| health_care_authority_announces_primary_care_stakeholder_survey | Health Care Authority Announces Primary Care Stakeholder Survey | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/June_11/health_care_authority_announces_primary_care_stakeholder_survey | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>June 10, 2021</h5>
<h2>Health Care Authority Announces Primary Care Stakeholder Survey </h2>
<p>The Washington State Health Care Authority invites you to respond to its <a href="https://ohsu.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6x7J9pyVPjBhjBs">primary care stakeholder survey</a>. The purpose of the survey is to gather physician, provider, and other stakeholder input on proposed provider accountabilities under the Health Care Authority's <a href="https://www.hca.wa.gov/about-hca/value-based-purchasing/multi-payer-primary-care-transformation-model">multi-payer primary care transformation model</a>. Feedback from this survey will be combined with payer input to build out a framework of accountabilities for both providers and payers under this model.</p>
<p>Specifically, the survey asks for input on: </p>
<ul>
<li>Your level of support for the specific <a href="https://www.hca.wa.gov/assets/program/pc-survey-reference-proposed-provider-accountabilities-june-2021.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">proposed accountabilities.</a></li>
<li>What providers will need to successfully implement each accountability.</li>
<li>How each accountability should be monitored to measure progress under the model.</li>
</ul>
<p>The WSMA has been closely monitoring the development of this new state model, working with a value-based payment physician work group to <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200813/wsma_submits_comment_on_hca_multi_payer_primary_care_model">submit formal comments</a> during previous stakeholder reviews. In our comments, the WSMA emphasized the importance of upfront investments from payers in transformation efforts, accurate and reliable data/measurables, and the Quadruple Aim, among other priorities.</p>
</div> | 6/10/2021 1:18:05 PM | 6/10/2021 1:09:56 PM | 6/10/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| final_call_for_2021_apple_awards_nominations | Final Call for 2021 Apple Awards Nominations | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/May_28/final_call_for_2021_apple_awards_nominations | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/May/AppleAwards.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA Apple Awards trophies" />
</div>
<h5>May 28, 2021</h5>
<h2>Final Call for 2021 Apple Awards Nominations</h2>
<p>WSMA members: We need to hear from you on who among your colleagues and associates you think would be worthy recipients for WSMA's third annual Apple Awards. These awards help recognize physicians, physician assistants, and others for leadership, advocacy, service, and patient safety. It's easy to make a nomination. Visit <a href="[@]WSMA/Membership/Awards_Program/WSMA/Membership/Awards_Program/Awards_Program.aspx?hkey=d0199dab-31de-45e7-b0b3-902ba07a209f">the awards webpage</a> on the WSMA website to learn more and complete your nominations before the June 4 deadline. The awards will be presented during the 2021 WSMA Annual Meeting in September. Help us honor the best in medicine and make your nominations today.</p>
</div> | 6/3/2021 4:22:06 PM | 5/27/2021 3:51:47 PM | 5/28/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| prepare_your_medical_group_for_coming_changes_to_pa_practice | Prepare Your Medical Group for Coming Changes to PA Practice | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/May_28/prepare_your_medical_group_for_coming_changes_to_pa_practice | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>May 28, 2021</h5>
<h2>Prepare Your Medical Group for Coming Changes to PA Practice </h2>
<p>Washington Academy of Physician Assistants President Gabrielle Zecha, PA-C and WSMA Policy Analyst Billie Dickinson are the featured presenters for our latest Continuing Professional Development session, New Physician Assistant Practice Laws and Regulations: Putting HB 2378 into Practice.</p>
<p>A key priority for the WSMA and WAPA, House Bill 2378 from 2020 made important changes to the state's physician assistant practice act, modernizing the profession and facilitating employment of these valued clinical partners. Major provisions of this important legislation take effect July 1. Speakers will outline how to implement the changes in your practice and discuss how to create practice agreements, which will replace delegation agreements. The session is free for WSMA members and their practice managers. <a href="[@]WSMA/Education/Upcoming_Webinars/WSMA/education/Upcoming_Webinars/Upcoming_Webinars.aspx?hkey=b760d6bd-1833-412d-b681-babf251792a8">Register online</a>. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em>â„¢.</p>
</div> | 5/27/2021 3:27:00 PM | 5/24/2021 10:32:33 AM | 5/28/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| state_board_of_health_adopts_notifiable_conditions_rule | State Board of Health Adopts Notifiable Conditions Rule | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/May_28/state_board_of_health_adopts_notifiable_conditions_rule | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2020/November/laptop_hands_steth-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Hands typing on laptop keyboard" />
