| a_statement_from_the_wsma_praising_lawmakers_for_health_care_investments_in_final_budget | A Statement From the WSMA Praising Lawmakers for Health Care Investments in Final Budget | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2021/a_statement_from_the_wsma_praising_lawmakers_for_health_care_investments_in_final_budget | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>April 27, 2021</h5>
<h2>A Statement From the Washington State Medical Association Praising Lawmakers for Health Care Investments in Final Budget</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE - The Washington State Medical Association is praising the Washington State Legislature for including significant investments in Medicaid and public health in the final $59.2 billion state operating budget adopted on Sunday. The budget, which will cover the state's operations for the two-year period that begins on July 1, now awaits Gov. Jay Inslee's signature.
</p>
<p>
"The WSMA applauds Washington's lawmakers for doing the right thing and supporting our state's basic health services with these investments," said WSMA President Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD, MBA. "Foundational public health services and Medicaid are really the floor that Washingtonians stand on. Funding these programs will go a long way to keeping people from falling through cracks in our health care system."
</p>
<p>
The final budget adopted by legislators includes $124 million for Medicaid reimbursement increases for primary care services provided by physicians participating in the program. Effective Oct. 1, those include 15% increases for primary care and behavioral health services and 21% for pediatric services. These rate adjustments are similar to those that were passed by the Legislature in 2020 but vetoed by Gov. Inslee due to state budget concerns arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. Restoring the Medicaid rate adjustments will improve access to care for Washingtonians by expanding physician participation in Medicaid networks at a time when it is desperately needed and long overdue.
</p>
<p>
Washington's foundational public health services also receive a significant infusion of funds, with the final budget providing $147 million in the 2021-23 budget and earmarking an additional $296 million to be included in the 2023-25 budget. Foundational public health services are core population-based (rather than patient-based) health programs such as communicable disease prevention and control; chronic disease, injury, and violence prevention; linkage and access to medical, dental, and behavioral health care services; maternal, child, and family health; and more.
</p>
<p>
Taken together, these Medicaid and public health funding provisions are the culmination of years of advocacy by the physician members of the WSMA and other health care partners and represent hundreds of millions of dollars that will benefit patients across the state.
</p>
<p>
"While COVID-19 has upended all our lives, it has fallen hardest on the most vulnerable—not just older Washingtonians and those with chronic conditions, but also communities that face daily hurdles to access basic health care services, whether due to poverty or racial disparities," said Dr. Schlicher. "This pandemic has made painfully and sometimes tragically clear the need for access to basic health services for all—not just for some, but all—Washingtonians.
</p>
<p>
"Sometimes it takes a crisis to spur action and we thank budget writers for responding. These are investments to celebrate and recognize as the most significant support for these basic health programs in decades. Washingtonians need a health care system that is itself healthy and able to tend to health care needs before they become crises, and these funds help put us on that path."
</p>
<p>
For more information, contact: <br />
Cindy Sharpe, WSMA Communications<br />
813.244.2883 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:cindy@wsma.org">cindy@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<h3>About the WSMA</h3>
<p>
The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians, and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine for more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
</div> | 4/27/2021 9:45:40 AM | 4/27/2021 9:42:19 AM | 4/27/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| governor_inslee_proclaims_april_16_healthcare_decisions_day-19_Vaccines_to_R | Governor Inslee Proclaims April 16 Healthcare Decisions Day | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2021/governor_inslee_proclaims_april_16_healthcare_decisions_day-19_Vaccines_to_R | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>April 16, 2021</h5>
<h2>Governor Inslee Proclaims April 16 Healthcare Decisions Day</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE - Gov. Jay Inslee has proclaimed April 16, 2021, as Healthcare Decisions Day in Washington - a day to recognize the importance of advance care planning and encourage individuals to discuss and record choices about future healthcare decisions.
</p>
<p>
<a href="https://www.honoringchoicespnw.org/">Honoring Choices Pacific Northwest</a> (HCPNW), a joint initiative between the Washington State Hospital Association and the Washington State Medical Association Foundation for Health Care Improvement, is part of this national effort to highlight National Healthcare Decisions Day. In honor of Healthcare Decisions Day HCPNW is hosting <em>Whaddya Know</em>, an original game show, where the points don't matter - but the answers do!
</p>
<p>
<em>Whaddya Know</em> challenges players to match guesses to answers to irreverent and fun questions about future healthcare planning, death, and dying. Played with one partner or teams either together or at different locations, <em>Whaddya Know</em> is a live event, free, and open to the public; registration is required and most appropriate for participants 13 and older.
</p>
<p>
To participate in <em>Whaddya Know The Game Show</em> on April 16:
</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.celebratenhdd.online/the-game-show">Learn more</a></li>
<li><a href="https://bit.ly/31viiQ4">Register to play</a></li>
<li><a href="http://evite.me/T8VPGbW6Kd">Invite others to join with an evite</a></li>
<li><a href="https://bit.ly/39rWbhz">Get the Game Kit, including practice questions</a></li>
</ul>
<p>
Inspiring conversations about the care people want at the end of life, HCPNW helps to inform the public on available treatment options and supports health care organizations and community groups in discussing, recording, and honoring the expressed wishes of individuals on their choices for care should they be unable to speak for themselves. HCPNW's vision is that everyone will receive care that honors personal values and goals at the end of life.
</p>
<p>
HCPNW partners with healthcare and community organizations throughout Washington state, and many have local events to promote National Healthcare Decisions Day. Additional information can be found at HCPNW's website, <a href="https://www.honoringchoicespnw.org">www.honoringchoicespnw.org</a>, which includes a free advance directive to download and videos explaining advance care planning.
</p>
<p>
<strong>For more information, contact:</strong>
</p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
Washington State Medical Association<br />
206.956.3633 <br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<p>
Emily Pate<br />
Washington State Hospital Association<br />
206.216.2894<br />
<a href="mailto:emilyp@wsha.org">emilyp@wsha.org</a>
</p>
<h4>About Honoring Choices Pacific Northwest</h4>
<p>
Honoring Choices Pacific Northwest is a joint initiative of the Washington State Hospital Association and Washington State Medical Association Foundation for Health Care Improvement. We use a variety of approaches to inspire conversations about the care people want at the end of life, including an advance care planning program, community engagement, physician education, and advocacy. We help the public make informed choices about end-of-life care and help health care organizations and community groups discuss, record, and honor end-of-life choices. We are a philanthropic endeavor so all who want to participate can.
</p>
<h4>About the Washington State Medical Association Foundation for Health Care Improvement</h4>
<p>
At the WSMA Foundation, we believe in a future where physicians are healthy and fulfilled; where physicians, the health care team, and patients are partners; and where all Washingtonians experience quality care that aligns with their needs, goals, and values. Fulfilling that quest depends upon transformational change at all levels - individual, organizational, and statewide. We believe that change is possible, and that physicians and patients can thrive in health care settings that support them. The WSMA Foundation is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Visit <a href="[@]foundation">www.wsma.org/foundation</a> for more information.
</p>
<h4>About the Washington State Hospital Association</h4>
<p>
The Washington State Hospital Association advocates for and provides value to members in achieving their missions and improving the health of their communities. WSHA represents more than 100 hospitals and health systems in the state, including those that are non-profit, investor-owned, and county, state, and military hospitals. The Quadruple Aim guides our members and our work as we strive to reduce the cost of health care and improve the patient experience, the clinician experience and the health of our communities. Visit <a href="https://www.wsha.org">www.wsha.org</a> for more information.
</p>
</div> | 4/16/2021 11:29:14 AM | 4/16/2021 11:24:55 AM | 4/16/2021 11:29:14 AM |
| wsma_statement_on_state_budget_proposals_offered_by_the_house_and_senate | WSMA Statement on State Budget Proposals Offered by the House and Senate | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2021/wsma_statement_on_state_budget_proposals_offered_by_the_house_and_senate | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>March 29, 2021</h5>
<h2>WSMA Statement on State Budget Proposals Offered by the House and Senate</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE - The Washington State Medical Association is pleased that in the state budget proposals offered by the House of Representatives and in the Senate last week, both include funding that will benefit Washington patients and the state's physician community.
</p>
<p>Our state’s public health system has been pushed to the tipping point, after years of underfunding and the SARS-COV-2 pandemic. The WSMA is very encouraged that the House and Senate budget proposals appropriately prioritize public health by including funding for Foundational Public Health Services (FPHS). Both budgets propose significant investments, with the House dedicating $100 million and the Senate at $150 million over the next two years. The Senate also earmarks a $300 million appropriation in the 2023-25 budget cycle.
