| covid_19_vaccine_health_equity_resources | COVID-19 Vaccine Health Equity Resources | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/January_21/covid_19_vaccine_health_equity_resources | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/January/Doctor-Patient-Exam-Room-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="doctor and patient in exam room" />
</div>
<h5>January 21, 2020</h5>
<h2>
COVID-19 Vaccine Health Equity Resources
</h2>
<p>
Public confidence in and willingness to receive the COVID-19 vaccines will determine the outcome of this mass-scale public health intervention. As public vaccination begins in Washington, the WSMA will pay particular attention to amplifying resources targeted to minority communities disproportionally impacted by the disease, as part of our effort to support health care's COVID-19 response.
</p>
<p>
The following resources from the <a href="https://coronaviruspreventionnetwork.org/about-covpn/">COVID-19 Prevention Network (CoVPN)</a> were provided courtesy of Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>
Community Forum with Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett: Everything You Should Know About COVID-19 Vaccines
</h3>
<p>
On Jan. 27, we invite you to join us and Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett, leading scientist for the development of the COVID-19 vaccine, for a community forum to discuss what you should know about COVID-19 vaccines. Learn more and register <a href="https://urbanhealth.jhu.edu/upcoming-events/covidvaccine/covid19vaccines.html">here</a>.
</p>
<h3>
COVID-19 Vaccine Recommendations and Research with Children and Pregnant Persons
</h3>
<p>
The American Academy of Pediatrics has updated the FAQs on its website to include information about vaccine recommendations and research with children and pregnant persons. You can check out those FAQs <a href="https://services.aap.org/en/pages/2019-novel-coronavirus-covid-19-infections/covid-19-vaccine-frequently-asked-questions/">here</a>.
</p>
<h3>
COVID Vaccine Matters
</h3>
<p>
Dr. Larry Corey and Dr. Chris Beyrer of the COVID-19 Prevention Network have penned a series of blogs on the Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center, which can be found <a href="https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/vaccines/blog">here</a>.
</p>
<h3>
Community Engagement Materials Menu (updated Jan. 4, 2021)
</h3>
<p>
The CoVPN created many community engagement materials to help educate communities about COVID-19 and the research happening. You can access all of the CoVPN Community Engagement materials that have been created and share with your friends, colleagues, and communities via a secure Dropbox <a href="https://www.tinyurl.com/CoVPN-Assets">here</a> (Password: CoVPNTria!$) or see the attached menu document. This menu update includes an mRNA Info Sheet, and several infographics about mRNA vaccines (as JPEGs and ideal for social media sharing/posts).
</p>
<h3>
Iman and COVID-19
</h3>
<p>
This series was developed to address the concerns of Muslim communities regarding COVID-19 and COVID-19 research. The sessions are recorded and available on the CoVPN Facebook page <a href="https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.facebook.com_PreventCOVID19_live_&amp;d=DwMFaQ&amp;c=eRAMFD45gAfqt84VtBcfhQ&amp;r=hoeLWrgkcGp-453_2gPJ5DNr-hknzs9C67Xd38SC5BU&amp;m=QBaH8NdaLJjRj4vj0X40c-CvI0ND99GY35NTC0DvHiU&amp;s=-0Qg9qQium9mlVEcFVDKbIsYMskBlyUuVCX6CKB535g&amp;e=">here</a>.
</p>
<h3>
PANDEMIA Series
</h3>
<p>
This series was developed in partnership with the Latino Commission on AIDS to address the concerns of Latinx communities regarding COVID-19 and the COVID-19 vaccine trials. The session recordings of past episodes are available on the CoVPN YouTube page <a href="https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.youtube.com_channel_UCpOWHfd2CjhIhaITS4vfueA&amp;d=DwMFaQ&amp;c=eRAMFD45gAfqt84VtBcfhQ&amp;r=hoeLWrgkcGp-453_2gPJ5DNr-hknzs9C67Xd38SC5BU&amp;m=QBaH8NdaLJjRj4vj0X40c-CvI0ND99GY35NTC0DvHiU&amp;s=9_i7u9hTW1lKxN8l6Xv_toBBKu31OfAAMBbGbvFZRgk&amp;e=">here</a>.
</p>
<h3>
COVID in Black Series
</h3>
<p>
This series was developed to address the concerns of Black communities regarding COVID-19 and the COVID-19 vaccine trials. The session recordings of past episodes can be found on the CoVPN YouTube page <a href="https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.youtube.com_channel_UCpOWHfd2CjhIhaITS4vfueA&amp;d=DwMFaQ&amp;c=eRAMFD45gAfqt84VtBcfhQ&amp;r=hoeLWrgkcGp-453_2gPJ5DNr-hknzs9C67Xd38SC5BU&amp;m=QBaH8NdaLJjRj4vj0X40c-CvI0ND99GY35NTC0DvHiU&amp;s=9_i7u9hTW1lKxN8l6Xv_toBBKu31OfAAMBbGbvFZRgk&amp;e=">here</a> and on the CoVPN Facebook page <a href="https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.facebook.com_PreventCOVID19_live_&amp;d=DwMFaQ&amp;c=eRAMFD45gAfqt84VtBcfhQ&amp;r=hoeLWrgkcGp-453_2gPJ5DNr-hknzs9C67Xd38SC5BU&amp;m=QBaH8NdaLJjRj4vj0X40c-CvI0ND99GY35NTC0DvHiU&amp;s=-0Qg9qQium9mlVEcFVDKbIsYMskBlyUuVCX6CKB535g&amp;e=">here</a>.
</p>
<p>
<a href="https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.facebook.com_113093058708720_videos_145964847321739&amp;d=DwMFaQ&amp;c=eRAMFD45gAfqt84VtBcfhQ&amp;r=hoeLWrgkcGp-453_2gPJ5DNr-hknzs9C67Xd38SC5BU&amp;m=QBaH8NdaLJjRj4vj0X40c-CvI0ND99GY35NTC0DvHiU&amp;s=iTU1HQbQ3CPJvKvayMX6ktsismwYa6fZAV3Qgg0_iDE&amp;e=">The COVID-19 Vaccine and the Black Community</a> was an informative discussion on COVID-19 vaccines and clinical trials organized by Alpha Phi Alpha, Inc. and features Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett and Dr. Barney Graham (NIH), Dr. Wayne Frederick (Howard University), and Dr. Wayne Riley (formerly with Meharry Medical College), along with other Black health experts and leaders.
</p>
<p>
<a href="https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.facebook.com_watch_-3Fv-3D443922446740843&amp;d=DwMFaQ&amp;c=eRAMFD45gAfqt84VtBcfhQ&amp;r=hoeLWrgkcGp-453_2gPJ5DNr-hknzs9C67Xd38SC5BU&amp;m=QBaH8NdaLJjRj4vj0X40c-CvI0ND99GY35NTC0DvHiU&amp;s=qdGhZSGa6ZREh_QASoWshFu8I0SJOyrmaDcW4cLp2X8&amp;e=">Making It Plain: What Black America Needs to Know about COVID-19 and Vaccines</a> was a powerful town hall discussion hosted by leading Black health, faith, and social organizations to address questions and concerns from Black communities.
