| governor_responds_to_crisis_facing_overwhelmed_eds_and_hospitals | Governor Responds to Crisis Facing Overwhelmed EDs and Hospitals | memo | | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/january/inslee-press-conf-1-13-22.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Washington Governor Jay Inslee" /></div>
<h5>January 14, 2022</h5>
<h2>Governor Responds to Crisis Facing Overwhelmed EDs and Hospitals </h2>
<p>Following urging by the WSMA and the Washington Chapter of American College of Emergency Physicians, as well as additional outreach by the Washington State Hospital Association, Gov. Jay Inslee yesterday announced critical efforts to help address a capacity and staffing crisis in our emergency rooms and hospitals.</p>
<p>Joined by Secretary of Health Umair Shah, MD, the governor announced the following efforts to be implemented as soon as possible:</p>
<p>One hundred National Guard troops will be deployed to eight facilities to assist with non-clinical duties. To help some of our state's emergency departments, troops will be deployed to Providence Regional Medical Center in Everett, Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital, Confluence Health's Central Washington Hospital in Wenatchee, and Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane. The governor said those personnel would be in place by Jan. 24 for approximately one month. The remaining troops will be deployed to facilities to serve as testing teams at testing centers to be established at Providence St. Peter Hospital in Olympia, Kadlec Regional Medical Center in Richland, Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, and MultiCare Tacoma General Hospital.</p>
<p>Also to assist in testing capacity, two FEMA high throughput mass testing sites will be set up in King and Snohomish counties.</p>
<p>As expected, the governor announced a temporary pause of all "non-urgent" surgeries and procedures <strong>in hospitals</strong> for the next four weeks. Restrictions are outlined in a new proclamation, <a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-24.3%20-%20Restrictions%20On%20Non-Urgent%20Medical%20Procedures%20%28tmp%29.pdf?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=govdelivery">Proclamation 20-24.3</a> and again they pertain to the hospital setting specifically. In conversations with the WSMA, the governor emphasized that physician discretion is still permitted to facilitate access to care in situations where delays may result in harm to patients (for specific language detailing criteria to weigh against when considering potential harm to a patient's health and well-being, see <a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-24.3%20-%20Restrictions%20On%20Non-Urgent%20Medical%20Procedures%20%28tmp%29.pdf?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=govdelivery">the bottom of page 2 into page 3 of the proclamation</a>).</p>
<p>Reflecting the resolved supply chain issues, under the governor's order all hospitals are required to use personal protective equipment at the conventional level ("conventional PPE status") and PPE should not be rationed. If any facility or medical group has trouble procuring PPE they are encouraged to contact <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/AboutUs/ProgramsandServices/EmergencyPreparednessandResponse/PPEBackstop">the state</a>.</p>
<p>The governor urged hospitals and long-term care facilities in Washington to avail themselves of existing third-party contract workers through <a href="https://acifed.com/">ACI Federal</a>. There has been some confusion about the number of personnel available through ACI. At the press conference, Secretary Shah clarified there are currently more than 100 medical personnel available through this contract. The governor mentioned they may seek an expansion of the ACI contract if the need is there.</p>
<p>With regard to difficult to discharge patients in the hospital, the governor is expanding state-contracted staffing in long-term care and skilled nursing facilities, as well as increasing social service staff to conduct assessments in hospitals. They include deploying more staff to work with patients on transition plans and contracting with local Area Agencies on Aging to help handle the transition from hospital to rehab for non-Medicaid patients.</p>
<p>He is also putting resources into increasing the number of certified public guardians to address the transfer of individuals out of hospitals into more appropriate care settings.</p>
<p>Finally, the governor made an urgent plea for retired health care workers to assist in whatever capacity they can, particularly over the next four weeks. You can do so by registering with the <a href="https://www.waserv.org/">Washington State Emergency Registry of Volunteers</a>. </p>
<p>Additionally, the Washington State Hospital Association is reporting that many of the state hospitals are operating under crisis staffing models. In a <a href="https://www.king5.com/article/news/local/hospitals-crisis-staffing-care-covid-omicron/281-85715efd-f10c-4d2d-8b10-f0139884455e">KING 5 report</a>, WSHA clarifies that the models are under the guidance of the Washington State Department of Health and the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/images/hcp/WorkRestrictionsHCP.jpg">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</a> and "pertain to how quickly hospital staff can return to work after testing positive for COVID-19 and which patients they can care for."</p>
<p>The WSMA is grateful to the governor for addressing our concerns and remain hopeful the steps he announced today help alleviate our emergency departments and hospitals so they can continue to provide critical care to our patients.</p>
<p>We also want to share our thanks and gratitude to the National Guard who we know have been helping our state in so many ways, most recently in response to weather events such as flooding and snowstorms, and throughout the pandemic with testing sites and food deliveries.</p>
<p>Please continue to help us spread the word to patients that if they want to be tested for COVID-19, they should <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Emergencies/COVID19/TestingforCOVID19/TestingLocations">go to a local testing site</a> or use an at-home test (soon to be available through <a href="https://www.king5.com/article/news/health/coronavirus/gov-inslee-update-covid-response/281-64846150-4dd4-4dfc-871f-d92a2ef36f71">state</a> and <a href="https://www.npr.org/2022/01/13/1072730868/biden-announces-plans-to-buy-500-million-more-covid-tests-and-to-offer-free-mask">federal</a> efforts), and urge patients to mask up and to <a href="https://vaccinelocator.doh.wa.gov/?language=en">get vaccinated and boosted</a>.</p>
</div> | 1/14/2022 10:29:25 AM | 1/14/2022 9:09:35 AM | 1/15/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| 2022_short_legislative_session_promises_bills_of_interest_to_physicians | 2022 'Short' Legislative Session Promises Bills of Interest to Physicians | memo | | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/january/spring-wa-capitol-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Washington capitol in springtime" /></div>
<h5>January 14, 2022</h5>
<h2>2022 'Short' Legislative Session Promises Bills of Interest to Physicians</h2>
<p>The 2022 Washington state legislative session convened on Monday for what looks to be a mostly virtual 60-day "short" session. Legislators will spend the majority of these first few weeks of their working session in virtual committee hearings, which will be streamed live and archived on <a href="https://www.tvw.org/">TVW</a>. The 2022 session will likely be focused on making tweaks to the budget and policy bills that passed last session, as well as COVID-19 response efforts, the environment, and more.</p>