</div>
<h5>May 28, 2021</h5>
<h2>State Board of Health Adopts Notifiable Conditions Rule</h2>
<p>The Washington State Board of Health has adopted updates to its notifiable condition reporting rules, <a href="http://apps.leg.wa.gov/WAC/default.aspx?cite=246-101&amp;full=true">chapter 246-101 WAC</a>.</p>
<p>Download and review the <a href="https://wsma.org/doc_library/news/2111040notifiableconditions103final.pdf">final adopted rule</a>, or CR-103. The board offers a <a href="https://wsma.org/doc_library/news/PostAdoptionNotice-NotifiableConditions.pdf">summary of the differences between the proposed rules and adopted rules and the response to public comments</a>. Among other changes, the updated rules:</p>
<ul>
<li>Update and clarify notification and specimen submission requirements for 74 new and existing notifiable conditions.</li>
<li>Add requirements to report race, ethnicity, and preferred language for all notifiable conditions.</li>
<li>Revise reporting requirements for health care providers, health care facilities, laboratories, local health jurisdictions, veterinarians, and the state Department of Agriculture.</li>
<li>Improve overall clarity and usability of the chapter.</li>
</ul>
<p>As <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/March_26/wsma_secures_delay_in_new_notifiable_conditions_rule?WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">previously reported</a>, your WSMA successfully advocated for a delay in these changes until after the pandemic, to prevent the imposition of associated costs during a period when many practices are facing decreased patient volumes, uncertain finances, and additional pandemic-related practice burdens. The updated rules go into effect Jan. 31, 2022. The board and the state Department of Health will be developing implementation guidance.</p>
</div> | 6/3/2021 4:22:41 PM | 5/24/2021 10:32:38 AM | 5/28/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| to_mask_or_not_to_mask_department_of_health_updates_guidance | To Mask or Not to Mask: Department of Health Updates Guidance | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/May_28/to_mask_or_not_to_mask_department_of_health_updates_guidance | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2020/December/Doc-Patient-Exam-Room-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Masked doctor and patient in exam room" />
</div>
<h5>May 28, 2021</h5>
<h2>To Mask or Not to Mask: Department of Health Updates Guidance</h2>
<p>The state Department of Health has updated language across a variety of materials to reflect the recent update to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations for masking and distancing of vaccinated individuals. See the <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/1600/coronavirus/ClothFacemasks.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">DOH guidance on masks and face coverings</a> for complete information on the current mandates and health orders in place.</p>
<p>The CDC still requires masks in health care settings, regardless of vaccination status. The WSMA provides mask signage for outpatient practices, reflecting these new guidelines and emphasize the continuing requirement for health care settings. <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2021/outpatient-masking-sign.pdf]">Download the sign for your office or setting</a>.</p>
</div> | 6/3/2021 4:22:53 PM | 5/24/2021 10:32:21 AM | 5/28/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| updated_interim_clinical_considerations_for_use_of_covid_19_vaccines | Updated Interim Clinical Considerations for Use of COVID-19 Vaccines | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/May_28/updated_interim_clinical_considerations_for_use_of_covid_19_vaccines | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>May 28, 2021</h5>
<h2>Updated Interim Clinical Considerations for Use of COVID-19 Vaccines</h2>
<p>The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has submitted several updates to their clinical considerations document.</p>
<p>CDC updates include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Information on persons with a history <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA1MjEuNDA5MDczMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L3ZhY2NpbmVzL2NvdmlkLTE5L2luZm8tYnktcHJvZHVjdC9jbGluaWNhbC1jb25zaWRlcmF0aW9ucy5odG1sI0NvYWRtaW5pc3RyYXRpb24ifQ.OoYc3Dj3Dfg8N4rRl9Fs5UOQ6Q5jl4AAH7wzyzvSF-Y/s/690743948/br/106790693088-l">of multisystem inflammatory syndrome</a> now added to the considerations for vaccination of people with certain underlying medical conditions.</li>
<li>Recommendations for timing of COVID-19 vaccine administration in persons with a history of <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA1MjEuNDA5MDczMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L3ZhY2NpbmVzL2NvdmlkLTE5L2luZm8tYnktcHJvZHVjdC9jbGluaWNhbC1jb25zaWRlcmF0aW9ucy5odG1sI0NvVi0xOS12YWNjaW5hdGlvbiJ9.RBauVtS00aqV9xfPrRzFDCDfGGdsXORbox2joRXoD_M/s/690743948/br/106790693088-l">heparin-induces thrombocytopenia</a>.</li>
<li>Information on <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA1MjEuNDA5MDczMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L3ZhY2NpbmVzL2NvdmlkLTE5L2luZm8tYnktcHJvZHVjdC9jbGluaWNhbC1jb25zaWRlcmF0aW9ucy5odG1sI2NoaWxkcmVuIn0.4yrfSVV4JQRbwrYX3XMUMZk01m-vHBUQHisilbkEavs/s/690743948/br/106790693088-l">vaccination of children and adolescents</a>. Updates include fainting risk with adolescents.</li>