</p>
</div> | 1/21/2021 4:39:20 PM | 1/19/2021 12:26:47 PM | 1/21/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| doh_submits_report_on_psychologist_prescriptive_authority_to_legislature | DOH Submits Report on Psychologist Prescriptive Authority to Legislature | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/January_21/doh_submits_report_on_psychologist_prescriptive_authority_to_legislature | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/January/Prescription-pad-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Prescription bottle and pad" />
</div>
<h5>January 21, 2020</h5>
<h2>
DOH Submits Report on Psychologist Prescriptive Authority to Legislature
</h2>
<p>
The Washington State Department of Health has submitted to the Legislature its <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/2000/631086-PsychPrescripAuthSunrise.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">report regarding the proposal to add prescriptive authority to psychologists' scope of practice</a>. The final report finds that the proposal submitted by the Washington State Psychological Association does not meet the sunrise criteria and is therefore not supported by the Department of Health. The WSMA opposes efforts to expand nonphysician practitioners' prescriptive authority and any scope of practice increases that do not stipulate education and training commensurate with what a physician receives. We <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20200924/wsma_submits_final_comments_on_doh_draft_report_denying_psychologist_prescriptive_authority">submitted written comments</a> outlining our concerns on the initial proposal, as well as on the draft report. We are pleased with the DOH's final recommendation as sunrise reviews can often serve as the basis for future legislation.
</p>
</div> | 1/21/2021 11:49:43 AM | 1/19/2021 12:26:58 PM | 1/21/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| hhs_expands_access_to_medication_assisted_treatment_for_opioid_use_disorder | HHS Expands Access to Medication Assisted Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/January_21/hhs_expands_access_to_medication_assisted_treatment_for_opioid_use_disorder | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/January/Buprenorphine-Butrans10mcg_645px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Butrans packets" />
</div>
<h5>January 21, 2020</h5>
<h2>
HHS Expands Access to Medication Assisted Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder
</h2>
<p>
Marking a major milestone in addiction treatment, the Department of Health and Human Services has issued updated practice guidelines that willallow all physicians to prescribe buprenorphine for opioid use disorder. The changes align with policy passed by the WSMA House of Delegates and subsequent WSMA federal advocacy on the issue. The following is a brief summary of the changes.
</p>
<p>
Regulatory changes on buprenorphine waiver include:
</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Who it applies to:</strong> All physicians with a DEA license can prescribe buprenorphine under these guidelines. Other qualifying practitioners (such as nurse practitioners and physician assistants) will still need to adhere to the normal DATA 2000 waiver protocols.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><strong>Training or special certification requirements</strong>: Under this exemption, physicians no longer have to undertake the eight-hour waiver training or prove they hold an applicable certification from a designated professional body.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><strong>Counseling and ancillary services referrals</strong>: Physicians will also no longer have to have the capacity to provide or refer patients to counseling and ancillary services.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><strong>How to use the exemption</strong> Physicians who utilize this exemption just need to place an "X" on the buprenorphine prescription and note that the prescription is being written for opioid use disorder. Charts for patients being treated for opioid use disorder must be maintained separately from other charts to ensure their confidentiality under Title 42 Part 2. Physicians can treat only patients who are located in the states where they are authorized to practice.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><strong>Patient limits</strong>: Physicians who utilize this exemption will be limited to treating no more than 30 patients at one time and must maintain records of the prescriptions issued. Hospital-based physicians, including emergency department physicians who initiate treatment but do not engage in a long-term treatment relationship with the patient, are exempt from these patient limits.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><strong>DATA 2000 Waiver</strong>: The normal waiver requirements are still in place for all other qualifying practitioners (e.g., nurse practitioners and physician assistants). Physicians who wish to prescribe above the 30-patient limit may continue to seek the DATA 2000 waiver under the normal protocols and would not be subject to the above rules.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><strong>Regulatory authority</strong>: DATA 2000 allows the Secretary of Health and Human Services to create exemptions from the certification requirements by issuing practice guidelines.</li>
</ul>
<p>
These changes were enacted via <a href="https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/mat-physician-practice-guidelines.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">practice guidelines</a> issued by the Department of Health and Human Services. See HHS's news release on the change <a href="https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2021/01/14/hhs-expands-access-to-treatment-for-opioid-use-disorder.html">here</a>.
</p>
</div> | 1/21/2021 11:49:42 AM | 1/19/2021 12:26:53 PM | 1/21/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| register_to_attend_the_2021_legislative_summit | Register to Attend the 2021 Legislative Summit | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/January_21/register_to_attend_the_2021_legislative_summit | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/January/2021-Leg-Summit-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="2021 Legislative Summit logo" />
</div>
<h5>January 21, 2020</h5>
<h2>
Register to Attend the 2021 Legislative Summit
</h2>
<p>
The WSMA will hold the 2021 Legislative Summit virtually on Tuesday, Feb. 9. While the Summit may look a little different this year, the event is no less important to WSMA's advocacy, as we look to educate and equip members on our <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Advocacy/Legislative___Regulatory/2021_WSMA_Legislative_Priorities/WSMA/Advocacy/Legislative_Regulatory/2021_WSMA_Legislative_Priorities/2021_WSMA_Legislative_Priorities.aspx?hkey=cecc3084-6ca1-47e6-b8e7-d7f8f407ad0c">key legislative priorities</a> for the physician community during the state legislative session.
</p>
<h3>
About the 2021 Legislative Summit </h3>
<p>
The Summit will feature prominent speakers and presentations from WSMA legislative experts. Given the virtual structure of this year's session and Summit, WSMA staff will not be prearranging meetings with your legislative delegation this year. However, connecting with your lawmakers continues to be sine qua non of advocacy, even in a virtual environment. WSMA staff will provide resources on how to connect with your legislator's office to schedule a meeting that works with your schedule, one-pagers on WSMA's priority issues, and information on virtual advocacy.
</p>
<p>
<a href="[@]WSMA/Events/Legislative_Summit/WSMA/Events/WSMA_Legislative_Summit/Legislative_Summit.aspx?hkey=795731a5-79ba-45b0-b78b-b9dfbfc336e5">Register for the Summit from the WSMA website</a>. The event is free for members, be sure to <a href="[@]WSMA/Membership/Join_Renew/Join_Renew.aspx">renew your membership</a> if you haven't yet done so.
</p>
<h3>
Session preview available on demand </h3>
<p>
WSMA's government affairs and policy team provided a preview of the legislative session during the Jan. 8 WSMA Advocacy Council meeting. Topics included the state budget outlook, pending legislative issues, the 2021 WSMA Legislative Summit, opportunities for advocacy, and more. Visit the <a href="[@]WSMA/Advocacy/Legislative___Regulatory/WSMA/Advocacy/Legislative_Regulatory/Legislative_Regulatory.aspx?hkey=c0dc6e7c-4385-497a-99db-4a6b6f4e56bd">WSMA website</a> to view the session, which included a Q&amp;A.
