| 2019_wsma_leadership_development_conference_registration_and_scholarships_available | Scholarships available for 2019 Leadership Development Conference: apply by Jan. 28 | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181226/2019_wsma_leadership_development_conference_registration_and_scholarships_available | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>
January 9, 2019
</h5>
<!-- NEW ARTICLE -->
<h2>Scholarships available for 2019 Leadership Development Conference: apply by Jan. 28</h2>
<p>
The WSMA Leadership Development Conference is one of WSMA's most popular events, allowing attendees to enjoy prime learning, networking, and recreational opportunities in a beautiful lakeside resort setting. A limited number of scholarships are available for the 2019 conference, scheduled for May 17-18 at Campbell's Resort on Lake Chelan. Help us identify and cultivate the next generation of clinician leaders by spreading the word!
</p>
<p>Scholarships cover registration fees, event meals, and lodging for two nights in one standard room. Travel to and from the conference is not covered by the scholarship. To be eligible for a scholarship, applicants must:</p>
<ul>
<li>Be a member of the WSMA in 2019. </li>
<li>Have not attended a WSMA Leadership Development Conference before. </li>
<li>Submit a complete application by Monday, Jan. 28. </li>
</ul>
<p>
The <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2019LDCScholarship">scholarship application form is available online</a>. The WSMA executive committee will select up to 10 scholarship recipients at its February meeting. Preference will be given to early career applicants (e.g. students, residents, fellows, those under 40, and those in their first 10 years of practice).
</p>
<p>
The one-and-a-half-day Leadership Development Conference is designed for clinicians at all levels of leadership experience and will provide practical information and skills that can be used in any setting—at work, in the community, or in organized medicine.The conference presents an excellent opportunity for physicians seeking leadership positions in their career, regardless of the type or size of their organization or practice. Encourage all physicians involved in a leadership capacity in your organization to attend.
</p>
<p>
Contact Brendan Cox at 206.441.9762 or <a href="mailto:brendan@wsma.org">brendan@wsma.org</a> if you have any questions. And be sure to reserve your spot at the conference by <a href="mailto:https://wsma.org/WSMA/Events/Leadership_Development_Conference/WSMA/Events/LDC/leadership_development_conference.aspx?hkey=c7532c38-057a-4568-8a3c-078182469222">registering online today</a>.
</p>
</div> | 1/9/2019 3:57:20 PM | 12/26/2018 12:54:50 PM | 1/9/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| a_look_at_wsmas_advocacy_agenda_on_eve_of_state_legislative_session | A look at WSMA's advocacy agenda on eve of state legislative session | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190109/a_look_at_wsmas_advocacy_agenda_on_eve_of_state_legislative_session | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>
January 9, 2019
</h5>
<h2>A look at WSMA's advocacy agenda on eve of state legislative session</h2>
<p>
The 2019 state legislative session begins this Monday. The primary duty of the Legislature during this "long" 105-day session will be to pass a budget to fund the state government and related services for the two-year period starting July 1, presaged by <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181226/governors_2019_budget_proposal_the_good_the_good_and_the_ugly">Gov. Inslee's budget proposal</a> in December. While budget negotiations will take center stage, lawmakers will also consider legislation on an array of topics—and the WSMA will be there to help guide them on those issues impacting physicians and patients.
</p>
<p>
Topping the list of WSMA's advocacy priorities for the 2019 session are access to care, support for mental and behavioral health services, and health care market stabilization and reform. With <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2018/physician_depression_its_time_to_care_for_our_own">professional burnout still of paramount concern to your state medical association</a>, the WSMA will screen all proposed health care policy through the lens of whether it adds administrative burden to the practice of medicine.
</p>
<p>
Priority bills and budget provisions the WSMA anticipates include:
</p>
<h3>Mental/behavioral health</h3>
<p>
The WSMA will support proposals to increase our state's behavioral health workforce, such as funding for psychiatric medical residencies and increasing access to telemedicine services. Many of these behavioral health funding provisions were laid out in the <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181226/governors_2019_budget_proposal_the_good_the_good_and_the_ugly">governor's budget proposal</a>, including a long-held WSMA priority: an increase in Medicaid reimbursements (for mental health, substance abuse treatment, and adult and pediatric primary care).
</p>
<h3>Liability</h3>
<p>
Several liability bills we monitored in 2018 we expect to see again in some form, including:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Whistleblower protections – The WSMA will again urge lawmakers to provide protections to employed and non-employed physicians who make good-faith claims of wrongdoing by hospital administrations.</li>
<li>Advance directives – The WSMA will urge legislators to simplify the requirements for signing/notarizing advance directives.</li>
<li>Wrongful death – We expect to again see legislation addressing wrongful death lawsuits (the WSMA successfully opposed a bill in 2018 which would have increased liability and exposure these claims).</li>
</ul>
<h3>Opioids</h3>
<p>
Over the past several years, physician-led efforts have been crucial to <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Press_Releases/2018/Public-private_safe_prescribing_initiative_results_in_reductions_in_Medicaid_opioid_prescriptions">reforming opioid prescribing practices</a>. During the 2019 session, the WSMA will push for increased access to treatment for opioid use and substance use disorder through reimbursement, workforce availability, access to non-opioid treatments, and more.
</p>
<h3>Public health </h3>
<p>
The WSMA will support legislation during session in line with policy recently passed by the House of Delegates, including policy addressing firearm violence and climate change. Other public health priorities we expect to see include:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Raising the age for the legal purchase of tobacco products to 21.</li>
<li>Funding for a maternal mortality review committee.</li>
<li>Funding for Foundational Public Health Services.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Taxes on physician services</h3>
<p>
As <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181226/governors_2019_budget_proposal_the_good_the_good_and_the_ugly">reported previously</a>, the governor has proposed $3.7 billion in tax increases to fund investments outlined in his budget proposal. Included is a 67 percent increase in the business and occupation tax, from 1.5 percent to 2.5 percent. As we've done in past legislative sessions, the WSMA will vigorously oppose this provision in the governor's budget, which would disproportionally harm our state's solo and independent practices.