<p>The Senate and House both made changes to the format of session in light of the omicron variant and continued rise in COVID-19 cases in Washington state. The House announced it will be transitioning to a fully virtual setting for the first two weeks of session and reassess its operations every two weeks to make adjustments as conditions warrant. Generally speaking, the <a href="https://leg.wa.gov/Senate/Documents/2022%20Session%20Plan%20Detailed.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Senate</a> has adopted a hybrid model: A limited number of legislators will be allowed to participate in person on the chamber floor and committee hearings will remain fully remote. Both chambers have suspended in-person meetings and members of the public will not be allowed in Capitol campus buildings.</p>
<p>As a reminder, the WSMA's Outreach &amp; Advocacy Report, containing updates about WSMA's advocacy efforts and opportunities for engagement, will be disseminated on a weekly basis during session, typically each Friday. WSMA members who would like to opt in to receive the WSMA OA Report may email <a href="mailto:shelby@wsma.org">shelby@wsma.org</a>.</p>
<h3>Important dates to keep in mind</h3>
<ul>
<li>Feb. 3: Policy committee cutoff</li>
<li>Feb. 7 at 5:30 p.m.: WSMA Legislative Summit - register <a href="https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_euSsj0qaQqGRwDqVyuiarA">here</a>!</li>
<li>Feb. 7: Fiscal committee cutoff </li>
<li>Feb. 15: House of origin cutoff </li>
<li>Feb. 24: Policy committee cutoff - opposite house </li>
<li>Feb. 28: Fiscal committee cutoff - opposite house </li>
<li>Mar. 4: Opposite house cutoff </li>
<li>Mar. 10: Last day of session </li>
</ul>
<h3>WSMA legislative priorities </h3>
<p>While the WSMA will engage on a variety of issues impacting the house of medicine during the 2022 session, here is a small preview of pending priority legislation expected to be considered:</p>
<p>Balance billing (<a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1688&amp;Year=2021&amp;Initiative=false">House Bill 1688</a>) and network adequacy </p>
<ul>
<li>The WSMA will seek to preserve important protections in the state's balance billing law, and is proposing network adequacy legislation to ensure a level playing field for contracting and to increase transparency and accountability around insurance carrier contracting practices.</li>
</ul>
<p>Scope of practice</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Naturopaths: </strong><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5088&amp;Year=2021&amp;Initiative=False">Senate Bill 5088</a> would increase the naturopathic scope of practice to include increased prescriptive authority and allowance to conduct "minor office-based procedures" without specifically stipulating additional education and training.</li>
<li><strong>ARNPs: </strong><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5704&amp;Year=2021&amp;Initiative=false">Senate Bill 5704</a> would require health carriers to reimburse advanced registered nurse practitioners at the same rate as physicians in the same service area.</li>
<li><strong>Optometrists: </strong><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5542&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2021">Senate Bill 5542</a> would increase the scope of practice for optometrists to include potentially dangerous surgical procedures, including those that utilize scalpels, lasers, and injections, and would increase their prescriptive authority without specifically stipulated additional education and training.</li>
</ul>
</div> | 1/14/2022 10:15:40 AM | 1/11/2022 3:12:37 PM | 1/14/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| call_for_volunteers_to_assist_in_covid_19_response | Call for Volunteers to Assist in COVID-19 Response | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/January_14/call_for_volunteers_to_assist_in_covid_19_response | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/january/unsplash-teen-covid-vaccine-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Teenage male receiving vaccination" /></div>
<h5>January 14, 2022</h5>
<h2>Call for Volunteers to Assist in COVID-19 Response</h2>
<p>Volunteer health care professionals are needed to assist with emergency departments and hospitals overwhelmed by the surge of COVID-19 cases and to administer COVID-19 boosters as efforts to further protect Washington residents from serious illness are redoubled.</p>
<h3>Assisting surge capacity</h3>
<p>With the strong support of the WSMA, the Washington State Department of Health is seeking licensed health care practitioners and retired medical professionals to consider volunteering to support hospital surge capacity. Licensed health care practitioners, from either in or out of state, can register in Washington as emergency volunteers. Visit the <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA5MjIuNDYzMTYwNjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5kb2gud2EuZ292L0VtZXJnZW5jeVZvbHVudGVlciJ9.M0QUcz2vapS7FxNs0OmyEZncM163JtK_u8ocV7GQClc/s/690743948/br/112740823660-l">DOH emergency volunteer page</a> to learn more and register as a volunteer with the <a href="https://waserv.org/">Washington State Emergency Registry of Volunteers</a>.</p>
<h3>Urgent call to help as vaccinators</h3>
<p>Public Health - Seattle &amp; King County issued an urgent call for staff to help to administer COVID-19 boosters at seven community vaccination centers. Given the omicron variant's arrival and high transmissibility, King County sees an urgent need to administer boosters to all booster-eligible King County residents (over 1.3 million people) over the next 4-6 weeks<strong>.&nbsp;</strong>King County, in collaboration with multiple partners has (re)opened 18 vaccination clinics throughout the county. The vaccination sites are open to the public at no charge, vaccine supplies are adequate, and appointment and IT systems are in place, but the county is short of qualified vaccinators.</p>
<p>If you would like to join these efforts and sign up as a volunteer, you may visit DOH's <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/Pubs/Urgent%20Call%20for%20Qualified%20Health%20Care%20Professional%20to%20Help%20as%20Vaccinators-Dec_15_2021.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">official announcement</a> and reference the second page, which lists locations, times, and contact information.</p>
</div> | 1/14/2022 10:35:06 AM | 1/11/2022 3:12:39 PM | 1/14/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| house_democrats_introduce_bill_to_delay_long_term_care_act | House Democrats Introduce Bill to Delay Long-Term Care Act | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/January_14/house_democrats_introduce_bill_to_delay_long_term_care_act | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>January 14, 2022</h5>
<h2>House Democrats Introduce Bill to Delay Long-Term Care Act</h2>
<p>
House Democratic leadership has introduced legislation to delay implementation of the state's long-term care act to July 1, 2023.
</p>
<h3>An overview</h3>
<p>
<a href="https://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/biennium/2021-22/Pdf/Bills/House Bills/1732.pdf?q=20220104221807">House Bill 1732</a> would delay to July 1, 2023 implementation of the state's long-term care services and supports trust program; directs that any premiums collected from employees prior to July 1, 2023 must be refunded to employees within 120 days of collection; makes minor changes to program eligibility requirements; and contains an emergency clause, so takes effect immediately upon being signed by the governor.
</p>
<p>
For more on the legislation, see this <a href="https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/politics/washington-state-democrats-propose-delaying-wa-cares-payroll-tax-until-2023/">Seattle Times article</a>. Bill provisions are subject to change. The WSMA will monitor the bill as session progresses and will keep you apprised of major developments on the issue.