</p>
</div> | 1/21/2021 12:03:46 PM | 1/19/2021 12:26:50 PM | 1/21/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| safe_medication_return_program_launches | Safe Medication Return Program Launches | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/January_21/safe_medication_return_program_launches | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/January/Generic_Rx_645px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="tipped over pill bottle" />
</div>
<h5>January 21, 2020</h5>
<h2>
Safe Medication Return Program Launches
</h2>
<p>
The Safe Medication Return program began collecting covered drugs on Nov. 21. The program will be run by the approved program operator, <a href="https://med-project.org/locations/washington/">MED-Project</a>, and the Department of Health will oversee the program and monitor for compliance. The following medications can be returned through this program:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Prescription and over-the-counter medications</li>
<li>Brand name and generic medications</li>
<li>Controlled substance medications</li>
<li>Medication for household pets</li>
</ul>
<p>
As the program launches there will be two main ways to access the program:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Dropping medications off at participating drop-off sites, such as pharmacies</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://med-project.org/locations/washington/convenient-locations/">Find your nearest dropbox</a></li>
</ul>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Using prepaid, preaddressed mail-back packages
<ul>
<li>Free mail-back packages can be ordered at no cost on the <a href="https://med-project.org/locations/washington/mail-back/">MED-Project website</a>, or by calling 844.633.7765.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p>
Please reach out to the Safe Medication Return program at <a href="mailto:SafeMedReturn@doh.wa.gov">SafeMedReturn@doh.wa.gov</a> if you have any questions or concerns.
</p>
</div> | 1/21/2021 11:49:47 AM | 1/19/2021 12:27:01 PM | 1/21/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| state_redoubles_covid_19_vaccination_efforts_how_wsma_members_can_help | State Redoubles COVID-19 Vaccination Efforts. How WSMA Members Can Help | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/January_21/state_redoubles_covid_19_vaccination_efforts_how_wsma_members_can_help | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/January/COVID-vaccine-Illustration-blue645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="COVID vaccine illustration" />
</div>
<h5>January 21, 2020</h5>
<h2>
State Redoubles COVID-19 Vaccination Efforts. How WSMA Members Can Help
</h2>
<p>
State officials have announced a multipronged approach to accelerating Washington's COVID-19 vaccine rollout. The updated strategy includes increasing eligibility and capacity, organizing mass vaccination clinics, and bringing private partners on board. With the state mobilizing to meet the needs of millions of its residents, these efforts will ramp up quickly in the weeks ahead. Make sure your practice is prepared - and learn how you can assist with this extraordinary public health initiative.
</p>
<h3>
Phase 1B updated - and now underway
</h3>
<p>
The Washington State Department of Health has <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Newsroom/Articles/ID/2573/Moving-to-the-next-phase-Vaccine-expansion-plan-meant-to-accelerate-the-pace-of-vaccinations-statewide">moved up its timeline for public vaccinations</a>, moving the state into the first tier of Phase 1B on Monday. The Department of Health also increased eligibility for the phase, lowering the minimum age in this first tier to all residents 65 or older, in line with the federal government's updated guidance issued last week. The state will continue to prioritize older adults in multigenerational households under the new guidance.
</p>
<p>
State officials say they are moving up the timeline and expanding eligibility to give vaccine providers greater flexibility, and that communities still vaccinating workers in health care settings should continue prioritizing getting them protected. The state has set a goal to vaccinate 45,000 people a day, and is working to build capacity now, under the assumption of increasing vaccine supplies in the weeks ahead.
</p>
<h3>Using WAIIS to order vaccine</h3>
<p>Beginning today, facilities and providers that have enrolled in the COVID-19 vaccination program can order vaccine on the <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/ForPublicHealthandHealthcareProviders/HealthcareProfessionsandFacilities/DataReportingandRetrieval/ImmunizationInformationSystem">Washington Immunization Information System</a>. For those who have not previously used the WAIIS, the Department of Health is sharing a <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/Pubs/348-351-CreateSubmitVaccineOrder.pdf">training guide on ordering and receiving vaccine</a>, as well as an <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XNfgezFWQrk&amp;feature=youtu.be">instructional video</a>. There is also a <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/1600/coronavirus/348-777-CDC-COVIDRedistributionAgreementandChecklist.pdf">checklist</a> for COVID-19 vaccine transfers and redistribution, as well as a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dGGj5Kgm7do&amp;feature=youtu.be">video</a>.</p>
<p>Facilities and providers can submit orders to be delivered the following week beginning on Fridays and closing on Mondays. The DOH is requesting that providers and facilities order the amount of vaccine they are able to administer in one week. They are also cautioning that vaccine supply remains problematic, and that facilities and providers should expect their orders to be cut. Should you have additional questions on ordering, receiving, or transferring the COVID-19 vaccine in the WAIIS, please contact <a href="mailto:covid.vaccine@doh.wa.gov">covid.vaccine@doh.wa.gov</a>.</p>
<h3>
New reporting requirements for vaccine providers
</h3>
<p>
Part of the state's push to pick up the pace of vaccinations is a new mandate for vaccine providers stipulating that 95% of vaccine allocations be administered within a week of receipt, effective immediately (doses acquired prior to this week must be administered by Jan. 24). Additionally, providers must submit vaccine data to the state within 24 hours of administration, and daily information on dosages (i.e. quantity on hand, number administered) must be submitted to the Department of Health.
</p>
<p>
For these new data submission requirements, the state is requiring vaccine providers to submit data using WA HEALTH. The data to be reported to WA HEALTH is limited in scope and is not patient-level data. Existing vaccine reporting requirements through WAIIS remain in place. The WSMA has shared our concerns with the state that this additional burden would be particularly onerous for small to midsized groups providing vaccines.
</p>
<h3>
Building capacity
</h3>
<p>
To help reach its goal of vaccinating 45,000 people a day, the state announced an expanded distribution system, to include mass vaccination locations across the state and a new statewide public-private partnership called the Washington State Vaccine Command and Coordination Center. This public-private partnership will support the Department of Health and the secretary of health in constructing an infrastructure and coordinating available resources to deliver vaccines across the state as effectively and efficiently as possible. The WSMA has been invited to participate in this effort.
</p>
<h3>
Volunteers needed
</h3>
<p>
To help this extraordinary public health effort scale, Washington not only needs more facilities to enroll as vaccine providers, but also needs volunteers - physicians, physician assistants, and health professionals of all stripes. If your practice is not able to take on the logistical challenges of becoming a vaccine provider, consider volunteering to serve in the mass vaccination sites or in other capacities as determined by the state in the days ahead. To volunteer, register with the Washington State Emergency Registry of Volunteers at <a href="https://www.waserv.org/">WAserv.org</a>.