</p>
<p>
As the session unfolds, we'll keep you posted on developments in our communications channels. If you'd like to help support our advocacy more directly, <strong>come to Olympia on Feb. 7 for the 2019 WSMA Legislative Summit</strong>, and join your like-minded colleagues and peers from across the state as we take our advocacy message directly to legislators. We need WSMA members from all of Washington's 49 legislative districts to attend, to ensure lawmakers throughout the state hear our message on behalf of physicians and patients. The event is free for members—learn more and <a href="mailto:https://wsma.org/WSMA/Events/Legislative_Summit/WSMA/Events/Legislative_Summit/Legislative_Summit.aspx?hkey=ec5e0510-cee2-4aa9-b549-905d63952454">register online</a> today.
</p>
<p>
And be sure to check out this month's issue of WSMA Reports, which features a special focus on WSMA's advocacy and how to be a good physician advocate. The publication should be in your mailbox now.
</p>
</div> | 1/9/2019 4:01:11 PM | 1/9/2019 12:22:55 PM | 1/9/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| call_for_comments_draft_report_on_the_future_of_maintenance_of_certification | Call for comments: Draft report on the future of maintenance of certification | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190109/call_for_comments_draft_report_on_the_future_of_maintenance_of_certification | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
January 9, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Call for comments: Draft report on the future of maintenance of certification</h2>
<p>
Whether you like or hate maintenance of certification (MOC), the WSMA believes physicians should have the right to choose among options for continuing education (to that end, the WSMA helped pass legislation in 2018 <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Advocacy/Legislative___Regulatory/WSMA/Advocacy/Legislative_Regulatory/Legislative_Regulatory.aspx?hkey=c0dc6e7c-4385-497a-99db-4a6b6f4e56bd#new">prohibiting MOC as a condition of licensure</a> here in Washington). At the national level, the WSMA continues to <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2018/Strong_wins_for_the_profession_this_session">support the work done by the American Board of Medical Specialties</a> to modernize continuing board certification. Physicians interested in the issue should note that a commission convened by the ABMS to assess the current state of MOC has posted for public comment its draft report, which includes recommendations for future continuing certification programs. <a href="https://www.abms.org/news-events/abms-statement-on-vision-for-the-future-commission-draft-report-for-public-comment">Find the draft report online</a>. Comments are due by 9 a.m. PST next Tuesday, Jan. 15. The commission will meet one last time to review comments and revise the draft before submitting its final report to the ABMS in February.
</p>
</div> | 1/9/2019 4:06:04 PM | 1/9/2019 12:42:10 PM | 1/9/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| considering_running_for_office_the_2019_ampac_candidate_workshop_can_help | Considering running for office? The 2019 AMPAC Candidate Workshop can help | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190109/considering_running_for_office_the_2019_ampac_candidate_workshop_can_help | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
January 9, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Considering running for office? The 2019 AMPAC Candidate Workshop can help</h2>
<p>
Ever wonder how doctors get elected to Congress or your state legislature? Considering a run for office yourself? Then the AMPAC Candidate Workshop, held March 1-3 in Washington, D.C., is for you.
</p>
<p>
The one-and-a-half-day workshop will provide you with the skills and strategic approach you will need to make a run for public office. Some of the topics include: How and when to make the decision to run; the importance of a disciplined campaign plan and message; the secrets of effective fundraising; what kinds of media advertising are right for your campaign; how to handle the inevitable crises that emerge for every campaign; the role of your spouse and your family; and how to become a better public speaker.
</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.ampaconline.org/political-education/ampac-candidate-workshop/">Registration is now open</a>. The deadline to register is Feb. 8—the program fills up quickly, so don't delay. The registration fee is $250 for AMA members ($1,000 non-members), spouses and state medical society staff. The fee is waived for students/residents; however, there are limited slots and the AMPAC board will review and select from the pool of qualified applicants.
</p>
<p>
For more information visit <a href="http://www.ampaconline.org/get-involved/political-education/">AMPAC online</a>.
</p>
</div> | 1/9/2019 4:07:40 PM | 1/9/2019 2:59:09 PM | 1/9/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| dates_announced_for_spring_2019_wsma_physician_leadership_course | Dates announced for spring 2019 WSMA Physician Leadership Course | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20180926/dates_announced_for_spring_2019_wsma_physician_leadership_course | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>
January 9, 2018
</h5>
<h2>Deadline extended for spring Physician Leadership Course
</h2>
<p>Just a few spots remain to be filled in WSMA's Physician Leadership Course scheduled to begin this March in Seattle. Physician and physician assistants interested in starting on a leadership track are encouraged to apply by the new deadline, Wednesday, Jan. 23.</p>
<p>
WSMA's Physician Leadership Course offers hybrid-distance continuing education for physicians and physician assistants who want to learn more about health care leadership and develop skills to thrive professionally, regardless of the type or size of their organization.