</ul>
<p>Find all of the updates at <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA1MjEuNDA5MDczMjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L3ZhY2NpbmVzL2NvdmlkLTE5L2luZm8tYnktcHJvZHVjdC9jbGluaWNhbC1jb25zaWRlcmF0aW9ucy5odG1sIn0.XsuzlIKhSR-B-owM0m0xP6HfcMxYQFwF-63jWrwxIgg/s/690743948/br/106790693088-l">CDC interim clinical considerations for use of COVID-19 vaccines</a>.</p>
</div> | 5/27/2021 3:26:42 PM | 5/24/2021 10:32:27 AM | 5/28/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_submits_comments_at_pa_rulemaking_workshop | WSMA Submits Comments at PA Rulemaking Workshop | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/April_9/wsma_submits_comments_at_pa_rulemaking_workshop | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>April 9, 2021</h5>
<h2>WSMA Submits Comments at PA Rulemaking Workshop </h2>
<p>The Washington Medical Commission has filed a <a href="http://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/law/wsr/2020/24/20-24-015.htm">CR-101</a> to update the physician assistant chapter to more closely align with current industry standards, modernize regulations to align with current national industry standards and best practices, and provide clearer rules language for licensed PAs. The rulemaking inquiry also incorporates rulemaking required by the passage of <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=2378&amp;Year=2019&amp;Initiative=false">House Bill 2378</a>, the PA Modernization Act.</p>
<p>Earlier this week, the commission held a workshop for stakeholders to provide their input on the draft language. The WSMA submitted a <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2021/WSMA WSR 20-24-015.pdf]">comment letter</a> in support of the rulemaking. If you have questions about the PA rulemaking or stakeholder workshop, please contact the WSMA policy department at <a href="mailto:policy@wsma.org">policy@wsma.org</a>. &nbsp;</p>
</div> | 4/8/2021 3:08:40 PM | 4/8/2021 3:08:17 PM | 4/9/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| gov_inslee_expands_covid_19_vaccine_eligibility | Gov. Inslee Expands COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/March_26/gov_inslee_expands_covid_19_vaccine_eligibility | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/March/COVID-Vaccine-Vials-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="COVID-19 vaccine vials" />
</div>
<h5>March 26, 2021</h5>
<h2>Gov. Inslee Expands COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility </h2>
<p>Due to steady dose and vaccination rate increases, Gov. Jay Inslee has announced that he will further expand eligibility for the COVID-19 vaccine. Beginning on March 31, an estimated 2 million Washingtonians will be newly eligible to receive their vaccine. Those newly eligible include: </p>
<ul>
<li>Anyone with two or more comorbidities.</li>
<li>Anyone between the ages of 60 and 64.</li>
<li>Anyone living in congregate settings (correctional facilities, group homes for those with disabilities, those experiencing homelessness, etc.).</li>
<li>Additional workers in congregate settings (restaurants, manufacturing, construction).</li>
</ul>
<p>Read the <a href="https://medium.com/wagovernor/inslee-announces-extension-of-eviction-moratorium-expansion-of-vaccine-eligibility-long-term-635b34eb0ca">governor's announcement</a>. Additional information on the COVID-19 vaccine, including who is eligible and when, is available from the <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Emergencies/COVID19/Vaccine">Washington State Department of Health website</a>. If you have questions about eligibility, allocation, or distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine, don't hesitate to contact the WSMA policy department at <a href="mailto:policy@wsma.org">policy@wsma.org</a>.</p>
</div> | 3/25/2021 4:06:30 PM | 3/22/2021 3:56:22 PM | 3/26/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| national_healthcare_decisions_day_is_april_16 | National Healthcare Decisions Day is April 16 | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/March_26/national_healthcare_decisions_day_is_april_16 | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/March/matheus-ferrero-yfmjALh1S6s-unsplash-645x425.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="person holding the hands of another person" />
</div>
<h5>March 26, 2021</h5>
<h2>National Healthcare Decisions Day is April 16</h2>
<p>The WSMA is joining other national, state, and community organizations to help bring attention to National Healthcare Decisions Day on April 16. Make sure you and your care teams are up to date with all that the WSMA has to offer for your advance care planning and end-of-life care efforts.</p>
<h3>Honoring Choices® Pacific Northwest</h3>
<p>This year Honoring Choices® Pacific Northwest, jointly sponsored by the WSMA Foundation and the Washington State Hospital Association, is producing three virtual play performances about advance care planning (including a Spanish version), as well as hosting a game show to encourage people to discuss their choices. For more information on the events and the initiative, visit <a href="https://www.honoringchoicespnw.org/">honoringchoicespnw.org</a>. Honoring Choices PNW also offers a promotions toolkit for National Healthcare Decisions Day to help your practice or organization raise awareness of advance care planning. <a href="https://www.honoringchoicespnw.org/nhdd-promo-kit/">Explore the toolkit on their website</a>.</p>
