| abim_to_launch_longitudinal_assessment_option_in_2022 | ABIM to Launch Longitudinal Assessment Option in 2022 | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200108/abim_to_launch_longitudinal_assessment_option_in_2022 | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
January 9, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
ABIM to Launch Longitudinal Assessment Option in 2022
</h2>
<p>
<em>Feedback sought from internal medicine community</em>
</p>
<p>
The American Board of Internal Medicine recently <a href="http://blog.abim.org/abim-quarterly-news-and-notes-fall-2019/#longitudinal">announced</a> that it anticipates launching a longitudinal assessment option in 2022 in as many specialties as possible.
</p>
<p>
As part of this option, internists will be able to:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Answer a question at any place or time and receive immediate feedback as to whether it was correct or not.</li>
<li>See the rationale behind the answer along with links to educational material.</li>
<li>Proceed at their preferred pace answering questions during each administration window.</li>
<li>Access all the resources they use in practice, such as journals or websites.</li>
</ul>
<p>
In the meantime, ABIM has invited the internal medicine community to provide suggestions on this new pathway through its <a href="https://abms.us15.list-manage.com/track/click?u=35240d3631d96b4b3bbe029c5&amp;id=cc7d41dbeb&amp;e=6fe0cb37d0">Community Insights Network</a> and share feedback through surveys, interviews, user tests, and ABIM's online community. <a href="https://abms.us15.list-manage.com/track/click?u=35240d3631d96b4b3bbe029c5&amp;id=e0b8681638&amp;e=6fe0cb37d0">Read more about ABIM's efforts</a>, including current options for physicians with assessment requirements due before 2022.
</p>
</div> | 1/9/2020 11:16:00 AM | 1/6/2020 10:38:21 AM | 1/9/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| check_your_initial_2020_mips_eligibility | Check Your Initial 2020 MIPS Eligibility | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200108/check_your_initial_2020_mips_eligibility | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
January 9, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
Check Your Initial 2020 MIPS Eligibility
</h2>
<p>
</p>
<p>
You can now use the updated Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services <a href="https://qpp.cms.gov/participation-lookup">Quality Payment Program Participation Status Lookup Tool</a> to check on your initial 2020 eligibility for the Merit-based Incentive Payment System. Just enter your National Provider Identifier, or <a href="https://npiregistry.cms.hhs.gov/">NPI</a>, to find out whether you need to participate in MIPS during the 2020 performance period.
</p>
<p>
To be eligible to participate in MIPS in 2020, you must:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Bill more than $90,000 a year in allowed charges for covered professional services under the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (PFS), and</li>
<li>Furnish covered professional services to more than 200 Medicare Part B beneficiaries, and</li>
<li>Provide more than 200 covered professional services under the PFS_._</li>
</ul>
<p>
If you do not exceed all three of the above criteria for the 2020 performance period, you are excluded from MIPS. However, you can opt-in to MIPS and receive a payment adjustment if you meet or exceed one or two, but not all, of the low-volume threshold criteria. Alternatively, you may choose to voluntarily report to MIPS and not receive a payment adjustment if you do not meet any of the low-volume threshold criteria or if you meet some, but not all, of the criteria.
</p>
<p>
<a href="https://qpp.cms.gov/mips/how-eligibility-is-determined">Find out</a> whether you're eligible for MIPS today. Prepare now to earn a positive payment adjustment in 2022 for your 2020 performance. Note: The 2020 Eligibility Tool Update for QPs/APMs will be updated at a later time. Additionally, the tool will be updated in late 2020 to indicate final MIPS eligibility.
</p>
</div> | 1/9/2020 11:16:02 AM | 1/6/2020 10:37:57 AM | 1/9/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| hca_accepting_public_comments_on_public_option_procurement_standards | HCA Accepting Public Comments on Public Option Procurement Standards | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200108/hca_accepting_public_comments_on_public_option_procurement_standards | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/images/Logos/Washington-State-Evergreen.jpg" class="pull-right" />
</div>
<h5>
January 9, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
HCA Accepting Public Comments on Public Option Procurement Standards
</h2>
<p>
</p>
<p>
Washington state officials have <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191223/court_decision_prolongs_aca_uncertainty_washington_moves_ahead_with_public_option">unveiled the standard plan designs for Cascade Care</a>, the "public option" plans that will hit the state health insurance market in 2021. The Health Care Authority is now seeking public comment on thequality, value, and affordability standardsfor the plans. This feedback will help inform the public option procurement process, which will occur in February. To review the procurement standards and provide feedback to the state, <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LTBRF7C">click here</a>. HCA's public comment period ends on Friday, Jan. 17. The WSMA is in the process of developing formal comments, which we will make available to members once submitted. As a reminder: The WSMA remains opposed to the reimbursement caps that are the primary cost-control feature of the Cascade Care plans. Artificially capping provider reimbursement rates at a percentage of Medicare will jeopardize provider participation in the plan, resulting in health plans with extremely limited provider options. We will continue to highlight our concerns in our comments to the HCA, as well as voice our support for those elements of the plans that we believe will be beneficial to patients and physicians. For a copy of our formal comments once finalized, email Sean Graham at <a href="mailto:sean@wsma.org">sean@wsma.org</a>.