</p>
<p>The course combines in-person and online learning to deliver 40 hours of curriculum over 10 weeks. It is designed for practicing physicians, requiring minimal time away from patient care, with two initial days of in-person coursework, eight weeks of online instruction and interaction, and concluding with a one-day in-person session.</p>
<p>For the spring 2019 course, in-person classes will take place Friday, March 8, Saturday, March 9 and Friday, May 10 in Seattle. Online instruction takes place during the intervening eight weeks. Find full course curriculum, tuition and application information on the <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Resources/Physician_Leadership/Physician_Leadership_Course/WSMA/Resources/Physician_Leadership/Physician_Leadership_Course/Physician_Leadership_Course.aspx?hkey=219c2ad0-02a5-4a1a-af06-ae5bed577d11">course webpage</a>.</p>
<p>Medical groups, hospitals and health systems throughout Washington have used this course to enhance their leadership teams—make sure leadership in your clinical care setting is reaching its potential by enrolling today.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Questions? Email Lauren Beverly at <a href="mailto:lauren@wsma.org">lauren@wsma.org</a>. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Creditâ„¢</em>. </p>
</div> | 1/9/2019 12:33:45 PM | 9/26/2018 10:48:35 AM | 1/9/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| gov_inslee_previews_public_option_bill | Gov. Inslee previews public option bill | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190109/gov_inslee_previews_public_option_bill | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
January 9, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Gov. Inslee previews public option bill </h2>
<p>
Framing it as a "significant step in the goal of universal coverage," Gov. Inslee this week announced he will work with Democratic lawmakers to introduce legislation establishing a public health insurance option in Washington state.
</p>
<p>
While the details of the legislation have yet to be released, the governor laid out the basic framework for the public option (called "Cascade Care") at a <a href="http://mynorthwest.com/1236119/cascade-care-inslee-proposal/">press conference</a> on Tuesday and <a href="https://medium.com/wagovernor/inslee-announces-public-option-legislation-to-promote-health-care-for-all-47bd01010a82">on his website</a>:
</p>
<ul>
<li>The state Health Care Authority will contract one or more insurers to offer "standardized" plans within the state's health benefit exchange, to ensure that all counties in the state have available insurance options on the individual market.</li>
<li>Standardized plans will have consistent and transparent deductibles, co-pays, and co-insurance;</li>
<li>Physician and provider reimbursement rates will be capped at Medicare rates.</li>
<li>The health benefit exchange and the Health Care Authority must ensure that customers spend no more than 10 percent of their income on premiums for the public option plan.</li>
</ul>
<p>
Asked by several press outlets to react to the proposal, WSMA CEO Jennifer Hanscom, while noting WSMA's shared goal of ensuring universal coverage, expressed concerns with the reimbursement provision:
</p>
<p>
<em>"Based on press reports we are deeply concerned with this particular proposal pegging physician and provider reimbursement rates at Medicare rates. Medicare rates, put simply, are artificially low, arbitrary and subject to the political whims of Washington, D.C. Establishing Medicare rates as the default payment for a public option guarantees that many physician practices will not be able to serve patients enrolled in it, despite the desire they may have to do so."</em>
</p>
<p>
<a href="https://stateofreform.com/featured/2019/01/physicians-concerned-about-pegging-reimbursement-to-medicare-in-public-option/?utm_source=State+of+Reform&amp;utm_campaign=5439604ed0-5+Things+WA+July+2_COPY_01&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_term=0_37897a186e-5439604ed0-251935633">Read the full statement</a>. As with all legislative proposals, the devil will lie in the details, which won't be available until the bill is introduced during the upcoming state legislative session. As with other system reform bills in recent legislative sessions, the WSMA will consider the proposal through the lens of our <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Advocacy/Health_Care_Reform/WSMA/Advocacy/Health_Care_Reform/Health_Care_Reform.aspx?hkey=2aaaa22e-ca09-4919-89ea-32885fc38296">10 principles for health care reform</a>. We will keep members apprised of bill details once available.
</p>
</div> | 1/9/2019 4:09:05 PM | 1/9/2019 12:19:50 PM | 1/9/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| join_your_physician_and_pa_colleagues_in_olympia_for_the_2019_wsma_legislative_summit | Doctors' day on the Hill is almost here! Join your colleagues at the 2019 Legislative Summit | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181212/join_your_physician_and_pa_colleagues_in_olympia_for_the_2019_wsma_legislative_summit | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>January 9, 2018
</h5>
<h2>Doctors' day on the Hill is almost here! Join your colleagues at the 2019 Legislative Summit</h2>
<p>
Please consider taking time out of your busy schedule to attend the 2019 WSMA Legislative Summit, Thursday, Feb. 7. Your opinions matter to state legislators and policymakers. This is your chance to come to the state capital, gain insight into how we translate WSMA policy into actual action with legislators, and make your voice heard by meeting with lawmakers directly.
</p>
<p>
Our work in Olympia is key to advancing the interests of physicians and patients in the state. As WSMA CEO Jennifer Hanscom points out:
</p>
<p>
<em>"No one knows better than our members what goes on in an exam room, and we rely on them to provide an accurate picture of how these issues really affect the practice of medicine and their patients, who are their constituents!" </em>
</p>
<p>
Recognizing that your time is valuable, the event is free to attend, and we provide lunch. WSMA's legislative team will provide details on our top advocacy issues and updates on important campaigns and will help to schedule personal meetings with your legislators in the afternoon.
</p>
<p>
If you have a white coat, wear it! The visual message of physicians, physician assistants and medical students united in support of the profession and patients will be a powerful one.
</p>
<p>
Help us make our voice heard! Join us in Olympia on Feb. 7. <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Events/Legislative_Summit/WSMA/Events/Legislative_Summit/Legislative_Summit.aspx?hkey=ec5e0510-cee2-4aa9-b549-905d63952454">Register online today</a>.