<h3>POLST</h3>
<p>Intended for individuals with serious illness, the Portable Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment represents a way of translating an individual's wishes - often expressed in their advance directive - into actual medical orders. Visit <a href="https://wsma.org/polst">wsma.org/polst</a> for more information on POLST and more.</p>
<p>For more information about National Healthcare Decisions Day, visit <a href="https://www.celebratenhdd.online/">celebratehdd.online</a>.</p>
</div> | 3/25/2021 4:06:08 PM | 3/22/2021 3:56:11 PM | 3/26/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| webinar_get_to_know_the_new_advance_directive_and_polst | Webinar: Get to Know the New Advance Directive and POLST | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/March_26/webinar_get_to_know_the_new_advance_directive_and_polst | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/March/WA-POLST-logo-fullblock-large-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="Washington POLST logo" />
</div>
<h5>March 26, 2021</h5>
<h2>Webinar: Get to Know the New Advance Directive and POLST</h2>
<p>Thank you to the many members who responded to our call for comment on the advance directive and Portable Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment (POLST). We received overwhelmingly positive responses to the updated forms, as well as many thoughtful suggestions for improvement. We'd like to now invite all members to join us for a webinar in April for a tour of these new and improved forms, which will be released in early April.</p>
<p>Honoring people's values, goals, and preferences is the cornerstone of our work. The purpose of an advance directive and the Washington POLST is to ensure people's future medical decisions are accurately reflected in enforceable documents. Leaders from Honoring Choices® Pacific Northwest and the Washington POLST Task Force will review key changes that streamline, clarify, and modernize the forms. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em>â„¢. <a href="https://zoom.us/webinar/register/8516155988625/WN_qxPke05AQeyUD_2gjkEH7Q">Register online</a>.</p>
</div> | 3/25/2021 12:04:33 PM | 3/22/2021 3:56:34 PM | 3/26/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| biden_signs_1_9_Trillion_COVID_19_Relief_Package | Biden Signs $1.9 Trillion COVID-19 Relief Package | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/March_11/biden_signs_1_9_Trillion_COVID_19_Relief_Package | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2020/May/COVID-19-financial-relief-645x425px.jpg
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<h5>March 11, 2021</h5>
<h2>Biden Signs $1.9 Trillion COVID-19 Relief Package</h2>
<p>This week, President Biden signed the American Rescue Plan of 2021 into law, the latest COVID-19 relief package that provides $1.9 trillion in funding across a broad range of categories, including health care.</p>
<p>Upon initial review by WSMA staff, some key provisions of note for the physician community include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Substantial aid to state and local governments.</li>
<li>Funding for COVID-19 testing, contact tracing, and mitigation activities.</li>
<li>Significant investments in mental and behavioral health, substance use disorder, and public health.</li>
<li>Additional Paycheck Protection Program funding for rural providers.</li>
</ul>
<p>The infusion of federal dollars into Washington state is certain to change budget dynamics in Olympia, where lawmakers must craft a budget before adjourning on April 25. Expect state budget negotiations to begin ramping up after next Wednesday, March 17 and the release of the state revenue forecast, which will form the basis of legislative budget proposals.</p>
<p>We are still reviewing the American Rescue Plan’s impact on Washington state’s physician community. If you have questions, please email the WSMA policy department at <a href="mailto:policy@wsma.org">policy@wsma.org</a>.</p>
</div> | 3/12/2021 9:22:48 AM | 3/11/2021 5:25:34 PM | 3/11/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| bill_eckstrom_kicks_off_wsma_leadership_development_conference | Bill Eckstrom Kicks Off WSMA Leadership Development Conference | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/March_11/bill_eckstrom_kicks_off_wsma_leadership_development_conference | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/February/2021-LDC-Graphic-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="2021 WSMA LDC graphic" />
</div>
<h5>March 11, 2021</h5>
<h2>Bill Eckstrom Kicks Off WSMA Leadership Development Conference</h2>
<p>A nationally recognized speaker on leadership and a record-setting TEDx Talker, <a href="https://www.billeckstrom.com/about-bill">Bill Eckstrom</a> will present the keynote address at the 2021 WSMA Leadership Development Conference. His talk will jump-start a weekend of top-quality programming and speakers designed to sharpen your leadership skills and explore new trends in care delivery and quality improvement, while allowing you an opportunity to relax and network with other physician leaders.</p>
