| cigna-delays-implementation-of-modifier-25-policy | Cigna Delays Implementation of Modifier 25 Policy | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2023/may-26/cigna-delays-implementation-of-modifier-25-policy | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2023/may/billing-invoice-645x425.jpeg" class="pull-right" alt="Billing invoice" /></div>
<h5>May 26, 2023</h5>
<h2>Cigna Delays Implementation of Modifier 25 Policy</h2>
<p>The Cigna Group, one of the country's largest health insurers, has announced that it is delaying implementation of a concerning <a href="https://static.cigna.com/assets/chcp/secure/pdf/resourceLibrary/clinReimPolsModifiers/Notifications/Modifier_25_Significant_Separately_Identifiable_Evaluation_and_Management.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">policy</a> that would have required the submission of medical records with all evaluation and management claims with CPT 99212-99215 and modifier 25 when a minor procedure is billed. The policy, that was due to go into effect on May 25, would have added significant, unnecessary administrative burden and compliance costs to physician practices, disincentivized physicians from providing unscheduled services, and created duplicate requests.</p>
<p>In addition to the WSMA executive committee meeting with Cigna's market medical executive for the Pacific Northwest, the WSMA signed onto <a href="https://wsma.informz.net/WSMA/data/images/AMA-Cigna-modifier-25-signon-040323.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">an American Medical Association letter</a> urging Cigna to rescind the policy. We also submitted <a href="https://wsma.informz.net/WSMA/data/images/WSMA-Cigna-Letter-April-2023.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">our own letter</a> to Cigna outlining the negative impact the policy will have on Washington state physicians if it is enacted as proposed.</p>
<p>Cigna is currently reevaluating this reimbursement policy update. The WSMA has urged Cigna to work collaboratively with the physician community to ensure any future policy under consideration is not administratively burdensome and is focused on education to ensure modifier 25 is being billed appropriately.</p>
</div> | 5/25/2023 5:03:29 PM | 5/25/2023 3:53:56 PM | 5/26/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| physician-and-pa-leaders-invited-to-the-next-wsma-medical-officer-collaborative-safe-table | Physician and PA Leaders Invited to the Next WSMA Medical Officer Collaborative Safe Table | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2023/may-26/physician-and-pa-leaders-invited-to-the-next-wsma-medical-officer-collaborative-safe-table | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2023/may/shutterstock-619039964-web-645x425px.jpeg" class="pull-right" alt="physician and patient sitting at a table with a stethoscope on it." /></div>
<h5>May 26, 2023</h5>
<h2>Physician and PA Leaders Invited to the Next WSMA Medical Officer Collaborative Safe Table</h2>
<p>
<em>Held virtually on Thursday, June 15 from 10 a.m.-noon</em>
</p>
<p>Are you a physician or physician assistant leader in your practice setting? Please join us for the WSMA Medical Officer Collaborative Safe Table, held virtually on Thursday, June 15 from 10 a.m.-noon. We will hear from Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD, WSMA past president and program lead for Better Prescribing, Better Treatment, on the safe prescribing program's work to date and what's ahead, and from Ed Walker, MD, physician advisor for the WSMA Center for Leadership Development, who will facilitate a panel of Leadership Masterclass graduates. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit </em><sup>TM</sup>.</p>
<p>The WSMA Medical Officer Collaborative is a forum for medical leadership from across the state to collaborate on important topics of leadership development, health equity, and physician wellness.This learning collaborative provides a safe place to openly discuss the challenges physicians face and outline effective solutions to those challenges.</p>
<p>The June 15 safe table is open to all chief medical officers, vice presidents of medical affairs, and other senior physician and PA leaders from hospitals, health systems, large and small medical groups, and community health settings.</p>
<p>If you're interested in participating in the safe table, contact Monica Salgaonkar at <a href="mailto:monica@wsma.org">monica@wsma.org</a>.</p>
</div> | 5/26/2023 10:39:49 AM | 5/25/2023 3:35:56 PM | 5/26/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| register-now-virtual-training-on-treatment-and-management-of-oud-sud | Register Now: Virtual Training on Treatment and Management of OUD, SUD | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2023/may-26/register-now-virtual-training-on-treatment-and-management-of-oud-sud | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2023/may/buprenorphine-butrans10mcg-645px.jpeg" class="pull-right" alt="Butrans packets" /></div>
<h5>May 26, 2023</h5>
<h2>Register Now: Virtual Training on Treatment and Management of OUD, SUD</h2>
<p>
<em>Save the dates: June 16-17. Free.</em>
</p>
<p>
Participation in this no-cost, virtual training will meet the federal Drug Enforcement Administration's new one-time, eight-hour training requirement on the treatment and management of opioid use disorder and other substance use disorders, as <a href="https://deadiversion.usdoj.gov/pubs/docs/MATE_Training_Letter_Final.pdf">outlined in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023</a>. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit<sup>TM</sup></em>.
</p>
<p>
The WSMA, the Washington Society of Addiction Medicine, the Women and Addiction Group, and CHOICES Education Group have planned a robust two-part program on compassionate addiction medicine on Friday, June 16, and Saturday, June 17. Offering comprehensive education on the treatment and management of opioid use disorder and other substance use disorders, this event will bring together physicians and health care professionals from all specialties to engage in an important conversation on compassionate care that fosters a nonjudgmental, trauma-responsive, and patient-centered response.
</p>
<p>
Topics covered:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Education on stigma, myths, and truths.</li>
<li>Evidence-based treatments, including initiation of buprenorphine and methadone.</li>
<li>Appropriate care for various populations.</li>
<li>Pharmacotherapy.</li>
<li>Drug-related policies and harm-reduction efforts.</li>
<li>Caring for pregnant, postpartum, and parenting people with opioid or substance use disorders.</li>
</ul>
<p>
In order to register for this free event, please complete this <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/G7VKM8R">survey</a>, which will provide event planners a foundational understanding of your experience in treating individuals with opioid and/or substance use disorder. Upon completion of the survey, a registration link will be provided for you to complete the registration process. Contact Shelby Wiedmann at <a href="mailto:shelby@wsma.org">shelby@wsma.org</a> with questions.