</p>
</div> | 1/13/2022 4:01:18 PM | 1/13/2022 2:24:57 PM | 1/14/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| iscribe_can_help_you_save_time_and_refocus_on_your_patients | iScribe Can Help You Save Time and Refocus on Your Patients | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/January_14/iscribe_can_help_you_save_time_and_refocus_on_your_patients | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/january/iscribe-photo.png" class="pull-right" alt="iScribe app showing on smart phone" /></div>
<h5>January 14, 2022</h5>
<h2>iScribe Can Help You Save Time and Refocus on Your Patients</h2>
<p><em>***sponsored content***</em></p>
<p>iScribe is a mobile app that fully integrates with your existing EHR platform to streamline medical documentation and restore an authentic physician-patient relationship. It is affordable, effective, and simple to install. iScribe can help you reduce the time spent on documentation and give time back to caring for patients.</p>
<p>Five reasons to use <a href="https://www.iscribehealth.com/">iScribe</a> :</p>
<ul>
<li>Providers use technology they are already comfortable with.</li>
<li>You don't have to switch your current EHR platform, and you can reduce the friction if switching.</li>
<li>One solution for all your providers mobile and voice technology needs.</li>
<li>Efficiency and productivity with a better experience.</li>
<li>You can be up and running very quickly.</li>
</ul>
<p>Your workflow options include:</p>
<p><strong>iScribe Mobile</strong>: The iOS app mobilizes your existing EHR. Document with speech-to-text, chart pull forward, and templates to immediately transfer the data into your EHR system, from anywhere. In addition, you can input orders, diagnoses, and complete encounter billing all from a single device.</p>
<p><strong>Virtual Scribe</strong>: Simply record the entire patient encounter using your preferred iOS device. Virtual scribes will create the note in full and insert any required templates. The provider has the final review and sign off.</p>
<p><strong>Transcription</strong>: Fully integrated transcription services with improved turnaround times. Upon note completion, the data is automatically returned into specific sections of the note (HPI, PE, assessment, plan, etc.).</p>
<p><strong>Telemedicine</strong>: Utilize your iScribeHealth app to track and launch your virtual appointments from one device. Telehealth visits and completing clinical documentation has never been easier.</p>
<p>As a WSMA member you get preferred pricing on services and implementation with iScribeHealth. <a href="https://www.iscribehealth.com/try-it-now/">Request more information</a>.</p>
</div> | 1/14/2022 10:42:42 AM | 1/11/2022 3:12:52 PM | 1/14/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| new_cme_health_equity_m_and_m_webinar_series | New CME: Health Equity M&M Webinar Series | memo | | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/january/mm-equity-webinar-series-2022-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="Health Equity M&amp;M Webinar Series logo" /></div>
<h5>January 14, 2022</h5>
<h2>New CME: Health Equity M&amp;M Webinar Series</h2>
<p>The WSMA and WSMA Foundation are launching a new series: Health Equity M&amp;M Webinar Series. Think "morbidity and mortality," but with a focus on health equity. Edwin Lindo, JD, will facilitate case-based discussions presented by attendees. Lindo is the assistant dean for social and health justice in the office of health care equity and acting assistant professor within the department of family medicine at the University of Washington School of Medicine. He teaches, presents, and writes on issues of race and racism within the field of medicine and greater society. He is internationally recognized as a conscious voice for racial and social justice.</p>
<p>These Health Equity M&amp;M discussions will provide a framework for recognizing and examining our own biases and identifying the ways systemic racism exists in our organizations. You'll have new tools to think critically and identify when to advocate for patients from historically marginalized communities, ensuring they receive the highest quality clinical care. The Health Equity M&amp;M discussions serve as one of many mechanisms to address forms of systemic marginalization of patients.</p>
<p>This series will foster a space conducive to building a community of professionals focused on achieving health equity, allowing for discussions of charged but necessary topics. Each webinar is protected under WSMA's CQIP as recognized by the WA DOH and pursuant to RCW 70.225.040. By registering, you agree to maintain the confidentiality of the cases discussed pursuant to RCW 43.70.510, RCW 70.41.200, and RCW 4.24.250.</p>
<p>Free for WSMA members, these webinars will be held on the second Friday of every other month at noon, beginning on Feb. 11. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Creditâ„¢.&nbsp;</em><a href="[@]WSMA/Education/Upcoming_Webinars/WSMA/education/Upcoming_Webinars/Upcoming_Webinars.aspx?hkey=b760d6bd-1833-412d-b681-babf251792a8">Register online</a>.</p>
</div> | 1/13/2022 4:01:19 PM | 1/11/2022 3:12:45 PM | 1/14/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_joins_amicus_brief_in_support_of_lawsuit_challenging_no_surprises_act_rule | WSMA Joins Amicus Brief in Support of Lawsuit Challenging No Surprises Act Rule | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/January_14/wsma_joins_amicus_brief_in_support_of_lawsuit_challenging_no_surprises_act_rule | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/january/bill-oxford-oxghu60nwxu-unsplash-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="gavel" /></div>
<h5>January 14, 2022</h5>
<h2>WSMA Joins Amicus Brief in Support of Lawsuit Challenging No Surprises Act Rule</h2>
<p>The WSMA, sharing concerns over a critical—and unfavorable to physicians—federal interpretation of the independent dispute resolution process, has signed onto an amicus brief in support of a lawsuit filed by the American Medical Association and the American Hospital Association over the federal No Surprises Act final rule.</p>
<p>The AMA and AHA filed a <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/system/files/ama-v-hhs-as-filed-complaint.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">complaint</a> and <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/system/files/ama-v-hhs-as-filed-stay-motion-and-brief.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">motion to stay</a> against the federal No Surprises Act on Dec. 9. As a reminder, federal agencies have been working on rulemakings to implement the federal No Surprises Act, which went into effect on Jan. 1, 2022. The <a href="https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/what-you-need-know-about-biden-harris-administrations-actions-prevent-surprise-billing-september">latest set of rules</a> released by federal agencies dramatically favored insurance carriers, directing independent dispute resolution entities to assume the qualified payment amount as a reasonable out-of-network rate, potentially skewing the impact of the law on physicians and shifting even more leverage and profits to insurers. The WSMA shares concerns over this interpretation of the independent dispute resolution provision and <a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/aaos-files-amicus-brief-in-support-of-lawsuit-challenging-no-surprises-act-rule-301458735.html">has signed onto an amicus brief</a> in support of the <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/press-center/press-releases/ama-and-aha-file-lawsuit-over-no-surprises-act-final-rule">lawsuit from the AMA/AHA</a>.</p>
<h3>Implementation of the No Surprises Act</h3>
<p><a href="https://meetingregistration.ama-assn.org/mtgregcvent/register/search?ECODE=2deba16e-2fe2-43d0-8797-aba7d0b03527">Register</a> to join the AMA for a webinar on Thursday, Jan. 20, at 10 a.m. PT, <a href="https://meetingregistration.ama-assn.org/mtgregcvent/register/search?ECODE=2deba16e-2fe2-43d0-8797-aba7d0b03527">Implementing the No Surprises Act</a>. The No Surprises Act, which aims to protect patients from the financial impact of surprise medical billing, became law on Jan. 1. Attend this webinar to learn what physicians need to do immediately to comply with the new law. AMA experts will also address enforcement challenges and the interaction between state and federal surprise billing requirements.</p>