</p>
<h3>
Department of Health vaccine updates webinar
</h3>
<p>
The Department of Health is hosting a vaccine updates webinar on Jan. 26, from noon-1 p.m. covering:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Current and upcoming COVID vaccines</li>
<li>Emergency Use Authorization process</li>
<li>Vaccine safety profile</li>
<li>Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices vaccine recommendations</li>
<li>Contraindications and precautions to vaccination</li>
<li>Management of anaphylaxis </li>
<li>COVID vaccine resources</li>
</ul>
<p>
This free webinar is targeted toward health care providers, local health jurisdictions, school and child care nurses, and other health professionals.
</p>
<p>
Register for the webinar <a href="https://cplusc.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_OT9KqhvXQcqWeeF_PZbRPw">online</a>.
</p>
</div> | 1/21/2021 4:50:34 PM | 1/19/2021 12:26:45 PM | 1/21/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| upcoming_leadership_development_opportunities | Upcoming Leadership Development Opportunities | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/January_21/upcoming_leadership_development_opportunities | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/January/Leadership-Group-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="group of physicians sitting in a circle" />
</div>
<h5>January 21, 2020</h5>
<h2>
Upcoming Leadership Development Opportunities
</h2>
<p>
The WSMA is committed to your professional development, particularly enhancing and building your leadership skills, regardless of where you are in your career or the type or size of your organization. Our Center for Leadership Development offers multiple opportunities to develop your leadership skills without taking time away from your practice. Don't miss the following educational opportunities this spring, summer, and fall.
</p>
<p>
<strong>Physician Leadership Course - </strong><em>March 12-May 21</em>
</p>
<p>
The WSMA Physician Leadership Course is a 40+ hour hybrid-distance leadership skills-development course for physicians and physician assistants who want to know more about health care leadership. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em>â„¢. <a href="[@]WSMA/Education/Physician_Leadership/Physician_Leadership_Course/WSMA/Physician_Leadership/Physician_Leadership_Course/Physician_Leadership_Course.aspx?hkey=30a53472-d3c0-4d7d-bd0c-cf09b4bea7f5">Register online</a>.
</p>
<p>
<strong>Seminar: Lessons from a CFO: How to Increase Your Financial I.Q. - </strong><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 IQ. This full-day seminar is designed for graduates of the WSMA Physician Leadership Course (non-PLC alumni with leadership experience are also welcome to enroll). 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>
<p>
<strong>Effective Board Governance Course - </strong><em>Friday, May 7</em>
</p>
<p>
The WSMA Effective Board Governance Course is a full-day seminar, providing in-depth education about governance: what it is, what boards do, why they exist, and how you can be an effective participant. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em>â„¢. <a href="[@]WSMA/Education/Physician_Leadership/Effective_Board_Governance/WSMA/Physician_Leadership/Effective_Board_Governance/Effective_Board_Governance.aspx?hkey=75c1d687-1473-49fa-bd43-4c1099f60072">Register online</a>.
</p>
<p>
<strong>Leadership Masterclass - </strong><em>June 3-5</em>
</p>
<p>
The WSMA Leadership Masterclass an intensive three-day adaptive-learning course that examines the complex challenges faced by seasoned physician leaders and provides the tools necessary to solve them. This course will provide additional growth opportunities for physicians who have completed our Physician Leadership Course and have moved on to middle levels of management in their facilities. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em>â„¢. <a href="[@]WSMA/Education/Physician_Leadership/Leadership_Masterclass/WSMA/Physician_Leadership/Leadership_Masterclass/Leadership_Masterclass.aspx?hkey=b3ffc0a4-6cad-4a06-98aa-6e1a5e1e64b2">Register online</a>.
</p>
<p>
<strong>New Course: Quality Improvement: A Tool for Transformation - </strong><em>Sept. 17-Dec. 17</em>
</p>
<p>
The WSMA is pleased to announce a new professional development course for physicians, physician assistants, and other members of the health care team. In partnership with the UW Medicine Center for Scholarship in Patient Care Quality and Safety, the WSMA has designed a 14-week hybrid course to equip you to lead and participate in quality improvement projects in your organization. Who should attend: Practitioners interested in learning and applying a quality improvement framework to their current workflows, as well as non-clinical staff with an interest in quality improvement. Faculty: Russell Migita, MD, practicing physician and the clinical director in the emergency department at Seattle Children's, and Nicholas Meo, MD, hospitalist and associate medical director for quality and safety at Harborview Medical Center. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em>â„¢. <a href="[@]WSMA/Education/Quality_Improvement__A_Tool_for_Transformation/WSMA/education/Quality_Improvement_A_Tool_for_Transformation/Quality_Improvement_A_Tool_for_Transformation.aspx?hkey=da78cae0-1c05-4197-86e1-c97278fbf0a6">Register online</a>.
</p>
</div> | 1/21/2021 11:49:45 AM | 1/19/2021 12:26:55 PM | 1/21/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| 2021_wsma_legislative_summit_save_the_date | 2021 WSMA Legislative Summit - Register Today! | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/January_7/2021_wsma_legislative_summit_save_the_date | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/January/2021-Leg-Summit-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" />
</div>
<h5>January 7, 2020</h5>
<h2>2021 WSMA Legislative Summit - Register Today! </h2>
<p>As a result of the pandemic, leadership in the state House of Representatives and Senate have decided to hold the 2021 legislative session remotely and close the Capitol to the public, following public health guidelines. In response, the WSMA will hold the 2021 Legislative Summit virtually on Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2021 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. The event is free for WSMA members - one of the many benefits made possible by your dues dollars. The event is free for WSMA members—one of the many benefits made possible by your dues dollars. Registration is now available.</p>
<p>This year's session will be dominated by issues of import to the physician community, as legislators seek to respond to the pandemic, balance the state's budget, and continue to reform the state's health care system. During the Summit you will receive an update on everything happening in Olympia, including WSMA's legislative priorities.</p>
<p>The event will again feature prominent speakers and information on how to connect with your legislators via Zoom. And now there is no need to travel to Olympia to participate! We appreciate your understanding as we move this event online.</p>
<p><a href="[@]WSMA/Events/Legislative_Summit/WSMA/Events/WSMA_Legislative_Summit/Legislative_Summit.aspx?hkey=795731a5-79ba-45b0-b78b-b9dfbfc336e5">Learn more and register for the 2021 Legislative Summit</a>.</p>
<h3>About the 2021 legislative session</h3>
<p>The 2021 legislative session will convene on Monday, Jan. 11 for a virtual "long session," lasting 105 days. During session, the WSMA Outreach and Advocacy report will be disseminated on a weekly basis and will include updates about WSMA's advocacy efforts and opportunities for engagement - if you'd like to receive this weekly report, send your request to Alex Wehinger at <a href="mailto:alex@wsma.org">alex@wsma.org</a>. Legislators will spend the majority of the first few weeks of session in virtual committee hearings, which will be streamed live and archived on <a href="https://www.tvw.org/">TVW</a>, Washington's public affairs network, for your viewing.</p>
</div> | 1/21/2021 12:05:28 PM | 1/4/2021 2:30:44 PM | 1/7/2021 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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</div>