</p>
</div> | 5/25/2023 4:57:05 PM | 5/25/2023 9:33:02 AM | 5/26/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma-member-question-on-new-dea-substance-use-disorder-training-requirement | WSMA Member Question on New DEA Substance Use Disorder Training Requirement | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2023/may-26/wsma-member-question-on-new-dea-substance-use-disorder-training-requirement | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2023/may/Stethoscope-on-table-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="stethoscope on a wooden table" /></div>
<h5>May 26, 2023</h5>
<h2>WSMA Member Question on New DEA Substance Use Disorder Training Requirement</h2>
<p>Member question:</p>
<p>"I completed eight hours of training on the treatment and management of patients with opioid use disorder or substance use disorder. When do I need to notify the DEA?"</p>
<p>The WSMA policy department has received inquiries from members asking how to demonstrate that they have met the new one-time, eight-hour training requirement on the treatment and management of opioid use disorder and other substance use disorders as a condition of registration or renewal with the federal Drug Enforcement Administration.</p>
<p>The DEA <a href="https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/pubs/docs/MATE_Training_Letter_Final.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">has indicated</a> that the deadline for satisfying this new training requirement is the date of a practitioner's next scheduled DEA registration submission on or after June 27, 2023, regardless of whether it is an initial registration or a renewal registration.</p>
<p>This means that health care professionals will indicate they have completed training upon renewal of their DEA license on or after June 27, 2023, whether that is later in 2023, 2024, or even 2025. Additionally, there are no documentation requirements; to confirm completion of this requirement, health care professionals will simply check a box during the renewal process.</p>
</div> | 5/26/2023 10:39:23 AM | 5/25/2023 3:36:40 PM | 5/26/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| 2023-wsma-annual-meeting-resolution-template-guidance-now-available | 2023 WSMA Annual Meeting: Resolution Template, Guidance Now Available | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2023/may-12/2023-wsma-annual-meeting-resolution-template-guidance-now-available | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2023/may/resolutions-print-2-cropped-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA resolutions on paper" /></div>
<h5>May 12, 2023</h5>
<!-- **************************NEW ARTICLE****************************** -->
<h2>
2023 WSMA Annual Meeting: Resolution Template, Guidance Now Available
</h2>
<p>
Mark your calendars: The 2023 Annual Meeting of the WSMA House of Delegates will take place Sept. 23-24 at the Westin Bellevue. This yearly conference is WSMA's primary policymaking event, where resolutions will be introduced, debated, and considered for adoption by the association's House of Delegates.
</p>
<p>
Resolutions are one of the key drivers of legislative and regulatory policies for the WSMA, often serving as responses to current issues facing the house of medicine and steering WSMA's advocacy. With summer around the corner, now is a good time to turn your ideas into resolutions.
</p>
<p>
Resolutions must be submitted in the <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/newsletters/2023/wsma-draft-resolution-template.docx]">format outlined in this template</a>. If you are new to resolution writing, we encourage you to review WSMA's <a href="[@]wsma/events/annual_meeting/how_to_write_a_resolution/wsma/events/annual_meeting/How_to_Write_a_Resolution/How_to_Write_a_Resolution.aspx?hkey=a22cd977-aaed-4445-9ee2-6fc4716a7136">resolution guidelines</a>, which walk you through the process and offer tips and tricks for success along the way.
</p>
<h3>
Important meeting deadlines
</h3>
<ul>
<li>Aug. 4 - Deadline for resolutions and reports to be submitted for publication in delegate handbook.</li>
<li>Aug. 24 - Final deadline for resolutions and reports. Resolutions received after this date must have the consent of two-thirds of the House at the opening session to be considered.</li>
<li>Aug. 24 - Delegate handbook will be available for download.</li>
<li>Sept. 1 - Deadline to make room reservations at The Westin Bellevue.</li>
<li>Sept. 23-24 - The 2023 WSMA Annual Meeting.</li>
</ul>
<h3>
More information
</h3>
<ul>
<li><a href="[@]wsma/events/annual_meeting/wsma/events/annual_meeting/annual_meeting.aspx?hkey=fea49254-3815-4dc9-8710-53ff2e3a100f">WSMA Annual Meeting</a></li>
<li><a href="[@]WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/How_to_Write_a_Resolution/How_to_Write_a_Resolution.aspx">How to Write a Resolution</a></li>
<li><a href="[@]wsma/about/policies/whats_our_policy/policy_index.aspx">What's Our Policy?</a> - M<em>ake sure your resolution isn't already a policy!</em></li>
</ul>
<p>
Should you have additional questions on the meeting or resolution drafting, contact the WSMA policy department at <a href="mailto:policy@wsma.org">policy@wsma.org</a>.
</p>
</div> | 5/12/2023 8:15:51 AM | 5/11/2023 3:05:42 PM | 5/12/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| register-to-attend-the-physician-leadership-course-this-fall | Register to Attend the Physician Leadership Course This Fall | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2023/may-12/register-to-attend-the-physician-leadership-course-this-fall | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2023/may/2023-fall-only-plc-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="Fall 2023 PLC course graphic" /></div>
<h5>May 12, 2023</h5>
<!-- **************************NEW ARTICLE****************************** -->
<h2>
Register to Attend the Physician Leadership Course This Fall
</h2>
<p>
<em>Held online and in person, Sept. 8-Nov. 17, 2023. Max capacity is 30 participants.</em>
</p>
<p>
The WSMA Physician Leadership Course is for physicians and physician assistants who want to know more about health care leadership or who would like to brush up on their leadership competencies. The course is a basic "boot camp" to familiarize physicians and PAs with the four important components of health care leadership: performance improvement, patient safety, and high reliability; leadership and management of individuals, teams, and organizations; planning and finance; and creating and maintaining a personal leadership development plan.
</p>
<p>
The 11-week hybrid-distance course combines face-to-face and online learning to enable participants to begin developing and honing their leadership skills at their convenience. Designed with your busy schedule in mind, only three in-person classes are required: Sept. 8 and 9 and Nov. 17 at the Silver Cloud Broadway Hotel in Seattle. The remainder of the course is conducted online.
</p>
<p>
This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Creditâ„¢</em>. <a href="[@]wsma/education/physician_leadership/physician_leadership_course/wsma/physician_leadership/physician_leadership_course/physician_leadership_course.aspx?hkey=efdc4ad1-ff20-4089-ab51-caafbe73572b&amp;_zs=A3aFd1&amp;_zl=rqFn8">Learn more and enroll online</a>.