</p>
<p>A special thanks to our corporate partners—exclusive premier partner <a href="http://www.phyins.com/">Physicians Insurance A Mutual Company</a>, and silver partners <a href="http://www.premera.com/">Premera Blue Cross</a>, <a href="https://www.fchn.com/default.aspx?">First Choice Health</a>, <a href="http://www.hallrender.com/">Hall Render</a>, and <a href="https://www.wpmgcareers.org/">Washington Permanente Medical Group</a>—for helping WSMA make this event free for WSMA and WSMGMA members.</p>
</div> | 1/11/2019 3:19:37 PM | 12/12/2018 12:14:48 PM | 1/9/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| medicaid_health_plan_changes_as_care_integration_proceeds | Medicaid: Health plan changes as care integration proceeds | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190109/medicaid_health_plan_changes_as_care_integration_proceeds | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
January 9, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Medicaid: Health plan changes as care integration proceeds</h2>
<p>
The Health Care Authority is moving forward with its strategy for integration of physical and behavioral health services, also called "whole-person care." Apple Health (Medicaid) managed care plans will start to cover behavioral health treatment services (mental health and substance use disorder treatment), along with physical health services. Most clients will remain with the same health plan; however, there are a few places where plans will no longer be an available choice within a county. Clients will stay enrolled in their current plan, unless that plan will not be an option in 2019. In those cases, HCA will auto-enroll clients to one of the offered plans. Practice staff should confirm Medicaid patients' eligibility and health plan assignment before providing services, in case the patient may have been reassigned.
</p>
<p>
As of Jan. 1, managed care organizations (MCOs) that are contracted with Apple Health in certain regional service areas will expand their coverage of behavioral health services (mental health and substance use disorder treatment), along with continuing to cover physical health services. Apple Health clients who are not enrolled in a contracted MCO for their physical health services (e.g., dual-eligible Medicare-Medicaid clients) will still receive their behavioral health services through one of the contracted MCOs. The MCO will provide only behavioral health services for the client.
</p>
<p>
HCA has <a href="https://www.hca.wa.gov/assets/free-or-low-cost/19-0025.pdf" target="_blank">posted to its website a map and table</a> of the integrated Apple Health managed care plans available within each region. For more details, review the <a href="https://www.hca.wa.gov/billers-providers-partners/programs-and-services/managed-care">HCA's managed care webpage</a>.
</p>
</div> | 1/9/2019 4:12:04 PM | 1/9/2019 2:58:15 PM | 1/9/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| regence_provider_contract_changes | Regence: Provider contract changes | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190109/regence_provider_contract_changes | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
January 9, 2019
</h5>
<h2>Regence: Provider contract changes</h2>
<p>
On Friday, Dec. 21, WSMA and WSMGMA representatives met via conference call with Regence BlueShield's medical and contracting directors. Regence representatives reported that the health insurer recently completed the approval process with the Washington Office of the Insurance Commissioner for new contracts, and that it plans to introduce those agreements to the provider community throughout 2019 (some practices have already received the new agreements).
</p>
<p>
Regence representatives advised the insurer has not yet formally announced this revision via its newsletters or website, so we are encouraging Regence to do so fairly immediately, as a number of practices have already received the revised contract and are raising important questions.
</p>
<p>
In particular, we discussed a specific contract revision that Regence is now implementing via the gradual introduction of these new agreements. We will be reconnecting with Regence to determine what announcement they will be making and when. In the interim, if you receive a new provider contract from Regence, practice staff are encouraged to review the provisions carefully for any revisions.
</p>
</div> | 1/9/2019 3:19:23 PM | 1/9/2019 2:56:35 PM | 1/9/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| state_radiological_society_introduces_website_for_new_breast_density_notification_law | Reminder: Breast density notification law now in effect | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181212/state_radiological_society_introduces_website_for_new_breast_density_notification_law | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>January 9, 2019</h5>
<h2>Reminder: Breast density notification law now in effect</h2>
<p>
Starting Jan. 1, health care facilities are required to share information with mammography patients on their breast density. The Department of Health has issued a <a href="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/381c2b109dc0809662b7cd0da/files/e3b3b4de-ee60-4474-b07c-88846a7769b9/SH5084_Breast_Density_Practitioner_Notice_Final.pdf" target="_blank">practitioner notice </a> with guidance on the new requirement. For further assistance, the Washington State Radiological Society and its Breast Imaging Task Force have created a website to provide information about the new law for both physician and patients. The website features frequently asked questions from patients, technologists, physicians, and providers on the medical care related to breast cancer screening, as well as information about breast cancer risk and risk reduction. Visit the new online resource at <a href="https://www.WA-densebreastanswers.org">www.WA-densebreastanswers.org</a>.
</p>
</div> | 1/9/2019 4:14:16 PM | 12/12/2018 12:13:44 PM | 1/9/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| use_these_wsma_resources_to_prepare_for_success_under_new_state_opioid_prescribing_rules | New state opioid prescribing rules now in effect: WSMA and DOH resources available | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181226/use_these_wsma_resources_to_prepare_for_success_under_new_state_opioid_prescribing_rules | <div class="col-md-12">
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</div>
<h5>January 9, 2019</h5>
<h2>New state opioid prescribing rules now in effect: WSMA and DOH resources available </h2>
<p>
New rules governing opioid prescribing are now in effect for most prescribing professions in Washington state (including physicians and physician assistants). The following WSMA and Department of Health resources can help you succeed under the new requirements.
</p>
<h3>For clinicians and care teams </h3>
<ul>
<li>WSMA's one-hour webinar, <a href="http://wsma.org/WSMA/Resources/Clinical_Quality/Opioid_Clinical_Guidance/Preparing_for_New_Opioid_Prescribing_Rules_in_Washington_State.aspx">Understanding New State Opioid Prescribing Rules</a>, can help clinicians understand how to comply with the new requirements and 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>. </li>
<li>WSMA's new customizable PowerPoint template, <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/Resources/Clinical Quality/Opioids/FINAL_WSMA_CARETEAM_SLIDES.pptx%5d">Preparing Care Teams for New Opioid Rx Rule</a>, can help practice leaders educate their practice care teams, regardless of size, on the new rules.</li>
</ul>
<h3>For your patients</h3>
<p>Per the new opioid rules, before prescribing an opioid, prescribers need to provide patients information about the risks, safe storage, and safe disposal. The DOH offers patient handouts for all categories of pain patients (chronic, surgical, acute, and subacute) to satisfy this requirement. Find these handouts along with a patient video <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/ForPublicHealthandHealthcareProviders/HealthcareProfessionsandFacilities/OpioidPrescribing/HealthcareProviders/Toolkits">on the DOH website</a>, under Toolkits, Public/Patient.</p>
<h3>CME requirement</h3>
<p>
Allopathic physician and PA prescribers should note that simply reading the new rules will meet the new state requirement for opioid continuing medical education. Find links to the final rules on the WSMA website on the <a href="http://www.wsma.org/WSMA/Resources/Clinical_Quality/Opioid_Clinical_Guidance/Opioid_Clinical_Guidance.aspx#rules">Opioid Clinical Guidance page</a>. As there is no associated CME certificate for this activity, the MD or PA should note which WACs they reviewed and the date and keep that document with their other CME certificates. Note that a review of the rules does not meet the new state opioid CME requirement for osteopathic physicians and PAs.