</p>
<p>Another important priority being addressed in both budget proposals is increasing Medicaid reimbursement rates for primary care, behavioral health, and certain pediatric services—a positive first step in addressing Medicaid reimbursement more broadly. The rate adjustments are similar to those that were passed by the Legislature in 2020 but vetoed by Governor Inslee due to state budget concerns arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. Restoring the Medicaid rate adjustments will improve access to care for Washingtonians by expanding physician participation in Medicaid networks at a time when it is desperately needed and long overdue.
</p>
<p>These proposed investments in Medicaid and public health are critical and will begin to shore up an ailing health care environment for patients and physicians. To put them in perspective: A 2018 assessment by the state Department of Health, state Board of Health, local health jurisdictions, sovereign tribal nations, and Indian health programs estimated that fully funding foundational public health services would cost $450 million per biennium budget. And, particularly with many of our state’s rural and disadvantaged communities facing shortages of physician specialists, the WSMA supports investments in Medicaid reimbursement for all physician specialties, to help ensure practices can remain economically viable and available to provide care for program enrollees.
</p>
<p>Taken together, Medicaid reimbursement and FPHS represent years of advocacy and potentially hundreds of millions of dollars that will benefit patients and the physician community across the state. And it comes on top of the more than $1 billion in pandemic response, funding for behavioral health investments, improvements to the social safety net, and numerous other positive provisions.
</p>
<p>The WSMA urges lawmakers and the governor to prioritize these investments in Medicaid and public health as they work to reconcile the two chambers’ proposals and finalize the budget in the weeks ahead. Washington’s patients and physicians need a health care system that is itself healthy and able to tend to health care needs before they become crises, and these investments are steps in the right direction.
</p>
<p>
For more information, contact:
</p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
WSMA Communications<br />
206.329.6851 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<h3>About the WSMA </h3>
<p>
The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians, and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine for more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
</div> | 3/29/2021 10:21:57 AM | 3/29/2021 10:10:27 AM | 3/29/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| Vaccine_Shortage_Stymies_Efforts_of_Local_Physician_Practices_to_Give_COVID-19_Vaccines_to_Residents | Vaccine Shortage Stymies Efforts of Local Physician Practices to Give COVID-19 Vaccines to Residents | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2021/Vaccine_Shortage_Stymies_Efforts_of_Local_Physician_Practices_to_Give_COVID-19_Vaccines_to_Residents | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>February 1, 2021</h5>
<h2>Shortages Stymie Efforts of Local Physician Practices to Give COVID-19 Vaccines to Residents</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE - As CEO of Family Care Network, Dr. Rodney Anderson oversees a group of primary care practices that together serve 100,000 patients in rural and urban communities within Whatcom and Skagit counties. The medical practices of Family Care Network are part of a large ecosystem of community-based health care settings that serve as the first point of contact for health care services for many Washingtonians.
</p>
<p>
Providers like Dr. Anderson continue to make requests for vaccines to distribute to his patients and community’s residents; however, the shortage of vaccine continues to slow progress. The Washington Department of Health reported Saturday on Twitter that, “The bottom line is that the demand for vaccine greatly outpaces the amount of vaccine we have available. We can’t reach all providers. For the next week, we had requests for over 358,000 first doses, and our [state] first-dose allocation was only 107,000.â€
</p>
<p>
“Our staff can’t wait to bring our patients in—we are ready to go—all we need is vaccine. We have developed a coordinated system to make receiving the vaccine fast and easy for our patients, with ample space to ensure the vaccines are delivered safely,†Dr. Anderson said.
</p>
<p>
But what is most troubling to him and his staff is the frustration and disappointment his patients are feeling. Increasingly, they are calling his offices to ask for the vaccine—but he has none to give.
</p>
<p>
His experience is being echoed in other community-based care settings across the state, as vaccine distribution expands beyond Washington’s hospitals and into primary care offices.
</p>
<p>
“They trust us for their health care, and so of course they are calling to ask about getting a vaccine,†Dr. Anderson said. “Because we have no supplies, I have to tell them that while we are willing and able to give the vaccine, we can’t make it. All health care providers are in the same boat—we are all waiting for vaccines to arrive in to our state. Our state simply does not have enough vaccines to meet the demand.
</p>
<p>
“We also feel frustrated by the lack of vaccine right now, because we are prepared and ready to give, but we have to wait until the vaccines are created and shipped to our state.
</p>
<p>
“The supply of vaccine is out of our control, so we are asking our patients to please be patient with us. We are ready to give vaccines to those who fall into the appropriate phase,†Dr. Anderson said.
</p>
<p>
While Dr. Anderson and his staff have begun to offer vaccines to their patients, the number of vaccines they receive comes in “at a trickle.â€
</p>
<p>
“We’ve received 1,400 doses to date, with greater than 900 given or allocated to Phase 1A front-line health care providers. That leaves less than 500 doses for Phase 1B patients, which represents less than 2% of our Phase 1B patients.†He added that &gt;25,000 of his patients fall into the Phase 1A and Phase 1B, tier 1 categories.
</p>
<p>
For a few weeks, they’ve often received only 100-200 doses of vaccine at a time, with just one- or two-day advance notice. “So we get on the phone, and call our patients to make appointments for those who are in the appropriate phase and who are most at-risk.†He hopes that they will begin receiving larger shipments of vaccine doses soon, so he can hire workers and implement his plans for vaccine clinics to serve his patients and other residents in his community.
</p>
<p>
“We plan to conduct five-day-a-week vaccine clinics at our facilities. In addition, we’ve partnered with the city of Bellingham to conduct a drive-through vaccine clinic. We plan to operate this six days a week with a goal to distribute 3,000 doses a week if we get the supply,†he said. Dr. Anderson has a plan to hire staff, including retired doctors and nurses, to work at these clinics.
</p>
<p>
“I hope everyone knows that our state and county health departments and your local doctors all are doing everything we can to prepare for the time when we have enough vaccines for every person in our state … and we’ll be ready to deliver them quickly and safely,†Dr. Anderson said. “In the meantime, keep wearing those masks, keep social distancing, avoid travel and avoid gatherings. This is an ‘all hands on deck’ moment for our state, and everyone can do their part to fight a common enemy, which is this virus,†he said.
</p>
<p>
<em>Dr. Anderson is available for interview; contact Cindy Sharpe to schedule.
</em></p>
<p>
For more information, contact:
</p>
<p>
Cindy Sharpe<br />
WSMA Communications<br />
813.244.2883 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:cindy@wsma.org">cindy@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<h3>About the WSMA </h3>
<p>
The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians, and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine for more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
</div> | 2/2/2021 11:27:07 AM | 2/1/2021 11:59:35 AM | 2/2/2021 11:27:06 AM |
| wsma_president_urges_patience_as_state_begins_to_vaccinate_the_public | WSMA President Urges Patience as State Begins to Vaccinate the Public | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2021/wsma_president_urges_patience_as_state_begins_to_vaccinate_the_public | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>January 19, 2021</h5>
<h2>WSMA President Urges Patience as State Begins to Vaccinate the Public</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE - Washington State Medical Association President Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD, issued the following statement in response to Gov. Jay Inslee's announced changes to Washington state's COVID-19 vaccine rollout:
</p>
<p>
"The WSMA is hopeful that the changes announced by the governor will help quicken the pace of our state's COVID-19 vaccine rollout. The state's multipronged approach, increasing eligibility and capacity, organizing mass vaccination clinics, and bringing private partners on board, reflects the "all-hands-on-deck" moment, and Washington's physicians stand at the ready.
</p>
<p>
"I am so proud and grateful for the physicians and other health care providers who have already stepped up to serve as volunteers or as vaccine providers. The governor made it clear that because this is an aggressive effort, we will need as many as possible to offer your time and talents to this effort. I encourage physicians and health care providers to volunteer at <a href="https://WAServ.org">WAServ.org</a>.
</p>
<p>
"And to all Washingtonians: I want to echo the governor's call for patience. Vaccinating everyone in our state is a massive undertaking and many pieces still need to fall in place—including more vaccine supplies. This is an extraordinary effort that will require coordination from federal, state, and local governments, as well as private industry. We ask the public to be patient and understanding during this mammoth undertaking. Making sure you are getting the care and protection you need is our top priority.
</p>
<p>
"To learn more about your eligibility and where you can get vaccinated, visit <a href="http://FindYourPhaseWA.org">FindYourPhaseWA.org</a>. And remember: Eligibility will not automatically mean you'll have your first dose right away—you may need to wait. Be patient, and trust that Washington's public health officials, your physicians, and health care community are doing everything they can to keep you safe from this virus, working to ensure you get your vaccine as soon as possible."
