| A_closer_look__Gun_violence_policies_adopted_by_WSMA_House_of_Delegates | A closer look: Gun violence policies adopted by WSMA House of Delegates | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181114/A_closer_look__Gun_violence_policies_adopted_by_WSMA_House_of_Delegates | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/images/Concepts/gun_storage_645x425.jpg" class="pull-right" />
</div>
<h5>
November 14, 2018
</h5>
<h2>A closer look: Gun violence policies adopted by WSMA House of Delegates</h2>
<p>In the wake of two horrific mass shooting events - the killing of twelve people by a gunman in Thousand Oaks, Calif. and the massacre by a gunman of 11 congregants at a Pittsburgh synagogue - it's worth pausing a moment to consider the physicians and providers who have a front-row seat to the carnage created by gun violence. Physicians work tirelessly to reduce the impact of gun violence on bodies, and here in Washington state, they are also working to reduce the frequency of gun violence by seeking policy changes at the federal, state, and local level.</p>
<p>During last month's WSMA Annual Meeting, the WSMA House of Delegates adopted a total of 10 new policies related to gun violence (Resolutions C-9 through 14). They are: </p>
<ul>
<li>RESOLVED, that the WSMA advocate for measures to reduce gun violence. </li>
<li>RESOLVED, that the WSMA support the elimination of laws intruding on physicians’ and patients’ rights to discuss gun violence. </li>
<li>RESOLVED, that the WSMA support encouraging physicians and health care workers to discuss safe storage of guns and the association of guns with risk of homicide, accidental shooting, and suicide, and counsel about risk. </li>
<li>RESOLVED, that the WSMA support closing loopholes in gun purchases online and at unregulated gun shows. </li>
<li>RESOLVED, that the WSMA support policy that creates weapons-free zones for medical practice settings, allowing exceptions for law enforcement. </li>
<li>RESOLVED, that the WSMA support policy to address firearm-related violence and injury as a public health issue. </li>
<li>RESOLVED, that the WSMA support policy that provides for background checks and waiting periods for the purchase of firearms. </li>
<li>RESOLVED, that the WSMA support policy that will encourage and promote the safe storage of firearms in homes where those firearms are kept. </li>
<li>RESOLVED, that the WSMA support policy that raises the minimum age to purchase a firearm to 21 years of age. </li>
<li>RESOLVED, that the WSMA encourage its members to screen for risk factors of firearm injury and educate patients about prevention and safe storage. </li>
</ul>
<p>In addition to those new policies, WSMA delegates also reaffirmed existing policy that calls on the WSMA to support appropriate legislation that would restrict the sale and private ownership of large-clip, high-rate-of-fire automatic and semi-automatic firearms. Finally, WSMA delegates directed the WSMA to urge the state and federal government to fund research on the causes and prevention of firearm violence and injury and ensure that the databases and systems necessary for research and public health surveillance are available and publicly accessible.</p>
<p>Washington's citizens are acting too: during this year's midterm election, voters passed Initiative 1639, which appears to largely align with WSMA policy requiring safe storage and restricting the purchase of firearms under certain circumstances.</p>
<p>The creation of strong policy is at the heart of the WSMA's work, and reflects a commitment from Washington physicians to the health and welfare of patients and communities that extends beyond the exam room. Find all the new policies adopted by the 2018 WSMA House of Delegates on the <a href="[@]WSMA/About/Leadership/House_of_Delegates/House_of_Delegates.aspx">House of Delegates page</a>. For a comprehensive list of House of Delegates policy, review the WSMA Policy Compendium on our <a href="[@]WSMA/About/Policies/Policies.aspx">Policies page</a>.</p>
</div> | 11/14/2018 3:00:35 PM | 11/9/2018 12:15:02 PM | 11/14/2018 3:00:35 PM |
| are_insurers_allowing_your_practice_to_benefit_from_new_credentialing_requirements | Are insurers allowing your practice to benefit from new credentialing requirements? | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181114/are_insurers_allowing_your_practice_to_benefit_from_new_credentialing_requirements | <div class="col-md-12">
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</div>
<h5>
November 14, 2018
</h5>
<h2>Are insurers allowing your practice to benefit from new credentialing requirements?</h2>
<p>
Starting in June of this year, insurers must credential physicians and other providers within 90 days and use a single service, ProviderSource, to submit and process applications. These new standardized processes, the result of House Bill 2335 passed in 2016, represent a major win for WSMA's <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Resources/Administrative_Simplification/Healthy_Doctors__Healthier_Patients/WSMA/Resources/Administrative_Simplification/Healthy_Doctors__Healthier_Patients/Healthy_Doctors__Healthier_Patients.aspx?hkey=886d7bb3-8e52-4b07-9f38-541f3ca3e080">Healthy Doctors, Healthier Patients administrative simplification initiative</a>, and should make the credentialing process more manageable for many practices, provided insurers comply with the new rules. (Note: These new requirements do not apply to hospitals or medical groups with delegated credentialing arrangements.)
</p>
<p>
If the insurers you contract with are not using ProviderSource and processing applications within the new standardized timeframe,
<a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/Resources/Administrative Simplification/credentialing_sample_letter_11012018.docx]">download a template letter</a>, developed by the WSMA and the Washington State Medical Group Management Association, reminding reluctant insurance companies to follow the law and allow your practice to benefit from the legislation. After downloading, simply plug in your practice information and send the letter to your contact at each insurer with which you contract.