</p>
<h3>Resources under development</h3>
<p>
More resources on the new rules, including an opioid prescribing workflow checklist, are under development and will be available in the weeks ahead. For more information, 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>.
</p>
</div> | 1/9/2019 4:17:25 PM | 12/26/2018 12:51:01 PM | 1/9/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| a_special_message_on_flu_prevention_from_state_health_officer_dr_kathy_lofy | A special message on flu prevention from State Health Officer Dr. Kathy Lofy | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181226/a_special_message_on_flu_prevention_from_state_health_officer_dr_kathy_lofy | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
December 26, 2018
</h5>
<h2>A special message on flu prevention from State Health Officer Dr. Kathy Lofy</h2>
<p>
Washington's State Health Officer Kathy Lofy, MD has shared the following update on the 2018-19 flu season.</p>
<p>
</p>
<p>Dear Health Care Providers:
</p>
<p>
It is not too late to vaccinate your patients against influenza. You are your patients' most trusted source of health information. Please strongly recommend and offer flu vaccine to your patients. Your recommendation makes a huge difference in a patient's decision to get vaccinated. Flu vaccination is especially important for people at <a href="http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/high_risk.htm">high risk for flu-related complications</a>, including <a href="http://www.doh.wa.gov/YouandYourFamily/IllnessandDisease/Flu/FluandPregnancy">pregnant women</a>.
</p>
<p>
You should also receive the influenza vaccine if you have not been vaccinated this season. Preventing flu among healthcare providers protects patients at risk for flu complications.
</p>
<h3>Flu vaccine recommendations</h3>
<p>
Annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone aged six months and older. The best time to get vaccinated is before heightened flu activity starts. The 2018-2019 flu vaccine has been updated and, to date, the predominant flu virus in circulation (A [H1N1]pdm09) is well-matched to the corresponding component of this year’s vaccine.
</p>
<p>
Children six months to eight years old need two doses of flu vaccine if they have not previously received ≥2 doses of influenza vaccine before July 1, 2018. Doses need to be spaced at least four weeks apart. A <a href="http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/139/5/e20164244">recent study published in Pediatrics</a> showed that flu vaccination was associated with a reduced risk of influenza-associated death among children and adolescents, supporting the current recommendation for annual influenza vaccination in all children ≥6 months of age.
</p>
<p>
For patients 65 years of age or older, the Washington State Vaccine Advisory Committee (VAC) recommends that healthcare providers <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/Pubs/348-518-SupplementalGuidance.pdf" target="_blank">offer high-dose or adjuvanted flu vaccine</a>. There is evidence that these particular flu vaccines are more effective than standard-dose flu vaccine in preventing medically attended, laboratory-confirmed flu infection in this population. Work with your patients to determine which vaccine is appropriate, but do not delay vaccination based on availability of one product over another.
</p>
<p>
Find more information about vaccine products and recommendations in the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/67/rr/rr6703a1.htm">Prevention and Control of Seasonal Influenza with Vaccines: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) – United States, 2018-19 Influenza Season</a>.
</p>
<h3>Testing and treatment</h3>
<p>
Confirmation of flu infection by diagnostic laboratory testing is not required for decisions to prescribe antiviral medication. For hospitalized patients with suspected flu, start antiviral treatment as soon as possible without waiting for test results. For non-hospitalized patients with suspected flu, please review <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/diagnosis/consider-influenza-testing.htm">CDC’s Guide for considering flu testing when flu viruses are circulating in the community</a>.
</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/antivirals/summary-clinicians.htm">Antiviral treatment</a> is most beneficial when started as close to illness onset as possible, ideally within 48 hours of symptom onset for any patient with confirmed or suspected flu who is:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Hospitalized.</li>
<li>Sick with severe, complicated, or progressive illness.</li>
<li>At <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/high_risk.htm">higher risk for flu complications</a>.</li>
</ul>
<p>
<em>Decisions about starting antiviral treatment should not wait for laboratory confirmation of influenza.</em>
</p>
<h3>Helpful flu education resources</h3>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/8200/348-663-KnockOutFluTool-en-L.pdf" target="_blank">Knock Out Flu at Work – Promoting Flu Vaccination in the Workplace</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/8200/348-669-FluFlow-en-L.pdf" target="_blank">Flu Vaccine Hesitancy: Providers Lead the Discussion</a></li>
</ul>
<p>
Thank you for your continued efforts to knock out flu and protect our vulnerable populations. Find more information about flu vaccine, treatment, and infection control on the <a href="http://www.doh.wa.gov/ForPublicHealthandHealthcareProviders/PublicHealthSystemResourcesandServices/Immunization/InfluenzaFluInformation">Department of Health</a> and <a href="http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/index.htm">CDC</a> websites.