</p>
<p>
For more information, contact:
</p>
<p>
Cindy Sharpe<br />
WSMA Communications<br />
813.244.2883 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:cindy@wsma.org">cindy@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<h3>About the WSMA </h3>
<p>
The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians, and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine for more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
</div> | 1/19/2021 10:11:01 AM | 1/19/2021 9:45:27 AM | 1/19/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_president_receives_covid_19_vaccine_calls_it_a_triumph_for_science_and_medicine | WSMA President Receives COVID-19 Vaccine, Calls It a Triumph for Science and Medicine | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2020/wsma_president_receives_covid_19_vaccine_calls_it_a_triumph_for_science_and_medicine | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>December 17, 2020</h5>
<h2>WSMA President Receives COVID-19 Vaccine, Calls It a Triumph for Science and Medicine</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE - Washington State Medical Association President and emergency medicine physician Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD, MBA, on Wednesday morning received the first of two doses of the FDA-authorized Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to protect against COVID-19 disease. The WSMA, which represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, residents, and medical and physician assistant students in Washington state, is hailing the vaccine as a triumph for science and medicine and a breakthrough in the fight against COVID-19.
</p>
<p>
"As an emergency department physician, I'm honored to be among the first to receive this vaccine, and I'm beyond grateful for the extraordinary efforts by our public health and scientific communities to ensure its safety and effectiveness," said Dr. Schlicher, who practices at St. Joseph Medical Center in Tacoma and serves as the regional director of quality assurance for the emergency departments of CHI Franciscan. "But like a lot of us on the front lines, I'm exhausted. Right now, I'm thinking about my patients and how this vaccine will help keep me and thousands of other health care workers healthy and able to continue providing needed care. I'll save my celebration for when this pandemic is truly over."
</p>
<p>
COVID-19 vaccines are now on the ground in Washington state, with initial allocations of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine on their way to selected Washington health care facilities. Following the FDA's emergency use authorization on Dec. 12, an independent scientific review committee comprising immunization, public health, academic, and other physician experts from Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Colorado, and California, independently reviewed the safety and efficacy of the Pfizer vaccine. The committee granted its unanimous recommendation of the vaccine on Dec. 12.
</p>
<p>
"I think I can safely speak for so many of us in and outside of medicine, that we are humbled to bear witness to history being made - made all the more bittersweet by the shadow of tragedy we still live under. More than 300,000 Americans are not with us to share in this moment," Dr. Schlicher said. "I can't say this enough, that we all owe a debt of gratitude for our health researchers, our public health servants, and to health workers everywhere. This moment belongs to them and their tireless efforts to serve and protect all of us."
</p>
<p>
The WSMA continues to work closely with state officials to help inform its pandemic response, including providing input on the state's interim COVID-19 Vaccination Plan and coordinating with health care stakeholders to help instill confidence in the safety and efficacy of the vaccines and ensure successful and equitable distribution and administration.
</p>
<p>
"I hope physicians and health care workers everywhere will get the vaccine when their time comes. We must continue to model good, science- and public health-based behavior for our patients," Dr. Schlicher said. "And for our patients, please, when your time comes to be vaccinated, protect yourself, your family, your neighbors and friends, and get the COVID-19 vaccine.
</p>
<p>
"We can now see the end to this pandemic - but we must not let down our guard. Get vaccinated when your time comes and keep following sound public health practices. Celebrate, but remain vigilant."
</p>
<p>
PHOTOS: <a href="https://wsma.org/doc_library/resources/covid_19_response/Dr-Schlicher-COVID-Vaccine1.jpg">Dr. Schlicher receives vaccine</a> and <a href="https://wsma.org/doc_library/resources/covid_19_response/Dr-Schlicher-COVID-Vaccine2.jpg">Dr. Schlicher gives thumbs up</a>. Photo credit: Cindy Sharpe for WSMA
</p>
<p>
VIDEO: Available upon request
</p>
<p>
For more information, contact:
</p>
<p>
Cindy Sharpe<br />
WSMA Communications<br />
813.244.2883 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:cindy@wsma.org">cindy@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<h4>About the WSMA</h4>
<p>
The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
</div> | 12/17/2020 11:25:44 AM | 12/17/2020 11:23:16 AM | 12/17/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| WSMA_Response_to_Pierce_County_Council_Proposal_to_Dissolve_Tacoma-Pierce_County_Health_Department | WSMA Response to Pierce County Council Proposal to Dissolve Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2020/WSMA_Response_to_Pierce_County_Council_Proposal_to_Dissolve_Tacoma-Pierce_County_Health_Department | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>December 3, 2020</h5>
<h2>
WSMA Responds to Pierce County Council Proposal to Dissolve Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department </h2>
<p>
SEATTLE - The Washington State Medical Association (WSMA), representing more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, and medical students across Washington, is severely troubled by a proposal pending before the Pierce County Council to terminate the interlocal agreement between the City of Tacoma and Pierce County that established the joint Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department. The first hearing on the resolution is Dec. 7 with a planned final vote scheduled for Dec. 15.
</p>
<p>
This action, contemplated during a public health state of emergency, is deeply concerning and part of a pattern we’ve seen across the state and the country, where public health professionals are becoming embroiled in differences of political opinion. Such actions distract public health officials from focusing their attention on the most significant health care crisis facing our communities. Public health professionals, physicians, nurses, and other medical professionals have been on the front lines of the worst pandemic in more than a century, with many of them experiencing intense political pressure and personal attacks.
</p>
<p>
The professionals at the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department are public servants seeking to do what their mission states: “to protect and improve the health of all people and places in Pierce County.†They use science and medical expertise to make their decisions. The WSMA commends the TPCHD and other public health professionals around the state for their tireless efforts to keep our communities safe.
</p>
<p>
We are all tired and weary after months of dealing with COVID-19. We are anxious and concerned for the viability of our health care system as we see a frightening surge in cases. We understand that millions of Washingtonians are struggling economically, and that mental health concerns are very real.
</p>
<p>
But if we are to get through this pandemic together, we must be guided by science and rely on the wisdom and leadership of those who have the medical expertise to best protect public health. The Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department has been protecting the health of Pierce County’s citizens since 1972.
</p>
<p>
The ordinance being considered by the Pierce County Council is hasty and poorly timed and could have negative consequences on public health. The WSMA strongly agrees with the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department’s response that “efforts that divide our attention from this critical public health response are an unfortunate distraction.â€
</p>
<p>
In the upcoming state legislative session, we look forward to engaging with lawmakers to ensure that physicians and other health care professionals are adequately represented on boards of health, and that their operations are guided by public health principles and appropriately insulated from political influence.
</p>
<p>
<strong>For more information, contact:</strong>
</p>
<p>
</p>
<p>
Cindy Sharpe, WSMA Communications<br />
813.244.2883 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:cindy@wsma.org">cindy@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<p><strong>About the WSMA</strong></p>
<p>The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.</p>
</div> | 12/10/2020 9:46:41 AM | 12/3/2020 3:03:39 PM | 12/3/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| WSMA_Statement_Supporting_Temporary_COVID-19_Restrictions_to_Counter_Fall_Surge | WSMA Statement Supporting Temporary COVID-19 Restrictions to Counter Fall Surge | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2020/WSMA_Statement_Supporting_Temporary_COVID-19_Restrictions_to_Counter_Fall_Surge | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>November 15, 2020</h5>
<h2>
WSMA Statement on Governor's Announcement of Temporary COVID-19 Restrictions to Counter Fall Surge</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE - Nathan Schlicher, MD, president of the Washington State Medical Association, responded to Gov. Jay Inslee's announcement this morning of new temporary restrictions to control the unprecedented surge of COVID-19 infections and rising death rates in Washington state. </p>
<p>
"Physicians and health care workers across the state are greatly concerned that this fall’s COVID-19 surge can bring our state’s health care system to its knees. The WSMA supports the governor’s decision to take this urgent action in order to avoid any potential collapse of our health care system.