</p>
</div> | 1/9/2020 11:16:03 AM | 1/6/2020 10:38:08 AM | 1/9/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| mips_eligible_clinicians_can_now_submit_2019_performance_data | MIPS-Eligible Clinicians Can Now Submit 2019 Performance Data | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200108/mips_eligible_clinicians_can_now_submit_2019_performance_data | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Logos/Quality-Payment-Program-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Quality Payment Program logo" />
</div>
<h5>
January 9, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
MIPS-Eligible Clinicians Can Now Submit 2019 Performance Data
</h2>
<p>
</p>
<p>
The data submission period for Merit-based Incentive Payment System eligible clinicians who participated in the Medicare Quality Payment Program's 2019 performance period is now open. The deadline for submission is 5 p.m. PST, March 31. Accountable care organizations and pre-registered groups and virtual groups may also submit their 2019 data through the Center for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services web interface. Quality measures reported via Medicare Part B claims have been submitted throughout the 2019 performance period. Sign in to the CMS <a href="https://qpp.cms.gov/">QPP website</a> for your preliminary feedback on Part B claims measure data processed to date. CMS will update this feedback at the end of the submission period with claims processed by your Medicare Administrative Contractor within the 60-day runout period.
</p>
<p>
<strong>How to submit your 2019 MIPS data</strong>
</p>
<ol>
<li>Go to the <a href="https://qpp.cms.gov/">Quality Payment Program website</a>.</li>
<li>Sign in using your QPP access credentials*.</li>
<li>Submit your MIPS data for the 2019 performance period or review the data reported on your behalf by a third party.</li>
</ol>
<p>
*To sign in, clinicians will need to register in the HCQIS Authorization Roles and Profile (HARP) system. For clinicians who need help enrolling with HARP, please refer to the <a href="https://qpp.cms.gov/">QPP Access User Guide</a>. Clinicians who are not sure if they are eligible to participate in the Quality Payment Program can check their final eligibility status using the <a href="https://qpp.cms.gov/participation-lookup">QPP Participation Status Lookup Tool</a>. Clinicians and groups that are opt-in eligible will need to make an election before they can submit data. (No election is required for those who don't want to participate in MIPS.)
</p>
<p>
Clinicians in small practices (including those in rural locations), health professional shortage areas, and medically underserved areas may <a href="https://qpp.cms.gov/about/small-underserved-rural-practices">request technical assistance</a> from organizations that can provide no-cost support.
</p>
<p>
To learn more about how to submit data, please review the resources available in the <a href="https://qpp.cms.gov/about/resource-library">QPP Resource Library</a>.
</p>
</div> | 1/9/2020 11:16:03 AM | 1/6/2020 10:38:25 AM | 1/9/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| scholarships_available_for_2020_leadership_development_conference | Scholarships Available for 2020 Leadership Development Conference | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200108/scholarships_available_for_2020_leadership_development_conference | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/images/Events/LDC_2017.05.306-medium-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" />
</div>
<h5>
January 9, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
Scholarships Available for 2020 Leadership Development Conference
</h2>
<p>
</p>
<p>
The 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 this year's conference, scheduled for May 15-16 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 2020.</li>
<li>Have not attended a WSMA Leadership Development Conference before.</li>
<li>Submit a complete application by Wednesday, Jan. 29 <strong>.</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>
The scholarship application form is <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2020LDCScholarship">available online</a>. The WSMA executive committee will select up to five 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.
</p>
</div> | 1/9/2020 11:16:04 AM | 1/6/2020 10:38:15 AM | 1/9/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| serious_illness_conversation_guide_training_offered_in_a_virtual_environment | Serious Illness Conversation Guide Training Offered in a Virtual Environment | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200108/serious_illness_conversation_guide_training_offered_in_a_virtual_environment | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Concepts/matheus-ferrero-yfmjALh1S6s-unsplash-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="holding hands" />
</div>
<h5>
January 9, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
Serious Illness Conversation Guide Training Offered in a Virtual Environment
</h2>
<p>
</p>
<p>
If you act soon, you'll have an opportunity to receive the innovative Serious Illness Conversation Guide Training from the comfort of your own computer. This free virtual training, scheduled for noon - 4 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 24, will impart strategies for compassionate and effective advance care planning conversations based on Atul Gawande and Ariadne Labs' structured conversation guide. The session will be hosted by Anna Beck, MD, director of supportive oncology and survivorship and an investigator at Huntsman Cancer Institute.