</p>
</div> | 5/19/2023 3:52:04 PM | 5/11/2023 2:57:52 PM | 5/12/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| 2023-washington-state-immunization-summit-offered-in-hybrid-format | 2023 Washington State Immunization Summit Offered in Hybrid Format | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2023/april-28/2023-washington-state-immunization-summit-offered-in-hybrid-format | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2023/april/2023-wa-immunization-summit-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="Washington State Immunization Summit logo" /></div>
<h5>April 28, 2023</h5>
<h2>2023 Washington State Immunization Summit Offered in Hybrid Format </h2>
<p>Early-bird registration is still available for the <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/washington-state-immunization-summit-registration-597806383987">Washington State Immunization Summit</a> on May 25 at the Greater Tacoma Convention Center. This year's event will be presented in a hybridformat: Attendees may choose between attending in person in Tacoma or watching a livestream remotely. Continuing education credits will be offered for both in-person and virtual attendees. In-person registration includes complimentary meals and access to a networking event directly following the Summit.</p>
<p>Conference topics will include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Lessons learned from COVID-19 vaccination campaigns.</li>
<li>The current state of vaccines in Washington and beyond.</li>
<li>Community-based immunization initiatives.</li>
<li>Practical strategies to address vaccine hesitancy.</li>
<li>A look at "HPV at 9" in Washington state, and more.</li>
</ul>
<p>The early-bird cost to register for this all-day event is just $150 for in-person attendees and $100 for virtual attendees! Rates will increase after April 30. <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/washington-state-immunization-summit-registration-597806383987">Register now to reserve your seat at the early bird rate.</a> Questions? Email <a href="mailto:IC@withinreachwa.org">IC@withinreachwa.org</a>.</p>
</div> | 4/27/2023 2:24:47 PM | 4/25/2023 3:20:11 PM | 4/28/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| action-alert-urge-congressional-support-of-medicare-annual-inflation-update | Action Alert: Urge Congressional Support of Medicare Annual Inflation Update | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2023/april-28/action-alert-urge-congressional-support-of-medicare-annual-inflation-update | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2023/april/medicare-barcode-645px.jpeg" class="pull-right" alt="Medicare bardode" /></div>
<h5>April 28, 2023</h5>
<h2>Action Alert: Urge Congressional Support of Medicare Annual Inflation Update</h2>
<p>The WSMA joined the American Medical Association and nearly 120 national physician specialty societies and state medical associations in <a href="https://searchlf.ama-assn.org/letter/documentDownload?uri=%2Funstructured%2Fbinary%2Fletter%2FLETTERS%2Fltrf.zip%2FHR-2474-AMA-Federation-Letter-of-Support-4-19-23.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">a letter</a> commending Reps. Raul Ruiz, MD (D-CA), Larry Bucshon, MD (R-IN), Ami Bera, MD (D-CA), and Mariannette Miller-Meeks, MD (R-IA), for introducing H.R. 2474, bipartisan legislation that would tie annual Medicare physician fee schedule updates to the Medicare Economic Index. If passed by Congress, the legislation would help provide financial stability to physician practices and preserve access to care for Medicare beneficiaries.</p>
<p>Unlike virtually all other health professionals participating in the Medicare program, physician services do not receive an annual inflationary update. Providing an annual inflation update <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2023/march-24/medpac-recommends-tying-physician-payment-update-to-inflation">equal to the MEI for Medicare physician payments is essential</a> to enabling physician practices to better absorb payment distributions triggered by budget neutrality rules, performance adjustments, and periods of high inflation. It will also help physicians invest in their practices and implement new strategies to provide high-value care.</p>
<h3>Contact your members of Congress</h3>
<p>Organized medicine is united in support of a long-term payment solution that centers on annual inflationary updates. To help this effort, take a moment to <a href="https://physiciansgrassrootsnetwork.org/be-heard?vvsrc=%2fCampaigns%2f103669%2fRespond">contact your legislators</a> and urge them to help fix the flawed Medicare physician payment system by supporting H.R. 2474.</p>
<p>The AMA provides the following charts, which may be used in conversations with members of Congress to let them know the Medicare physician payment system needs reform to become a more sustainable, value-based system that better meets the needs of patients and physicians:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/system/files/medicare-provider-updates-chart-2023.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Medicare payment updates for 2023</a> </li>
<li><a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/system/files/medicare-updates-inflation-chart-cumulative.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Medicare updates compared to inflation (with comparison)</a> </li>
<li><a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/system/files/medicare-updates-inflation-chart.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Medicare updates compared to inflation (without comparison)</a> </li>
<li><a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/system/files/key-measures-medicare-economic-index-chart.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Key measures of practice expense in the Medicare Economic Index</a> </li>
<li><a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/system/files/medicare-spending-enrollee.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Medicare spending per enrollee</a> </li>
<li><a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/system/files/real-inflation-adjusted-spending-enrollee.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Real (inflation-adjusted) Medicare physician spending per enrollee</a> </li>
</ul>
</div> | 5/3/2023 10:21:25 AM | 4/27/2023 2:31:53 PM | 4/28/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| free-education-feedback-on-opioid-prescribing-for-wsma-members | Free Education, Feedback on Opioid Prescribing for WSMA Members | Membership_Memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2023/april-14/free-education-feedback-on-opioid-prescribing-for-wsma-members | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2023/april/bpbt-logo-645px.png" class="pull-right" alt="Better Prescribing Better Treatment logo" /></div>
<h5>April 14, 2023</h5>
<!-- **************************NEW ARTICLE****************************** -->
<h2>
Free Education, Feedback on Opioid Prescribing for WSMA Members
</h2>
<p>
The WSMA is excited to announce that, starting today, all members of the WSMA will be automatically enrolled in the Better Prescribing, Better Treatment peer-to-peer safe prescribing program.
</p>
<p>
Better Prescribing, Better Treatment was launched in 2017 as a quality improvement initiative jointly provided by the WSMA and the Washington State Hospital Association, in partnership with the Washington State Health Care Authority and Washington State Department of Health, and offered as an alternative to blunt pill limits and prior authorization requirements proposed by governmental regulation. Better Prescribing, Better Treatment today includes more than 60 health systems, hospitals, and medical groups and more than 12,000 licensed prescribers in Washington state. The impact of the program has been dramatic: since its introduction, overall ‘above guidelines' acute prescribing in Washington state has dropped by 49%.
</p>
<p>
While until today, enrollment in the Better Prescribing, Better Treatment program has been limited to health systems and medical groups, the WSMA believes strongly that every prescriber in Washington should have access to this beneficial program to encourage safe opioid prescribing habits. Now, with support of federal and state grant funding, the WSMA is able to expand Better Prescribing, Better Treatment to include all WSMA members, with an option to opt-out of the program.