</p>
<p>
Sincerely,
</p>
<p>
Kathy Lofy, MD <br />
State Health Officer
</p>
</div> | 12/26/2018 3:07:49 PM | 12/26/2018 12:58:01 PM | 12/26/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| dec_31_deadline_to_dispute_open_payments_2017_data_ | Dec. 31 deadline to dispute Open Payments’ 2017 data | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181024/dec_31_deadline_to_dispute_open_payments_2017_data_ | <div class="col-md-12">
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</div>
<h5>
December 26, 2018
</h5>
<h2>Final reminder: Deadline to dispute Open Payments' 2017 data is Dec. 31</h2>
<p>Each year, the Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services, as part of its Open Payments program, releases to the public information regarding payments made by pharmaceutical and device manufacturers to physicians. Physicians are encouraged to review, and dispute if necessary, the data reported by drug and device companies, to ensure the accuracy of publicly available information. Physicians have until this Monday, Dec. 31, to review and dispute 2017 data, published earlier this year by CMS on its <a href="https://openpaymentsdata.cms.gov/">Open Payments website</a>. <a href="https://www.cms.gov/OpenPayments/Program-Participants/Physicians-and-Teaching-Hospitals/Review-and-Dispute.html">Visit the CMS website</a> for instructions and to get started.
</p>
</div> | 12/26/2018 3:05:20 PM | 10/24/2018 9:55:52 AM | 12/26/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| governors_2019_budget_proposal_the_good_the_good_and_the_ugly | Governor's 2019 budget proposal: The Good, the Good, and the Ugly | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181226/governors_2019_budget_proposal_the_good_the_good_and_the_ugly | <div class="col-md-12">
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</div>
<h5>
December 26, 2018
</h5>
<h2>Governor's 2019 budget proposal: The Good, the Good, and the Ugly</h2>
<p>
Gov. Inslee has released his state budget proposal for the two-year period beginning on July 1. While the $54.4 billion spending plan contains strong investments in behavioral health and primary care (including a long-sought increase in Medicaid reimbursements), it comes with a significant price tag for physician practices.
</p>
<h3>The good</h3>
<p>
The governor's budget proposal features an impressive $874.5 million in health care investments, with major provisions to further the state's efforts at integrating behavioral health and primary care, including:
</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>$675 million to address mental and behavioral health treatment</strong>. Provisions would be made for improvements of state mental and behavioral health facilities, additional beds for patients with mental, behavioral health, and substance use disorders, and the creation of five new psychiatric residencies at the University of Washington.</li>
<li><strong>$56.6 million in state funds and $142.9 million in federal funds to increase Medicaid payments for adult and pediatric primary care</strong>. This proposal appears to mirror the two-year primary care reimbursement rate increase our state saw under the Affordable Care Act in 2013-14 and reflects an increase to 83 percent of Medicare rates, according to the governor's office. The budget also includes $9.1 million in state funds and $27.7 million in federal funds to increase the Medicaid rate paid for mental and behavioral health and psychotherapy codes.</li>
</ul>
<p>
Other budget highlights include $22 million to help stabilize public health, $100,000 to improve the prescription monitoring program, and $8.9 million to cover the projected revenue shortfall if the Legislature raises the legal age for tobacco products to 21.
</p>
<h3>
The bad</h3>
<p>
The governor proposes $3.7 billion in tax increases to fund his investments; among them is a stinger for physician practices—<strong>a 67 percent increase in the business and occupation tax, from 1.5 percent to 2.5 percent</strong>. This increase will disproportionally impact our state's already shrinking supply of solo and independent practices, which often run on very slim margins, making any tax increase costly to physicians and patient care.
</p>
<p>
Many of our members will know this is not our first time at this particular rodeo, with our elected officials proposing B&amp;O tax increases on several occasions in the recent past—and the WSMA successfully fighting back each attempt. As we did then, the WSMA will vigorously oppose this provision in the governor's budget.
</p>
<p>It's worth keeping in mind that Gov. Inslee's budget proposal is just that—a proposal. It gives the governor an opportunity for his office to highlight priority issues and set the stage for budget negotiations that will unfold during the legislative session, which begins in January. It also tends to be something of a high-water mark, as the final budget adopted by the Legislature is almost certain to be more modest in terms of spending and taxes.
</p>
<p>
As the session unfolds, we'll keep you posted on developments in the Membership Memo. For more up-to-the minute news, visit and bookmark our online&nbsp;<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>. If you're interested in participating more directly in our advocacy work during the upcoming session, plan now to attend the 2019 WSMA Legislative Summit, our annual "lobby day on the Hill" for the physician community, scheduled for Feb. 7 in Olympia. The event is free for members—learn more and <a href="mailto:https://wsma.org/WSMA/Events/Legislative_Summit/WSMA/Events/Legislative_Summit/Legislative_Summit.aspx?hkey=ec5e0510-cee2-4aa9-b549-905d63952454">register online</a>.
</p>
</div> | 12/27/2018 8:22:25 AM | 12/26/2018 12:47:35 PM | 12/26/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| medicare_part_d_opioid_prescribing_policies_for_2019 | Medicare Part D opioid prescribing policies for 2019 | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181226/medicare_part_d_opioid_prescribing_policies_for_2019 | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
December 26, 2018
</h5>
<h2>Medicare Part D opioid prescribing policies for 2019</h2>
<p>
The Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services has finalized new opioid policies for Medicare drug plans starting on Jan. 1. The new policies include improved safety alerts when opioid prescriptions are dispensed through pharmacy and drug management programs for patients determined to be at-risk for misuse or abuse of opioids or other frequently abused drugs.
</p>
<p>
Exempt from those interventions are residents of long-term care facilities, those in hospice care, patients receiving palliative or end-of-life care, and patients being treated for active cancer-related pain. Also, the policies should not impact patients' access to medication-assisted treatment therapies, such as buprenorphine.
</p>
<p>
To assist prescribers, CMS offers an information sheet and accompanying slide deck; both are posted on the <a href="https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Prescription-Drug-coverage/PrescriptionDrugCovContra/RxUtilization.html">CMS website</a> (click on Information for Prescribers under Downloads). For further details, review CMS' <a href="https://www.cms.gov/Outreach-and-Education/Medicare-Learning-Network-MLN/MLNMattersArticles/Downloads/SE18016.pdf" target="_blank">Nov. 1 memo</a>.