</p>
<p>
With insurers and physicians using ProviderSource, the goal is to make the credentialing process easier for small to midsized practices that do not benefit from delegation arrangements. We are interested in hearing whether insurance companies are complying with this law and the details of their responses. Please email Jeb Shepard, associate director of legislative and regulatory affairs, at <a href="mailto:jeb@wsma.org">jeb@wsma.org</a> with your feedback.
</p>
</div> | 11/14/2018 3:24:46 PM | 11/14/2018 9:32:59 AM | 11/14/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| cms_releases_final_rule_on_medicares_physician_fee_schedule_for_2019 | CMS releases final rule on Medicare’s physician fee schedule for 2019 | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181114/cms_releases_final_rule_on_medicares_physician_fee_schedule_for_2019 | <div class="col-md-12">
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</div>
<h5 style="font-size: 14px;">November 14, 2018</h5>
<h2>CMS releases final rule on Medicare's physician fee schedule for 2019</h2>
<p>
The Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services has issued a final rule that includes updates to payment policies, payment rates, and quality provisions for services furnished under Medicare's physician fee schedule on or after Jan 1. The rule includes changes to E/M documentation guidelines strongly supported by the WSMA and the rest of organized medicine, and in further good news, delays implementation of CMS' proposal to collapse Medicare payment rates for office and outpatient visit services.
</p>
<p>
Key points in the final rule include:
</p>
<ul>
<li>The final 2019 conversion factor, with the budget neutrality adjustment to account for changes in RVUs (all required by law), is $36.04, a slight increase above the 2018 conversion factor of $35.99.</li>
<li>The blended reimbursement rate for evaluation and management (E&amp;M) levels of service 99202-99204 and 99212-99215 will be implemented in 2021—so you have two years to ramp up*. The Level 5 service is NOT included in this blended rate due to concerns of care for complex patients being impacted.</li>
<li>The payment reduction on second procedure using the 25 modifier did not pass.</li>
<li>The G codes proposed for podiatric services were not formally adapted as part of the final rule.</li>
<li>The proposed new G codes for primary care services, specialty services, and extended care (formerly known as prolonged physician services) were accepted as part of the final rule for implementation in 2021.</li>
<li>For E/M office/outpatient visits for new and established patients, practitioners need not re-enter in the medical record information on the patient's chief complaint and history that has already been entered by ancillary staff or the beneficiary. The practitioner may simply indicate in the medical record that he or she reviewed and verified this information; and</li>
<li>Removal of potentially duplicative requirements for notations in medical records that may have previously been included in the medical records by residents or other members of the medical team for E/M visits furnished by teaching physicians. </li>
<li>CMS has finalized a policy that, effective Jan. 1, wholesale acquisition cost (WAC)-based payments for Part B drugs determined under section 1847A of the Social Security Act, during the first quarter of sales when the average sale price (ASP) is unavailable, will be subject to a 3 percent add-on in place of the 6 percent add-on that is currently being used. We would also like to reiterate that these changes only apply to WAC-based payment for new Part B drugs.</li>
</ul>
<p>
*For 2021, CMS is proposing two basic payment rates for office visit services, one for straightforward visits and another for complex visits. In addition, CMS noted its intent to propose add-on codes for primary care and inherently complex specialty E/M visits. CMS said they will also consider input from the AMA and others in medical community.
</p>
<p>
We're grateful to the AMA for its quick analysis of the E/M sections of the final rule and for <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2018/September/WSMA_joins_AMA_to_raise_concerns_on_proposed_changes_to_E_M_codes">leading the nationwide coordinated effort</a> to oppose the problematic proposals offered by CMS.
</p>
<p>
For questions, contact Michelle Lott at <a href="mailto:mml@wsma.org">mml@wsma.org</a>.
</p>
</div> | 11/14/2018 2:46:57 PM | 11/14/2018 9:31:32 AM | 11/14/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| extortion_scam_targeting_dea_registrants | Extortion scam targeting DEA registrants | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181114/extortion_scam_targeting_dea_registrants | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5 style="font-size: 14px;">November 14, 2018</h5>
<h2>Extortion scam targeting DEA registrants</h2>
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency has issued an <a href="https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/pubs/pressreleases/extortion_scam.htm">alert</a> warning physicians and the public that "registrants are receiving telephone calls and emails from criminals identifying themselves as DEA employees or other law enforcement personnel. The criminals have masked their telephone number on caller ID by showing the DEA Registration Support 800 number. Please be aware that a DEA employee would not contact a registrant and demand money or threaten to suspend a registrant's DEA registration." Anyone contacted in such a manner can report the scam using the DEA's <a href="https://apps.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/esor/spring/main?execution=e2s1">online incident reporting form</a>.
</div> | 11/14/2018 2:46:57 PM | 11/14/2018 9:38:06 AM | 11/14/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| free_webinar_dealing_with_erisa_claims_wsma_advocacy_with_us_department_of_labor | Free webinar: Dealing with ERISA claims; WSMA advocacy with U.S. Department of Labor | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181114/free_webinar_dealing_with_erisa_claims_wsma_advocacy_with_us_department_of_labor | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
November 14, 2018
</h5>
<h2>Free webinar: Dealing with ERISA claims; WSMA advocacy with U.S. Department of Labor</h2>
<p>
The WSMA is collaborating with the Seattle office of the U.S. Department of Labor to offer a <a href="https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/4782950741761434882">free lunchtime webinar</a> on Wednesday, Nov. 28, which will provide an overview of ERISA Title I, explain fully-insured vs. self-insured health plans, claims procedures and participants' rights, and the role of the Department of Labor in overseeing ERISA arrangements.