<p>The conference features a stellar lineup of participants to help guide and inspire attendees, including:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Mangla Gulati, MD</strong>, chief quality officer, vice president of patient safety, and associate chief medical officer at the University of Maryland Medical Center.</li>
<li><strong>Kevin Taylor, MD</strong>, medical director for the IHA primary care and geriatric services at the Towsley Health Center in Ann Arbor, Michigan.</li>
<li><strong>Cynthia Burdick, MD,</strong> medical director for Medicare &amp; Medicaid at Kaiser Permanente Washington.</li>
<li><strong>Kavita Chawla, MD</strong>, internist at Virginia Mason Kirkland Regional Medical Center.</li>
</ul>
<p>And that's just a sampling - for full details on agenda, presentations, and speakers, visit the <a href="[@]WSMA/Events/Leadership_Development_Conference/WSMA/Events/LDC/leadership_development_conference.aspx?hkey=c7532c38-057a-4568-8a3c-078182469222">event webpage</a>.</p>
<p>All physicians, by nature, are leaders - whether of an organization, a care team, or an episode of care - and all physicians can benefit from this year's conference programming, which includes didactic sessions and highly interactive small-group discussions. Don't miss this opportunity to invest in yourself, build skills in quality improvement and leadership, and be energized through our virtual networking sessions. <a href="[@]WSMA/Events/Leadership_Development_Conference/WSMA/Events/LDC/leadership_development_conference.aspx?hkey=c7532c38-057a-4568-8a3c-078182469222">Learn more and register online</a>. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em>â„¢.</p>
</div> | 3/11/2021 12:45:28 PM | 3/10/2021 12:02:59 PM | 3/11/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| dont_miss_these_march_webinars | Don't Miss These March Webinars | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/March_11/dont_miss_these_march_webinars | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/March/man-pencil-laptop-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="man holding a pencil, working at laptop" />
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<h5>March 11, 2021</h5>
<h2>Don't Miss These March Webinars</h2>
<p>The WSMA is sponsoring or co-sponsoring three webinars in March to enhance your medical and non-medical competencies: Lessons to Improve the Diagnostic Process, COVID-19 Q&amp;A Session, and Financial Wellness: Loan Repayment for Medical Professionals. Learn more and register for these events today.</p>
<h3>Lessons to Improve the Diagnostic Process</h3>
<p><em>Webinar: Tuesday, March 23 from 11 a.m. - noon. Free.</em></p>
<p>The Washington Patient Safety Coalition and Washington State Hospital Association join the WSMA in co-sponsoring a diagnostic excellence webinar series with lessons from Kaiser Permanente's multi-year effort to improve diagnostic performance across their organization. For KP, diagnostic excellence is a continuous journey to build and refine leadership culture, embed elements of diagnostic excellence into HIT systems, and develop new patient engagement tools. <a href="https://wsha-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJcqfumvqD8jHtWlo5Z4KLMpy-0uTARVFOpd">Register online</a> for this free webinar.</p>
<h3>COVID-19 Q&amp;A Session</h3>
<p><em>Webinar: Wednesday, March 24 from noon - 1 p.m. Free for WSMA members.</em></p>
<p>In our latest COVID-19 Q&amp;A session, an expert panel of physicians and public health professionals will be on hand to answer your questions about COVID-19 testing, treatment options, long-term follow-up, and vaccines. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit </em>â„¢. This WSMA Continuing Professional Development webinar is an exclusive WSMA member benefit and is free for members. <a href="[@]WSMA/Education/Upcoming_Webinars/WSMA/education/Upcoming_Webinars/Upcoming_Webinars.aspx?hkey=b760d6bd-1833-412d-b681-babf251792a8">Register online</a>.</p>
<h3>Financial Wellness: Loan Repayment for Medical Professionals</h3>
<p><em>Webinar: Thursday, March 25 from 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.</em></p>
<p>Join InsMed Loan Services for a CME session on March 25 providing guidance on the many loan repayment proposals made by the Biden administration and members of Congress. This webinar is co-sponsored by the Washington State Hospital Association and the Washington State Medical Association. <a href="https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/9130987084767855374">Learn more and register</a> .</p>
<p>For more information on these and other upcoming webinars, visit our <a href="[@]WSMA/Education/Upcoming_Webinars/WSMA/education/Upcoming_Webinars/Upcoming_Webinars.aspx?hkey=b760d6bd-1833-412d-b681-babf251792a8">Upcoming Webinars page</a>. For archived educational sessions, visit our <a href="[@]WSMA/Education/On_Demand_Webinars/WSMA/education/On_Demand_Webinars/Webinars_OnDemand.aspx?hkey=c3940e65-ff14-4c25-a05d-b85a147c9fa0">On-Demand Webinars page</a>. </p>
</div> | 3/11/2021 1:52:51 PM | 3/10/2021 12:03:05 PM | 3/11/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| honoring_choices_pacific_northwest_partners_with_renowned_health_research_program_to_improve_seriou | Honoring Choices® Pacific Northwest Partners with Renowned Health Research Program to Improve Seriou | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/March_11/honoring_choices_pacific_northwest_partners_with_renowned_health_research_program_to_improve_seriou | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/March/Stock.image_2018.doctor_holdinghands_patient_645px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="doctor holding a patient's hand" />