<h5>January 7, 2020</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> | 1/7/2021 2:51:09 PM | 1/4/2021 2:30:46 PM | 1/7/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| doh_announces_details_on_next_phase_of_covid_19_vaccinations | DOH Announces Details on Next Phase of COVID-19 Vaccinations | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/January_7/doh_announces_details_on_next_phase_of_covid_19_vaccinations | <div class="col-md-12">
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</div>
<h5>January 7, 2020</h5>
<h2>DOH Announces Details on Next Phase of COVID-19 Vaccinations</h2>
<p>Washington State Department of Health officials this week announced details on the next phase of COVID-19 vaccinations, Phase 1B, while also committing to redoubling efforts to ensure all workers in health care settings in Phase 1A are able to get their vaccination.</p>
<p>The state made clear in its announcement that it is not moving into Phase 1B yet, and that Washington is still in Phase 1A. Details and a timeline are being released by the DOH to allow for logistical and administrative planning.</p>
<h3>Phase 1B details and timeline</h3>
<p>The state has broken its Phase 1B into four tiers. This next phase is based upon the broad guidance provided by the federal Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices as well as input from state partners and the public.</p>
<h4>1B1 (Tier 1) </h4>
<ul>
<li>All people 70 years and older.</li>
<li>People 50 years and older who live in multigenerational households.</li>
</ul>
<h4>1B2 (Tier 2)</h4>
<ul>
<li>High-risk critical workers 50 years and older who work in congregate settings:
<ul>
<li>Agriculture; food processing; grocery stores; K-12 (teachers and school staff); child care; corrections, prisons, jails, or detention facilities (staff); public transit; fire; law enforcement.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h4>1B3 (Tier 3)</h4>
<ul>
<li>People 16 years or older with two or more co-morbidities or underlying condition.</li>
</ul>
<h4>1B4 (Tier 4)</h4>
<ul>
<li>High-risk critical workers in congregate settings under 50 years old.</li>
<li>People, staff, and volunteers of all ages in congregate living settings:</li>
<li>Correctional facilities; group homes for people with disabilities; shelters for people experiencing homelessness.</li>
</ul>
<p>The DOH has released a <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/1600/coronavirus/VaccinationPhasesInfographic.pdf">timeline for phase 1B</a> and in-depth guidance for all released phases to in its <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/1600/coronavirus/820-112-InterimVaccineAllocationPrioritization.pdf">COVID-19 Vaccine
Prioritization Guidance and
Interim Allocation Framework
</a>(updated Jan. 7, 2021). More details on the state's vaccine distribution planning can be found on the <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Emergencies/COVID19/Vaccine">DOH COVID-19 Vaccine webpage</a>.</p>
<h3>Phase 1A vaccinations</h3>
<p>In announcing the new phase, DOH officials emphasized that pharmacies, clinics, and hospitals in Washington are still hard at work vaccinating people in Phase 1A, tiers 1 and 2. The DOH is working closely with the WSMA, the Washington State Hospital Association, and other health care partners to help ensure all workers in health care settings get vaccinated as quickly as possible. However, the state did indicate some communities may move into phase 1B before other communities have finished 1A, in recognition of the differing makeup and needs of localities. If you are having issues accessing vaccinations for yourself or your staff, see our update in this issue ("<a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/January_7/getting_you_and_your_staff_vaccinated.aspx">Getting You and Your Staff Vaccinated</a>").</p>
</div> | 1/8/2021 9:18:01 AM | 1/4/2021 2:30:35 PM | 1/7/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| getting_you_and_your_staff_vaccinated | Getting You and Your Staff Vaccinated | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/January_7/getting_you_and_your_staff_vaccinated | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2021/January/COVID-19-Vaccine-Illustration-Black-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="COVID-19 vaccine illustration" />
</div>
<h5>January 7, 2020</h5>
<h2>Getting You and Your Staff Vaccinated</h2>
<p>All workers in health care settings can now receive the COVID-19 vaccine under the state's <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/1600/coronavirus/VaccineAllocationPhase1A.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Phase 1A, tiers 1 and 2</a>. However, the WSMA continues to hear from members facing hurdles accessing the vaccine for their practice and staff. The following guidance can help.</p>
<h3>Phase Finder tool</h3>
<p>The Washington State Department of Health is piloting "Phase Finder," a new tool now available for health care workers in Phase 1A, tiers 1 and 2, that does the following:</p>
<ul>
<li>Assesses eligibility confirmation and provides confirmation that can be used at a vaccine administration site in lieu of an official letter (note: providers are likely to ask for ID and/or badge).</li>
<li>Identifies where they can go to get vaccinated.</li>
</ul>
<p>To access the tool, go to <a href="https://wadoh.jotform.com/203418436942154">findyourphasewa.com</a>. Once you get to the final screen, you will find sites where you can get vaccinated. Please note: The state has clarified that this is a "soft launch" of the tool; in testing, WSMA staff found some of the vaccine site information neither complete nor accurate. This is especially true for the urban hospitals and the contacts listed. WSMA staff also found the tool to be slow; patience, and retries, are advised.</p>
<p>Phase Finder will launch broadly on Jan. 18 (state officials have advised not to share the tool beyond Phase 1A individuals at this time). The tool will be available in multiple languages and is intended to be used to provide eligibility confirmation onsite.</p>
<h3>How the WSMA can help your practice get vaccinated</h3>
<p>If you would like WSMA's help with getting your clinic connected with your local hospital, please complete our clinic form, emailed to all outpatient, non-hospital-affiliated physicians in our records on Wednesday, Jan. 6. We will share your information with your local hospital so that you and your staff are vaccinated as soon as possible. If your practice did not receive the email and form, <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FWFKFCX">click here to access</a>. For questions, email <a href="mailto:policy@wsma.org">policy@wsma.org</a>.</p>
<p>Please note if your practice is in King County: The King County Medical Society is providing assistance for clinics in King County. Go <a href="https://redcap.vanderbilt.edu/surveys/?s=8WN7A8JTXW">here</a> to access the KCMS form. WSMA members in King County are welcome to reach out to KCMS directly with any questions or concerns at <a href="mailto:info@kcmsociety.org">info@kcmsociety.org</a>.</p>
<p>We know several county medical societies are also collecting this information and coordinating with local public health departments. To learn more about what's happening at your local county medical society, <a href="[@]WSMA/About/Partner_Organizations/County_Medical_Societies/County_Medical_Societies.aspx">reach out to them directly</a>.</p>
<p>If you have additional questions, reach out to <a href="mailto:policy@wsma.org">policy@wsma.org</a>.</p>
</div> | 1/14/2021 11:42:18 AM | 1/4/2021 2:30:38 PM | 1/7/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| register_for_our_next_covid_19_virtual_grand_rounds_q_and_a_session | Register for Our Next COVID-19 Virtual Grand Rounds Q&A Session | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/January_7/register_for_our_next_covid_19_virtual_grand_rounds_q_and_a_session | <div class="col-md-12">
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</div>
<h5>January 7, 2020</h5>
<h2>Register for Our Next COVID-19 Virtual Grand Rounds Q&amp;A Session</h2>