</p>
<p>
<a href="http://bit.ly/SICG-Virtual">Register online</a> for the free training. Only a few spaces remain, so register today. Questions? Contact Adrienne Butterwick at <a href="mailto:abutterwick@comagine.org">abutterwick@comagine.org</a> or 801.892.6646. If the class is full and you're interested in attending a future session on conversation skill-building, email <a href="mailto:info@honoringchoicespnw.org">info@honoringchoicespnw.org</a>.
</p>
</div> | 1/9/2020 11:20:44 AM | 1/6/2020 10:38:18 AM | 1/9/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_practice_guidance_on_washingtons_balance_billing_ban | WSMA Practice Guidance on Washington’s Balance Billing Ban | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200108/wsma_practice_guidance_on_washingtons_balance_billing_ban | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Concepts/invoice_645x425.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="invoice" />
</div>
<h5>
January 9, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
WSMA Practice Guidance on Washington's Balance Billing Ban
</h2>
<p>
</p>
<p>
Due to years of work by the WSMA and the state hospital association, Washington state's new law not only protects patients from unexpected bills, but also preserves the ability for physicians and providers to negotiate fair reimbursements from insurers in the state. Washington's Balance Billing Protection Act (BBPA) is now in effect, and the WSMA has you covered, with detailed guidance to help your practice or organization understand the law. Visit our <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Resources/Practice_Management/Balance_Billing/Balance_Billing.aspx">balance billing page on the WSMA website</a> to learn more about scope of prohibition, reimbursement, determining patient eligibility, dispute resolution, network adequacy, enforcement, and more.
</p>
</div> | 1/9/2020 11:16:05 AM | 1/6/2020 10:38:11 AM | 1/9/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| you_belong_with_us_renew_your_membership_today | You Belong With Us. Renew Your Membership Today. | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200108/you_belong_with_us_renew_your_membership_today | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
January 9, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
You Belong With Us. Renew Your Membership Today.
</h2>
<p>
Membership in the WSMA makes you part of a community where the physician voice is heard loud and clear, with clout and credibility. You belong in this community of physicians and PAs who believe in a brighter health care future. Our work has a greater impact with our members' support - your time, talent, and financial contribution. If you haven't renewed your membership yet, please do so today. If you're part of a group that covers your dues, encourage your practice administrator to remit now. Renew <a href="http://www.wsma.org/renew">online</a>, by phone at 206.441.9762, or return the renewal notice that was recently mailed to you. Email <a href="mailto:membership@wsma.org">membership@wsma.org</a> for assistance. Thank you for being an important part of the WSMA!
</p>
</div> | 1/9/2020 11:16:05 AM | 1/6/2020 10:38:02 AM | 1/9/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| a_look_at_wsma_advocacy_priorities_on_eve_of_legislative_session | A Look at WSMA Advocacy Priorities on Eve of Legislative Session | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200108/a_look_at_wsma_advocacy_priorities_on_eve_of_legislative_session | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Concepts/State.Capitol.Olympia_2015-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="State Capitol, Olympia" />
</div>
<h5>
January 9, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
A Look at WSMA Advocacy Priorities on Eve of Legislative Session
</h2>
<p>
</p>
<p>
The 2020 state legislative session begins on Monday. Repealing the B&amp;O tax increase on independent physicians, promoting a sensible alternative to prior authorization, and advocating for telemedicine payment parity will lead WSMA's advocacy efforts during session, with many more priorities filling out our agenda. The WSMA is your proxy and your voice in Olympia, and our efforts are made stronger with your participation. Here's what you need to know as we head into session - and a request for your help.
</p>
<p>
The primary duty of the Legislature during this "short" 60-day session will be to negotiate <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191223/governor_releases_supplemental_budget_proposal">a supplemental budget package</a> making adjustments to the two-year budget passed in 2019. Lawmakers will also consider legislation on an array of topics, with WSMA's legislative staff carefully reviewing all health care-related policy that stands to impact physicians, patients, and the practice of medicine.
</p>
<p>
<strong>WSMA's priority legislative items</strong>
</p>
<p>
<strong>Repeal the B&amp;O tax surcharge on independent physician practices –</strong> During the 2019 session, legislation was adopted imposing a 20% surcharge on the B&amp;O tax paid by independent (i.e. non-hospital affiliated) physician practices, among other health care providers and businesses.