</p>
<p>
ERISA, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, affects self-insured health plans. Claims payments and denials with ERISA plans are becoming increasingly problematic for physician practices. In years past, only very large companies took on self-insured health care coverage; now, insurers are marketing third-party administrator/"administrative services only" to companies as small as 50–100 employees. As the employers bear full financial risk, these arrangements are not "insurance" products regulated by the state Office of the Insurance Commissioner, meaning the OIC cannot intervene to protect those patients. However, the U.S. Department of Labor does have oversight of ERISA arrangements.
</p>
<p>
This free one-hour webinar, ERISA and Payment of Healthcare Claims, is scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 28, noon–1 p.m. <a href="https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/4782950741761434882">Register online</a>. The WSMA can also assist your practice, should you receive a denial or other adverse action on a submitted ERISA claim, through our advocacy on behalf of WSMA members with the U.S. Department of Labor. Contact Michelle Lott with questions, <a href="mailto:mml@wsma.org">mml@wsma.org</a>.
</p>
</div> | 11/14/2018 3:09:35 PM | 11/14/2018 9:35:35 AM | 11/14/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| new_medicare_card_mailing_some_have_received_two_cards | New Medicare card mailing; Some have received two cards | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181114/new_medicare_card_mailing_some_have_received_two_cards | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
November 14, 2018
</h5>
<h2>New Medicare card mailing: Some have received two cards</h2>
<p>
As CMS transitions to using new Medicare cards, the agency is alerting practices that some patients have inadvertently received two of the new Medicare cards; some received two cards with identical numbers, while others received cards with two different beneficiary identifiers. Any patients receiving two cards should be instructed to call 1.800.MEDICARE (1.800.633.4227).
</p>
<p>
If your Medicare patients say they did not get a card, ask them to:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Call 1.800.MEDICARE (1.800.633.4227). Some information on file may need to be corrected, such as updating their mailing address.</li>
<li>Sign into MyMedicare.gov to see if CMS mailed their card. If so, they can print an official card. They must create an account if they do not already have one.</li>
</ul>
<p>
Practices can use either the former Social Security number-based health insurance claim number or the new alpha-numeric Medicare beneficiary identifier for all Medicare transactions through Dec. 31, 2019. Direct your Medicare patients to <a href="https://www.medicare.gov/NewCard">Medicare.gov/NewCard</a> for information about the mailings and to sign up to get email updates on the status of card mailings. Practice staff should become familiar with using the new online <a href="https://med.noridianmedicare.com/web/jfb/article-detail/-/view/10534/mbi-look-up-tool-available-on-the-noridian-medicare-portal">MBI Look-up Tool</a> which is available on <a href="https://www.noridianmedicareportal.com/">Noridian's secure portal</a>.
</p>
</div> | 11/14/2018 2:46:58 PM | 11/14/2018 9:32:15 AM | 11/14/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| states_clinical_data_repository_web_portal_is_now_open_for_viewing_data | State’s Clinical Data Repository web portal is now open for viewing data | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181114/states_clinical_data_repository_web_portal_is_now_open_for_viewing_data | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
November 14, 2018
</h5>
<h2>State's Clinical Data Repository web portal is now open for viewing data</h2>
<p>
Since early July, the CDR web portal has been open for viewing by all licensed professionals, including physical and behavioral health physicians and their delegates. If your organization would like to begin using this service, <a href="http://www.formstack.com/forms/?1688456-sjNVJY8V7I">contact OneHealthPort</a>. Some key points:
</p>
<ul>
<li>All organizations that view CDR data must be HIPAA-covered entities and must have a signed health information exchange (HIE) participation agreement with OneHealthPort.</li>
<li>Only staff with a need to view individual client-level data (as determined by their manager and configured by their internal IT access staff) are allowed in the CDR. This is similar to how your organization grants EHR access.</li>
<li>Physicians and other providers may view CDR data regardless of whether they are currently submitting continuity of care documents (CCDs).</li>
<li>Organizations with less than four providers are exempt from submitting CCDs until July 1, 2019.</li>
<li>Organizations using the CDR will not incur training costs from OneHealthPort or the state Health Care Authority, and users can complete training in one hour or less. </li>
</ul>
<p>
OneHealthPort has been conducting clinical usability sessions with physicians and providers to refine use cases and gather additional feedback. Several providers, using different EHR systems, have CCD submission success rates in the 90 percent range. Currently, the CDR contains the following information:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Eligibility data for 2.2 million Medicaid managed care lives.</li>
<li>Over two years of clinically relevant claims (medical, dental, and pharmacy) for virtually all these lives.</li>
<li>Just under 6 million clinical records (CCDs) overall.</li>
</ul>
<p>
Implementation of the Clinical Data Repository, a centralized source of clinical information on Medicaid patients, is being overseen by the state Health Care Authority, and is a component of the state's Healthier Washington initiative.