</p>
<div class="col-sm-8 pull-right" style="text-align: center;">
<p><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2023/april/chart.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Washington Statewide Acute Prescribing Trend chart" /></p>
</div>
<p>
As part of the program, you will receive a free quarterly report of your opioid prescribing compared with peers and established Washington state opioid prescribing guidelines. The reports will give you valuable feedback and education on your opioid prescribing habits over time. Above-guideline prescribing in Washington has continued to improve every quarter since the program began. We believe that together we can continue to drive better care for every Washingtonian.
</p>
<p>As a valued member of the WSMA, you will be automatically opted in to the Better Prescribing, Better Treatment program. If you decide to opt out of the program, please click <a href="https://forms.microsoft.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=CgN5_wMfNU66xEvN3PBcALOjCMPHcOtMjRqWI9jf1QJUQUQyQzAzRE03QzdXNVM3WU43MlVUM0NLWS4u">here</a> to start the process.</p>
<p>
Feel free to reach out to Monica Salgaonkar <a href="mailto:monica@wsma.org">monica@wsma.org</a> if you have any concerns or questions.
</p>
</div> | 4/14/2023 12:11:21 PM | 4/14/2023 12:10:50 PM | 4/14/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| nominate-a-colleague-or-yourself-for-the-2023-apple-awards | Nominate a Colleague or Yourself for the 2023 Apple Awards | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2023/april-14/nominate-a-colleague-or-yourself-for-the-2023-apple-awards | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2023/april/apple-awards-2021-all-glass-apples-medium-645x425px.jpeg" class="pull-right" alt="Apple Awards trophies" /></div>
<h5>April 14, 2023</h5>
<h2>
Nominate a Colleague or Yourself for the 2023 Apple Awards
</h2>
<p>
Day in and day out, WSMA members are busy doing extraordinary things serving the house of medicine and improving the health of Washingtonians. Because so much of this work is performed selflessly and goes unsung, we think it's nice to take a moment to draw attention to particularly noteworthy efforts and individuals. Through the WSMA's Apple Awards and William O. Robertson, MD, Patient Safety Award, we'll recognize worthy winners for leadership, advocacy, service, and patient safety.
</p>
<p>
It's easy to make a nomination. Simply go to the links noted below to find out more and complete your nominations before the May 26 deadline. The awards will be presented during the WSMA House of Delegates' annual meeting in September.
</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>President's Unsung Hero Award: </strong>This award recognizes the WSMA member who contributes extraordinary service to the profession and community. <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/9RJWHNY">Submit your nomination(s) here</a>.</li>
<li><strong>Wellness Award: </strong>This award recognizes an organization that has worked to put the joy back in medicine for Washington physicians. <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MFQ7TMM">Submit your nomination(s) here</a>.</li>
<li><strong>Grassroots Advocate Award: </strong>This award recognizes WSMA member efforts and activities in supporting WSMA legislative priorities. <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MF52YNY">Submit your nomination(s) here</a>.</li>
<li><strong>William O. Robertson, MD, Patient Safety Award: </strong>This award recognizes patient safety initiatives pioneered in ambulatory care settings throughout Washington state. <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/9TD3NC5">Submit your nomination(s) here</a>.</li>
</ul>
</div> | 4/14/2023 12:08:34 PM | 4/13/2023 10:29:41 AM | 4/14/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| the-washington-medical-commission-is-seeking-new-physician-leadership | The Washington Medical Commission is Seeking New Physician Leadership | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2023/april-14/the-washington-medical-commission-is-seeking-new-physician-leadership | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2023/april/wa-medical-commission-645x425px.jpeg" class="pull-right" alt="Washington Medical Commission logo" /></div>
<h5>April 14, 2023</h5>
<!-- **************************NEW ARTICLE****************************** -->
<h2>
The Washington Medical Commission is Seeking New Physician Leadership
</h2>
<p>
The WMC is seeking physicians from the following specialties to serve as pro tem members: urology, radiology, neurosurgery, general surgeon, and psychiatry. If any members are interested or may be interested, please email <a href="mailto:amelia.boyd@wmc.wa.gov">amelia.boyd@wmc.wa.gov</a>.
</p>
<p>
The WMC is also recruiting for the following vacancies. These positions will be available beginning July 1, 2023:
</p>
<ul>
<li>One physician representing Congressional District 2 - Dr. Lyle's position - eligible for reappointment.</li>
<li>One physician representing Congressional District 4 - Dr. Murphy's position - eligible for reappointment.</li>
<li>One physician representing Congressional District 10 - Dr. Wohns' position - eligible for reappointment.</li>
<li>One Physician-at-Large - Dr. Currie's position - eligible for reappointment.</li>
<li>Two Public Members - Michael Bailey - eligible for reappointment; Scott Rodgers - eligible for reappointment.</li>
</ul>
<p>
Interested members may email <a href="mailto:amelia.boyd@wmc.wa.gov">amelia.boyd@wmc.wa.gov</a> for information about service. Note that all the above commissioners have been notified that their first term is ending June 30, 2023, they are eligible for reappointment, and they must submit a new application to be considered for reappointment. The application deadline was March 24, 2023.
</p>
</div> | 4/14/2023 12:08:34 PM | 4/13/2023 2:56:57 PM | 4/14/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| we-need-your-feedback-on-pharmacy-quality-assurance-commission-rulemaking | We Need Your Feedback on Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission Rulemaking | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2023/april-14/we-need-your-feedback-on-pharmacy-quality-assurance-commission-rulemaking | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2023/april/rx-bottle-doctor-laptop-645x425.jpeg" class="pull-right" alt="physician holding prescription bottle" /></div>
<h5>April 14, 2023</h5>
<h2>
We Need Your Feedback on Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission Rulemaking
</h2>
<p>
The Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission has begun rulemaking on accessible medication labeling. Acknowledging that the regulatory agency's intention is to address health inequities and improve patient safety, the WSMA is interested in your feedback to understand whether this rulemaking could also result in unintended hardship for physician practices both large and small.
</p>
<p>
The <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/newsletters/2023/3-2-accessible-labeling-rule-language-march-2023-rules-workshop.pdf]">draft rules</a>&nbsp;require "…any facility that dispenses and delivers to patients," including physician practices, to provide at least the following visual accessible labeling accommodations at no cost to the patient:
</p>
<ul>
<li>A minimum 12-point font size; </li>
<li>Braille; or </li>
<li>A QR reference code that can direct the patient to a separate print or digital resource that provides all required information for the dispensed prescription </li>
<li>A prescription reader or other technology </li>
</ul>
<p>
The draft rules would also require any facility that dispenses medication to patients to provide free translation and interpretation services for prescription information in a minimum number of languages, in addition to English, that address the needs of the community around the facility.