</p>
<p>
<em>WSMA ask: Repeal the tax on physicians and health care providers under&nbsp;</em><em><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=2158&amp;Year=2019&amp;Initiative=false">House Bill 2158</a>&nbsp;</em><em>from 2019</em> <strong>.</strong>
</p>
<p>
<strong>Prior authorization –</strong> Insurance carriers impose prior authorization requirements on patient care before covering services in some circumstances, delaying care and creating administrative burden.
</p>
<p>
<em>WSMA ask:</em> <em>Collect data on insurer prior authorization practices and promote appropriate use criteria in lieu of prior authorization.</em>
</p>
<p>
<strong>Telemedicine payment parity –</strong> <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5385&amp;Year=2019&amp;Initiative=false">Senate Bill 5385</a> requires services delivered via telemedicine to be reimbursed at the same rate as if they were delivered in person. It was approved by the Senate in 2019 by a vote of 47-2 but died in the House.
</p>
<p>
<em>WSMA ask: Pass Senate Bill 5385 to increase utilization of telemedicine.
</em></p>
<em>
</em>
<p>
<strong>We need your help</strong> – Do you have stories you can share with our advocacy team about egregious examples of prior authorization requirements? The impact of the B&amp;O tax surcharge on your practice? Problems incorporating telemedicine due to low reimbursement? Your stories, particularly specific instances that negatively impacted your ability to provide optimal care, can help inform our advocacy. Email your experiences to Sean Graham, WSMA's government affairs director, at <a href="mailto:sean@wsma.org">sean@wsma.org</a>.
</p>
<p>
<strong>Staying informed and how to engage in direct advocacy during session</strong>
</p>
<p>
During session, we'll keep you posted on developments via our communications channels. You can also visit our <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/News_Publications/Latest_News/Advocacy_Report/WSMA/News_Publications/Newsletters/WSMA_Advocacy_Report.aspx?hkey=fbce906b-dbfb-4af3-8790-11f84275cf1e">online Advocacy Report page</a> for breaking news. For weekly "insider" email updates from our legislative staff, email Alex Wehinger at <a href="mailto:alex@wsma.org">alex@wsma.org</a> to be added to her distribution list.
</p>
<p>
If you'd like to help support our advocacy more directly, come to Olympia on Feb. 25 for the 2020 WSMA Legislative Summit. There you'll join your like-minded colleagues and peers from across the state as we take our advocacy message directly to legislators. We need WSMA members from all of Washington's 49 legislative districts to attend, to ensure lawmakers throughout the state hear our message on behalf of physicians and patients. The event is free for members—learn more and register <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Events/Legislative_Summit/WSMA/Events/Legislative_Summit/Legislative_Summit.aspx">online</a> today.
</p>
<p>
And be sure to check out this month's issue of WSMA Reports, which features a special focus on WSMA's advocacy and how to be a good physician advocate. The publication should be in your mailbox now.
</p>
</div> | 1/9/2020 1:32:12 PM | 1/6/2020 10:38:05 AM | 1/8/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| a_new_membership_year_is_upon_us_renew_now | A New Membership Year is Upon Us. Renew Now! | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191223/a_new_membership_year_is_upon_us_renew_now | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
December 23, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
A New Membership Year is Upon Us. Renew Now!
</h2>
<p>
</p>
<p>
Thank you to those members who have already renewed! Our success is powered by your membership investment. For those of you who haven't yet renewed, please do so today. If you're part of a group that covers your dues, encourage your practice administrator to remit by year end. Your annual WSMA membership is valid from Jan. 1 through Dec. 31. Continue your membership so we have the necessary financial support to build upon the momentum we've made in the state Legislature and to defend against legal and regulatory initiatives that threaten your ability to provide excellent patient care. Continue to put the WSMA to work for you and your patients. Renew <a href="http://www.wsma.org/renew">online</a>, by phone at 206.441.9762, or return the renewal notice that was recently mailed to you. For personal assistance, call us or email <a href="mailto:membership@wsma.org">membership@wsma.org</a>. Thank you and happy New Year!