</p>
<p>
For questions on Medicare, contact Bob Perna at <a href="mailto:rjp@wsma.org">rjp@wsma.org</a>. For questions on Washington state opioid prescribing rules, contact Jeb Shepard at <a href="mailto:jeb@wsma.org">jeb@wsma.org</a>.
</p>
</div> | 12/26/2018 2:21:07 PM | 12/26/2018 12:52:27 PM | 12/26/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| sign_up_now_for_the_winter_2019_mindfulness_for_healthcare_professionals_teleconference_series | Sign up now for the winter 2019 Mindfulness for Healthcare Professionals teleconference series | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181226/sign_up_now_for_the_winter_2019_mindfulness_for_healthcare_professionals_teleconference_series | <div class="col-md-12">
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</div>
<h5>
December 26, 2018
</h5>
<h2>Sign up now for the winter 2019 Mindfulness for Healthcare Professionals teleconference series</h2>
<p>
Physicians, physician assistants and other licensed providers in Washington can now register for the upcoming teleconference series Mindfulness for Healthcare Professionals of Washington State, an intensive four-week, five-session stress reduction and burnout prevention training program slated to begin in February. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Creditâ„¢</em>.
</p>
<p>
The program contains the core elements of the renowned Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) curriculum customized for clinicians. The course includes mindfulness training exercises, guided reflections, structured conversations with peers, and practical information about resilience, stress, and burnout.
</p>
<p>
Mindfulness training has been shown to help physicians and providers:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Respond more skillfully in high stress situations, reducing risk factors for burnout.</li>
<li>Create positive peer support for mindful engagement in work and home situations that have previously triggered stress responses and unhelpful behaviors.</li>
<li>Identify helpful vs. unhelpful thought patterns; strengthen problem solving, emotional regulation, and meaning-focused coping strategies.</li>
<li>Re-connect with intention and meaning to the health care profession.</li>
</ul>
<p>
The winter 2019 program is scheduled for Thursday evenings beginning Feb. 7 with one extended session on Sunday, Feb. 24, and is presented by Mindfulness Northwest in partnership with the WSMA and Washington Physicians Health Program. For more information and to register, visit the event page on the <a href="https://mindfulnessnorthwest.com/event-3034844">Mindfulness Northwest website</a>.
</p>
</div> | 12/26/2018 2:21:07 PM | 12/26/2018 12:56:30 PM | 12/26/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_pushes_back_on_state_plans_to_raise_physician_licensure_fees | WSMA pushes back on state plans to raise physician licensure fees | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181226/wsma_pushes_back_on_state_plans_to_raise_physician_licensure_fees | <div class="col-md-12">
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</div>
<h5>
December 26, 2018
</h5>
<h2>WSMA pushes back on state plans to raise physician licensure fees</h2>
<p>
The WSMA has met with leadership of the Washington Medical Commission to express our deep concerns over a substantial proposed increase in license renewal fees for physicians and physician assistants, which, while subject to rulemaking and a public comment period, could go into effect as soon as late 2019.
</p>
<p>
The proposal would raise physicians' renewal fees 54 percent (from $657 to $1020) and physician assistants' renewal fees 96 percent (from $202 to $396). According to the commission, the proposed increases are due in part by a decline in the number of licensees and higher discipline and overhead costs. The commission has said that the fee increase is intended to obviate the need for further increases for the next 10 years.
</p>
<p>
Washington Medical Commission Executive Director Melanie de Leon and Deputy Executive Director Micah Matthews recently met with the WSMA board of trustees to discuss the commission's proposal. Following the meeting, the WSMA, in <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2018/WMC_Fee_increase_ltr_112818.pdf]">a comment letter to the commission</a>, expressed its strong opposition to the proposed fee increase, citing concerns about the physician and PA communities' ability to absorb such a dramatic increase in their fees and questioning the commission's reasoning behind the proposal.
</p>
<p>
In the letter, WSMA President Dr. Tom Schaaf also pointed to WSMA's belief that "such a fee increase could put the Medical Commission in the position of subsidizing the costs of other professions." Dr. Schaaf cited an <a href="http://www.sao.wa.gov/state/Documents/PA_Aligning_Healthcare_Professional_Fees_ar1022690.pdf" target="_blank">audit released in late November</a> from the Washington State Auditor's Office and supported by the WSMA, which revealed that, contrary to state law, revenues collected by the Department of Health from some health care professions have been cross-subsidizing the costs of licensing other professions.
</p>
<p>
The commission's proposal is preliminary; however, we do expect the agency to move forward with the proposal, with formal rulemaking to be released as early as mid-2019 and adoption of the fee increase potentially by the end of 2019. WSMA members are advised that licensure fee setting is done through a truncated rulemaking process—meaning that when the proposal is released by the commission, there will only be one opportunity for the WSMA and the physician community to provide feedback.
</p>
<p>
The WSMA is working with the commission to ensure that our members are given ample time and information on the rulemaking proposal to provide input. We will likely have more information on the issue in January. If you have any questions, please contact Hailey Hamilton at <a href="mailto:hailey@wsma.org">hailey@wsma.org</a>.