<p>With a focus on what front-line physicians need to know about the virus, the WSMA brings together Washington state's public health leaders and leading experts for free CME sessions that offer the latest information on COVID-19 that directly impacts you, your practice, and your patients. This members-only webinar series addresses the evolution of the disease, management of COVID-19 patients, vaccines, and our state's response to the pandemic.</p>
<p>For this next session on Wednesday, Jan. 27, we will once again convene an expert panel of physicians and public health professionals to answer your questions about COVID-19 testing, treatment options, long-term follow-up, and vaccines. Panelists include:</p>
<ul>
<li>SheAnne Allen, MPH, MCHES, COVID-19 vaccine director and deputy PCH response director, Office of Immunization and Child Profile, Washington State Department of Health</li>
<li>Jason Goldman, MD, MPH, infectious disease and organ transplant, Swedish Medical Center</li>
<li>Lisa Jackson, MD, MPH, senior investigator at Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute</li>
<li>Scott Lindquist, MD MPH, state epidemiologist for communicable diseases, Washington State Department of Health</li>
<li>Francis Riedo, MD, medical director of infection control, EvergreenHealth</li>
<li>Yuan-Po Tu, MD, medical director, anticoagulation clinic, Epic provider efficiency, and flu services, The Everett Clinic</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="[@]WSMA/Education/Upcoming_Webinars/WSMA/education/Upcoming_Webinars/Upcoming_Webinars.aspx">Register online to reserve your spot today</a>. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em>â„¢.</p>
</div> | 1/7/2021 3:27:54 PM | 1/4/2021 2:30:41 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" />
</div>
<h5>January 7, 2020</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> | 1/7/2021 2:48:26 PM | 1/4/2021 2:30:52 PM | 1/7/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| urge_the_oic_to_continue_support_for_telemedicine_payment_policies | Urge the OIC to Continue Support for Telemedicine Payment Policies | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/January_7/urge_the_oic_to_continue_support_for_telemedicine_payment_policies | <div class="col-md-12">
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</div>
<h5>January 7, 2020</h5>
<h2>Urge the OIC to Continue Support for Telemedicine Payment Policies</h2>
<p>Recently, the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner extended its emergency order requiring payment parity for telephone and other non-HIPPA-compliant platforms to Jan. 10. Please take a moment to thank the OIC for these flexibilities and urge them to continue supporting telehealth/phone consultation at payment parity.</p>
<p>Early in the COVID-19 public health crisis, the OIC implemented <a href="https://www.insurance.wa.gov/sites/default/files/documents/emergency-order-20-02_3.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Emergency Order 20-02</a>, requiring OIC-regulated fully insured health plans to temporarily pay at parity for medical services provided via telephone and requiring all state-regulated carriers to permit and reimburse for care provided over non-HIPAA-compliant platforms, including video chat applications.</p>
<p>Physicians and practices need certainty that these policies will remain in effect as the pandemic continues to play out in Washington state so that there is no interruption in our ability to provide care to our patients.</p>
<p>Please take a moment to thank the OIC for these flexibilities and urge them to continue to support telehealth/phone consultation at payment parity with in-person visits through the duration of the public health crisis. Send a message to the OIC by sending an email to <a href="mailto:MikeK@oic.wa.gov">MikeK@oic.wa.gov</a>. (Note: You will receive an automatic response that you can disregard.) <a href="[@]WSMA/Advocacy/Take_Action/WSMA/Advocacy/Take_Action/Take_Action.aspx?hkey=3598752c-64f4-4866-a95a-7610f4e1dd25">We've supplied messaging if helpful</a>.</p>
</div> | 1/7/2021 4:04:13 PM | 1/4/2021 2:30:49 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" />
</div>
<h5>January 7, 2020</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> | 1/7/2021 2:48:49 PM | 1/4/2021 2:30:54 PM | 1/7/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_leadership_seminars_new_dates_and_times | WSMA Leadership Seminars: New Dates and Times | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2021/January_7/wsma_leadership_seminars_new_dates_and_times | <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 graphic" />
</div>
<h5>January 7, 2020</h5>
<h2>WSMA Leadership Seminars: New Dates and Times</h2>
<p>WSMA Leadership Seminars, designed for graduates of the WSMA Physician Leadership Course or physicians in senior leadership positions, have been rescheduled, with the first seminar taking place in April. Registration for all seminars is now available.</p>
<p>These half-day and full-day sessions will provide in-depth exposure to topics covered in the Physician Leadership Course, emphasizing skill development and practical application of leadership principles using role-playing, demonstrations, and case studies. All seminars will be held via Zoom.</p>
<p>The first seminar, Lessons from a CFO: How to Increase Your Financial I.Q., will take place on April 2 from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. and features guest speaker Dennis Stillman, MHA. Dennis currently teaches 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. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em>â„¢. Register for the April 2 seminar <a href="[@]WSMA/Education/Physician_Leadership/Leadership_Seminars/WSMA/Physician_Leadership/Leadership_Seminars/Leadership_Seminars.aspx?hkey=be83da24-6e25-4164-99bf-7ddee77555cc">online</a>. WSMA member pricing is available.</p>
<p>For other titles in the series, visit our <a href="[@]WSMA/Education/Physician_Leadership/Leadership_Seminars/WSMA/Physician_Leadership/Leadership_Seminars/Leadership_Seminars.aspx?hkey=be83da24-6e25-4164-99bf-7ddee77555cc">Leadership Seminars webpage</a>. WSMA Leadership Seminars, except where noted, are led by Edward A. Walker, MD, MHA, professor emeritus in the departments of psychiatry and behavioral sciences and health services at the University of Washington in Seattle and senior physician advisor for the WSMA Center for Leadership Development.</p>
<p>WSMA Leadership Seminars are the latest offerings from our Center for Leadership Development. Let this be the year you take advantage of these educational opportunities. Visit <a href="[@]WSMA/Education/Physician_Leadership/WSMA/Physician_Leadership/Physician_Leadership.aspx?hkey=4a910f13-3bb1-4b95-853f-6f93e33637d2">the WSMA website to learn more</a>.</p>
</div> | 1/7/2021 2:49:11 PM | 1/4/2021 2:30:31 PM | 1/7/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| congressional_agreement_reached_on_government_funding_emergency_covid_19_stimulus_e_m_fix_in | Congressional Agreement Reached on Government Funding, Emergency COVID-19 Stimulus, E&M Fix | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20201223/congressional_agreement_reached_on_government_funding_emergency_covid_19_stimulus_e_m_fix_in | <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" class="pull-right" alt="COVID-19 financial relief logo" />
</div>
<h5>December 23, 2020</h5>
<h2>
Congressional Agreement Reached on Government Funding, Emergency COVID-19 Stimulus, E&amp;M Fix Included
</h2>
<p>
Federal lawmakers have reached an agreement on a $900 billion stimulus relief effort, a long-awaited follow-up to the CARES Act from March. Intended to facilitate the pandemic response, the agreement provides $20 billion for the purchase of vaccines so they can be available at no charge to patients, and appropriates $9 billion for distribution of the vaccines and $22 billion to states for costs associated with testing, tracing, and COVID-19 mitigation. The bill also addresses previously announced cuts to the physician fee schedule with funding to offset two-thirds of the cuts to providers in 2021. A prohibition on "surprise" or "balance" billing was separately negotiated and included as a part of the final agreement.