</p>
<p>
The exemptions to this draft rule are limited to:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Pre-packaged emergency medications </li>
<li>Opioid reversal medication </li>
<li>Bubble packs </li>
<li>Medication packs dispensed in strip machines </li>
</ul>
<p>
While the PQAC doesn't regulate physicians directly, it does have <a href="https://www.atg.wa.gov/ago-opinions/regulation-dispensing-lengend-drug-and-controlled-substances">regulatory authority over dispensing</a>. The PQAC will meet again in early May to discuss this rule and the WSMA will be providing comments on how best to improve accessibility while minimizing impact to physician practices. To help improve our feedback, please share any thoughts you may have on the rulemaking with WSMA Associate Policy Director Billie Dickinson at <a href="mailto:billie@wsma.org">billie@wsma.org</a>.
</p>
</div> | 4/14/2023 12:08:35 PM | 4/13/2023 10:29:44 AM | 4/14/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma-joins-acog-to-facilitate-mifepristone-access-oppose-legal-restrictions | WSMA Joins ACOG to Facilitate Mifepristone Access, Oppose Legal Restrictions | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2023/april-14/wsma-joins-acog-to-facilitate-mifepristone-access-oppose-legal-restrictions | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2023/april/bill-oxford-oxghu60nwxu-unsplash-645x425px.jpeg" class="pull-right" alt="gavel" /></div>
<h5>April 14, 2023</h5>
<h2>
WSMA Joins ACOG to Facilitate Mifepristone Access, Oppose Legal Restrictions
</h2>
<p>
The WSMA has issued a <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2023/wsma-and-wc-acog-joint-statement-on-federal-rulings-concerning-mifeprestone">joint statement</a> with the Washington Chapter of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists responding to two federal rulings issued last week concerning mifepristone. The statement, together with recent legal action by the WSMA, ACOG, and others in organized medicine, underscores the overwhelming support for reproductive freedom and access to reproductive and abortion services within the house of medicine and starkly highlights the increasing politicization of medicine in the country.
</p>
<p>
Last Friday, in an expected ruling in Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine v. FDA, a federal judge in Texas
</p>
<p>
suspended the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's approval of mifepristone, a <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2023/wsma-and-wc-acog-joint-statement-on-federal-rulings-concerning-mifeprestone">gross interference in the practice of medicine and of the patient-physician relationship</a>. Mifepristone is one of two drugs used for medication abortion, a protocol that has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for two decades. The WSMA supports the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists <a href="https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/practice-bulletin/articles/2020/10/medication-abortion-up-to-70-days-of-gestation">clinical guidance on medication abortion</a>.
</p>
<p>
Also on Friday in a separate lawsuit, Washington v. FDA, a federal judge in Spokane issued a ruling asserting that the FDA's approval of mifepristone is legal. The ruling further prevents the FDA from taking action to remove or reduce the availability of mifepristone and orders the agency to eliminate unnecessary restrictions applied on mifepristone. The Washington ruling impacts the 18 plaintiff states. Both the Washington chapter of ACOG and the WSMA joined an amicus brief in support of the plaintiffs. (Update: on Thursday, April 13, the court denied the motion for leave to file an amicus brief in support of Washington v. FDA without explanation, which can happen from time to time, especially on expedited matters.)
</p>
<p>
The situation is fast-moving and the WSMA will continue to work with WC-ACOG and others in organized medicine to ensure there's understanding among physicians and their patients in Washington state of their care options.
</p>
</div> | 4/14/2023 12:08:35 PM | 4/13/2023 10:29:36 AM | 4/14/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma-joins-voices-in-opposition-to-cigna-modifier-25-policy | WSMA Joins Voices in Opposition to Cigna Modifier 25 Policy | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2023/april-14/wsma-joins-voices-in-opposition-to-cigna-modifier-25-policy | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2023/april/billing-invoice-645x425.jpeg" class="pull-right" alt="stethoscope and calculator" /></div>
<h5>April 14, 2023</h5>
<!-- **************************NEW ARTICLE****************************** -->
<h2>
WSMA Joins Voices in Opposition to Cigna Modifier 25 Policy
</h2>
<p>
Cigna is rereleasing its policy to require the submission of medical records with all evaluation and management (E/M) claims with CPT 99212-99215 and modifier 25 when a minor procedure is billed. The updated policy, due to go into effect on May 25, will add significant, unnecessary administrative burden and compliance costs to physician practices, disincentivize physicians from providing unscheduled services, and create duplicate requests. The WSMA has signed onto an <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/newsletters/2023/ama-cigna-modifier-25-sign-on-040323.pdf]">AMA letter</a>&nbsp;urging Cigna to rescind the policy and we have submitted our own letter to <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/newsletters/2023/draft-cigna-letter.pdf]">Cigna</a>&nbsp;outlining the negative impact the policy will have on Washington state physicians if it is enacted as proposed. If you have any questions or concerns about the policy, contact Cigna customer service at 800.882.4462 or WSMA Policy Analyst Hillary Norris at <a href="mailto:hillary@wsma.org">hillary@wsma.org</a>.
</p>
</div> | 4/14/2023 12:08:37 PM | 4/13/2023 10:29:39 AM | 4/14/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma-priority-bills-advance-as-end-of-session-nears | WSMA Priority Bills Advance as End of Session Nears | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2023/april-14/wsma-priority-bills-advance-as-end-of-session-nears | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2023/april/2023-legislative-session-updates-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="2023 Legislative Update logo" /></div>
<h5>April 14, 2023</h5>
<!-- **************************NEW ARTICLE****************************** -->
<h2>
WSMA Priority Bills Advance as End of Session Nears
</h2>
<p>
With just nine days remaining in the 2023 legislative session, lawmakers took action over the last week to advance legislation and further their budget negotiations. As is often the case, the physician community has been central to many of the biggest conversations in Olympia this year, including ensuring abortion access, addressing gun violence, and reforming prior authorization, and WSMA priority policies in these areas continue to move. Budget talks will continue for the remainder of session, and we encourage WSMA members to <a href="https://votervoice.net/WSMA/Campaigns/99646/Respond">contact their legislators to urge support for professional services Medicaid rate increases</a>, WSMA's top budget priority.
</p>
<p>
The following is a brief overview of the status of WSMA priority legislation. For a comprehensive overview of legislative outcomes, all WSMA members are invited to attend a <a href="https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZApceCvpzkiEtXgZ909nm1SinaVvKf7h4LF#/registration">post-session Advocacy Council webinar on Wednesday, April 26 at noon</a>, hosted by our government affairs team in Olympia.