<p>The AMA has also released a <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/system/files/ama-nsa-toolkit.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">No Surprises Act Toolkit</a>, which serves as guidance for physicians on implementation of the No Surprises Act, including many of the provisions that are now in effect.</p>
</div> | 1/14/2022 10:40:36 AM | 1/11/2022 3:12:49 PM | 1/14/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| ama_files_suit_against_regulators_over_implementation_of_no_surprises_act | AMA Files Suit Against Regulators Over Implementation of No Surprises Act | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/December_22/ama_files_suit_against_regulators_over_implementation_of_no_surprises_act | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/December/gavel-steth-book-645x425.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Gavel, stethoscope, and book" /></div>
<h5>December 22, 2021</h5>
<h2>AMA Files Suit Against Regulators Over Implementation of No Surprises Act</h2>
<p>Earlier this month, the American Medical Association and the American Hospital Association, along with two individual hospital and two individual physician plaintiffs, filed a lawsuit against federal regulators over implementation of a narrow but critical provision of a September interim final rule implementing the No Surprises Act.</p>
<p>When Congress enacted patient protections from surprise medical bills under the No Surprises Act, a reform strongly supported by the AMA, it also established a process for health plans and health care providers to settle payment disputes through an independent dispute resolution process. The IDR process created by Congress requires arbiters to consider factors relevant to determining a fair payment, including the median in-network rate, the acuity of the patient and complexity of the case, the market dominance of both parties, contracting history, and the teaching status of the hospital. However, in the September interim final rule, federal regulators directed arbiters, during the IDR process, to presume that the median in-network rate is the appropriate out-of-network rate and significantly limited when and how the other factors come into play.</p>
<p>The lawsuit argues that the regulations are a clear deviation from the statute and all but ensure that physicians and other providers will routinely be undercompensated by commercial insurers. More importantly, the rule will result in narrower networks and patients having fewer choices for access to in-network care. The lawsuit does not attempt to delay or undercut any of the patient protections from surprise medical bills in the No Surprises Act.</p>
<p>While the publication of an interim final rule relieves federal regulators from the obligation of reviewing and responding to public comments, a public comment period was available through Dec. 6. The AMA submitted a detailed set of comments to the departments addressing the IDR process, including the imbalance created by anchoring the arbiter's decision to the median in-network rate, and urged the departments to revise those provisions in a final rule. The AMA's comments also expressed concern with the implementation of several administrative requirements, including provisions requiring a scheduling provider to collect from other providers and deliver to self-pay or uninsured patients a good faith estimates about the cost of care. The AMA submitted <a href="https://searchlf.ama-assn.org/letter/documentDownload?uri=%2Funstructured%2Fbinary%2Fletter%2FLETTERS%2F2021-12-6-Letter-to-Yellen-Walsh-Becerra-re-IFR-Comments-v3.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">comments</a> on the September interim final rule. Learn more about <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/patient-support-advocacy/implementation-no-surprises-act">other letters and summaries of the No Surprises Act rules</a>.</p>
<p>The WSMA plans to sign onto an amicus brief in support of the lawsuit.</p>
<p><em>This update courtesy of the American Medical Association.</em></p>
</div> | 12/21/2021 4:46:29 PM | 12/21/2021 4:46:06 PM | 12/21/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| physician_advocacy_helps_avert_medicare_cuts | Physician Advocacy Helps Avert Medicare Cuts | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/December_22/physician_advocacy_helps_avert_medicare_cuts | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/December/medicare-blocks-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Series of wooden blocks spelling Medicare" /></div>
<h5>December 22, 2021</h5>
<h2>Physician Advocacy Helps Avert Medicare Cuts</h2>
<p>Responding to advocacy from the WSMA and the physician community, Congress recently took swift action to pass legislation that will prevent Medicare reimbursement cuts that were slated to take effect on Jan. 1, 2022. The full text of the legislation can be found <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/610">here</a> and a summary is below.</p>
<ul>
<li>A delay in resuming the 2% Medicare sequester for three months (Jan. 1- March 31, 2022), followed by a reduction to 1% for three months (April 1-June 30, 2022).</li>
<li>A one-year increase in the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule of 3% (0.75% less than the conversion factor boost provided for 2021).</li>
<li>A one-year delay in the cuts to the clinical lab fee schedule.</li>
<li>A one-year delay in the Medicare radiation oncology demonstration.</li>
</ul>
<p>Additionally, the bill will erase the 4% Medicare PAY-GO cut and prevent any additional PAY-GO cuts through 2022. President Joe Biden is expected to sign the bill into law soon.</p>
<p>The WSMA is grateful for Congress taking action to avoid these cuts, particularly as we know that physician organizations in our state continue to recover from the economic impact of the pandemic. While our most recent member survey showed that patient volumes are improving, we also know that 69% of practices report having eight weeks or less of "cash on hand" when industry standard would be 18 weeks.</p>
<p>We will continue to advocate for appropriate Medicare payment and broader measures to ensure physician organizations remain viable.</p>
</div> | 12/21/2021 4:57:41 PM | 12/21/2021 4:57:19 PM | 12/21/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| provider_relief_fund_reporting_period_2_begins_in_january | Provider Relief Fund Reporting Period 2 Begins in January | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/December_22/provider_relief_fund_reporting_period_2_begins_in_january | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/December/physician-money-illustration-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="Illustration of physician and dollar sign arrow" /></div>
<h5>December 22, 2021</h5>
<h2>Provider Relief Fund Reporting Period 2 Begins in January</h2>
<p>The federal Health Resources and Services Administration's Provider Relief Fund reporting portal will open for Reporting Period 2 on Jan. 1, 2022.</p>
<h3>Deadline to use Period 2 funds </h3>
<p>Physicians and other health care professionals have until Dec. 31 to use federal relief payments received between July 1 and Dec. 31, 2020. Funds can be used by any physicians or provider of health care services, and support in a medical setting, at home, or in the community towards health care-related expenses attributable to coronavirus that another source has not reimbursed and is not obligated to reimburse. These may include general and administrative or health care-related operating expenses. Reference the <a href="https://www.hrsa.gov/provider-relief/faq/reporting?field_faq_category_tid=775&amp;combine=">reporting FAQs</a> and fact sheets such as <a href="https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/provider-relief/allowable-expenses-one-pager.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">examples of allowable expenses</a>and <a href="https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/provider-relief/prf-fact-sheet-recruit-retain-personnel.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">personnel recruitment and retention fact sheet</a> for additional details and guidance.</p>