</p>
</div> | 12/26/2018 7:07:04 PM | 12/26/2018 12:44:42 PM | 12/26/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| WSMA_responds_to_Texas_federal_court_ACA_ruling | WSMA responds to Texas federal court ACA ruling | memo | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2018/December/WSMA_responds_to_Texas_federal_court_ACA_ruling | <div class="col-md-12">
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</div>
<h5>December 26, 2018</h5>
<h2>
WSMA responds to Texas federal court ACA ruling
</h2>
<p>In the latest legal challenge to the Affordable Care Act, a suit filed in a federal district court in Texas, the judge hearing the case delivered an opinion which found the health care reform law unconstitutional. WSMA President Tom Schaaf, MD, responding to the judge's opinion, issued the following statement: </p>
<p>"This decision threatens to turn back the clock to a time in our country when double-digit uninsured rates were the norm and when millions of Americans were at risk of being denied coverage due to a pre-existing condition. It would undo the tremendous amount of work done here in Washington state to extend coverage to hundreds of thousands through the expansion of Medicaid and establishment of the state exchange. We hope for a swift close to this chapter and urge policymakers to look forward, not backward, toward solutions that help ensure our patients have access to comprehensive, affordable health care coverage."</p>
<p>While the WSMA is disappointed by the court’s decision, the issue is not settled, and likely won’t be until 2020 at the earliest, when the case could be heard by the Supreme Court. </p>
<p>We will update you as the appeals process progresses. For more information on this decision, contact Tierney Edwards at <a href="mailto:tee@wsma.org">tee@wsma.org</a>.
</p>
</div> | 12/26/2018 12:37:36 PM | 12/18/2018 10:27:14 AM | 12/26/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_seeks_delay_in_potentially_burdensome_hca_change_to_home_health_and_dme_orders | WSMA seeks delay in potentially burdensome HCA change to home health and DME orders | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181226/wsma_seeks_delay_in_potentially_burdensome_hca_change_to_home_health_and_dme_orders | <div class="col-md-12">
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</div>
<h5>
December 26, 2018
</h5>
<h2>WSMA seeks delay in potentially burdensome HCA change to home health and DME orders</h2>
<p>
The WSMA is seeking to delay the Jan. 1 effective date of a new state Health Care Authority Apple Health (Medicaid) policy regarding home health services and durable medical equipment that threatens to increase the administrative burden on physicians.
</p>
<p>
As reported in the <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181128/apple_health_change_to_home_health_and_medical_equipment_prescriptions">Nov. 28 Membership Memo</a>, the HCA has amended its rules for home health services and medical equipment to align with federal law. Under the new policy, starting Jan. 1, only physicians will be authorized to order home health services and medical equipment for Apple Health patients—advance registered nurse practitioners and physician assistants wishing to place a home health or DME order will be required to have a physician's signature.
</p>
<p>
WSMA's concerns over these changes are essentially twofold:
</p>
<ul>
<li>A requirement to have physicians review home health and DME orders by ARNPs and PAs to confirm medical necessity is administratively burdensome, adding more tasks for busy physicians to absorb, even if there is a mechanism whereby physicians can bill for that activity. This requirement impedes the delivery of care and appears contrary to the spirit of the current administration's "<a href="mailto:https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20180725/new_cms_rule_proposes_significant_changes_to_medicare_billing_and_documentation">Patients Over Paperwork</a>" initiative.</li>
<li>The requirement does not appear to address the reality that here in Washington, ARNPs have independent practice authority, and in many practice settings, ARNPs in independent practice have little or no oversight by a physician and therefore are not positioned to comply with this requirement.</li>
</ul>
<p>
The WSMA is seeking an opportunity with HCA leadership to, at least, forestall temporarily the Jan. 1 implementation of these policy changes. This would allow time to explore with both the Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services and the HCA the feasibility of addressing these two concerns in a more reasoned manner and timeframe, particularly in view of the holiday period when communications among parties will be impeded by vacation schedules.
</p>
<p>
We will keep you apprised of further developments. For questions, contact Bob Perna at <a href="mailto:rjp@wsma.org">rjp@wsma.org</a>.
</p>
</div> | 12/26/2018 2:21:07 PM | 12/26/2018 12:49:28 PM | 12/26/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| hhs_seeking_feedback_on_strategy_to_reduce_ehr_burden | HHS seeking feedback on strategy to reduce EHR burden | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181212/hhs_seeking_feedback_on_strategy_to_reduce_ehr_burden | <div class="col-md-12">
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</div>
<h5>
December 20, 2018
</h5>
<h2>HHS seeking feedback on strategy to reduce EHR and health IT burden</h2>
<p>
As part of the wide-ranging medical innovation bill known as the 21st Century Cures Act, Congress directed the Department of Health and Human Services to develop a strategy to reduce the burdens related to electronic health records and health information technology. After a period of stakeholder input, the federal agency, working with the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC), has <a href="https://www.healthit.gov/buzz-blog/health-it/strategy-on-reducing-regulatory-and-administrative-burden-relating-to-the-use-of-health-it-and-ehrs-released-for-public-comment">released its draft strategy</a> and is now seeking public feedback.
</p>
<p>
The draft strategy outlines three overarching goals designed to reduce clinician burden:
</p>
<ol>
<li>Reduce the effort and time required to record health information in EHRs.</li>
<li>Reduce the effort and time required to meet regulatory reporting requirements for clinicians, hospitals, and health care organizations.</li>
<li>Improve the functionality and intuitiveness (ease of use) of EHRs.</li>
</ol>
<p>
Visit the <a href="https://www.healthit.gov/topic/usability-and-provider-burden/strategy-reducing-burden-relating-use-health-it-and-ehrs?utm_source=STAT+Newsletters&amp;utm_campaign=a49fd7d4af-MR_COPY_01&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_term=0_8cab1d7961-a49fd7d4af-149551285">ONC website to review the draft and submit your comments</a>. The deadline for public feedback is 8:59 p.m. PT on Jan. 28. </p>
<p>
The WSMA is coordinating with the AMA to review and provide feedback on this proposal. For questions, contact Bob Perna at <a href="mailto:rjp@wsma.org">rjp@wsma.org</a>. HHS/ONC will publish the final version in late 2019.
</p>
</div> | 12/20/2018 10:18:49 AM | 12/12/2018 11:57:53 AM | 12/20/2018 12:00:00 AM |