</p>
<h3>
Abortion access
</h3>
<p>
<a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1340&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2023">House Bill 1340</a>, concerning medical license protections, was approved by the Senate on April 6 by a vote of 28-19. HB 1340 would clarify that reproductive health and gender affirming care services delivered consistent with Washington state standards of care, even in a state where such services are prohibited, do not constitute unprofessional conduct under the UDA.
</p>
<p>
<a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1469&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2023__;!!K-Hz7m0Vt54!nPeLTkE81nZg7kIhcc5Vk_D5Cvag8w62hQV2-KC4A2qhOZRYA8_WKfoCkOPWhyG-qj6fBypRVA$">House Bill 1469</a>, concerning the Shield Act, was approved by the Senate on April 10 by a vote of 29-20. HB 1469 would establish liability protections for patients and health care professionals based on the receipt or delivery of abortion services and gender affirming care.
</p>
<p>
<a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5242&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2023__;!!K-Hz7m0Vt54!nPeLTkE81nZg7kIhcc5Vk_D5Cvag8w62hQV2-KC4A2qhOZRYA8_WKfoCkOPWhyG-qj7Z37HCUA$">Senate Bill 5242</a>, concerning abortion cost sharing, was approved by the House on April 7 by a vote of 57-39. SB 5242 would prohibit cost sharing (e.g., copays, deductibles) on abortion services.
</p>
<h3>
Gun violence
</h3>
<p>
<a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1240&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2023">House Bill 1240</a>, concerning assault weapons, was approved by the Senate on April 8 by a vote of 27-21. HB 1240 would generally prohibit the manufacture and sale of semi-automatic "assault weapons," including firearms such as the AR-15 and AK-47.
</p>
<p>
<a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1143&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2023">House Bill 1143</a>, concerning firearm purchases, was approved by the Senate on April 7 by a vote of 28-18. HB 1143 would require individuals to have recently completed a firearm safety training program and undergo a background check and 10-day waiting period to be eligible to purchase firearms.
</p>
<p>
<a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5078&amp;Year=2023&amp;Initiative=false">Senate Bill 5078,</a> concerning gun industry liability, was approved by the House on April 10 by a vote of 57-41. SB 5078 would establish a right of action against the firearm industry in circumstances where violence results from their conduct such as advertising targeted at minors and promoting the illegal conversion of firearms.
</p>
<h3>
Prior authorization
</h3>
<p>
<a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1357&amp;Year=2023&amp;Initiative=false__;!!K-Hz7m0Vt54!nPeLTkE81nZg7kIhcc5Vk_D5Cvag8w62hQV2-KC4A2qhOZRYA8_WKfoCkOPWhyG-qj6tgMy_zQ$">House Bill 1357</a>, concerning prior authorization, was approved by the Senate on April 11 by a vote of 49-0. HB 1357 would modernize and standardize prior authorization by shortening turnaround times for determinations and mandating insurance carriers implement electronic prior authorization processes that integrate into physicians' EMR.
</p>
<p>
For a bill to pass into law it must be approved by the House and Senate in identical form. Most of these bills will require further action before being eligible to be signed into law by the Governor.
</p>
<p>
Scope of practice is another perennial priority issue area for the WSMA. As of this writing, <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5389&amp;Year=2023&amp;Initiative=false">Senate Bill 5389</a> expanding optometrists' scope of practice has passed both chambers of the Legislature and is pending final approval. While the bill has been narrowed to exclude the use of lasers and other dangerous procedures, it still confers expanded prescriptive authority and the ability to administer injections and perform surgery (among other provisions). Other scope bills opposed by the WSMA pertaining to practitioners such as naturopaths, psychologists, and pharmacists are considered "dead" for the purpose of the 2023 session.
</p>
</div> | 4/14/2023 12:08:37 PM | 4/13/2023 10:29:30 AM | 4/14/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| department-of-health-advisory-regarding-the-buprenorphine-x-waiver | Department of Health Advisory Regarding the Buprenorphine X Waiver | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2023/march-24/department-of-health-advisory-regarding-the-buprenorphine-x-waiver | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2023/march/buprenorphine-butrans10mcg-645px.jpeg" class="pull-right" alt="Buprenorphine Butrans" /></div>
<h5>March 24, 2023</h5>
<!-- **************************NEW ARTICLE****************************** -->
<h2>Department of Health Advisory Regarding the Buprenorphine X Waiver</h2>
<p>In December, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and the Drug Enforcement Agency eliminated the requirement for physicians and other prescribers to have a DATA 2000 (X) waiver to prescribe buprenorphine-containing medication products for the treatment of opioid use disorder. SAMHSA has additionally dropped the limit on the number of patients physicians may prescribe buprenorphine medications to. The removal of these barriers to treatment represents a significant victory in the battle to reduce opioid addiction and overdose, one in which the <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2023/january-27/wsma-advocacy-critical-to-removal-of-buprenorphine-prescribing-barriers.aspx?_zs=A3aFd1&amp;_zl=9qFn8">WSMA and a coalition of Washington stakeholders played a critical role</a>.</p>
<p>The medication buprenorphine effectively treats opioid use disorder by manage craving and withdrawal, reducing illicit opioid use, and decreasing the risk of overdose. This week, Washington's Chief Science Officer Tao Sheng Kwan-Gett, MD, MPH, issued the following health advisory for physicians and prescribing clinicians to encourage the prescribing of buprenorphine for OUD:</p>
<ul>
<li>If you have a current DEA registration number that includes Schedule III authority, effective immediately you may now prescribe buprenorphine formulations for opioid use disorder.</li>
<li>There are no longer limitations on the number of patients a prescriber can treat for opioid use disorder with buprenorphine.</li>
<li>There are no medication-specific training requirements at this time.</li>
<li>With this provision, waiver applications from SAMHSA are no longer needed.</li>
</ul>
<p>If you have not prescribed buprenorphine or Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) and would like additional education, there are many resources available to support safe and effective treatment of opioid use disorder:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://pcssnow.org/">Providers Clinical Support System</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.learnabouttreatment.org/for-professionals/">Learn About Treatment</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.acep.org/patient-care/bupe/">American College of Emergency Physicians</a></li>
<li><a href="https://pcl.psychiatry.uw.edu/">University of Washington Consultation Line</a>
<ul>
<li>Phone: 877.927.7924</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Clinician Peer Support for physicians treating pregnant or parenting patients with SUD
<ul>