</p>
<p>
<em>P.S. Renew today to be sure and keep your membership benefits; benefits such as the Washington Physicians' Guide to Health Law, a $350 value, which is free for members. Access the guide</em> <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Resources/Legal/Washington_Physicians__Guide_to_Health_Law/WSMA/Resources/Legal/Physicians_Guide_to_Health_Law/Washington_Physicians_Guide_to_Health_Law.aspx?hkey=94a6a984-30e9-415d-b044-fc70fae5ecbb"><em>here</em></a><em>; learn more about the many benefits of membership</em> <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Membership/Why_Join_the_WSMA/Member_Benefits/WSMA/Membership/Why_Join_the_WSMA_/Member_Benefits.aspx?hkey=49b0c092-bfeb-457b-8746-bff8e3d3c7ae"><em>here</em></a><em>.</em>
</p>
</div> | 1/9/2020 11:21:20 AM | 12/23/2019 12:29:45 PM | 12/23/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| bree_collaborative_adopts_shared_decision_making_and_palliative_care_guidelines | Bree Collaborative Adopts Shared Decision-Making and Palliative Care Guidelines | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191223/bree_collaborative_adopts_shared_decision_making_and_palliative_care_guidelines | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Concepts/national-cancer-institute-duNbFJRhaJQ-unsplash-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Family with physician" />
</div>
<h5>
December 23, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
Bree Collaborative Adopts Shared Decision-Making and Palliative Care Guidelines
</h2>
<p>
The Bree Collaborative has adopted two new sets of recommendations: one addressing shared decision-making and the other palliative care. The new guidelines offer recommendations for best-practice, evidence-based approaches with the goal of decreasing variation in practice patterns.
</p>
<ul>
<li>Palliative Care Report and Recommendations: Defines minimum standards for team-based palliative care and pathways for integrating palliative care into active treatment. <a href="http://www.breecollaborative.org/topic-areas/previous-topics/palliative-care/">Review the recommendations and learn more about their development</a>.</li>
<li>Shared Decision-Making Report and Recommendations: Focuses on increasing the use of shared decision-making and patient decision aids. <a href="http://www.breecollaborative.org/topic-areas/previous-topics/shared-decision-making/">Review the recommendations and learn more about their development</a>.</li>
</ul>
<p>
The Dr. Robert Bree Collaborative was established by the state Legislature to develop recommendations to guide state purchasing for Medicaid and public employees and provide guidance for clinicians seeking to engage patients in shared decision-making. For more information about the collaborative or its recommendations, contact Ginny Weir at <a href="mailto:GWeir@qualityhealth.org">GWeir@qualityhealth.org</a> or 206.204.7377.
</p>
</div> | 12/23/2019 2:42:57 PM | 12/23/2019 12:29:28 PM | 12/23/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| court_decision_prolongs_aca_uncertainty_washington_moves_ahead_with_public_option | Court Decision Prolongs ACA Uncertainty; Washington Moves Ahead with Public Option | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191223/court_decision_prolongs_aca_uncertainty_washington_moves_ahead_with_public_option | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/images/Logos/Washington-State-Evergreen.jpg" class="pull-right" />
</div>
<h5>
December 23, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
Court Decision Prolongs ACA Uncertainty; Washington Moves Ahead with Public Option
</h2>
<p>
A federal appeals court last week <a href="https://khn.org/news/federal-appeals-court-strikes-down-portion-of-obamacare/">ruled the individual mandate provision of the Affordable Care Act unconstitutional</a>, in yet another blow to the federal health reform law. The court stopped short of rendering the entire law invalid; it instead requested <a href="https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/payer/appeals-court-strikes-down-individual-mandate-aca-case-but-punts-severability">a lower court make that determination</a>, postponing a final decision on the fate of the law indefinitely. Washington state, along with 15 other states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. House of Representatives, is defending the ACA in the federal suit.
</p>
<p>
In another closely watched development, Washington state officials unveiled the standard plan designs for Cascade Care—the "public option" plans that will hit the market in 2021—and began outreach to the physician and provider community. If you missed last week's webinar overview of Cascade Care, an archived recording is forthcoming; for now, slides from the session are available, detailing the plan designs and the methodology being considered for determining physician and provider payments.
</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2019/cascade_care_provider_webinar_121619.pptx]">Cascade Care Provider Webinar slides</a>.</li>
<li><a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2019/medicare_methodology_carrier_workgroup_draft_121619.pptx]">Medicare Methodology Carrier work group slides</a>.</li>
</ul>
<p>
As detailed in the second set of slides, the "ceiling" on physician and provider reimbursements, one of the primary cost-control measures of the public option plans, was <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20190508/public_option_bill_passes_with_rate_setting_provision">strongly opposed by the WSMA</a>, and we remain deeply concerned about the ability of physicians and providers to participate in the plans and the effect that will have on access to care for plan enrollees. We will continue to provide members with updates as Cascade Care's implementation proceeds.