</p>
</div> | 11/14/2018 2:46:58 PM | 11/14/2018 9:36:39 AM | 11/14/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| the_physicians_foundations_biennial_survey_results_released | The Physicians Foundation’s biennial survey results released | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181114/the_physicians_foundations_biennial_survey_results_released | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/images/News/Phyicians_Foundation_physicians-survey-results-final-2018_645x425.jpg" class="pull-right" />
</div>
<h5>
November 14, 2018
</h5>
<h2>The Physicians Foundation's biennial survey results released</h2>
<p>
The Physicians Foundation recently released the results of its 2018 survey of U.S. physicians, which reveal the impact of factors driving physicians to reassess their careers. The survey, administered by Merritt Hawkins, includes responses from nearly 9,000 physicians across the country and underscores the overall impact of excessive regulatory/insurer requirements, loss of clinical autonomy, and challenges with electronic health record design/interoperability on physician attitudes toward their medical practice environment and overall dissatisfaction—all of which have led to professional burnout. <a href="https://physiciansfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/physicians-survey-results-final-2018.pdf" target="_blank">Review the full survey report</a>. The WSMA is a signatory society of the Physicians Foundation, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that seeks to empower physicians.
</p>
</div> | 11/14/2018 2:46:58 PM | 11/14/2018 9:34:06 AM | 11/14/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| understanding_and_preparing_for_new_opioid_prescribing_rules | Understanding and preparing for new opioid prescribing rules | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181114/understanding_and_preparing_for_new_opioid_prescribing_rules | <div class="col-md-12">
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</div>
<h5>
November 14, 2018
</h5>
<h2>Understanding and preparing for new opioid prescribing rules</h2>
<p>
New opioid prescribing rules for Washington state prescribing professions, prompted by House Bill 1427 and shaped by more than a year of stakeholder input, have been adopted. The following guidance from the WSMA can assist members, both physicians and physician assistants (allopathic and osteopathic), in understanding, preparing for, and succeeding under these new requirements.
</p>
<p>
The comprehensive rules represent a significant change in how opioids are prescribed. Key provisions applicable to all prescribing physicians and PAs include:
</p>
<ul>
<li>A seven-day pill limit for acute prescriptions and 14 days for acute operative pain, with an exemption to these limits when clinical judgment is documented in the medical record. </li>
<li>A specific care plan and documentation requirements for each phase of pain. </li>
<li>Mandated registration and targeted checks of the prescription drug monitoring program.</li>
<li>Required continuing medical education on opioid prescribing. </li>
</ul>
<p>
As the state's regulatory bodies adopted under their own authority, there are several differences between the rules for each profession. For allopathic physicians and physician assistants, the new prescribing rules go into effect Jan. 1; new rules for osteopathic physicians and PAs went into effect on Nov. 1. For more on the differing requirements between Washington Medical Commission and the Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery rulemaking, see this <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/631073-OverviewHandout-Pharmacy.pdf?ver=2018-10-04-151450-403">Table of Differences</a> from the Department of Health.
</p>
<p>
How to prepare:
</p>
<ul>
<li>
Register to attend WSMA's free one-hour webinar, Understanding New State Opioid Prescribing Rules, on Wednesday, Dec. 19, noon–1 p.m., designed to help you understand how to comply with the new requirements. <a href="https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/1349059379828828930">Register for the webinar online</a>. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™</em>. Attendance will fulfill the new state requirement for continuing medical education on opioid prescribing.
</li>
<li>
Set up your account with Washington state's prescription monitoring program, <a href="http://www.wapmp.org/">Prescription Review</a>. Prescription Review uses a secure platform to allow a prescribing physician to access crucial patient information before prescribing, such as duplicate prescribing, misuse, drug interactions, and other potential concerns. Don't wait until the last minute—get started today setting up your account. The DOH website has a <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/ForPublicHealthandHealthcareProviders/HealthcareProfessionsandFacilities/PrescriptionMonitoringProgramPMP#dnn_ctr32065_FAQs_lstFAQs_Q2_0">section with instructions for physicians, including video tutorials</a>.
</li>
</ul>
<p>
Also: The WSMA has joined the Washington State Hospital Association to reach out to hospital and health system leaders, encouraging them to work with their IT departments to build edits and prompts into electronic health records that assist clinicians with compliance under the rules.
</p>
<p>
For more information on the new rules and other WSMA efforts to assist physicians and other clinicians with safe opioid prescribing, visit the WSMA's <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Resources/Clinical_Quality/Opioid_Clinical_Guidance/WSMA/Resources/Clinical_Quality/Opioid_Clinical_Guidance/Opioid_Clinical_Guidance.aspx?hkey=1f82f660-18a4-4be3-bb2f-6b454b6eb7cd">Opioid Clinical Guidance webpage</a>.
</p>
</div> | 11/19/2018 6:37:44 PM | 11/14/2018 9:29:08 AM | 11/14/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| worlddiabetesday_how_you_can_help_prevent_diabetes_in_washington_state | #WorldDiabetesDay: How you can help prevent diabetes in Washington state | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181114/worlddiabetesday_how_you_can_help_prevent_diabetes_in_washington_state | <div class="col-md-12">
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</div>
<h5>
November 14, 2018
</h5>
<h2>#WorldDiabetesDay: How you can help prevent diabetes in Washington state</h2>
<p>
Today, in support of World Diabetes Day, the WSMA, in partnership with the AMA, is launching an effort to help prevent diabetes in our state and to increase patient participation in diabetes prevention programs. This is part of a strategic effort to reach more patients with prediabetes and to slow the progression of type 2 diabetes.
</p>
<p>
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 30 million adult Americans have diabetes, or approximately 10 percent of the adult population. Even more adults are at risk for developing diabetes, with the CDC estimating that 84 million adult Americans have prediabetes—a reversible condition, which, if treated, can delay or prevent progression to type 2 diabetes.