</p>
<p>
"We physicians and health care professionals pledge to continue to work tirelessly, day and night, to heal and to save as many of our friends and neighbors as we can as they struggle to fight this virus. We ask that everyone be our health care heroes, by wearing masks, social distancing, washing your hands and especially not gathering together, even in small groups, for just a few weeks, so we can once again bring the virus under control, to save lives and reduce suffering."</p>
<p>
<strong>For more information, contact:</strong>
</p>
<p>
</p>
<p>
Cindy Sharpe, WSMA Communications<br />
813.244.2883 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:cindy@wsma.org">cindy@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<p><strong>About the WSMA</strong></p>
<p>The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.</p>
</div> | 11/15/2020 12:41:59 PM | 11/15/2020 11:31:50 AM | 11/15/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| WSMA_Statement_Concerning_the_Report_of_Forced_Resignation_of_Public_Health_Officer_Dr._Bob_Lutz | WSMA Statement Concerning the Report of Forced Resignation of Public Health Officer Dr. Bob Lutz | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2020/WSMA_Statement_Concerning_the_Report_of_Forced_Resignation_of_Public_Health_Officer_Dr._Bob_Lutz | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>October 30, 2020</h5>
<h2>
WSMA Statement Concerning the Report of Forced Resignation of Public Health Officer Dr. Bob Lutz</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE - The Washington State Medical Association (WSMA) is severely troubled by the recent reports from Spokane about the forced resignation of the Spokane Regional public health officer, Dr. Bob Lutz.</p>
<p>
Dr. Lutz's departure during a time of a public health state of emergency is extremely concerning and has become an unfortunate pattern in numerous states, where county public health officers are being asked to resign due to a difference of political opinion rather than following evidence based medicine and science. Public county health officers around the country have been on the frontlines of the worst pandemic in recent history, and have come under intense political and sometimes personal pressure and attacks.</p>
<p>
What’s being reported as Dr. Lutz's forced resignation is a reminder that too often, politics often overrides science in our policymaking. Public health officers are public servants who seek to do what their job description states – to protect public health. They use science and medical expertise to make their decisions. The WSMA wants to commend public health officers around the state for the work they do every day to keep their communities safe.</p>
<p>
"We are deeply sympathetic to the frustrations we all feel due to COVID-19. It has not only wreaked havoc on our daily routines, it has crippled thousands of Washingtonians' ability to make ends meet and has disrupted our personal lives," said Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD, president of the Washington State Medical Association. "But the only way to combat this virus is to listen to what science tells us and to continue to follow the guidance of those who have the expertise to best protect public health."
</p>
<p>
<strong>For more information, contact:</strong>
</p>
<p>
</p>
<p>
Cindy Sharpe, WSMA Communications<br />
813.244.2883 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:cindy@wsma.org">cindy@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<p><strong>About the WSMA</strong></p>
<p>The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.</p>
</div> | 10/30/2020 6:26:32 PM | 10/30/2020 6:22:31 PM | 10/30/2020 6:26:32 PM |
| senator_becker_receives_legislator_of_the_year_award_from_wsma | Senator Becker Receives Legislator of The Year Award from WSMA | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2020/senator_becker_receives_legislator_of_the_year_award_from_wsma | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>Oct. 7, 2020</h5>
<h2>Senator Becker Receives Legislator of The Year Award from WSMA
</h2>
<p>SEATTLE - Senator Randi Becker (R-Olympia) has been named 2020 Legislator of the Year by the Washington State Medical Association for her longstanding partnership with the physician community and her efforts to expand access to care through telemedicine services. The state senator was honored during a reception held by the association's political action committee, WAMPAC, on Tuesday, Oct. 6.
</p>
<p>Each year the WSMA, the largest professional physician organization in the state, honors a legislator whose knowledge and influence help to make Washington one of the best states in the nation to practice medicine and receive care.</p>
<p>“Senator Becker’s leadership in the Legislature has helped make our state a leader in the proliferation of safe, effective, virtual care,†said WAMPAC Chair and WSMA Past President Nick Rajacich, MD. </p>
<p>Highlights of Becker’s accomplishments during recent legislative sessions include sponsoring bills that:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Established telemedicine payment parity (requiring a health care service provided through telemedicine to be reimbursed at the same rate as the equivalent in-person service). As the state implemented a stay-at-home order to help flatten the pandemic’s curve, this 2020 bill provided a lifeline for vulnerable patients and physician practices.
</li>
<li>Established a telemedicine training requirement for non-physician practitioners.
</li>
<li>Clarified where a patient may be to receive “in-home†telemedicine services.
</li>
<li>Established the Telemedicine Collaborative to provide recommendations to the Legislature on issues of quality, practice, and payment for services.
</li>
<li>Allowed for physicians using telemedicine to be reimbursed (prior to this 2015 bill, state law did not require insurers to reimburse for these services).
</li>
</ul>
<p>“Senator Becker’s staunch advocacy has left physicians and patients much better prepared for the rapid shift to telemedicine services as a result of the pandemic,†said John Scott, MD, medical director for digital health at UW Medicine and WSMA member.
</p>
<p>With a background in the medical field, Becker has been especially mindful of the physician perspective and has helped shepherd these and other health policy bills of relevance to the WSMA during her time in the Legislature. Sen. Becker has announced she will retire after finishing out her current term.</p>
<p>“Senator Becker’s advocacy for the physician community is unparalleled and her ingenuity and keen insights will be deeply missed at the state Capitol,†said Dr. Rajacich. “With this award, we celebrate not only her important work over the past year, but her career in the Washington State Senate.â€
</p>
<p><em>Download a <a href="http://leg.wa.gov/Senate/Senators/PublishingImages/becker.jpg">print-ready photo of Sen. Becker</a></em>.</p>
<p>
For more information, contact:
</p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
Associate Director of Communications<br />
Washington State Medical Association <br />
206.329.6851 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<p><strong>About the WSMA</strong></p>
<p>The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.</p>
</div> | 10/6/2020 2:46:39 PM | 10/6/2020 2:40:48 PM | 10/6/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| gig_harbor_emergency_physician_named_president_of_wsma | Gig Harbor Emergency Physician Named President of WSMA | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2020/gig_harbor_emergency_physician_named_president_of_wsma | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>September 29, 2020</h5>
<h2>Gig Harbor Emergency Physician Named President of WSMA</h2>
<p>
Seattle, Wash. - Gig Harbor physician <strong>Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD, MBA, FACEP</strong>, was named president of the Washington State Medical Association (WSMA) at the association's annual meeting on Sunday, Sept. 27. The WSMA represents physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians, and medical students throughout Washington state.
</p>
<p>
Dr. Schlicher is an emergency medical physician at St. Joseph Medical Center in Tacoma and serves as the regional director of quality assurance for the emergency departments of CHI Franciscan and associate director of the TeamHealth Litigation Support Department.
</p>
<p>
He received a law degree (2002) followed by a medical doctorate (2006) from the University of Washington in Seattle before completing a residency in emergency medicine at Wright State in Dayton, Ohio, with board certification in emergency medicine. In 2016, Dr. Schlicher completed a master's in business administration with an emphasis in health care.
</p>
<p>
In his role as legislative affairs chairman of the Washington State Chapter of Emergency Physicians, Dr. Schlicher, with support from the WSMA, launched an "ER is for Emergencies" campaign that successfully shifted behavior and perceptions about seeking care in the emergency room. Since joining the WSMA's executive committee in 2015, Dr. Schlicher created "Better Prescribing, Better Treatment," a WSMA-led safe prescribing initiative with more than 20,000 prescribers in 50+ health systems that has resulted in a 40% reduction in acute prescriptions above guidelines since early 2018.
</p>
<p>
Dr. Schlicher has received numerous awards and recognition for his leadership in his community and across organized medicine. Recent honors include the Catholic Health Association's Tomorrow's Leader Award (2020), Puget Sound Business Journal's "40 under 40" (2019), and the William O. Robertson Patient Safety Award from the WSMA (2018).
</p>
<p>
The following physicians were also elected as officers at the meeting: <strong>Mika Sinanan, MD, PhD</strong>, Seattle surgeon, president-elect; <strong>Katina Rue, DO</strong>, Yakima family physician, 1st vice president; <strong>Nariman Heshmati, MD</strong>, Mukilteo OB-GYN, 2nd vice president; and <strong>John Bramhall, MD, PhD</strong>, Seattle anesthesiologist, secretary-treasurer. The sixth officer of WSMA's executive committee is past-president <strong>William K. Hirota, MD</strong>, Tacoma gastroenterologist, who will serve as committee chair.
</p>
<p>
WSMA members newly elected to its board of trustees included: <strong>Bridget Bush, MD</strong>, Anacortes anesthesiologist; <strong>Andrea Carter, MD</strong>, Moses Lake family medicine physician; <strong>Amish Dave, MD</strong>, Seattle rheumatologist; <strong>Rasheed Durowoju, MD</strong>, Seattle internal medicine physician; <strong>Leah Geyer, MD</strong>, Seattle internal medicine physician; <strong>Erin Hegarty</strong>, Spokane medical student; <strong>Matthew Uhlman, MD</strong>, Yakima urologist; and <strong>Liam Yore, MD</strong>, Everett emergency medicine physician.