</p>
</div> | 12/23/2019 2:42:59 PM | 12/23/2019 12:29:48 PM | 12/23/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| cultivate_the_skills_to_run_for_office_at_the_2020_ampac_candidate_workshop | Cultivate the Skills to Run for Office at the 2020 AMPAC Candidate Workshop | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191223/cultivate_the_skills_to_run_for_office_at_the_2020_ampac_candidate_workshop | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
December 23, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
Cultivate the Skills to Run for Office at the 2020 AMPAC Candidate Workshop
</h2>
<p>
Ever wonder how doctors get elected to Congress or the state legislature? Considering a run for office yourself? Then the AMPAC Candidate Workshop - held Feb. 28-March 1 in Washington, D.C. - is for you.
</p>
<p>
The one-and-a-half-day workshop will provide you with the skills and strategic approach you will need to make a run for public office. Some of the topics include: How and when to make the decision to run; the importance of a disciplined campaign plan and message; the secrets of effective fundraising; what kinds of media advertising are right for your campaign; how to handle the inevitable crises that emerge for every campaign; the role of your spouse and your family; and how to become a better public speaker.
</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.ampaconline.org/political-education/ampac-candidate-workshop/">Registration is now open</a>. The deadline to register is Feb. 3—the program fills up quickly, so don't delay. The registration fee is $250 for AMA members ($1,000 for non-members). The fee is waived for students/residents; however, there are limited slots and the AMPAC Board will review and select from the pool of qualified applicants.
</p>
<p>
For more information visit <a href="http://www.ampaconline.org/get-involved/political-education/">AMPAC online</a>.
</p>
</div> | 12/23/2019 2:43:02 PM | 12/23/2019 2:38:48 PM | 12/23/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| dont_forget_new_medicare_card_transition_ends_jan_1 | Don't Forget: New Medicare Card Transition Ends Jan. 1 | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191223/dont_forget_new_medicare_card_transition_ends_jan_1 | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Concepts/Hand-Holding-Medicare-Card-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Hand holding Medicare card" />
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<h5>
December 23, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
Don't Forget: New Medicare Card Transition Ends Jan. 1
</h2>
<p>
Starting Jan. 1, physicians, providers, and staff billing Medicare must use Medicare Beneficiary Identifiers (MBIs) regardless of the date of service. The Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services is advising providers to update their patients' records and use MBIs now to avoid delays or interruptions in claims reimbursement.Claims and eligibility transactions submitted after Dec. 31 using the Health Insurance Claim Number will be rejected (with <a href="https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/New-Medicare-Card/index.html">limited exceptions</a>).
</p>
<p>
Practice staff should begin asking patients for their MBIs and encourage them to bring their new Medicare card with them to appointments. If a patient has not received a new card or does not have their card with them:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Give them the Get Your New Medicare Card flyer in <a href="https://www.cms.gov/Outreach-and-Education/Medicare-Learning-Network-MLN/MLNProducts/Downloads/GetYourNewMedicareCard.pdf" target="_blank">English</a> or <a href="https://www.cms.gov/Outreach-and-Education/Medicare-Learning-Network-MLN/MLNProducts/Downloads/GetYourNewMedicareCardSpanish.pdf" target="_blank">Spanish</a>.</li>
<li>Use the online MBI Look-up Tool, available on <a href="https://www.noridianmedicareportal.com/">Noridian's secure portal</a>.Click <a href="https://med.noridianmedicare.com/web/jfb/topics/nmp/end-user-manual/mbi-lookup-tool">here</a> for step-by-step instructions.</li>
<li>Check the remittance advice. CMS returns the MBI on the remittance advice for every claim with a valid and active Health Insurance Claim Number (HICN).</li>
</ul>
<p>
For details on the transition to the new MBI, see <a href="https://www.cms.gov/Outreach-and-Education/Medicare-Learning-Network-MLN/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/SE18006.pdf" target="_blank">this MLN Matters article</a>.
</p>
</div> | 12/23/2019 2:43:02 PM | 12/23/2019 12:28:09 PM | 12/23/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| flu_widespread_in_washington_season_gets_early_start | Flu Widespread In Washington; Season Gets Early Start | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191223/flu_widespread_in_washington_season_gets_early_start | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Concepts/cdc-5gUNHmQ0xE8-unsplash-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Patient getting a vaccination" />
</div>
<h5>
December 23, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
Flu "Widespread" In Washington; Season Gets Early Start
</h2>
<p>
Public health officials are calling the flu "widespread" in Washington, with six flu-related deaths confirmed this season, including the state's first <a href="https://komonews.com/news/local/first-pediatric-flu-death-reported-in-king-county-since-2009">pediatric flu death since 2009</a>. According to <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/index.htm">the CDC</a>,all regions of the country are seeing elevated levels of flu-like illness, with activity being caused mostly by influenza B/Victoria viruses. If you haven't yet done so, be sure to get your yearly flu vaccine to protect yourself, your patients, and your family. Remind your patients to get their flu vaccine too—visit <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/ForPublicHealthandHealthcareProviders/PublicHealthSystemResourcesandServices/Immunization/InfluenzaFluInformation">the DOH website</a> for flu resources and information for your practice and your patients.