<h3>Attestation</h3>
<p>You may have recently received a payment as part of the American Rescue Plan rural distribution. Within 90 days of receiving a payment, recipients must sign an attestation confirming receipt of the funds and agreeing to the terms and conditions of payment by re-entering the <a href="https://cares.linkhealth.com/#/">Provider Relief Fund application and attestation portal</a>. Should a recipient choose to reject the funds, they must also complete the attestation to indicate this and return the funds within 15 calendar days.</p>
<h3>Upcoming webcasts</h3>
<p>HRSA will host two recorded webcasts to provide technical assistance on reporting requirements for fund recipients and interested stakeholders.</p>
<ul>
<li>Jan. 12 at noon PT (<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTEyMjAuNTA2MDQxOTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3dlYmV4LndlYmNhc3RzLmNvbS9zdGFydGhlcmUuanNwP2VpPTE1MTk1NTgmdHBfa2V5PThlYzg2ZDRhMzYifQ.8QrDfHIXXgmW_dtgq3UtjWDrKbwkYe4WifaGKKWaSA4/s/1843863727/br/123438666945-l">register here</a>) for those new to the reporting process.</li>
<li>Jan. 13 at noon PT (<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTEyMjAuNTA2MDQxOTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3dlYmV4LndlYmNhc3RzLmNvbS9zdGFydGhlcmUuanNwP2VpPTE1MTk1NjImdHBfa2V5PTFjMGFhOGU2NmEifQ.sDHMczwEuSpE7En1-XGMuQW0s03uzpeMOSl2Za56rUY/s/1843863727/br/123438666945-l">register here</a>) for those who reported during Reporting Period 1.</li>
</ul>
<p>For individual support, call the support line at 866.569.3522, Monday thru Friday.</p>
</div> | 12/21/2021 3:21:03 PM | 12/21/2021 11:14:51 AM | 12/21/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| washington_state_pauses_new_long_term_care_program | Washington State Pauses New Long-Term Care Program | memo | | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/December/dominik-lange-vuoiqw4oeli-unsplash-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" /></div>
<h5>December 22, 2021</h5>
<h2>Washington State Pauses New Long-Term Care Program</h2>
<p>Gov. Jay Inslee joined with legislative leaders this week to announce a delay in the Washington Cares Fund premium assessment, slated to begin in January, to allow the Legislature to make adjustments to the new program during the 2022 state legislative session.</p>
<p>The governor issued the following statement:</p>
<p>"I have been in ongoing discussions with legislators about the long-term care bill, which is set to begin collecting funds in January. This bill will help provide much-needed care and coverage for Washingtonians as they age. However, legislators have identified some areas that need adjustments and I agree. We need to give legislators the opportunity to make refinements to the bill. Therefore, I am taking measures within my authority and ordering the state Employment Security Department not to collect the premiums from this program from employers before they come due in April. My actions mean that the state will not collect those funds until the Legislature sorts through these issues. While legislation is under consideration to pause the withholding of LTC fees, employers will not be subject to penalties and interest for not withholding fees from employees' wages during this transition."</p>
<p>Visit the <a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/news-media/inslee-billig-jinkins-statement-delaying-wa-cares-fund-premium-assessment">governor's webpage</a> for additional statements from legislative leaders.</p>
</div> | 12/21/2021 4:57:01 PM | 12/21/2021 4:56:41 PM | 12/21/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| grow_your_practice_in_2022_a_checklist_for_growth | Grow Your Practice in 2022: A Checklist for Growth | memo | | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>December 10, 2021</h5>
<h2>Grow Your Practice in 2022: A Checklist for Growth</h2>
<p>
<em>Sponsored content</em>
</p>
<p>
To thrive in 2022 and beyond, independent health care practices must satisfy patient demand for digital experiences. Your practice potential for growth depends on your response to these consumer shifts and expectations. Practices that adopt technology to offer patients greater ease, convenience, and access are poised for success.
</p>
<p>
To help your practice review current strengths, WSMA's affinity partner PatientPop created a checklist to help your practice identify what you're doing right to attract new patients and how best to deliver an experience that keeps them coming back. <a href="https://discover.patientpop.com/wsma-2022-growth-checklist-newsletter/2022-healthcare-prov?UTM_Source=Partner+Referral&amp;UTM_Medium=Affiliate+Partner&amp;UTM_Partner=WSMA">Click here</a> to access the checklist along with helpful insights that will help you:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Drive continuous business growth</li>
<li>Modernize the patient experience</li>
<li>Streamline your office workflow</li>
</ul>
<p>
To learn more about PatientPop and your practice's exclusive member benefit, <a href="[@]WSMA/Membership/Why_Join_the_WSMA_/Affinity_Program/PatientPop.aspx">click here</a>.
</p>
</div> | 12/9/2021 2:55:48 PM | 12/9/2021 2:53:51 PM | 12/10/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| hardship_waivers_for_epcs_pmp_ehr_integration_mandates | Hardship Waivers for EPCS, PMP-EHR Integration Mandates | memo | | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/November/rx-bottle-doctor-laptop-645x425.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Physician holding a prescription bottle" /></div>
<h5>December 10, 2021</h5>
<h2>Hardship Waivers for EPCS, PMP-EHR Integration Mandates</h2>
<p>In 2019, the Washington State Legislature approved and Gov. Jay Inslee signed <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5380&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2019">Senate Bill 5380</a>, a measure aimed at curbing the opioid epidemic. Among the provisions outlined in the legislation are two IT mandates: a requirement that all prescriptions for controlled substances be transmitted electronically, and a requirement that practices with 10 or more prescribers integrate their electronic health records with the state prescription monitoring program. Both mandates take effect Jan. 1, 2022. WSMA successfully secured a hardship exemption for practices that are not able to comply with one or both of the mandates due to certain circumstances.</p>
<p>For the EPCS requirement, eligibility for an exemption includes economic hardship, technological limitations, and other exceptional circumstances. The Washington State Department of Health offers <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/ForPublicHealthandHealthcareProviders/HealthcareProfessionsandFacilities/OpioidPrescribing/WaiverAttestationForms#item112472">detailed information on eligibility</a>. Eligible practices can attest to their hardship using the <a href="https://fortress.wa.gov/doh/opinio/s?s=PrescriberWaiver">Electronic Prescribing Waiver Attestation Form</a>. </p>
<p>For the PMP-EHR integration mandate, eligibility for an exemption includes economic hardship, technological limitations outside the control of the practice, other exception circumstances, and unforeseen circumstances (this includes widespread health care emergencies). <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/ForPublicHealthandHealthcareProviders/HealthcareProfessionsandFacilities/OpioidPrescribing/WaiverAttestationForms#item112472">More information on eligibility is available here</a>. Please keep in mind that the PMP-EHR integration mandate is only applicable to practices with 10 or more prescribers. Eligible practices can attest to their hardship using the <a href="https://fortress.wa.gov/doh/opinio/s?s=PMPEHRWaiver">EHR/PMP Integration Waiver Attestation Form</a>.</p>