</p>
<p><em>Download <a href="http://takeaction.wsma.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/antx6618_photoedited_by_ab-scaled.jpg">a print-ready photo of Dr. Schlicher</a>.</em></p>
<p><em>Watch <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/Annual_Meeting.aspx?hkey=fea49254-3815-4dc9-8710-53ff2e3a100f">Dr. Schlicher's inaugural speech</a> as the 2020-2021 WSMA president.</em></p>
<p>
For more information, contact:
</p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
Associate Director of Communications<br />
Washington State Medical Association <br />
206.329.6851 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<p><strong>About the WSMA</strong></p>
<p>The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.</p>
</div> | 9/29/2020 10:54:44 AM | 9/29/2020 10:39:33 AM | 9/29/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| washington_state_medical_association_recognizes_member_physicians_others_for_exemplary_service | WSMA Recognizes Member Physicians, Others for Exemplary Service | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2020/washington_state_medical_association_recognizes_member_physicians_others_for_exemplary_service | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>September 29, 2020</h5>
<h2>WSMA Recognizes Member Physicians, Others for Exemplary Service</h2>
<p>
Seattle, Wash. - Twelve physician members, one medical student member, and one health care organization have been recognized by the Washington State Medical Association for going above and beyond the call of duty in leadership, contributions, and service to medicine. The recognitions were part of the medical association's Apple Awards program, and the awards were presented during the 2020 WSMA Annual Meeting on Saturday, Sept. 26.
</p>
<p>
Recipients of the 2020 Apple Awards included:
</p>
<p>
<strong>Kathy Lofy, MD</strong>, Kirkland epidemiologist and pediatrician, received the President's Unsung Hero Award, which recognizes the WSMA member who offers extraordinary service to the profession to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care. As the state health officer and chief science officer at the Washington State Department of Health, Dr. Lofy is one of a handful of people at the helm of the state's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
</p>
<p>
<strong>Darin Neven, MD</strong>, Spokane emergency medicine physician, received the Community Advocate Award, which recognizes a member of the community who provides extraordinary support to, and advocacy for, the house of medicine. Dr. Neven is the founder of Consistent Care in Spokane, whose work with patients with complex care needs serves as a standard across our state.
</p>
<p>
<strong>Vera Schulte</strong>, Seattle medical student, received the Early Career Member of the Year Award, which recognizes a WSMA member for their service to the association's early career members (physicians in their first 10 years of practice, resident physicians, and medical students). Schulte is a fourth-year medical student at University of Washington School of Medicine and has been a passionate voice for students in her role as chair of the WSMA's Medical Student Section.
</p>
<p>
<strong>The Everett Clinic</strong> received the Wellness Award, a new award in the Apple Awards program that recognizes an organization that has worked to put the joy back in medicine for Washington physicians.
The Everett Clinic was honored for its efforts to improve professional fulfillment and reduce burnout at their organization.
</p>
<p>
Three WSMA members received the Grassroots Advocate Award, which recognizes their advocacy efforts and activities supporting WSMA legislative priorities. They include:
</p>
<p>
<strong>Jeff Duchin, MD</strong>, Seattle epidemiologist and infectious disease physician and public health officer for Seattle-King County, for his expertise and leadership during COVID-19; <strong>John Scott, MD</strong>, Seattle allergy and infectious disease physician, Harborview Medical Center, for his support of WSMA's efforts to achieve telemedicine payment parity during the pandemic; and <strong>Donna Smith, MD</strong>, Seattle pediatrician, Virginia Mason, for her help in persuading the Legislature to extend COVID-19 proclamations supporting physicians and health care.
</p>
<p>
Seven WSMA members received the William O. Robertson, MD, Patient Safety Award, which recognizes initiatives or advocates for patient safety. The following infectious disease physicians were honored for their efforts responding to the pandemic: <strong>Chris Baliga, MD</strong>, Virginia Mason, Seattle; <strong>Peter Hashisaki, MD</strong>, Overlake Medical Center &amp; Clinics, Bellevue; <strong>John Lynch, MD</strong>, UW Medicine, Seattle; <strong>John Pauk, MD</strong>, Swedish Center for Comprehensive Care, Seattle; <strong>Francis Riedo, MD</strong>, EvergreenHealth, Kirkland; <strong>Olympia Tachopoulou Stafford, MD</strong>, CHI Franciscan, Tacoma; and <strong>Danielle Zerr, MD</strong>, Seattle Children's.
</p>
<p>
"Just as the apple represents good health, these individuals and organizations represent exemplary efforts to protect and preserve the health of Washingtonians, all the more extraordinary given the unimaginable difficulties they have faced," said WSMA's outgoing 2020 president, William Hirota, MD, who presented the awards during the association's virtual meeting. "We are truly grateful for their service to medicine."
</p>
<p><em>Watch <a href="https://wsma.org/WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/Annual_Meeting.aspx?hkey=fea49254-3815-4dc9-8710-53ff2e3a100f">the presentations of the 2020 Apple Awards</a>.</em></p>
<p>
For more information, contact:
</p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
Associate Director of Communications<br />
Washington State Medical Association <br />
206.329.6851 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<p><strong>About the WSMA</strong></p>
<p>The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.</p>
</div> | 9/29/2020 10:56:24 AM | 9/29/2020 10:25:17 AM | 9/29/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| physicians_brace_for_double_whammy_of_flu_and_covid_19_urge_patients_to_get_their_flu_shot_early | Physicians Brace for Double Whammy of Flu and COVID-19, Urge Patients to Get Their Flu Shot Early | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2020/physicians_brace_for_double_whammy_of_flu_and_covid_19_urge_patients_to_get_their_flu_shot_early | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>September 21, 2020</h5>
<h2>Physicians Brace for Double Whammy of Flu and COVID-19, Urge Patients to Get Their Flu Shot Early</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE - As Washington state continues its efforts to slow the spread of the novel respiratory virus SARS-CoV-2, physicians statewide are joining public health officials in raising the alarm of a potential deadly confluence of respiratory illnesses as flu season approaches.
</p>
<p>
"Flu plus COVID-19 could cause combined challenges for both patients and our health care system," said Carrie Horwitch, MD, internal medicine physician at Virginia Mason Medical Center in Seattle, and a board member of the Washington State Medical Association (WSMA), representing more than 11,000 physicians and physician assistants statewide. "Plan now to get your flu shot—the earlier, the better."
</p>
<p>
Physicians are uniting to send this simple yet urgent message: Getting a flu vaccine at the beginning of the fall respiratory illness season is an easy and safe way to reduce your risk of getting the flu and reduce your risk of needing flu-related medical care, which will conserve scarce medical resources for care of COVID-19 patients. Health officials recommend getting your flu shot in September or October this year to help prevent a health system surge.
</p>
<p>
"Flu and COVID-19 share similar symptoms," said Dr. Horwitch. "There could be an enormous strain on our ability to test, diagnose, and devote limited resources like hospital beds if both viruses are circulating unchecked."
</p>
<p>
"Even with masks and physical distancing, viruses can be unpredictable. We need to remain vigilant and flu vaccination is one tool we have to help reduce disease," Horwitch said.
</p>
<p>
Getting your flu shot not only protects you, but it protects others, especially those who are more vulnerable, including infants, seniors, and those with chronic medical conditions. "If more people get vaccinated early, this can significantly prevent the virus from spreading throughout the community," Horwitch said.
</p>
<p>
"This is not the year to get complacent with the flu—or COVID-19," said William Hirota, MD, president of the WSMA. "So get your flu shot, keep wearing your mask, and keep social distancing."
</p>
<p>
Flu shots are free for children and are covered through most insurance for adults. To find a flu vaccine near you, visit <a href="https://vaccinefinder.org">vaccinefinder.org</a>.
</p>
<p>
For more information, contact:
</p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
Associate Director of Communications<br />
Washington State Medical Association <br />
206.329.6851 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<p><strong>About the WSMA</strong></p>
<p>The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.</p>
</div> | 9/29/2020 10:49:32 AM | 9/29/2020 10:48:32 AM | 9/21/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_statement_on_the_death_of_george_floyd | WSMA Statement on the Death of George Floyd | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2020/wsma_statement_on_the_death_of_george_floyd | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>June 2, 2020</h5>
<h2>
WSMA Statement on the Death of George Floyd</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE - The Washington State Medical Association, like the rest of the U.S. and the world, is shocked and saddened by the needless loss of life resulting from the use of excessive force and violence, the latest in a long line of many such incidents in our country.
</p>
<p>
In the midst of a pandemic that is disproportionately impacting our communities of color, the death of George Floyd serves as a harsh reminder that the responsibility for dismantling structural racism is incumbent upon all of us, particularly those in positions of leadership.
</p>
<p>
Racism is a social determinant of health. The disparate health outcomes of black Americans in the U.S. can be seen as an extension of a historical context where non-white, and specifically black, lives have been devalued. Physicians and other health care professionals wield power, privilege, and responsibility for dismantling structural racism, and we have an obligation and opportunity to contribute to health equity through legislative action and advocacy.