</div>
<h5>March 11, 2021</h5>
<h2>Honoring Choices® Pacific Northwest Partners with Renowned Health Research Program to Improve Serious Illness Care </h2>
<p>Honoring Choices Pacific Northwest, the advance care planning initiative co-sponsored by the WSMA Foundation for Health Care Improvement and the Washington State Hospital Association, will collaborate with Boston's <a href="https://www.ariadnelabs.org/">Ariadne Labs</a>&nbsp;to ensure every person with serious illness feels known and cared for on their own terms.</p>
<p>Under the new initiative, Honoring Choices PNW will introduce Ariadne Labs' <a href="https://www.ariadnelabs.org/areas-of-work/serious-illness-care/">Serious Illness Care Program</a> to the region. Created by a team of palliative care experts, the Serious Illness Care Program is centered around a conversation guide that offers clinicians language to ask patients about their goals, values, and preferences. The program also includes clinician training, system-level implementation support, patient resources, and an online community. More than 28,000 clinicians around the world have been trained to use the program. </p>
<p>Findings from a <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/article-abstract/2728430">four-year randomized control trial</a> show the Serious Illness Care Program resulted in more, earlier, and better conversations between patients and their oncology clinicians, and led to significant reductions in emotional suffering for patients with advanced cancer.</p>
<p>Honoring Choices PNW will learn from Ariadne Labs over the next year and then deliver a large-scale training and coaching program across the region.</p>
<p>If you are interested in implementing the Ariadne Labs' Serious Illness Care Program at your organization, please contact Sue Bergmann, senior director of Honoring Choices PNW at <a href="mailto:Sue.Bergmann@HonoringChoicesPNW.org">Sue.Bergmann@HonoringChoicesPNW.org</a>.</p>
</div> | 3/11/2021 1:49:36 PM | 3/10/2021 12:03:02 PM | 3/11/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_requests_epcs_mandate_delay_to_align_with_medicare | WSMA Requests EPCS Mandate Delay to Align with Medicare | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/March_11/wsma_requests_epcs_mandate_delay_to_align_with_medicare | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/March/Rx_bottle_doctor_laptop_645x425.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="physician working at laptop holding up pill bottle" />
</div>
<h5>March 11, 2021</h5>
<h2>WSMA Requests EPCS Mandate Delay to Align with Medicare </h2>
<p>The WSMA submitted a letter to Washington State Secretary of Health Umair Shah, MD, requesting that he delay the electronic prescribing of controlled substances mandate required under 2019 legislation Senate Bill 5380 until Jan. 1, 2022 to align with a new Medicare requirement.</p>
<p>Due to WSMA's advocacy earlier in the pandemic, the Department of Health extended the compliance date from Jan. 1, 2021 to Oct. 1, 2021. However, the Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services recently announced it would be delaying compliance requirements for EPCS until Jan. 1, 2022. This was a noteworthy development, as the Jan. 1, 2021 date in SB 5380 was originally selected to align our state's mandate with Medicare's requirement.</p>
<p>Given the unprecedented toll on Washington's health care system due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important that the Department of Health align the mandate with Medicare's requirement by delaying until Jan. 1, 2022. For physician practices recovering from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, those extra few months may help to mitigate some of the unprecedented financial challenges facing them.</p>
<p>Read <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2021/wsma-epcs-delay-request-03032021.pdf]">WSMA's letter of request to Dr. Shah</a>. If you have questions about the state or federal requirements regarding EPCS, please contact <a href="mailto:policy@wsma.org">policy@wsma.org</a>.</p>
</div> | 3/22/2021 3:58:49 PM | 3/10/2021 12:02:53 PM | 3/11/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| seminar_lessons_from_a_cfo_how_to_increase_your_financial_iq | Seminar: Lessons from a CFO: How to Increase Your Financial I.Q. | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/February_25/seminar_lessons_from_a_cfo_how_to_increase_your_financial_iq | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2020/November/Leadership-Seminars-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Leadership Seminars logo" />
</div>
<h5>February 25, 2021</h5>
<h2>Seminar: Lessons from a CFO: How to Increase Your Financial I.Q.</h2>
<p><em>Friday, April 2, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.</em></p>
<p>Now that you know the basics of finance, spend a day with a real CFO and learn what he thinks physicians really ought to know about the way money moves through your health care system and how you can increase your financial I.Q.</p>