<p>Attestations for both the EPCS and PMP-EHR integration mandates last for one year and may be renewed two times for a total of three waivers, except in the case of other exceptional circumstance waivers. Other exceptional circumstance waivers may be submitted an unlimited number of times. Beginning in December, each year you may submit a waiver for the following year. Waivers submitted part way through the year are valid for that calendar year and will not be prorated.</p>
<p>If you have questions about your eligibility for these hardship exemptions or the attestation waivers, email <a href="mailto:policy@wsma.org">policy@wsma.org</a>.</p>
</div> | 12/9/2021 11:39:47 AM | 12/6/2021 10:06:38 AM | 12/10/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| oud_training_opportunities_for_primary_care_clinics | OUD Training Opportunities for Primary Care Clinics | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/December_10/oud_training_opportunities_for_primary_care_clinics | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/December/comagine-building-blocks-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Comagine Health logo" /></div>
<h5>December 10, 2021</h5>
<h2>OUD Training Opportunities for Primary Care Clinics</h2>
<p>The Comagine Health Six Building Blocks Opioid Management Program, in partnership with Public Health - Seattle &amp; King County and the Washington State Department of Health, is recruiting primary care practices and clinics statewide that could benefit from opioid use disorder training. There are multiple opportunities-read on for details.</p>
<h3>Six Building Blocks Opioid Management Program </h3>
<p>The Six Building Blocks Opioid Management Program provides an evidence-based quality improvement roadmap to help primary care teams implement effective, guideline-driven care for their patients using long-term opioid therapy for chronic non-cancer pain. Training opportunities in the Six BB Framework curriculum are available for 12 primary care sites that can start as soon as possible or in early 2022. <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2021/6bb-clinic-recruitment-overview.pdf]">Learn more about the training</a> to see if it's the right fit for your practice setting.</p>
<h3>Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) Learning Collaborative</h3>
<p>The MOUD Learning Collaborative offers educational opportunities both in clinical practices and in developing the clinic systems needed to support primary care providers offering treatment to patients with opioid use disorder. The learning collaborative will run for eight months. Training opportunities in the MOUD Learning Collaborative are available for six primary care sites for trainings that will begin in January 2022. <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2021/moud-learning-collaborative-recruitment-overview.pdf]">Learn more about the training</a> to see if it's the right fit for your practice setting.</p>
<p>Practices and clinics interested in these opportunities may contact Maria Klemesrud at <a href="mailto:sixbb@comagine.org">sixbb@comagine.org</a> for more information.</p>
</div> | 12/9/2021 12:42:07 PM | 12/9/2021 12:41:46 PM | 12/10/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| washington_workers_compensation_presumptive_covid_19_coverage | Washington Workers' Compensation Presumptive COVID-19 Coverage | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/December_10/washington_workers_compensation_presumptive_covid_19_coverage | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/December/handwashing-surgeons-masks-hospital-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="health care workers washing hands" /></div>
<h5>December 10, 2021</h5>
<h2>Washington Workers' Compensation Presumptive COVID-19 Coverage </h2>
<p>Health care and front-line workers who test positive for COVID-19 are presumed to have been exposed at work and are eligible to file a workers' compensation claim with the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries. Health care workers who do not contract the disease but are required to quarantine due to an exposure are also eligible for benefits. Qualified workers are eligible for medical, disability, and temporary wage replacement benefits.</p>
<p>The presumptive coverage is due to laws passed this year by the Washington State Legislature and apply to <a href="https://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/biennium/2021-22/Pdf/Bills/Senate%20Passed%20Legislature/5190-S.PL.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">health care</a>&nbsp;and <a href="https://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/biennium/2021-22/Pdf/Bills/Senate%20Passed%20Legislature/5115-S.PL.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">front-line workers</a> during public health emergencies involving infectious or contagious diseases, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. </p>
<h3>Presumptive COVID-19 coverage dates</h3>
<ul>
<li>Health care workers: Beginning Feb. 29, 2020.</li>
<li>Front-line workers: Beginning May 11, 2021.</li>
</ul>
<p>See who is considered a health care or front-line worker and learn how to file a claim at <a href="https://lni.wa.gov/agency/outreach/common-questions-about-presumptive-coverage-for-health-care-and-frontline-workers">lni.wa.gov/presumptivecovidcoverage</a>.</p>
<h3>How physicians can help </h3>
<ul>
<li>Inform your patients who may qualify and help them file claims using normal processes.</li>
<li>Share presumptive COVID-19 coverage information with your staff and peers.</li>
<li>Forward presumptive COVID-19 coverage information to urgent care and emergency department staff in your organization.</li>
</ul>
<p>Learn more from L&amp;I about front-line workers, filing a claim, benefits, and other FAQs on the <a href="https://lni.wa.gov/agency/outreach/common-questions-about-presumptive-coverage-for-health-care-and-frontline-workers">L&amp;I website</a>. Send questions to L&amp;I directly at <a href="mailto:HELSA@Lni.wa.gov">helsa@lni.wa.gov</a>.</p>
</div> | 12/9/2021 2:31:26 PM | 12/9/2021 12:42:14 PM | 12/10/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| webinar_operationalizing_racial_justice_and_equity_in_health_care | Webinar: Operationalizing Racial Justice and Equity in Health Care | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/December_10/webinar_operationalizing_racial_justice_and_equity_in_health_care | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/December/cpd-webinars-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA CPD logo" /></div>
<h5>December 10, 2021</h5>
<h2>Webinar: Operationalizing Racial Justice and Equity in Health Care </h2>
<p>Join us for this exciting next session in WSMA's Continuing Professional Development webinar series featuring Karthik Sivashanker, MD, MPH, CPPS. Dr. Sivashanker will facilitate an interactive session covering:</p>
<ul>
<li>Foundational concepts on health equity, including the various types of bias and discrimination commonly seen in health care.</li>
<li>A new framework for advancing racial justice and equity in the health care arena by leveraging high-performance quality and safety practices to systematically make inequities visible and to address and resolve them as an integral part of health care practice.</li>
</ul>
<p>Dr. Sivashanker is the vice president of equitable health systems and innovation in the Center for Health Equity at the American Medical Association, and a medical director in quality, safety, and equity at Brigham and Women's Hospital.</p>
<p>This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Creditâ„¢</em>. <a href="[@]WSMA/Education/Upcoming_Webinars/WSMA/education/Upcoming_Webinars/Upcoming_Webinars.aspx?hkey=b760d6bd-1833-412d-b681-babf251792a8&amp;_zs=A3aFd1&amp;_zl=9nG48">Register online</a>. If you're unable to attend this webinar, the session will be recorded and available on demand exclusively for WSMA members (CME will only be available for those attending the live webinar).</p>