</p>
</div> | 12/23/2019 4:05:06 PM | 12/23/2019 12:30:02 PM | 12/23/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| governor_releases_supplemental_budget_proposal | Governor Releases Supplemental Budget Proposal | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191223/governor_releases_supplemental_budget_proposal | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Concepts/Stock.image_2017.WA.State.Capitol.Building_Double-645x425%20(1).jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Washington State Capitol" />
</div>
<h5>
December 23, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
Governor Releases Supplemental Budget Proposal
</h2>
<p>
Gov. Jay Inslee released his 2020 supplemental budget proposal last week. The proposal sets the stage for the state legislative session that begins in January, when lawmakers will negotiate a supplemental budget package making adjustments to the two-year budget passed in 2019. While primarily focused on investments to address homelessness and climate change, the governor's plan does propose modest investments in health care, and, importantly, avoids cuts in current health care spending and does not propose new or increased taxes.
</p>
<p>
Health care provisions in the governor's budget proposal include:
</p>
<ul>
<li>$1.1 million toward supporting the state's prescription monitoring program.</li>
<li>$8.4 million to backfill Washington state family planning services that lost funding when the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services changed rules related to abortion services.</li>
<li>$10.5 million to cover funding for Foundational Public Health Services that was anticipated to come from taxes on vapor products but is not likely to materialize due to changes such as banning flavored vapor products.</li>
<li>$989,000 toward vape and tobacco cessation via counseling support services for 18- to 20-year-olds.</li>
<li>$366,000 to support the Newborn Screening Laboratory since the Washington State Board of Health added spinal muscular atrophy to the list of diseases screened through the state's mandatory newborn screening panel.</li>
<li>$2.8 million to fund ProviderOne operational costs.</li>
<li>$238 million for the Medicaid Quality Improvement Program to support the transformation waiver.</li>
<li>$56 million toward Medicaid Transformation Project alignment.</li>
<li>$1.2 million to support a pilot program that provides mental health drop-in services.</li>
<li>$558,000 to plan and administer efforts to implement the public option.</li>
<li>$298,000 toward developing and implementing the prescription drug price transparency program.</li>
<li>$11.3 million to reconcile amounts owed to Federally Qualified Health Centers for reimbursements for Medicaid patients.</li>
<li>$1.9 million for the Children's Health Insurance Program.</li>
</ul>
<p>
Review the governor's full proposal <a href="https://ofm.wa.gov/budget/state-budgets/gov-inslees-proposed-2020-supplemental-budget">here</a>. The governor's proposal is the first step in the 2020 budget process; the House and Senate will introduce their respective supplemental budget proposals during session, which may incorporate elements of the governor's proposals. A final budget must be agreed to before lawmakers conclude their work for 2020.
</p>
</div> | 12/23/2019 2:43:03 PM | 12/23/2019 12:29:55 PM | 12/23/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| how_can_honoring_choices_pnw_support_you_take_our_brief_survey | How Can Honoring Choices PNW Support You? Take Our Brief Survey. | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191223/how_can_honoring_choices_pnw_support_you_take_our_brief_survey | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Logos/HonoringChoices_CLR-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Honoring Choices Pacific Northwest logo" />
</div>
<h5>
December 23, 2019
</h5>
<h2>How Can Honoring Choices PNW Support You? Take Our Brief Survey.</h2>
<p>
Honoring Choices® Pacific Northwest, jointly sponsored by the WSMA Foundation and the Washington State Hospital Association, is an initiative to ensure everyone receives care that honors personal values and goals at the end of life. Building upon the initiative's success with offering basic advance care planning in health care and community settings across the state, we are expanding services to support physicians, advanced practitioners, and health care teams to have more in-depth conversations with patients who have serious and/or life-limiting illnesses. We want to hear from you about the need for this and the best way to provide it: <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/engageseriousillnesscare">tiny.cc/engageseriousillness</a>.