<p>This full-day seminar, part of WSMA's new Leadership Seminars program, is designed for graduates of the WSMA Physician Leadership Course (non-PLC alumni with leadership experience are also welcome to enroll). The featured presenter for this session will be <strong>Dennis Stillman, MHA,</strong> instructor at the University of Washington Masters in Health Administration Program and at the Executive MBA in Health Administration Program at the University of Colorado in Denver. Mr. Stillman previously worked as the CFO at the University of Washington Medical Center and Pacific Medical Center. He authored a book on health care financial management for trustees, "Essentials of Healthcare Organization Finance." </p>
<p>This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em>â„¢. <a href="[@]WSMA/Education/Physician_Leadership/Leadership_Seminars/WSMA/Physician_Leadership/Leadership_Seminars/Leadership_Seminars.aspx?hkey=be83da24-6e25-4164-99bf-7ddee77555cc">Register online</a>.</p>
</div> | 2/25/2021 2:49:18 PM | 2/25/2021 2:47:57 PM | 2/25/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| scam_alert_fraud_involving_license_numbers | Scam Alert: Fraud Involving License Numbers | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/February_11/scam_alert_fraud_involving_license_numbers | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/February/WA-Medical-Commission-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Washington Medical Commission logo" />
</div>
<h5>February 11, 2021</h5>
<h2>Scam Alert: Fraud Involving License Numbers</h2>
<p>WSMA members take note: Con artists are calling practitioners pretending to be the Washington Medical Commission and using new, increasingly believable tactics.</p>
<p>According to the commission, the fraud includes actual medical license numbers relayed during a call from the commission's phone number. Victims are informed their license is temporarily suspended pending an investigation and told to go to nearby fax machines to receive suspension letters. Victims are told they cannot work under their Washington or Oregon license.</p>
<p>The Washington Medical Commission will never contact you about disciplinary action in this way. This technique is highly deceptive due to similar terminology and replication of the commission's phone number. Do not send personal information, or money, or accept that your license has been disciplined and stop work. Call 360.236.2706 or email the commission at <a href="mailto:medical.commission@wmc.wa.gov">medical.commission@wmc.wa.gov</a> right away if this happens to you.</p>
<p>The commission is working with law enforcement and federal and state agencies to stop this scam.</p>
</div> | 2/11/2021 12:49:02 PM | 2/11/2021 12:08:56 PM | 2/11/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| cms_issues_updated_2021_conversion_factor_and_rvus | CMS Issues Updated 2021 Conversion Factor and RVUs | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/January_7/cms_issues_updated_2021_conversion_factor_and_rvus | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>January 7, 2021</h5>
<h2>CMS Issues Updated 2021 Conversion Factor and RVUs</h2>
<p>The $900 billion federal stimulus relief passed in December provided for a one-time, one-year increase to all payments in the 2021 Medicare physician fee schedule by adding $3 billion and delaying payment of HCPCS add-on code G2211 for three years. This provision is intended to support physicians and other professionals in adjusting to changes in the Medicare physician fee schedule during 2021, and to provide relief during the COVID-19 public health emergency. CMS has now clarified, in a follow up to the relief package, an update to the 2021 conversion factor and payment rates.</p>
<p>The Center for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services has confirmed that the new 2021 conversion factor will be $34.8931 instead of $32.4085 (download the updated impact on 2021 payments for select procedures <a href="https://www.cms.gov/files/zip/cy-2021-pfs-final-rule-impact-payment-selected-procedures-updated-12292020.zip">here</a>). CMS also updated the 2021 RVU file (download the RVUs and related information used for the 2021 Medicare final rule <a href="https://www.cms.gov/files/zip/cy-2021-pfs-final-rule-addenda-updated-12292020.zip">here</a>). For accurate rates based on your geographic area, check with your <a href="https://med.noridianmedicare.com/">Medicare administrative contractor</a>.</p>
</div> | 1/27/2021 3:59:08 PM | 1/4/2021 2:30:46 PM | 1/7/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| tiered_staffing_for_the_icu_a_surge_strategy | Tiered Staffing for the ICU: A Surge Strategy | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/January_7/tiered_staffing_for_the_icu_a_surge_strategy | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/January/handwashing_surgeons_masks_hospital-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Surgeons washing hands" />
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<h5>January 7, 2021</h5>
<h2>Tiered Staffing for the ICU: A Surge Strategy</h2>