</p>
<p>
Physicians and providers can help patients reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes by referring them to a local National Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP), a structured, year-long lifestyle-change program that has been proven to help patients delay or prevent diabetes. <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2018/November/three_steps_to_implement_a_diabetes_prevention_strategy_for_patients">Learn more about the program and how you can help identify and refer your patients</a>.
</p>
<p>
We would also like to hear from you—<a href="https://survey.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4N5EgKE4HqDT1it">take a brief survey</a> and let us know what other information and resources would be helpful. For more diabetes resources, visit <a href="https://preventdiabetesstat.org/">preventdiabetesstat.org</a>, where you'll find an online tool to calculate net savings and return on investment for starting a diabetes prevention program for your patient population, as well as a comprehensive toolkit with resources on diabetes screening and prevention.
</p>
</div> | 11/14/2018 2:47:00 PM | 11/14/2018 9:34:52 AM | 11/14/2018 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>
October 24, 2018
</h5>
<h2>Dec. 31 deadline to dispute Open Payments' 2017 data </h2>
<p>The Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services' Open Payments program requires pharmaceutical and device manufacturers to report financial transactions with physicians each year (financial transactions can include honoraria, gifts, or even free meals provided at sponsored events). Data regarding 2017 payments to physicians was published June 30 on the <a href="https://openpaymentsdata.cms.gov/">Open Payments website</a>. It's not too late to dispute inaccurate data—physicians have until Dec. 31 to report misinformation.</p>
<p>For instructions on how to review and dispute Open Payments data, <a href="https://www.cms.gov/OpenPayments/Program-Participants/Physicians-and-Teaching-Hospitals/Review-and-Dispute.html">visit the CMS website</a>. Data can only be disputed in the year it is first published so be sure to review prior to the deadline. For assistance, contact Medicare's Open Payment help desk at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:openpayments@cms.hhs.gov">openpayments@cms.hhs.gov</a> or 855.326.8366.</p>
</div> | 10/24/2018 2:04:36 PM | 10/24/2018 9:55:52 AM | 10/24/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| free_webinar_help_with_erisa_and_claims_payment | Free webinar: Help with ERISA and claims payment | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181024/free_webinar_help_with_erisa_and_claims_payment | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
October 24, 2018
</h5>
<h2>Free webinar: Help with ERISA and claims payment</h2>
<p>The WSMA is collaborating with the Seattle office of the U.S. Department of Labor to offer a new webinar, ERISA and Payment of Healthcare Claims, on Wednesday, Nov. 28, from noon-1 p.m. This presentation will provide an overview of ERISA Title I, as well as explain fully insured vs. self-insured health plans, claims procedures and participants' rights, and the role of the Department of Labor. <a href="https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/4782950741761434882">Register online</a> for this free event.</p>
<p>Should you receive a denial or other adverse action on a submitted ERISA claim, the WSMA can also assist your practice through our advocacy on behalf of WSMA members with the U.S. Department of Labor. Contact Bob Perna at <a href="mailto:rjp@wsma.org">rjp@wsma.org</a>&nbsp;or Michelle Lott at <a href="mailto:mml@wsma.org">mml@wsma.org</a> for assistance.</p>
</div> | 10/24/2018 2:05:21 PM | 10/24/2018 9:56:41 AM | 10/24/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| got_questions_about_your_ballot_the_wampac_vote_tracker_can_help | Got questions about your ballot? The WAMPAC Vote Tracker can help | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181024/got_questions_about_your_ballot_the_wampac_vote_tracker_can_help | <div class="col-md-12">
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October 24, 2018
</h5>
<h2>Got questions about your ballot? The WAMPAC Vote Tracker can help</h2>
<p>The 2018 midterm election will determine partisan control of Congress and the state Legislature, with major ramifications for health care policy. Ballots here in Washington were recently mailed. If you want to know if and how your state legislators have supported the house of medicine, then the WSMA and its nonpartisan campaign arm, WAMPAC, have got you covered.</p>
<p>The 2018 WAMPAC Vote Tracker details the voting records of our state legislators on WSMA's priority issues during the 2017 and 2018 legislative sessions. <a href="https://wsma.org/doc_library/advocacy/2018/wsma_2018legreport_forweb.pdf" target="_blank">Download the vote tracker</a> to see how your lawmaker voted on issues of importance to medicine (the tracker begins on p. 16).</p>
<p>Looking to get more involved? Join the <a href="@/WSMA/Advocacy/WAMPAC/Give_to_WAMPAC" name="WAMPAC Diamond Club"></a><a href="[@]WSMA/Advocacy/WAMPAC/Give_to_WAMPAC.aspx">WAMPAC Diamond Club</a> and gain exclusive access to political information and events. We're offering a special Diamond Club election cycle sale for $100<strong>&nbsp;</strong>(regular membership rates are $250/$500/$1,000). <a href="[@]WSMA/Advocacy/WAMPAC/Give_to_WAMPAC.aspx">Take advantage of this special rate and join the club</a>.</p>
<p>This is also a great time to get to know candidates for office in your area. Visit the <a href="https://weiapplets.sos.wa.gov/MyVoteOLVR/OnlineVotersGuide?language=en&amp;electionId=71&amp;countyCode=xx&amp;Group=Legislative">Secretary of State's webpage</a>&nbsp;for more information about state and federal candidates for office in your area.</p>