</p>
</div> | 12/23/2019 2:43:04 PM | 12/23/2019 12:29:40 PM | 12/23/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| icymi_washingtons_balance_billing_ban_goes_into_effect_jan_1 | ICYMI: Washington's Balance Billing Ban Goes Into Effect Jan. 1 | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191223/icymi_washingtons_balance_billing_ban_goes_into_effect_jan_1 | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
December 23, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
ICYMI: Washington's Balance Billing Ban Goes Into Effect Jan. 1
</h2>
<p>
Starting in January, Washington's Balance Billing Protection Act (BBPA) will prohibit balance billing for emergency services and for certain procedures performed by out-of-network physicians working in in-network facilities. BBPA will apply to fully insured health plans in Washington, as well as self-insured health plans that opt to comply with the law. For an overview of the BBPA, a recent Office of the Insurance Commissioner webinar specifically designed for physicians and providers is <a href="https://vimeo.com/375038359">available for viewing on demand</a>. The WSMA is preparing a comprehensive summary of the BBPA for our members, which will be available shortly on the WSMA website. For questions, contact Sean Graham, WSMA's government affairs director, at <a href="mailto:sean@wsma.org">sean@wsma.org</a>.
</p>
</div> | 12/23/2019 4:06:34 PM | 12/23/2019 12:30:05 PM | 12/23/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| us_house_passes_bold_bill_to_lower_drug_costs | U.S. House Passes Bold Bill to Lower Drug Costs | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191223/us_house_passes_bold_bill_to_lower_drug_costs | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Concepts/Prescription%20with%20Money.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Prescription with money" />
</div>
<h5>
December 23, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
U.S. House Passes Bold Bill to Lower Drug Costs
</h2>
<p>
Democrats in the U.S. House of Representatives have taken a bold step toward addressing the skyrocketing costs of prescription medications by passing H.R. 3 - "The Lower Drug Costs Now Act." The legislation would allow Medicare to negotiate prices with pharmaceutical companies and set price caps based on international prices, among other provisions. The WSMA remains alarmed at the crisis of soaring drug costs, which has become one of the primary drivers of health care spending in the U.S. and puts many life-saving medications increasingly out of reach for the average patient. And there are hidden costs for the physician community as well, with private and public payers relying on prior authorizations or slashing reimbursements to offset the high costs of medications. With the Republican-led Senate and President Donald Trump having expressed their opposition to the legislation, Democratic lawmakers and candidates are expected to use the bill as a campaign issue in 2020.
</p>
</div> | 12/23/2019 2:43:05 PM | 12/23/2019 12:29:52 PM | 12/23/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| walmart_delays_epcs_mandate | Walmart Delays EPCS Mandate | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191223/walmart_delays_epcs_mandate | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Concepts/Rx_bottle_doctor_laptop_645x425.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Doctor with pill bottle working at laptop" />
</div>
<h5>
December 23, 2019
</h5>
<h2>
Walmart Delays EPCS Mandate
</h2>
<p>
Walmart will <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2019/12/11/electronic-prescriptions-walmart-take-paper-rx-2021/4380115002/">delay its decision to only accept electronic prescriptions for controlled substances (EPCS)</a>, scheduled to go into effect Jan. 1. The retail giant delayed the mandate in response to concerns from the AMA and others in the medical community, who warned that the stringent policy, which would not allow exceptions, would lead to significant disruptions in patient care. The AMA detailed its concerns in <a href="https://searchlf.ama-assn.org/undefined/documentDownload?uri=%2Funstructured%2Fbinary%2Fletter%2FLETTERS%2F2019-11-26-Letter-to-Van-Gilder-Walmart-EPCS.pdf" target="_blank">a letter to Walmart</a>, noting that fewer than half of U.S. physicians had the proper technology and certification to adopt EPCS and that major regulatory barriers still stand in the way of widespread adoption. Among its recommendations, the AMA said it believed Walmart should not require EPCS in a state unless that state's legislature or regulatory boards have approved the policy. The AMA noted that some states have already begun implementing EPCS, usually with exceptions and hardship waivers available to ensure access to care isn't disrupted. (With its recently passed opioid omnibus bill, House Bill 5380, Washington is one such state—and the WSMA was instrumental in securing an exemption process that <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20191211/practice_impact_new_laws_taking_effect_jan_1">considers economic hardship, technological limitations, or other exceptional circumstances</a>.) Walmart did not indicate if or when it would schedule a new implementation date or whether it would adjust the policy. In a statement welcoming the decision, AMA President Patrice Harris, MD, emphasized the importance of physician involvement in policymaking, saying that the policy "was not developed in consultation with the nation's physicians, who support electronic prescribing of controlled substances, but want to see it implemented in a manner that supports—rather than disrupts—patient care."
</p>
</div> | 12/23/2019 2:43:05 PM | 12/23/2019 12:29:58 PM | 12/23/2019 12:00:00 AM |