<li>Phone: 833.937.9326 (Yes-WeCAN)</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p>More information:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/pubs/docs/A-23-0020-Dear-Registrant-Letter-Signed.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">DEA announcement</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/medications-substance-use-disorders/removal-data-waiver-requirement">SAMHSA Removal of DATA Waiver Requirement </a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.hca.wa.gov/billers-providers-partners/program-information-providers/medications-opioid-use-disorder-moud">Health Care Authority medications for opioid use disorder</a></li>
</ul>
<p>For any additional questions, contact <a href="mailto:Hannah.Carmichael@doh.wa.gov">Hannah.Carmichael@doh.wa.gov</a>.</p>
</div> | 4/26/2023 10:06:32 AM | 3/23/2023 10:13:52 AM | 3/24/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| hca-seeking-volunteers-to-serve-as-apple-health-ambassadors | HCA Seeking Volunteers to Serve as Apple Health Ambassadors | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2023/march-24/hca-seeking-volunteers-to-serve-as-apple-health-ambassadors | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2023/march/apple-health-logo-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="Apple Health logo" /></div>
<h5>March 24, 2023</h5>
<!-- **************************NEW ARTICLE****************************** -->
<h2>HCA Seeking Volunteers to Serve as Apple Health Ambassadors</h2>
<p>The extended coverage for Medicaid patients made possible by the COVID-19 public health emergency will end on April 1 due to the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023. The Washington State Health Care Authority is seeking community organizations and individuals to act as volunteer Apple Health ambassadors to help ensure that Apple Health clients maintain coverage at the end of the continuous coverage requirement period.</p>
<p>Apple Health ambassadors will:</p>
<ul>
<li>Help the people in their communities understand actions that need to be taken to maintain coverage, including updating contact information and responding to renewal notices.</li>
<li>Work with organizations in their communities by sharing tools and messaging to reach clients. For example, ambassadors may spend a few minutes sharing information at a church service, community sports tournament, or school event.</li>
</ul>
<p>Ambassadors will receive support from HCA through:</p>
<ul>
<li>Remote monthly check-in meeting to ask questions and connect with other Apple Health ambassadors.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Access to communications to share with communities, including a social media toolkit with Facebook and Instagram posts.</li>
</ul>
<p>HCA recently hosted a <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAzMTcuNzM1NjU1NTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy55b3V0dWJlLmNvbS93YXRjaD92PUlkS0F0TVBpdGFnJmZlYXR1cmU9eW91dHUuYmUifQ.ndD-UYkWUVOBxfGV8d77xUX-s_4g9TWtHe-P4pYJEgk/s/580746111/br/156367842252-l">webinar</a> that describes how to become an ambassador, and more information, including how to volunteer, can be found at the <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAzMTcuNzM1NjU1NTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5oY2Eud2EuZ292L2Fib3V0LWhjYS9wcm9ncmFtcy1hbmQtaW5pdGlhdGl2ZXMvYXBwbGUtaGVhbHRoLW1lZGljYWlkL2FwcGxlLWhlYWx0aC1hbWJhc3NhZG9yLXByb2dyYW0ifQ.KzNX6VGYsTEgX3d0o_KfBuKlBChzgw9DTeT8cRGFTUA/s/580746111/br/156367842252-l">Apple Health ambassador program webpage</a>.</p>
</div> | 4/26/2023 10:06:33 AM | 3/23/2023 10:14:00 AM | 3/24/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| medpac-recommends-tying-physician-payment-update-to-inflation | MedPAC Recommends Tying Physician Payment Update to Inflation | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2023/march-24/medpac-recommends-tying-physician-payment-update-to-inflation | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2023/march/medicare-barcode-645px.jpeg" class="pull-right" alt="Medicare barcode" /></div>
<h5>March 24, 2023</h5>
<!-- **************************NEW ARTICLE****************************** -->
<h2>MedPAC Recommends Tying Physician Payment Update to Inflation </h2>
<p>In a historic first, the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission called for a physician payment update tied to the Medicare Economic Index in its <a href="https://www.medpac.gov/document/march-2023-report-to-the-congress-medicare-payment-policy/">yearly report to Congress</a>. The American Medical Association was quick to praise the nonpartisan commission's recommendation, calling it a first step toward reforming the Medicare payment system and, together with the support of the WSMA and organized medicine, has urged Congress to go even further.</p>
<p>In a <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/press-center/press-releases/ama-commends-medpac-move-recognize-costs-practicing-medicine">statement</a>, AMA President Jack Resneck Jr., MD, said, "MedPAC recognized that physician pay has not kept up with the cost of practicing medicine. Yet, we feel strongly that an update tied to just 50% of MEI will cause physician payment to chronically fall even further behind increases in the cost of providing care."</p>
<p>The WSMA has joined with the AMA and 133 other health organizations to <a href="https://searchlf.ama-assn.org/letter/documentDownload?uri=%2Funstructured%2Fbinary%2Fletter%2FLETTERS%2Flfdr.zip%2FAMA-Inflation-Payment-Update-MEDPAC-sign-on-letter-FINAL-3-15-23.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">send a letter to congressional leaders</a> urging the adoption of a 2024 Medicare payment update that recognizes the full inflationary growth in health care costs. The letter points out the real-life impact of the eroding value of Medicare payments. According to MedPAC, among those looking for a new primary care physician, half of Medicare patients had difficulty in finding one. And among Medicare patients looking for a new specialist, one-third struggled to find one. Finding specialists in rural and historically underserved areas is particularly difficult, and the payment system is creating even bigger barriers for patients in those communities.</p>
<p>Visit the WSMA website for <a href="[@]wsma/advocacy/medicare_payment_reform/wsma/advocacy/medicare_payment_reform/medicare_payment_reform.aspx?hkey=d1a48c1c-af7b-4680-bd55-967338f3c977">more on organized medicine's efforts to reform the Medicare payment system</a>.</p>
</div> | 4/26/2023 10:06:33 AM | 3/23/2023 3:56:48 PM | 3/24/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| services-announced-for-tom-curry-wsma-ceo-1986-2013 | Services Announced for Tom Curry, WSMA CEO 1986-2013 | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2023/march-24/services-announced-for-tom-curry-wsma-ceo-1986-2013 | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2023/march/remembering-tom-curry-no-ceo-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="Tom Curry" /></div>
<h5>March 24, 2023</h5>
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<h2>Services Announced for Tom Curry, WSMA CEO 1986-2013</h2>