<p>Be sure to vote by Nov. 6. <a href="https://www.statnews.com/2016/10/03/vote-doctors-politics/">Physicians vote at a lower rate</a>&nbsp;than the general public and far lower than other professions such as lawyers. Remember—your vote will help determine who is in office when major health care bills are debated in the next two years.</p>
<p>If you have questions, contact Sean Graham at <a href="mailto:sean@wsma.org">sean@wsma.org</a>.</p>
</div> | 10/24/2018 2:07:35 PM | 10/24/2018 9:57:58 AM | 10/24/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| gun_violence_clean_air_public_option_and_more_new_policy_adopted_at_wsma_annual_meeting | Gun violence, clean air, public option and more: New policy adopted at WSMA Annual Meeting | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181024/gun_violence_clean_air_public_option_and_more_new_policy_adopted_at_wsma_annual_meeting | <div class="col-md-12">
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October 24, 2018
</h5>
<h2>Gun violence, clean air, public option and more: New policy adopted at WSMA Annual Meeting</h2>
<p>Each year, the <a href="[@]WSMA/About/Leadership/House_of_Delegates/House_of_Delegates.aspx">WSMA House of Delegates</a> (HOD) meets to establish the mandates and policies of the medical association. At this year's meeting, Oct. 13 and 14 at the Historic Davenport Hotel in Spokane, the 128<sup>th&nbsp;</sup>annual meeting of the HOD since the founding of the association, 30 resolutions were adopted, directing the association's work on behalf of physicians, patients and the house of medicine for the months and years ahead.</p>
<p>Echoing the actions of AMA delegates during the AMA meeting earlier this year, WSMA delegates took a strong stance on gun violence, adopting policies directing the WSMA to:</p>
<ul>
<li>Support policy that raises the minimum age to purchase a firearm to 21 years of age.</li>
<li>Support the elimination of laws intruding on physicians' and patients' rights to discuss gun violence.</li>
<li>Support legislation that would restrict the sale and private ownership of large-clip, high-rate-of-fire automatic and semi-automatic firearms.</li>
<li>Support closing loopholes in gun purchases online and at unregulated gun shows.</li>
<li>Support policy that creates weapons-free zones for medical practice settings, allowing exceptions for law enforcement.</li>
<li>Encourage members to screen for risk factors of firearm injury and educate patients about prevention and safe storage.</li>
<li>Urge the state and federal government to fund research on the causes and prevention of firearm violence and injury and ensure that the databases and systems necessary for research and public health surveillance are available and publicly accessible.</li>
</ul>
<p>Other public health policies adopted during the meeting direct the WSMA to:</p>
<ul>
<li>Advocate for measures to identify, treat, and eliminate sources of childhood lead poisoning in Washington state.</li>
<li>Publicly oppose the enforcement of immigration policy on undocumented immigrants that impose increased adverse childhood events.</li>
<li>Support the elimination of the manufacture, distribution, and sale of combustible cigarettes.</li>
<li>Take measures to promote clean energy, including endorsing <a href="https://weiapplets.sos.wa.gov/MyVoteOLVR/OnlineVotersGuide/Measures?language=en&amp;electionId=71&amp;countyCode=xx&amp;ismyVote=False&amp;electionTitle=2018%20General%20Election%20#ososTop">Washington Initiative Measure 1631</a> on the 2018 general election ballot.</li>
<li>Initiate a collaborative effort with relevant organizations to encourage hospitals in Washington state to treat opioid use disorder as a chronic disease</li>
<li>Support policy that eliminates barriers to, increases funding for, and promotes access to medication-assisted treatment at all state-certified drug treatment facilities.</li>
</ul>
<p>Resolutions adopted regarding other legislative and professional affairs direct the WSMA to:</p>
<ul>
<li>Support a public option for Washington state (offering for purchase by all Washington residents the same coverage as that offered to Washington state employees through the Public Employees Benefit Board and the School Employees Benefits Board, with subsidies available to those who cannot afford the premium cost and who do not qualify for Medicaid), but not to the exclusion of other potential models.</li>
<li>Support changing the current physician assistant delegation agreement from the current Washington Medical Commission-based model to an employer/practice-based model and support defining the physician assistant scope of practice by the practices of the local supervising physicians.</li>
<li>Endorse non-discrimination in physician employment, compensation, and advancement opportunities consistent with the Washington State Equal Pay Opportunity Act.</li>
<li>Support physician whistleblower protections in legislation.</li>
<li>Promote the sole use of the metric system across the entire health care system.</li>
</ul>
<p>Visit the <a href="[@]WSMA/About/Leadership/House_of_Delegates/House_of_Delegates.aspx">House of Delegates page</a> for a comprehensive list of policies adopted at the 2018 WSMA Annual Meeting.</p>
<p>Plan now to attend the 2019 WSMA Annual Meeting, Oct 12 and 13 at the Hilton Seattle Airport &amp; Conference Center—save the date. To learn more about the Annual Meeting of the WSMA House of Delegates and its role shaping policy for the medical association, visit the <a href="[@]/WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/Annual_Meeting.aspx">meeting webpage</a>.</p>
</div> | 11/9/2018 11:15:22 AM | 10/24/2018 9:47:28 AM | 10/24/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| medicare_2019_open_enrollment_started_oct_15 | Medicare 2019 open enrollment started Oct. 15 | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181024/medicare_2019_open_enrollment_started_oct_15 | <div class="col-md-12">
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October 24, 2018
</h5>
<h2>Medicare 2019 open enrollment started Oct. 15</h2>