</p>
<p>
Just as COVID-19 has revealed the disparate impact on communities of color, the death of George Floyd has shown how too easily persons of color in our culture can become victims of racist acts of violence. We urge our political leaders at this time to join us as we repay our obligation to contribute to health equity, here in Washington state and across the U.S., through stronger public policy, so that George Floyd's death—and those of the thousands of victims disproportionately impacted by COVID-19—will not have been in vain.
</p>
<p><em>The <a href="https://www.wa-anesthesiology.org/">Washington State Society of Anesthesiologists</a> and the physician group, <a href="https://www.usap.com/locations/usap-washington">US Anesthesia Partners - Washington</a>, have signed on in support of this statement. The <a href="https://wphp.org/">Washington Physicians Health Program</a> have also signed on in support.
</em></p>
<p>
<strong>For more information, contact:</strong>
</p>
<p>
</p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
206.956.3633 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<p><strong>About the WSMA</strong></p>
<p>The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.</p>
</div> | 6/29/2020 2:30:11 PM | 6/2/2020 9:44:09 AM | 6/2/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| washingtons_transition_to_telemedicine_during_covid_19_not_without_challenges | Washington's Transition to Telemedicine During COVID-19 Not Without Challenges | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2020/washingtons_transition_to_telemedicine_during_covid_19_not_without_challenges | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>May 13, 2020</h5>
<h2>Washington's Transition to Telemedicine During COVID-19 Not Without Challenges</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE - Health care's response to COVID-19 necessitated that many health care services be delivered via telemedicine, significantly accelerating the transition to remote delivery of health care. Two months into the pandemic in Washington, doctors and medical practices are relaying to the WSMA their success stories - and some significant struggles - as they ramp up or adopt telemedicine delivery models.
</p>
<p>
Rodney Anderson, MD, president/CEO of Family Care Network, a network of local clinics located in Skagit and Whatcom counties, saw telemedicine visits go from about 1% in the beginning of March, to 60% only a month later.
</p>
<p>
"We completed our 10,000th telemedicine visit in early April," said Dr. Anderson.
</p>
<p>
In a recent WSMA statewide survey of physician practices, well over half were using telemedicine during the pandemic, and for those practices not using telemedicine, a clear majority were in the process of transitioning to using the technologies. The use of these remote care services was robust in those practices using them, with nearly a quarter using telemedicine for over half of their patient base. Approximately one out of ten practices using telemedicine indicated they used it exclusively when providing care.
</p>
<p>
For practices not using telemedicine, when asked why, a third (33%) pointed to a lack of clarity around reimbursement and another third (34%) indicated they encountered barriers to adopting the technologies. In a follow-up survey, when asked what challenges practices were experiencing with adopting or utilizing telemedicine, common responses included:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Technical/connectivity issues.</li>
<li>Patients having inadequate internet access.</li>
<li>Issues with patient age and experience with technology.</li>
<li>Appointments via telemedicine taking more time than in-person visits.</li>
<li>Struggles obtaining reimbursement from insurers.</li>
</ul>
<p>
Seeing the benefit of telemedicine to physicians and patients, the WSMA has successfully advanced key telemedicine bills in the legislature over the last several years. To facilitate the transition to offering telemedicine services in response to the outbreak, Gov. Inslee issued a proclamation that immediately - and temporarily - implemented Senate Bill 5385, requiring that physicians be paid for telemedicine services at the same rate as if those services had been provided in person. On May 4, the governor extended the order through May 31, but further action is needed to keep telemedicine payment parity in place until the operative provisions of SB 5385 take effect (as per the original bill) on Jan. 1, 2021.
</p>
<p>
As Washington state and the rest of the U.S. settle in for a protracted battle to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, the WSMA is urging both public and private health care policymakers to prioritize policy that facilitates the use of telemedicine technologies.
</p>
<p>
At the federal level, the WSMA is supporting the proposal from Rep. Kim Schrier (D-WA) that addresses another pain point frequently mentioned by physicians - reimbursement from self-insured ERISA plans for telemedicine services. HR 6644 would require ERISA plans to pay at parity with face-to-face services for care delivered via telemedicine.
</p>
<p>
The WSMA is also advocating for equal payment for another common remote technology - telephone visits. While not generally considered telemedicine, telephone visits are frequently used by physicians for some routine services, especially those delivered to the elderly, who may not have access to or prefer not to use a computer. Like telemedicine, telephone consults have become a vital strategy used by physicians to deliver patient care during the outbreak.
</p>
<p>
Like virtually all of our state's businesses, physician practices have been financially impacted by the pandemic. Washington physicians report that patients have delayed or cancelled appointments or procedures for other medical conditions, with some care being delayed pursuant to state orders restricting non-urgent procedures. Telemedicine payment parity has been a life raft for many of our state's practices, helping to keep practices afloat and facilitating access to care for patients across the state.
</p>
<p>
"The benefits of moving to telemedicine during an infectious disease outbreak like COVID-19 are well-understood: Patients can continue to see their physicians without the need to travel to a practice and risk exposure for the patient or the health care team," said William Hirota, MD, president of the Washington State Medical Association. "It's very important that everyone continue chronic care management and routine care without disruption or delay, to ensure that patients are being properly managed during this time of social distancing."
</p>
<p>
<strong>For more information, contact:</strong>
</p>
<p>
Cindy Sharpe<br />
813.244.2883 (office/mobile)<br />
<a href="mailto:cindy@wsma.org">cindy@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
206.956.3633 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<p><strong>About the WSMA</strong></p>
<p>The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.</p>
</div> | 5/13/2020 10:32:29 AM | 5/13/2020 10:28:37 AM | 5/13/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| washingtons_physician_practices_in_financial_crisis_new_wsma_survey | Washington's Physician Practices in Financial Crisis: New WSMA Survey | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2020/washingtons_physician_practices_in_financial_crisis_new_wsma_survey | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>May 5, 2020</h5>
<h2>Washington's Physician Practices in Financial Crisis: New WSMA Survey</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE - Results from a new survey* make clear the coronavirus pandemic is economically crippling physician practices in Washington, putting at risk the ability of patients to access care in communities across the state.
</p>
<p>
The Washington State Medical Association recently conducted an economic impact survey of physician clinics in Washington state. The results from 136 physician practices illustrate the severe economic hardship many doctors' offices are facing as they struggle to remain available to patients in the community.
</p>
<p>
The survey's results represent a devastating financial blow to community practices. More importantly, they represent an alarming threat to the ability of Washingtonians to access basic preventive, routine, and chronic health care services in their communities, as practices increasingly are compelled to cut back staff or services or even weigh their ability to stay open in response to the financial fallout of the COVID-19 crisis.
</p>
<p>
The economic crisis is multifaceted. Practices are experiencing a significant drop in volume of in-patient visits due to state restrictions on non-urgent procedures while at the same time they are burdened with unexpected costs associated with the pandemic (these include outlays for telemedicine equipment and software, increased costs for personal protective equipment, and interest on loans to try to keep their practices afloat). Even more concerning, patient volumes are down as a result of fears around seeking care for health conditions during the COVID-19 crisis.
</p>
<p>
"These new survey data are hugely concerning, both for the health of our patients and the health of our practices, as they go hand-in-hand," says William K. Hirota, MD, president of the WSMA. "This is the 'canary in the coal mine' of access to care for patients—if we don't act immediately to provide relief for these struggling practices, we will see downstream effects on the ability of our patients to access services in their communities."
</p>
<p>
On the financial impact on practices, survey respondents indicate, since March 1:
</p>
<ul>
<li>On average, patient volume has decreased 62%.</li>
<li>47% of practices have lost revenue up to $150k. 32% have lost between $150k and $500k. 13% have lost more than $1 million.</li>
<li>73% of practices report only having 1-6 weeks "days cash on hand," defined as the number of days a practice could pay its operating expenses with cash available. Ideally, practices should have 18 weeks' worth.</li>
</ul>
<p>
When asked what they expect if the status quo remains for the next 30 days, 30% of practices said they expect to lose an additional $100k to $250k, 21% expect to lose between $250k and $1 million, and 11% expect to lose more than $1 million in revenue.