<p>Earlier this week in a <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2023/weekly-rounds-march-20-2023-remembering-tom-curry.aspx">heartfelt tribute</a>, WSMA CEO Jennifer Hanscom shared the news of the passing of her predecessor and mentor, former WSMA CEO Tom Curry. Tom was the executive director and CEO of the WSMA from 1986 to 2013, working diligently during those 27 years to help build a forward-leaning and progressive professional society. From working with the Legislature in the 1990s to help create the Basic Health Plan, to being the voice for needed tort reform in the early 2000s, Tom was an ardent supporter of Washington state physicians and patients, a sentiment many WSMA members will undoubtedly share. <a href="https://www.gaffneyfuneralhome.com/obituary/Thomas-Curry">Services</a> will be held at 9 a.m. on March 31 at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 7112 S. 12th St; Tacoma, WA 98465. In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged to the <a href="http://www.parkinson.org/">Parkinson's Foundation</a>, <a href="http://www.michaeljfox.org/">Michael J. Fox Foundation</a>, or <a href="http://www.trm.org/">Tacoma Rescue Mission</a>. Tom is survived by his loving wife Deedle; his three children Ian (Becci) Curry, Jennifer Curry-Hahn (Michael Murphy), and James Curry (Sara Arsenault); his eight grandchildren Emma and Edie Curry, Isaac, Alice, Lily Hahn and Owen Murphy, and Aden and Lane Curry; and his sister Christine (Ray) Baker.</p>
</div> | 4/26/2023 10:06:33 AM | 3/23/2023 4:10:53 PM | 3/24/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| session-update-wsma-priority-bills-advance-state-forecasts-lower-revenue-collections | Session Update: WSMA Priority Bills Advance, State Forecasts Lower Revenue Collections | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2023/march-24/session-update-wsma-priority-bills-advance-state-forecasts-lower-revenue-collections | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2023/march/2023-legislative-session-updates-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="2023 Legislative Session Updates" /></div>
<h5>March 24, 2023</h5>
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<h2>Session Update: WSMA Priority Bills Advance, State Forecasts Lower Revenue Collections</h2>
<p>There are just over four weeks left of the 2023 legislative session and many of WSMA's priority bills are advancing. One of the single most important bills as identified by members, <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1357&amp;Year=2023&amp;Initiative=false">House Bill 1357</a>, which would modernize and standardize prior authorization, is moving along in the legislative process and had a public hearing in the Senate Health Care and Long-Term Care Committee last Thursday. At the time of this writing the bill was scheduled to be approved by the committee on Thursday, March 23, after which it will move to the Senate floor for a vote. </p>
<h3>State revenue forecast released, budget writing begins</h3>
<p>Beginning this week, much of the rest of session will be concentrated on the creation of a new two-year state budget. As is tradition, state officials release a state revenue forecast prior to budget negotiations, which budget writers reference when crafting their budget proposals. This <a href="https://erfc.wa.gov/sites/default/files/public/documents/meetings/rev20230320.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">year's forecast</a> was released on Monday, with projected state revenues for the 2023-25 budget down by $483 million. The projected decrease in state revenues will have an impact on the budget proposals from majority party Democrats in the Senate and House of Representatives. WSMA staff will review both proposals closely and provide members an analysis-expect to see this next week.</p>
<p>The WSMA continues to advocate for our top fiscal priorities, increasing Medicaid reimbursement rates for professional services and investments in health care workforce. We encourage WSMA members to share their support for Medicaid rate increases, as physicians' voices can have a direct impact on how policies are shaped. If you'd like to reach out to your legislators, <a href="https://votervoice.net/WSMA/home">WSMA's action center</a> is set up to help facilitate making that connection and provides WSMA talking points.</p>
<h3>Testimony highlights from week 10 of session (March 13-17)</h3>
<p><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1452&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2023">HB 1452</a>, Medical reserve corps: Would establish a statewide medical reserve corps at the Washington State Department of Health, where licensed physicians and health care professionals with licenses in good standing may apply to register to join. </p>
<ul>
<li>WSMA's Associate Director of Legislative and Political Affairs Alex Wehinger testified in support during a public hearing in the Senate Health and Long-Term Care Committee on March 14. </li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1469&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2023">HB 1469</a>, Shield law: Would establish liability protections for patients and health care professionals from criminal and civil actions based on the provision or receipt of abortion and gender-affirming care services. </p>
<ul>
<li>WSMA President Katina Rue, DO, and Annie Iriye, MD, testified in support during a public hearing in the Senate Law and Justice Committee on March 16. </li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1151&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2023">HB 1151</a>, Fertility services coverage: For state-regulated large group health plans would, among other provisions, require insurance coverage for the diagnosis of infertility, treatment for infertility, and standard fertility preservation services.</p>
<ul>
<li>There was a public hearing in the Senate Health and Long Term Care Committee on March 16. The WSMA supports this legislation. <a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/www.theolympian.com/opinion/op-ed/article273233235.html__;!!K-Hz7m0Vt54!mZd--Re2NNYg_xjvVLolybsAvixttZrvjtVbSHImQDxoeuPXK_9DlVkrcPiPC1c3YZffetkv32UYkA$">Read an op-ed by WSMA member and UW Medicine OB-GYN Christopher Herndon, MD</a>, published in The Olympian on March 17.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1357&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2023">HB 1357</a>, Prior authorization: Would modernize and standardize insurance carrier prior authorization processes. </p>
<ul>
<li>WSMA Director of Government Affairs Sean Graham, Teresa Girolami, MD, and Garrett Jeffery, DO, testified in support during a public hearing in the Senate Health and Long Term Care Committee on March 16. </li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1508&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2023">HB 1508</a>, Health Care Cost Transparency Board: Would, among other provisions, authorize the board to place health care professionals, health care facilities, and insurance carriers on "performance improvement plans," issue fees and fines, and hold public hearings identifying payers or health care professionals who exceeded the benchmark. </p>
<ul>
<li>WSMA Past-President Mika Sinanan, MD, PhD, and WSMA Government Affairs Director Sean Graham testified in opposition during a public hearing in Senate Health and Long Term Care Committee on March 17. </li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Final dates to keep in mind: </strong> </p>
<ul>
<li>Wednesday, March 29: Policy committee cutoff - opposite house </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Tuesday, April 4: Fiscal committee cutoff - opposite house </li>
<li>Wednesday, April 12: Opposite house cutoff </li>
<li>Thursday, April 23: Last day of session </li>
</ul>
</div> | 4/26/2023 10:06:33 AM | 3/23/2023 10:13:49 AM | 3/24/2023 12:00:00 AM |