<p>Medicare's open enrollment period for Part D prescription drug plans and Medicare Advantage plans began Oct. 15 and runs through Dec. 7. Decisions by Medicare patients regarding their choice of Medicare Advantage plans can impact your payer mix. Consider making your Medicare patients aware of which plans your practice will be contracted with in 2019 to help guide their decision-making. This approach can help avoid the problem of having your patients seek appointments next year only to find they have switched to a plan with which you are not contracted.</p>
<p>Also, practice staff may not have time available to provide your Medicare patients with detailed guidance on how to review and select from among the confusing array of plan offerings. Be aware that the state insurance commissioner's Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) program is ready to provide Medicare counseling. Here are some tips you can share with your patients:</p>
<ul>
<li>Plan costs and coverage can change every year, so review and keep all letters and notices your current plan sends.</li>
<li>List your current prescription drugs, doses, and frequency. Then, use <a href="https://www.medicare.gov/find-a-plan/questions/search-by-plan-name-or-plan-id.aspx">Medicare's Plan Finder</a>&nbsp;to compare Part D plans. </li>
<li>Review the 2019 Medicare &amp; You handbook, posted on the <a href="https://www.medicare.gov/forms-help-resources/medicare-you-handbook/download-medicare-you-in-different-formats">CMS website</a>. </li>
</ul>
<p>For personalized guidance, schedule a one-on-one counseling appointment with a SHIBA volunteer, Monday through Friday, by calling the OIC's Insurance Consumer Hotline at 800.562.6900; ask to speak with a SHIBA volunteer. For help with Medicare for Spanish-speaking patients, call CMS' Spanish language line at 800.633.4227 or call the National Alliance for Hispanic Health at 866.783.2645.</p>
<p>Also, those Medicare patients on a limited income who need help paying for prescription drugs might qualify for the "Extra Help" program. SHIBA staff can provide more details and help with the application. SHIBA also offers free, unbiased Medicare open enrollment workshops in local areas throughout the state. To see if there's an event in your area, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.insurance.wa.gov/shiba-events-calendar">SHIBA's event calendar</a>.</p>
</div> | 10/24/2018 2:14:43 PM | 10/24/2018 10:01:21 AM | 10/24/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| premera_to_acquire_soundpath_health_medicare_advantage_plan_contract | Premera to acquire Soundpath Health Medicare Advantage plan contract | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181024/premera_to_acquire_soundpath_health_medicare_advantage_plan_contract | <div class="col-md-12">
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October 24, 2018
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<h2>Premera to acquire Soundpath Health Medicare Advantage plan contract</h2>
<p>Premera Blue Cross announced that it has received CMS' approval to acquire Catholic Health Initiative's Soundpath Health Medicare Advantage contract, effective Jan. 1. Soundpath Health currently serves over 22,000 customers in Washington state.</p>
<p>Premera noted that Soundpath Health customers will continue to receive their current benefits through the end of the year, and that all seniors who receive benefits through Soundpath Health will be properly notified and aware of their plan choices for 2019.</p>
<p>On its <a href="https://www.premera.com/wa/provider/medicare-advantage/premera-acquire-soundpath-health/">website</a>, Premera states:</p>
<p>"You'll need to be contracted and credentialed with Premera in order to see your Soundpath Health patients.To begin the credentialing process, visit <a href="https://www.premera.com/wa/provider/reference/join-our-network/">Join Our Network</a>. You'll need to allow 60 days for the credentialing process.Premera will notify members about in-network providers beginning October 2018."</p>
<p>"You can continue to see your Soundpath Health patients through December 31, 2018. Otherwise, you'll need to be contracted and credentialed through Premera to see your Soundpath Health patientswho are enrolled in one of Premera's Medicare Advantage plans in 2019."</p>
<p>Physicians and practices that have patients covered through Soundpath Health should determine if they are currently contracted and credentialed with Premera. If they are not, Premera likely will not honor claims for services provided as of Jan. 1 and beyond. This presumes that the patient does not change to a different Medicare Advantage plan during the open enrollment period.</p>
<p>For questions, contact Bob Perna at <a href="mailto:rjp@wsma.org">rjp@wsma.org</a>.</p>
</div> | 10/24/2018 2:13:49 PM | 10/24/2018 9:57:23 AM | 10/24/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| register_for_the_2018_washington_end_of_life_coalition_annual_meeting | Register for the 2018 Washington End-of-Life Coalition Annual Meeting | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181024/register_for_the_2018_washington_end_of_life_coalition_annual_meeting | <div class="col-md-12">
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October 24, 2018
</h5>
<h2>Register for the 2018 Washington End-of-Life Coalition Annual Meeting</h2>
<p>Registration is now available for <a href="[@]WSMA/Events/End_of_Life_Coalition_Annual_Meeting.aspx">WEOLC Annual Meeting</a>, scheduled for Friday, Nov. 16 at the Seattle Airport Marriott and featuring keynote presenter Marie Eaton, a community champion for the innovative Palliative Care Institute in Whatcom County. The theme of the day-long meeting is "End of Life Choice Comes of Age: Living and Dying by Your Values," and the meeting will check in on the status of two key movements in serious illness and end-of-life care: the start of board certification for palliative care nationally, and in Washington state, voter approval of our physician aid-in-dying law.</p>
