changes_to_public_charge_rule | WSMA Applauds Federal Decisions Blocking Changes to Public Charge Rule | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191023/wsma_applauds_federal_decisions_blocking_changes_to_public_charge_rule | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Concepts/wesley-tingey-9z9fxr_7Z-k-unsplash-gavel-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="gavel" />
</div>
<h5>
October 23, 2019
</h5>
<h2>WSMA Applauds Federal Decisions Blocking Changes to Public Charge Rule</h2>
<p>Two federal courts, including <a href="https://lmtribune.com/northwest/spokane-judge-blocks-trump-s-immigration-restrictions/article_7f8c36f6-0e5e-5f42-9b7e-aab113780966.html">one in Spokane</a>, have issued rulings preventing Trump administration changes to the "public charge" rule from taking effect.</p>
<p>Under the proposed changes, which were set to go into effect Oct. 15, a legal immigrant using basic health care, housing, and food assistance programs in the U.S. could have their application for permanent residency denied. These programs include Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Section 8 housing vouchers, and Medicare Part D. Even individuals considered "likely" to use these programs at some point could be denied a green card or visa.</p>
<p>The Spokane court ruling was prompted by a <a href="https://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/washington-co-leads-multistate-lawsuit-against-dhs-rule-targeting-immigrant">multistate lawsuit</a> co-led by Washington State Attorney General Bob Ferguson. According to state estimates, the proposed changes to the public charge rule would result in 140,000 legal immigrants in Washington likely losing their health insurance and many more refraining from using available services out of fear of jeopardizing their chances of becoming a permanent resident.</p>
<p>The WSMA joined with the Washington Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Physicians, and the American Medical Association <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2019/September/physicians_unite_to_oppose_trump_administration_immigration_policy">to file an amicus brief in support of the lawsuit</a> <strong>.</strong></p>
</div> | 10/24/2019 10:06:28 AM | 10/21/2019 2:52:55 PM | 10/23/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_honors_community_health_center_of_snohomish_county_for_oud_treatment_program | WSMA Honors Community Health Center of Snohomish County for OUD Treatment Program | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191023/wsma_honors_community_health_center_of_snohomish_county_for_oud_treatment_program | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
October 23, 2019
</h5>
<h2>WSMA Honors Community Health Center of Snohomish County for OUD Treatment Program</h2>
<p>The Community Health Center of Snohomish County was presented the William O. Robertson, MD Patient Safety Award of Excellence during the 2019 WSMA Annual Meeting in SeaTac. The health center was recognized for its program to expand access to treatment for patients with opioid use disorder.</p>
<p>As part of the program, the health center:</p>
<ul>
<li>Required primary care providers who see adult patients to complete MAT waiver training.</li>
<li>Developed a MAT reporting and tracking system.</li>
<li>Redesigned its MAT intake process to use a team-based approach so that the patient meets with an RN, a chemical dependency specialist, and then the physician.</li>
<li>Reduced stigma often attached to opioid use disorder by encouraging its providers to think about their patients with OUD in the same way they think about patients with diabetes.</li>
</ul>
<p>The health center currently has 482 active patients on MAT, and that number grows by approximately 20 each month. To learn more, <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2019/October/WSMA_Presents_Patient_Safety_Award_to_Community_Health_Center_of_Snohomish_County">read the press release</a>.</p>
<p>Each year at its annual meeting, the WSMA honors innovative patient safety initiatives in the ambulatory care setting with its William O. Robertson, MD Patient Safety Awards. 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>
</div> | 10/23/2019 2:58:59 PM | 10/23/2019 2:07:50 PM | 10/23/2019 12:00:00 AM |