</p>
<p>
Notable provisions include:&nbsp;</p>
<h3>
Paycheck Protection Program "second draw" loans
</h3>
<p>
Creates a second loan from the Paycheck Protection Program, called a "PPP second draw" loan, for smaller and harder-hit businesses, with a maximum amount of $2 million, permitting certain borrowers to receive a second loan.
</p>
<h3>
COVID-19
</h3>
<p>Provides $25.4 billion to support testing and contact tracing to effectively monitor and suppress COVID-19, as well as to reimburse for health care-related expenses or lost revenue attributable to the coronavirus, including:
</p>
<ul>
<li>$22.4 billion for testing, contact tracing, and other activities necessary to effectively monitor and suppress COVID-19, including $2.5 billion for a targeted effort to improve testing capabilities and contact tracing in high-risk and underserved populations, including racial and ethnic minority populations and rural communities.</li>
<li>$3 billion in additional grants for hospital and health care providers to be reimbursed for health care-related expenses or lost revenue directly attributable to the public health emergency resulting from coronavirus, along with direction to allocate not less than 85% of unobligated funds in the Provider Relief Fund through an application-based portal to reimburse health care providers for financial losses incurred in 2020.</li>
</ul>
<h3>
Additional 2020 recovery rebates for individuals
</h3>
<p>
The provision provides a refundable tax credit in the amount of $600 per eligible family member. The credit is $600 per taxpayer ($1,200 for married filing jointly), in addition to $600 per qualifying child. The credit phases out starting at $75,000 of modified adjusted gross income ($112,500 for heads of household and $150,000 for married filing jointly) at a rate of $5 per $100 of additional income.
</p>
<h3>
Extension and benefit phaseout rule for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance
</h3>
<p>
Extends Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) to March 14, 2021 and allows individuals receiving benefits as of March 14, 2021 to continue through April 5, 2021, if the individual has not reached the maximum number of weeks.
</p>
<h3>
Medicare payment changes
</h3>
<ul>
<li>Provides 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. The AMA has provided <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/system/files/2020-12/2020-combined-impact-table.pdf">a breakdown by specialty of the combined impact of these updates to the conversion factor</a>.</li>
<li>Provides for a three-month delay of the Medicare sequester payment reductions through March 31, 2021.</li>
<li>Increases payments for the work component of physician fees in areas where labor cost is determined to be lower than the national average through Dec. 31, 2023.</li>
<li>Creates 1,000 new Medicare-funded graduate medical education residency positions.</li>
<li>Expands access to mental health services provided via telehealth past the expiration of the public health emergency.</li>
</ul>
<h3>
Surprise/balance billing</h3>
<ul>
<li>Requires health plans to hold patients harmless from surprise medical bills.</li>
<li>Provides for a 30-day open negotiation period for physicians and payers to settle out-of-network claims.</li>
<li>States that if the parties are unable to reach a negotiated agreement, they may access a binding arbitration process, referred to as independent dispute resolution (IDR), in which one offer prevails.</li>
</ul>
<p>
<a href="https://appropriations.house.gov/sites/democrats.appropriations.house.gov/files/Summary%20of%20H.R.%20133%20Coronavirus%20Relief%20Provisions.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Click here for a comprehensive summary of the appropriations bill.</a>
</p>
<p>
Thank you to all our members who joined in our calls to actions to seek additional relief for physician practices and to mitigate the originally announced physician fee schedule cuts.
</p>
</div> | 1/6/2021 3:10:51 PM | 1/6/2021 3:10:20 PM | 12/23/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| covid_19_vaccine_updates_for_physicians_and_practice | COVID-19 Vaccine Updates for Physicians and Practice | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20201223/covid_19_vaccine_updates_for_physicians_and_practice | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2020/December/Dr-Schlicher-COVID-Vaccine1-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" />
</div>
<h5>December 23, 2020</h5>
<h2>
COVID-19 Vaccine Updates for Physicians and Practices
</h2>
<p>
After <a href="https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-takes-additional-action-fight-against-covid-19-issuing-emergency-use-authorization-second-covid">FDA emergency use authorization</a> and subsequent <a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/news-media/inslee-announces-authorization-moderna-vaccine-western-states-scientific-safety-review">review and approval</a> by the Western states' COVID-19 Scientific Safety Review Workgroup, the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine is being shipped this week to facilities across the state - including many primary care clinics and practices. More on this and other vaccine-related news in this update.
</p>
<h3>
State targets primary care facilities with Moderna doses
</h3>
<p>
On the Moderna vaccine, the state estimates 128,000 doses will be allocated this week, along with an additional 44,850 of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. The Pfizer doses will continue to go to hospitals that can accommodate the ultra-cold storage requirements, while the Moderna doses, which are easier to handle and store, shipped to many primary care clinics, private medical groups, public health facilities, and other facilities enrolled in the state's COVID-19 Vaccination Program.
</p>
<p>
<strong>Important:</strong> The Department of Health continues to encourage facilities interested in administering the vaccine, including outpatient practices not affiliated with a hospital, to enroll. To learn more, visit <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Emergencies/COVID19/HealthcareProviders/VaccineInformationforHealthcareProviders">the DOH website for details</a>. According to the DOH, enrollment will allow practices to get the vaccine directly and administer it to their patients and staff. For clinics needing less than 100 doses, the DOH recommends partnering with another practice nearby for the purposes of vaccinating staff.
</p>
<p>
For questions about the enrollment process or general question on the state's vaccine rollout, please contact <a href="mailto:COVID.vaccine@doh.wa.gov">COVID.vaccine@doh.wa.gov</a>.
</p>
<h3>
Vaccine prioritization
</h3>
<p>
Washington is currently in <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/1600/coronavirus/VaccineAllocationPhase1A.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Phase 1a of its COVID-19 Vaccine Allocation Guidance</a>, which focuses on vaccinating two groups: High-risk health care workers and first responders, and residents and staff of nursing homes and other congregate living settings where people over 65 are getting care or assistance. Early this week, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices released its <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/wr/mm695152e2.htm?s_cid=mm695152e2_w">interim guidance for the next stages of COVID-19 vaccine allocation</a>. The advisory panel recommended for Phase 1b, COVID-19 vaccine should be offered to persons aged ≥75 years and non-health care front-line essential workers, and in Phase 1c, to persons aged 65–74 years, persons aged 16–64 years with high-risk medical conditions, and essential workers not included in Phase 1b.
</p>
<p>
The Department of Health is expected to release the next two phases of Washington's distribution plan based on the ACIP guidance in the days ahead. State officials have said they expect to have all front-line health professionals in Phase 1a vaccinated with their first dose by the end of January.