<p>During the COVID-19 pandemic, as the number of critically ill patients has increased in care settings, some critical care specialists have encouraged the use of non-ICU clinicians to help avoid having to implement crisis standards of care. The Society of Critical Care Medicine illustrates the concept of tiered staffing strategy <a href="https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/advisory-committees/nursing/meetings/2020/tiered-staffing-strategy-Hulin.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">in this infographic</a>. With staffing continuing to be a significant challenge for many facilities in Washington, some organizations have begun preparing their non-ICU clinicians as extenders. Prepare your facility with the following free resources.</p>
<h3>Critical Care for the Non-ICU Clinician</h3>
<p>For this non-ICU provider training, there is an assessment which will tell the learner their knowledge gaps. However, all of the modules are available to the learner to take as they wish. There is no charge for the training. So far nearly 600,000 people have taken this virtual training, which is available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Japanese. <a href="https://covid19.sccm.org/">Access the training modules</a>.</p>
<h3>SCCM COVID-19 Rapid Resource Center</h3>
<p>This resource repository can be helpful for ICU clinicians. It includes more than 500 items on a wide range of clinical topics for treating COVID-19 patients. <a href="https://www.sccm.org/COVID19RapidResources/Home">Visit the resource center</a>. For ICU directors and CMOs, note the following items:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://sccm.org/Disaster/COVID19/COVID-19-ICU-Preparedness-Checklist">ICU Preparedness Checklist</a></li>
<li><a href="https://sccm.org/Disaster/Mechanical-Ventilation-Strategies">Mechanical Ventilation Strategies if equipment is in short supply</a></li>
<li><a href="https://sccm.org/Disaster/Ethics-and-Resource-Allocation">Ethics and Resource Allocation</a></li>
<li><a href="https://sccm.org/Blog/July-2020/PPE-Strategies-for-the-COVID-19-Era">PPE Strategies</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.sccm.org/Blog/June-2020/Configuring-the-ICU-in-the-COVID-19-Era-Real-Worl">Configuring the ICU for COVID-19</a></li>
<li><a href="https://sccm.org/Blog/March-2020/United-States-Resource-Availability-for-COVID-19">Staffing Strategy Model</a></li>
</ul>
<h3>WSMA biweekly critical care calls</h3>
<p>A reminder that, as part of our COVID-19 response and member support, the WSMA hosts a biweekly call on Tuesdays at 5 p.m. for critical care physicians and advanced practitioners to discuss patient cases and develop recommendations for care. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1</em> Creditâ„¢. To join the calls, please email <a href="mailto:brendan@wsma.org">brendan@wsma.org</a> with your name, credentials, specialty/title, and organization.</p>
</div> | 1/27/2021 4:01:25 PM | 1/4/2021 2:30:52 PM | 1/7/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| washington_health_corps_2021_provider_application_now_open | Washington Health Corps 2021 Provider Application Now Open | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/January_7/washington_health_corps_2021_provider_application_now_open | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/January/Female-Doc-Patient-Masks-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Female doctor meeting with female patient" />
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<h5>January 7, 2021</h5>
<h2>Washington Health Corps 2021 Provider Application Now Open</h2>
<p>The Washington Health Corps program encourages licensed health professionals to provide primary care at approved sites in critical shortage areas. The programs provide financial assistance through either conditional scholarships or loan repayment. The 2021 provider application is now open and extends to March 1.</p>
<p>To learn more and apply, visit the <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMDUuMzI4Mjk4NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3dzYWMud2EuZ292L3dhc2hpbmd0b24taGVhbHRoLWNvcnBzP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.MwkPwRmtO1W-y-Xz3gEqnGq51EBW9S1sHon8C4nkjuY%2Fs%2F1020835902%2Fbr%2F92672083813-l&amp;data=04%7C01%7Cterri.mcreynolds%40doh.wa.gov%7C3c0987739be94ca4865008d8b1c52d90%7C11d0e217264e400a8ba057dcc127d72d%7C0%7C0%7C637454807711728128%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=rmRwjpBPbigGbs254GV3n3ZnYOIGdiedyYM3H6lfzvs%3D&amp;reserved=0">Washington Health Corps website</a>, or attend a live webinar about the 2021 Washington Health Corps application on Jan. 26 from 4-5:30 p.m. Register for the free webinar <a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_2ehSUGlKSEmE3JhChFykQQ">online</a>.</p>
<p>Supporting incentives to rural practice is a key priority for the WSMA to grow our primary care physician workforce and increase access to care. The Washington Health Corps is now the home of the Health Professional Loan Repayment and Conditional Scholarship program (now the State Health Program), created by the Washington State Legislature to address a shortage of health care professionals and services in rural and underserved communities. The WHC is also home to the new Behavioral Health Program. Learn more about the Washington Health Corps <a href="https://wsac.wa.gov/sites/default/files/2020.WashingtonHealthCorps.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">in this one pager</a>. The Washington Health Corps programs are administered through the Washington Student Achievement Council in collaboration with the Department of Health and other partners.</p>
</div> | 1/27/2021 3:57:53 PM | 1/4/2021 2:30:54 PM | 1/7/2021 12:00:00 AM |