</div> | 12/9/2021 11:45:51 AM | 12/6/2021 10:06:52 AM | 12/10/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| provider_relief_fund_reporting_grace_period_ends_nov_30 | Provider Relief Fund Reporting Grace Period Ends Nov. 30 | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/November_24/provider_relief_fund_reporting_grace_period_ends_nov_30 | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/November/physician-money-illustration-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="physician money illustration" /></div>
<h5>November 24, 2021</h5>
<h2>Provider Relief Fund Reporting Grace Period Ends Nov. 30</h2>
<p>The 60-day grace period for the Provider Relief Fund Reporting Period 1 ends Nov. 30. Non-compliant physicians and providers still have time to complete their reporting requirements by submitting their report at the reporting portal by Nov. 30. Physicians who fail to meet this deadline will be required to return their Provider Relief Fund payments by Dec. 30.</p>
<p>By keeping your PRF payment, you attested to <a href="https://www.hrsa.gov/provider-relief/past-payments/terms-conditions">terms and conditions</a> which includes a requirement to report on the use of the payment to comply with the legal requirements of the CARES Act, which establishes that recipients of PRF payment must submit reports and maintain relevant documentation. </p>
<h3>What happens if I don't meet the Nov. 30 deadline? </h3>
<p>Non-compliant physicians and providers who fail to submit a completed report by the end of the 60-day grace period will be subject to further enforcement actions such as repayment or exclusion from receiving or retaining future PRF payments, including any applicable Phase 4/ARP rural payments.</p>
<h3>Next steps</h3>
<p>Physicians with outstanding reporting requirements should go to the <a href="https://prfreporting.hrsa.gov/">PRF reporting portal</a> and submit their report on use of funds no later than Nov. 30 at 11:59 pm ET, at which point you will be deemed in compliance with the reporting requirement.</p>
<p>After submitting your report, your organization should return any unused funds by Dec. 30, 2021. For more information on returning all or a portion of your payments via ACH or check, visit the <a href="https://prfreporting.hrsa.gov/">PRF reporting portal</a> or refer to the new <a href="https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/provider-relief/returning-funds-fact-sheet.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">returning funds fact sheet</a> for more details and instructions on returning funds to HRSA. </p>
<h3>Where can I find my payment information?</h3>
<p>Please check your banking records or ask your accountant. If you received your PRF payment by automated clearing house deposit, the addenda description will include *HHS.GOV*866-569-3522. The ACH settlement date is the day of the deposit. If you received and deposited a paper check, you will need the exact payment amount and the check number to register in the reporting portal.</p>
<h3>More information</h3>
<p>Several resources are also available to assist with submitting a report, including:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/provider-relief/prf-lost-revenues-guide.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Lost revenues guide</a> </li>
<li>Learn the purpose of <a href="https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/provider-relief/patient-metrics-fact-sheet.pdf?">patient metrics</a> and how they help to measure the impact of PRF funds on various provider types</li>
<li>Understand <a href="https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/provider-relief/independent-audit-requirement-fact-sheet.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">audit requirements</a> for federal, non-federal, and commercial organizations</li>
<li>Learn what a parent organization is and how to complete <a href="https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/provider-relief/prf-parent-subsidiary-reporting-fact-sheet.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">parent subsidiary reporting</a></li>
</ul>
<p>For questions on reporting or how to return unused funds, you may call 866.569.3522, for TTY dial 711. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday.</p>
</div> | 11/23/2021 1:27:51 PM | 11/23/2021 1:27:27 PM | 11/24/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| washington_medical_commission_accepting_applications_for_vacant_seats | Washington Medical Commission Accepting Applications for Vacant Seats | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/November_24/washington_medical_commission_accepting_applications_for_vacant_seats | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/November/rod-of-asclepius-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Rod of Asclepius" /></div>
<h5>November 24, 2021</h5>
<h2>Washington Medical Commission Accepting Applications for Vacant Seats </h2>
<p>The Washington Medical Commission is currently accepting applications to fill upcoming vacancies. The commission helps make sure physicians and physician assistants are competent and provide quality medical care. The commission is looking for people willing to study the issues and make decisions in the best interest of the public. Member selection reflects the diversity of the profession and provides representation throughout the state.</p>
<p>On July 1, 2022 the commission will have openings for the following positions:</p>
<ul>
<li>One physician representing Congressional District 3 </li>
<li>One physician representing Congressional District 5 </li>
<li>One physician representing Congressional District 9 </li>
<li>One physician-at-large </li>
<li>One physician assistant </li>
<li>Three public members </li>
</ul>
<p>To determine what congressional district you live in, you may visit the <a href="https://www.house.gov/">U.S. House of Representatives webpage</a> and enter your ZIP code. Applications are due to the commission on Friday, March 25<strong>.&nbsp;</strong>For additional information on the commission's application process, see the official <a href="https://wmc.wa.gov/sites/default/files/public/Notice%20of%20Recruitment%202022.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">recruitment notice</a>.</p>
</div> | 11/23/2021 2:16:47 PM | 11/18/2021 4:25:39 PM | 11/24/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| covid_19_vaccine_for_children_resources_for_physicians_and_practices | COVID-19 Vaccine for Children: Resources for Physicians and Practices | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/November_12/covid_19_vaccine_for_children_resources_for_physicians_and_practices | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/November/boy-with-mask-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="boy wearing mask" /></div>
<h5>November 12, 2021</h5>
<h2>COVID-19 Vaccine for Children: Resources for Physicians and Practices</h2>
<p>Last week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices and the Western States Scientific Safety Review Workgroup voted unanimously to recommend the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for ages 5 to 11. This is a much-anticipated step in our state's efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19.</p>
<p>The following are resources to help you and your practice or organization protect kids with the COVID-19 vaccine.</p>
<h3>Guidelines for physicians and providers</h3>
<ol>
<li>If your practice or facility has Pfizer pediatric COVID-19 vaccine in stock, you may begin administering it to children ages 5 to 11. The pediatric formulation is different than the existing formulation. You cannot give the formulation approved for adolescents and adults to anyone age 11 and under.</li>
<li>Review the Washington State Department of Health's <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Emergencies/COVID19/HealthcareProviders/VaccineInformationforHealthcareProviders/ToolkitandResources#VaccineAges5to11">pediatric COVID-19 vaccine guidance</a>. It has helpful tips like how to easily schedule second-dose appointments, making the clinic accessible to parents, and more.</li>