</p>
<p>
<strong>Important: </strong>We continue to hear from outpatient health care workers struggling to access the vaccine. WSMA staff has relayed these concerns to the DOH, who in turn has reassured us that the agency is working on increasing points of access, and expects to release guidance shortly on how to help those who are eligible for the vaccine but not able to vaccinate themselves or aren't affiliated with a hospital or health system. The WSMA will make this guidance available as soon as we receive it. In the meantime, some hospitals are setting up "pods" to vaccinate outpatient workers. Hospitals operating a pod will be required to designate themselves as such. Reach out to your local hospital today to learn about their plans for vaccinating outpatient health care workers.
</p>
<h3>
Clinical information and vaccination training
</h3>
<p>
New from the CDC is <a href="https://www2.cdc.gov/vaccines/ed/covid19/">COVID-19 Vaccine Training: General Overview of Immunization Best Practices for Healthcare Professionals</a>. This is an online, self-paced module for health care providers who will be administering COVID-19 vaccine. For more accredited training on administering COVID-19 vaccines, see <a href="https://accme.org/resources-category/novel-coronavirus-education">this searchable database</a> from the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education.
</p>
<p>
ICYMI: A WSMA Virtual Grand Rounds panel on Dec. 16 featured an hour-long Q&amp;A session for physicians on COVID-19. The panel featured six physician experts with a deep understanding of COVID-19 vaccine, testing, and treatment knowledge, answering questions on:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Vaccine distribution and prioritization</li>
<li>Immune response to the vaccine</li>
<li>Vaccinations for pregnant women and women who are breast feeding</li>
<li>Vaccinations about people with auto-immune disorders</li>
<li>Adverse reactions to the vaccine</li>
<li>Testing strategies - testing at volume</li>
<li>Current treatment strategies</li>
</ul>
<p>
The panel was recorded and is now <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Education/On_Demand_Webinars/WSMA/education/On_Demand_Webinars/Webinars_OnDemand.aspx?hkey=c3940e65-ff14-4c25-a05d-b85a147c9fa0">available on demand</a>.
</p>
<h3>
Guidance on reimbursement
</h3>
<p>
The Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services offers a toolkit to help physicians and others in health care prepare to swiftly administer the COVID-19 vaccine. Because the initial supply of COVID-19 vaccines will be federally purchased, the toolkit primarily focuses on coverage of vaccine administration. This toolkit covers:
</p>
<ul>
<li>How health care providers can enroll in Medicare to bill for administering COVID-19 vaccines.</li>
<li>The COVID-19 Vaccine Medicare coding structure.</li>
<li>The Medicare reimbursement strategy for COVID-19 vaccine administration.</li>
<li>How health care providers can bill correctly for administering vaccines, including roster and centralized billing.</li>
</ul>
<p>
Find the toolkit on the CMS website <a href="https://www.cms.gov/covidvax-provider">here</a>.
</p>
<p><em>Pictured: WSMA President Nathan Schlicher, MD, receiving his first dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine.</em></p>
</div> | 12/24/2020 9:01:13 AM | 12/22/2020 12:28:42 PM | 12/23/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| health_alerts_on_tuberculosis_and_youth_suicide | Health Alerts on Tuberculosis and Youth Suicide | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20201223/health_alerts_on_tuberculosis_and_youth_suicide | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2020/August/Stethoscope-on-table-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="stethoscope" />
</div>
<h5>December 23, 2020</h5>
<h2>
Health Alerts on Tuberculosis and Youth Suicide
</h2>
<p>
The Washington State Department of Health issued the following provider alerts this week.
</p>
<h3>
Delayed and misdiagnosed TB due to COVID-19
</h3>
<p>
State epidemiologists have noticed a significant uptick in tuberculosis cases throughout Washington during the pandemic. Believing the increase is due to a reduction in the number of TB cases reported, delayed diagnosis, and undiscovered cases, the state has issued a health advisory asking physicians to consider pulmonary TB disease in patients presenting with symptoms and risk factors consistent with TB, regardless of COVID-19 test results. The advisory provides these clinical recommendations:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Include pulmonary TB disease in the differential diagnosis of cough for more than two weeks, fever and/or weight loss among those from a country with an elevated TB rate.</li>
<li>If the patient's symptoms are consistent with active TB, obtain a chest X-ray.</li>
<li>If the chest X-ray is consistent with TB disease (e.g., an opacity in the upper lobe with or without cavitation), contact your local health department.</li>
</ul>
<p>
<a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2020/TBandCOVID-HealthAlert_20201220.pdf]">Download the DOH health advisory</a>, issued Dec. 21, 2020. The DOH also offers a poster as part of its TB health advisory - <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2020/420-300_TB-Poster_FINAL_121420.pdf]">click here to download</a>.
</p>
<h3>
Screening youth for suicide risk
</h3>
<p>
State public health officials are warning that a convergence of factors, including an extended disillusionment phase associated with the pandemic, the disruption of school, social isolation, and seasonal changes, may be leading to an increased risk of suicide attempts, suicidal ideation, and psychological distress among youth in Washington. In a provider alert issued this week, the Washington State Department of Health is asking physicians to:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Screen patients for suicide risk, particularly children, teens, and young adults.</li>
<li>Share information and resources with patients and their families on crisis support, suicide warning signs, and suicide risk factors.</li>
</ul>
<p>
The DOH has provided resources to assist physicians and health care providers in screening and sharing resources with patients and families. <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2020/COVID-19-Provider-Alert-Regarding-Suicide-Risk-in-Youth.pdf]">Download the provider alert with links to associated resources</a>.
</p>
</div> | 12/23/2020 12:38:32 PM | 12/22/2020 3:45:43 PM | 12/23/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| new_webinar_complying_with_state_opioid_regulations_through_improved_prescribing_practices | New Webinar: Complying with State Opioid Regulations Through Improved Prescribing Practices | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/20201223/new_webinar_complying_with_state_opioid_regulations_through_improved_prescribing_practices | <div class="col-md-12">
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</div>
<h5>December 23, 2020</h5>
<h2>
New Webinar: Complying with State Opioid Regulations Through Improved Prescribing Practices
</h2>
<p>
In the latest in our Continuing Professional Development series, Dr. Nathan Schlicher, president of the WSMA, and Jeb Shepard, director of policy at the WSMA, will review the Washington state opioid prescribing requirement and outline strategies to comply with specific requirements of opioid prescribing rules. They will detail additional resources available for up-to-date evidence-based information on opioid prescribing. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Creditâ„¢</em>. Completion of this enduring material CME activity about state opioid prescribing rules meets new state opioid CME requirements. <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Education/Upcoming_Webinars/WSMA/education/Upcoming_Webinars/Upcoming_Webinars.aspx?hkey=b760d6bd-1833-412d-b681-babf251792a8">Register online</a>.
</p>
</div> | 12/23/2020 12:38:52 PM | 12/22/2020 12:28:38 PM | 12/23/2020 12:00:00 AM |