<p>Meeting highlights include sixteen speakers, starting with a keynote by Marie Eaton, an update on POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) and much more. Visit the <a href="[@]WSMA/Events/End_of_Life_Coalition_Annual_Meeting.aspx">meeting webpage</a>&nbsp;for more information and to register. A discounted registration fee is available for medical students; contact Brendan Cox at <a href="mailto:brendan@wsma.org">brendan@wsma.org</a>&nbsp;or 206.441.9762 to learn more.</p>
</div> | 10/24/2018 2:09:34 PM | 10/24/2018 9:58:53 AM | 10/24/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| spokane_geriatrician_tom_schaaf_md_installed_as_wsma_president_for_2018_19 | Spokane geriatrician Tom Schaaf, MD, installed as WSMA president for 2018-19 | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181024/spokane_geriatrician_tom_schaaf_md_installed_as_wsma_president_for_2018_19 | <div class="col-md-12">
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October 24, 2018
</h5>
<h2>Spokane geriatrician Tom Schaaf, MD, installed as WSMA president for 2018-19</h2>
<p>On Saturday at the 2018 WSMA Annual Meeting in Spokane, the WSMA inaugurated its new president, Spokane geriatrician and hospice care physician <strong>Tom Schaaf, MD, MPH</strong>. Dr. Schaaf serves as the chief medical officer of Providence Home and Community Care in Tukwila and provides patient care at Providence Sound Hospice in Olympia.</p>
<p>During his inauguration speech at the annual meeting, Dr. Schaaf shared with delegates why he has pursued leadership roles in medicine, and why physician leadership is critical to the future of the house of medicine. <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2018/weekly_rounds_2018_10_18_if_physicians_do_not_lead_someone_else_will.aspx">Read his full speech</a>.</p>
<p>Also elected as officers at the meeting were: <strong>Bill Hirota, MD</strong>, Tacoma gastroenterologist, president-elect; <strong>Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD</strong>, Tacoma emergency physician, 1st vice president; <strong>Mika Sinanan, MD, PhD</strong>, Seattle surgeon, 2nd vice president; <strong>Katina Rue, DO</strong>, Yakima osteopathic physician, secretary-treasurer; <strong>Nariman Heshmati, MD</strong>, Mukilteo OB/GYN, assistant secretary-treasurer. The seventh officer of WSMA's executive committee is past-president <strong>Donna Smith, MD</strong>, Seattle pediatrician, who will serve as committee chair.</p>
<p><em>Photo courtesy of Andrea Peer Photography.</em></p>
</div> | 10/24/2018 2:19:41 PM | 10/24/2018 9:51:15 AM | 10/24/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| this_saturday_is_national_prescription_drug_take_back_day | This Saturday is National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181024/this_saturday_is_national_prescription_drug_take_back_day | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>
October 24, 2018
</h5>
<h2>This Saturday is National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day</h2>
<p>Collection sites across Washington will be open from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. this Saturday, Oct. 27 for National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day, an initiative of the Drug Enforcement Administration. Visit the DEA's <a href="https://takebackday.dea.gov/">Take Back Day</a>&nbsp;website for posters, handouts and other materials to help promote the event to your patients. The Washington Poison Center's webpage <a href="http://www.takebackyourmeds.org/">takebackyourmeds.org</a>&nbsp;hosts a directory of medication return locations throughout the state.</p>
</div> | 10/24/2018 2:17:04 PM | 10/24/2018 9:55:10 AM | 10/24/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_honors_teamhealth_northwest_and_peacehealth_medical_group_for_patient_safety_efforts | WSMA honors TeamHealth Northwest and PeaceHealth Medical Group for patient safety efforts | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20181024/wsma_honors_teamhealth_northwest_and_peacehealth_medical_group_for_patient_safety_efforts | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>
October 24, 2018
</h5>
<h2>WSMA honors TeamHealth Northwest and PeaceHealth Medical Group for patient safety efforts</h2>
<p>Each year at its annual meeting, the WSMA honors innovative patient safety initiatives in the ambulatory care setting. This year, two Washington health care organizations were recognized: TeamHealth Northwest at CHI Franciscan and PeaceHealth Medical Group.</p>
<p>The awards were presented during the WSMA Foundation 50th Anniversary Banquet on Saturday evening at the Historic Davenport Hotel in Spokane:</p>
<p>The William O. Robertson Patient Safety Award of Excellence was presented to TeamHealth Northwest for its work on addressing opioid prescribing practices in the emergency department. Receiving the award on behalf of TeamHealth was <strong>Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD</strong>, regional director of quality assurance.</p>
<p>The William O. Robertson Patient Safety Award of Achievement was presented to PeaceHealth Medical Group for its work elevating and integrating advance care planning within their system. Receiving the award on behalf of PeaceHealth Medical Group were <strong>Hilary Walker</strong>, program coordinator for advance care planning; <strong>Daleasha Hall</strong>, hospice &amp; palliative care system director; and <strong>Robin Virgin, MD&nbsp;</strong>primary care system medical director.</p>
<p>For more information on the initiatives, read the <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Press_Releases/2018/WSMA_patient_safety_awards_go_to_TeamHealth_Northwest_and_PeaceHealth_Medical_Group.aspx">press release</a>.</p>
<p>The WSMA established the William O. Robertson Patient Safety Award in 2005, in honor of the late William O. Robertson, MD, who was a champion for patient safety, risk management and quality improvement throughout his long and distinguished career.</p>
<p><em>Pictured: Dr. Nathan Schlicher and Dr. Donna Smith. Photo courtesy of Andrea Peer Photography.</em></p>
</div> | 10/24/2018 3:04:23 PM | 10/24/2018 9:53:04 AM | 10/24/2018 12:00:00 AM |