</p>
<p>
As the survey indicates, practices are making decisions in response to financial constraints now. On the immediate impact on communities, survey respondents indicate, since March 1:
</p>
<ul>
<li>67% are changing office hours</li>
<li>55% are laying off or furloughing staff</li>
<li>41% have stopped taking a paycheck</li>
<li>21% have reduced physician salaries</li>
<li>Nearly 20% have closed temporarily</li>
</ul>
<p>
These data points represent a snapshot of what is happening in practices across the state and should serve as a wake-up call to both patients and policymakers. As the state begins reintroducing medical services, patients looking to book long overdue appointments may be in for a shock if practices have reduced hours or have closed as a result of the pandemic. And for our state policymakers, it's long understood that when patients are unable to access preventive, routine, or chronic primary care services in their community, they will delay care—leading to worsening health outcomes—or present in hospital emergency rooms, further stressing those critical care settings and raising costs for the health care system.
</p>
<p>
Finally, the survey indicates the precariousness of the federal response in providing support for physician practices:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Only roughly half of respondents (52%) who applied for a Paycheck Protection Program loan were successful in securing one.</li>
<li>Most (53%) did not receive funds from the initial $30 billion tranche of Provider Relief funds.</li>
<li>Overall, 58% of respondents said they were not able to source a continuous supply of PPE.</li>
</ul>
<p>
"While we are moving forward with recovery plans, COVID-19 will remain in our communities, along with a host of other diseases and care needs. The WSMA is raising a clarion call on policymakers to act," says Dr. Hirota. "Policymakers looked to the physician community to treat patients during the pandemic, and we did just that. The physician community is now looking to policymakers to help ensure that we can keep our doors open so we can continue that care."
</p>
<p>Interview opportunities with some physicians who participated in this survey are available.</p>
<p>*The latest WSMA Economic Impact Survey was sent on April 23 to 5,000 physicians working in independent (non-networked) physician clinics. Total respondents equaled 136.</p>
<p>
<strong>For more information, contact:</strong>
</p>
<p>
Cindy Sharpe<br />
813.244.2883 (office/mobile)<br />
<a href="mailto:cindy@wsma.org">cindy@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
206.956.3633 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<p><strong>About the WSMA</strong></p>
<p>The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.</p>
</div> | 5/5/2020 1:57:25 PM | 5/5/2020 11:51:43 AM | 5/5/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_thanks_governor_for_clarity_on_providing_medically_necessary_care | WSMA Thanks Governor for Clarity on Providing Medically Necessary Care | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2020/wsma_thanks_governor_for_clarity_on_providing_medically_necessary_care | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>April 29, 2020</h5>
<h2>WSMA Thanks Governor for Clarity on Providing Medically Necessary Care </h2>
<p>
SEATTLE - Acting at the urging of many in the medical and hospital community, Gov. Jay Inslee today issued an interpretive statement providing clarification on his <a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/20-24%2520COVID-19%2520non-urgent%2520medical%2520procedures%2520%2528tmp%2529.pdf?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=govdelivery" target="_blank">March 19 proclamation</a> that imposed restrictions on "non-urgent" medical procedures. This interpretive statement clarifies the initial proclamation's definition of "harm" and the intent of physicians using their medical judgment when determining whether a medically necessary procedure or surgery should be postponed.
</p>
<p>
Many physicians and hospitals found the original proclamation vague in its intent. With criminal penalties attached to the original order, clinicians were cautious about proceeding with some medical procedures, largely focusing on those that would result in death or disability if postponed for three months.
</p>
<p>
"Since the imposition of the order, we've heard numerous stories from physicians who describe situations where their patients with chronic health conditions are at home, in pain, and unable to schedule necessary procedures while their conditions worsen," said William K. Hirota, MD, president of the Washington State Medical Association. "Patients need assurances that they can, and should, access necessary health care, and physicians need assurance their clinical decisions won't lead to criminal penalties."
</p>
<p>
Some of the issues clarified in the <a href="https://www.informz.net/WSMA/data/images/Attachments/Non-Emergent_Procedure_Interpretive_Statement_4.29.20.pdf" target="_blank">newly released interpretive statement</a> include what constitutes "harm" when determining which procedures can safely be delayed for three months pursuant to the order. Furthermore, the statement emphasizes clinicians should use clinical judgment when determining whether to perform procedures considered to be non-urgent or elective.
</p>
<p>
The interpretive statement notes: "To clarify, the department leaves assessment of harm up to the individual clinician. In order to assess harm, clinicians should consider if a patient's illness or injury is causing significant pain, significant dysfunction in their daily life or work, or is either progressing, or at risk to progress."
</p>
<p>
The interpretive statement also outlines prerequisites for performing procedures and surgeries, such as maintaining appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) supplies and following the Department of Health guidance on the use of PPE.
</p>
<p>
"We appreciate the ongoing focus to ensure adequate PPE at our state's hospitals. As physicians and medical leaders, we fully recognize the importance of ensuring that we have proper PPE to protect both our workforce and our patients," Hirota said. "It's a delicate dance. It's vitally important to continue to have capacity and supplies in our system to treat COVID-19 patients, while also providing other necessary care to ensure our patients are maintaining their health and well-being."
</p>
<p>
The WSMA will continue to work with the governor, COVID-19 Health Systems Response Director V. Admiral Bono, MD, Secretary of Health John Wiesman and State Health Officer Kathy Lofy, MD, in preparing our state to move into recovery mode by reopening our health system in total.
</p>
<p><strong>For media inquiries, contact:</strong></p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
WSMA Communications<br />
206.956.3633 or <a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a></p>
<p>
<strong>About the Washington State Medical Association </strong><br />
The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine for more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
<p>
<strong>About the Washington Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics</strong><br />
The Washington Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics has advocated for the health and well-being of Washington's children and their families since 1934. The WCAAP represents over 1100 pediatric health care providers from across Washington State. Our mission is to optimize the health and well-being of children and their families while advancing pediatric care. WCAAP frames and leads the public discussion on child health issues, advances public policy to benefit children, and empowers pediatricians to provide quality medical care.
</p>
</div> | 4/30/2020 4:12:46 PM | 4/29/2020 2:40:40 PM | 4/29/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| the_wsma_calls_on_governor_to_clarify_where_and_when_care_may_be_delivered | The WSMA Calls on Governor to Clarify Where and When Care May Be Delivered | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2020/the_wsma_calls_on_governor_to_clarify_where_and_when_care_may_be_delivered | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>April 28, 2020</h5>
<h2>The WSMA Calls on Governor to Clarify Where and When Care May Be Delivered</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE - Acting at the urging of many in the medical community, including the Washington State Medical Association, Gov. Jay Inslee issued <a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-24%252520COVID-19%252520non-urgent%252520medical%252520procedures%252520%252528tmp%252529.pdf">Proclamation 20-24</a> on March 19, imposing restrictions on "non-urgent" medical procedures. The WSMA today is urging Gov. Inslee to clarify the application of his nonurgent procedure delay order so that physicians have clear direction on the conditions under which patient care may be delivered.
</p>
<p>
Acting out of the abundance of caution, many physicians have necessarily opted to postpone surgeries to comply with the order and conserve resources, especially personal protective equipment (PPE). In other cases, patients have postponed routine care out of uncertainty about what care can be received, as well as whether it's safe to go to the clinic.
</p>
<p>
"Since the imposition of the order, we've heard numerous stories from physicians who describe situations where their patients with chronic health conditions are at home, in pain, and unable to schedule necessary procedures while their conditions worsen," said William K. Hirota, MD, president of the WSMA. "Patients need assurances that they can, and should, access necessary health care, and physicians need assurance their clinical decisions won't lead to criminal penalties."
</p>
<p>
Some of the issues needing clarification include defining what constitutes "harm" in determining which procedures can safely be delayed for three months pursuant to the order. Furthermore, clinicians should be able to use clinical judgment to determine performance of procedures considered to be non-urgent or "elective."
</p>
<p>
In addition to asking for clarification of the elective procedures proclamation, the WSMA submitted a proposal to the governor and the legislature that asks for assurance that physicians won't be held civilly liable for exercising their clinical judgment when providing needed care during the pandemic. The WSMA's proposal would provide health care professionals immunity from civil liability for any adverse outcome alleged to have been sustained because of any acts or omissions undertaken in good faith while providing health care services during emergencies, such as this COVID-19 pandemic. The proposal would extend the same liability protections that are currently afforded to <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=70.15">emergency volunteer health practitioners</a> while an emergency declaration is in effect to physicians and other providers in our state who are responding to the pandemic.
</p>
<p>
Several states have already taken steps to address this threat, including New York, Wisconsin and Massachusetts. "There are criminal penalties for treating a patient outside of compliance with the order. And there is potential civil liability for delivering care during the pandemic, as well as for delaying care where it results in adverse health outcomes. That's why it's so important that physicians get clarity on delay order, as well as liability protections for how care is having to be delivered during the pandemic," Dr. Hirota said. "Physicians need to be able to proceed with certainty and without fear of retribution, so that patients can get the care they need."