</ol>
<h3>Toolkits, flyer</h3>
<p>The Washington State Department of Health offers toolkits to help you communicate about the vaccine to parents and guardians.</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/1600/coronavirus/825-013-PediatricVaccine-Flyer.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">What Parents/Guardians Should Know about Pediatric COVID-19 Vaccine (PDF)</a></li>
<li><a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2021/825-011-pediatricvaccine-providertoolkit.pptx]">COVID-19 Vaccines: Pediatric Vaccine Toolkit for Providers</a> (PowerPoint)</li>
<li><a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2021/825-012-pediatricvaccine-schooltoolkit.pptx]">COVID-19 Vaccines: Pediatric Vaccine Toolkit for Schools</a> (PowerPoint)</li>
</ul>
<p>The toolkits and flyer are posted <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Emergencies/COVID19/HealthcareProviders/VaccineInformationforHealthcareProviders/ToolkitandResources#heading65952">online</a>. The flyer is also posted on the DOH <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Emergencies/COVID19/ResourcesandRecommendations#vaccines">resources/recommendations</a> page.</p>
<h3>Pediatric-focused webpages</h3>
<p>You also can find information about vaccinating kids ages 5-17 on DOH's two Vaccinating Youth pages:</p>
<ul>
<li>Page for parents, guardians, and the public: <a href="http://vaccinatewa.org/kids">VaccinateWA.org/kids</a> (or look for the skateboarding tile on <a href="http://www.covidvaccinewa.org/">CovidVaccineWA.org</a>).</li>
<li><a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Emergencies/COVID19/HealthcareProviders/VaccineInformationforHealthcareProviders/VaccinatingYouth">"Vaccinating Youth" page for health care professionals</a> (or look for the skateboarding tile on <a href="http://www.doh.wa.gov/Covid19VaccineProvider">doh.wa.gov/Covid19VaccineProvider</a>).</li>
</ul>
<h3>Other resources</h3>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://shops3.directedje.com/VaccinateWA/login.asp">Order free stickers and buttons</a>, including kid-friendly and teen-friendly designs.</li>
<li>Sign up for the Power of Providers initiative at <a href="http://www.doh.wa.gov/POP">doh.wa.gov/POP</a> for free resources, such as conversation guides.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What you should know about COVID-19 vaccine for kids</h3>
<ul>
<li>Data showed that COVID-19 vaccines for ages 5 to 11 are not only effective, but safe, and adverse events are rare.</li>
<li>Initially the COVID-19 vaccine for children may be limited as supply builds. Supply is expected to level off and reach a consistent cadence within a few weeks.</li>
<li>The pediatric vaccine (orange cap) has the same ingredients as the adolescent/adult version (purple or gray caps), but it's one-third of the dosage. This vaccine needs diluent, which will be provided with the ancillary supplies.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>We know vaccination is the best protection available and want to be sure all children in Washington state can be served. While we recognize not all parents or guardians may choose vaccination immediately, we'll work with health care providers, community partners, schools, and other partners to support parents in their decision-making.</li>
<li>Families can use <a href="https://vaccinelocator.doh.wa.gov/">Vaccine Locator</a> to filter only locations offering pediatric vaccine.</li>
</ul>
<h3>More information</h3>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/planning/children.html">CDC's COVID-19 vaccination for children 5-11 years old</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-authorizes-pfizer-biontech-covid-19-vaccine-emergency-use-children-5-through-11-years-age">FDA's news release on Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine emergency use authorization for children 5-11 years old</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2021/s1102-PediatricCOVID-19Vaccine.html">CDC's news release on pediatric COVID-19 vaccine for children 5-11 years old</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/WesternStatesScientificSafetyReviewWorkgroupEUAPfizerVax5-1YO.pdf?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=govdelivery">Western States Scientific Safety Review Workgroup letter on Pfizer-BioNTech emergency use authorization for 5-11 years old</a></li>
</ul>
</div> | 11/11/2021 12:12:54 PM | 11/8/2021 3:40:52 PM | 11/12/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| oics_new_draft_balance_billing_legislation_a_step_backward | OIC's New Draft Balance Billing Legislation a Step Backward | memo | | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="billing invoice" src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/November/billing-invoice-645x425.jpg" class="pull-right" /></div>
<h5>November 12, 2021</h5>
<h2>OIC's New Draft Balance Billing Legislation a Step Backward</h2>
<p>As anticipated, the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner has shared 2022 balance billing draft legislation intended to align the state and federal laws. Public feedback is now being sought on the bill, which represents a concerning step backward after WSMA's sustained advocacy to create a fair and balanced process in Washington state.</p>
<h3>Carriers will have more leverage under proposal</h3>
<p>The OIC is proposing to move away from Washington state's arbitration system and require physicians and facilities to utilize the federal independent dispute resolution system for disputes pertaining to emergency and ancillary health care services. The WSMA is disappointed with this development as the federal IDR system has not been established yet and has not proven to be effective, unlike the state system which has been up and running since 2020 and is generally working as designed.</p>
<p>As a reminder, federal agencies have been working on rulemakings to implement the federal No Surprises Act, which took a turn recently when the <a href="https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/what-you-need-know-about-biden-harris-administrations-actions-prevent-surprise-billing-september">latest set of rules</a> dramatically favored insurance carriers, potentially skewing the impact of the law on physicians and shifting even more leverage and profits to insurers.</p>
<p>This marks a key difference between the federal No Surprises Act and Washington state's Balance Billing Protection Act. Federal law will now defer to carriers to set initial payment rates and arbitrators will now assume the insurer's payment is appropriate.</p>
<h3>How to submit feedback to OIC</h3>
<p>For more information, you may review the OIC <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTExMDIuNDgyNzYyMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pbnN1cmFuY2Uud2EuZ292L21lZGlhLzEwNDg1P3V0bV9jb250ZW50PSZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9uYW1lPSZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5JnV0bV90ZXJtPSJ9.Ran-2K-ssmtoF1pvyxuiqIFe4Tl-Mzlw6vVuYCsGt_I/s/623777534/br/116404392382-l">proposed legislation</a>, a <a href="https://www.insurance.wa.gov/sites/default/files/documents/nsa-bbpa-request-%20legislation-%20table.pdf?utm_content=&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_name=&amp;utm_source=govdelivery&amp;utm_term=">summary table</a>, and an <a href="https://www.insurance.wa.gov/sites/default/files/documents/oic-fact-sheet-bbpa-nsa_0.pdf?utm_content=&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_name=&amp;utm_source=govdelivery&amp;utm_term=">issue brief</a>. The deadline to submit feedback to the OIC on the proposed draft legislation is Tuesday, Nov. 16 and can be submitted to <a href="mailto:rulescoordinator@oic.wa.gov">rulescoordinator@oic.wa.gov</a>. The WSMA is engaging with stakeholders and compiling feedback to share with the OIC.</p>
</div> | 11/11/2021 1:00:32 PM | 11/11/2021 1:00:00 PM | 11/12/2021 12:00:00 AM |