</p>
<p>
Dr. Hirota continued, "It's deeply troubling to think that patients are not receiving care they need because they fear accessing needed treatment or because physicians, acting out of an abundance of caution, are applying too strict of an interpretation on the governor's proclamation limiting elective or non-urgent procedures. The health care community needs clarity now, so that physicians can operate with certainty, and patients can get the care they need."
</p>
<p>
For more information, contact:
</p>
<p>
Cindy Sharpe<br />
813.244.2883 (office/mobile)<br />
<a href="mailto:cindy@wsma.org">cindy@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
206.956.3633 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<p><strong>About the WSMA</strong></p>
<p>The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.</p>
</div> | 4/28/2020 11:00:03 AM | 4/28/2020 8:49:39 AM | 4/28/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| survey_shows_some_practices_may_not_survive_coronavirus_outbreak | Survey Shows Some Practices May Not Survive Coronavirus Outbreak | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2020/survey_shows_some_practices_may_not_survive_coronavirus_outbreak | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>April 20, 2020</h5>
<h2>Survey Shows Some Practices May Not Survive Coronavirus Outbreak</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE - Washington state's health care community is at a critical juncture, when many physicians are questioning whether their practice or clinic will survive the coronavirus outbreak.
</p>
<p>
The Washington State Medical Association recently completed a snapshot survey of physician members in Washington state to determine how the coronavirus pandemic has affected physician practices, and what they believe the future holds for them.
</p>
<p>
The WSMA survey* topline results found that:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Almost all (99.4%) of those who responded report a decrease in patient volume, resulting in millions in dollars of lost revenue.</li>
<li>Because of the reduction in patient volume since March 1, a majority of practices (63%) are laying off or furloughing staff, 61% have changed office hours, and 26% have closed temporarily, with two practices reporting they have closed permanently.</li>
<li>63% of the respondents in looking at the next three months, believe their patient volumes will decrease, expecting revenue losses.</li>
<li>In a follow-up question to the initial respondents (with 134 of them responding), the greatest number of them, 30.6%, said they have only three to four weeks of "day's cash on hand," defined as the number of days the practice can pay its operating expenses with cash available. Another 19.4% said they had seven to eight weeks of "cash on hand." (Eighteen weeks of cash on hand is the minimum an average health care facility needs to pay operating expenses.)</li>
</ul>
<p>
Family Medicine of Grays Harbor has been forced to close some offices, has reduced office hours, and has had to lay off or furlough staff. When asked how this will affect their ability to reopen completely after COVID-19, Juliette Erickson, MD, said, "[We are] not sure yet, but very likely we will have to close permanently. We had to let go 94 staff members and close four of our eight offices. And this is only just beginning."
</p>
<p>
"The WSMA is concerned that many patients will lose access to care in their communities if we neglect to prioritize local, community-based physician practices," said Jennifer Hanscom, CEO of the WSMA, representing 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, residents, and medical students. "These community practices are critically needed to prevent increasing volume and strain on hospital emergency departments, and in the long term, to support the ability of patients to access basic care in their communities."
</p>
<p>
The WSMA is urging support for the physician community by advocating for measures that could help keep practices open and patient care widely available, in particular for those who live in rural communities. Some of these measures include:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Increase financial assistance to ambulatory clinics through the CARES Act Public Health and Social Services Emergency Fund, to ensure patients can access routine, chronic, and acute care needs during and after the pandemic.</li>
<li>Increase funding for the CARES Act Small Business Administration's forgivable loans program and give priority to distressed physician practices.</li>
<li>Ramp up mass production of personal protective equipment and testing kits for health care workers and emergency responders in the state's "hot zones."</li>
<li>Increase Medicaid rates to Medicare levels for all specialties during the duration of the COVID-19 public health emergency.</li>
<li>Allow Medicare reimbursement up to 110% of Medicare payment rates for physicians and hospitals caring for uninsured patients with a COVID-19 diagnosis.</li>
<li>Enact grant programs to sustain physician practices, such as the "Immediate Relief for Rural Facilities and Providers Act of 2020" amendment introduced by Senators Bennett and Barrasso.</li>
<li>Urge the Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services to withdraw the proposed Medicaid Fiscal Accountability Rule that would cut state and federal Medicaid funding by as much as 50 percent in all 50 states.</li>
</ul>
<p>
"Physician practices are by no means alone, but it is essential that they are supported to ensure access to care during the pandemic - and into the future," Hanscom said. "With Washington's 'stay home, stay healthy' order extended and our state's outpatient practices, ambulatory surgery centers, and other facilities complying with the ban on nonurgent surgeries and procedures, many physician practices in Washington state face a stark reality: Even with the financial support from the CARES Act, the survival of their clinic is in question."
</p>
<p>
*The survey was shared in late March with 5,000 physicians working in independent (non-networked) physician clinics. Total respondents equaled 384. After adjusting for multiple answers per practice site, the total response number was 311. The follow up question was asked on April 8.
</p>
<p>
<strong>For more information, contact:</strong>
</p>
<p>
Cindy Sharpe<br />
813.244.2883 (office/mobile)<br />
<a href="mailto:cindy@wsma.org">cindy@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
206.956.3633 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<p><strong>About the WSMA</strong></p>
<p>The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.</p>
</div> | 5/5/2020 12:46:14 PM | 5/5/2020 12:44:53 PM | 4/20/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| WSMA_Supports_Gov._Inslee_s_Stay_Home_and_Stay_Healthy_Order_in__Response_to_COVID-19 | WSMA Supports Gov. Inslee’s Stay Home and Stay Healthy Order in Response to COVID-19 | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2020/WSMA_Supports_Gov._Inslee_s_Stay_Home_and_Stay_Healthy_Order_in__Response_to_COVID-19 | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>March 23, 2020</h5>
<h2>WSMA Supports Gov. Inslee's "Stay Home and Stay Healthy" Order in
Response to COVID-19</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE - The Washington State Medical Association, representing physicians and physician assistants across the state - many of whom are serving on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic - supports Washington State Gov. Jay Inslee's action today mandating the closure of non-essential businesses and ordering Washington residents to stay at home and avoid any unnecessary travel. The policy strengthens the state's current COVID-19 emergency response by requiring all Washingtonians to "stay home and stay healthy" unless pursuing an "essential need."
</p>
<p>
"We do not currently have the capability to test and isolate those infected with the virus, so we must do all that we can to blunt the curve," says William K. Hirota, MD, president of the association. "The data and modeling are clear and we are learning from the experience of South Korea and China, and we must act now to minimize the damage. We thank the governor for taking this courageous step and we join him in urging the public to listen."
</p>
<p>
Given the virus' contagiousness during a protracted incubation period—and dramatic undertesting, which has crippled public health's ability to trace and contain infections—experts agree that the next few weeks and months will see a steady rise of patients presenting at ICUs and EDs with severe COVID-19 illness. The influx of COVID-19 patients threatens to overwhelm Washington state's hospitals and emergency responders, which has led to increasingly stronger pronouncements by the governor and public health leaders urging Washingtonians to stay home and help to slow the virus' transmission.
</p>
<p>
"We recognize the once-in-a-lifetime challenge this is for everybody, health care workers and public alike," added Dr. Hirota. "There will be economic fallout for all of society, but our initial efforts should be to keep our health care system intact and capable of handling the surge to come. We also need to protect the health of our doctors, nurses, and first responders"
</p>
<p>
Washington state also faces a severe shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE)—critical protection for emergency care and frontline health care personnel during the pandemic, and also for physician practices and clinics throughout the state, whose ability to screen and treat potential COVID-19 patients will be crucial in alleviating pressure on our state's hospitals.
</p>
<p>
"This really is a perfect storm—we're facing a shortage of PPE, testing, ventilators in ICUs to help with respiratory illness, even health care workers, as more of our colleagues fall ill or test positive," says Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD, president-elect of the association and an emergency medicine physician with Team Health/CHI Franciscan. "It's radically impacting health care and it's severely altering the lives of our patients, who are facing major disruption in their lives. We are truly all in this together. The governor's announcement today was the right step—and we're looking forward to working with him and our public health leaders on the next steps: getting PPE out to our clinics, expansion of COVID testing, and strategies to address the social determinants of health, including the viability of the health system as a whole, just to name a few."
</p>
<p>
</p>
<p>
For more information, contact:
</p>
<p>
Cindy Sharpe<br />
813.244.2883 (office/mobile)<br />
<a href="mailto:cindy@wsma.org">cindy@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
206.956.3633 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<p><strong>About the WSMA</strong></p>
<p>The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.</p>
</div> | 3/23/2020 7:51:02 PM | 3/23/2020 6:44:25 PM | 3/23/2020 7:51:02 PM |