| 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 |
| Physicians_Urge_Governor_to_Allow_Telemedicine_Payment_Parity_Bill_to_Go_into_Effect_Immediately_ | Physicians Urge Governor to Allow Telemedicine Payment Parity Bill to Go into Effect Immediately | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2020/Physicians_Urge_Governor_to_Allow_Telemedicine_Payment_Parity_Bill_to_Go_into_Effect_Immediately_ | <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 21, 2020</h5>
<h2>Physicians Urge Governor to Allow Telemedicine Payment Parity Bill to Go Into Effect Immediately</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE - The Washington State Medical Association (WSMA) and Washington Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (WCAAP) are urging Gov. Jay Inslee and Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler to direct insurance companies and state payers to honor parity billing under Senate Bill 5385 for telemedicine services, effective immediately. SB 5385, which passed in the state legislature on March 9, requires that physicians be paid for telemedicine services at the same rate as if those services had been provided in person, but those provisions do not go into effect until Jan. 1, 2021.
</p>
<p>
“It is essential that families have uninterrupted access to preventive and acute health care during the COVID-19 outbreak,†says Elizabeth Meade, MD, FAAP, president of the Washington Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics. “This is especially important for families with very young children. We want patients who truly need to be seen in clinic, like children under age two who need vaccines, to come in, and clinics have implemented strict protocols to maintain a safe and healthy environment during this outbreak. But there are patients who can and should be cared for at home. With telemedicine parity, patients for whom telemedicine is appropriate can receive care from their homes to slow community spread of illness while helping alleviate the financial peril practices are facing.â€
</p>
<p>
“With the governor’s recent action to stop elective surgeries and non-emergent procedures, it is critical that we stay in contact with our patients should an emergent situation develop; especially for our chronic care, vulnerable, and high-risk patients†said William K. Hirota, MD, president of the Washington State Medical Association.
</p>
<p>
Dr. Hirota added, “Physicians and practices need to be able to employ telehealth for their COVID-19 response as well to allow for safe screening and to direct patients to the right site of care for their medical needs. Without the flexibilities provided by telehealth, patients will end up in our emergency rooms and urgent care clinics, adding to the demands on these facilities and risking exposure to COVID-19 or other communicable diseases."</p>
<p>
Washington state’s health care system is already feeling the strain of the COVID-19 pandemic, and it is imperative that we take immediate steps to reduce the burden of the outbreak and protect our health care system. Many health care practices are facing financial jeopardy as our communities practice social distancing and avoid visiting health care providers for care, and as surgeries and elective procedures are postponed to preserve personal protective equipment (PPE) for frontline health care workers fighting COVID-19. At the same time, it is crucial that practices be able to provide a safe environment and continuity of care for their patients.
</p>
<p>
“We need payment parity now, not tomorrow,†says Dr. Hirota. “Just as we’re worried for our patients’ and our colleagues’ health, we’re worried about the health of our smaller practices. Opening up access to care delivery pathways can help relieve some of the financial strain these practices are under.â€
</p>
<p>
“If physician practices downsize or close, more care will shift to hospitals that are already beyond capacity,†says Dr. Meade. “Patients will go without care for minor ailments and illnesses, resulting in worse health outcomes down the road. And critical routine care such as immunizations may be skipped, with potentially disastrous consequences.â€
</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> | 3/27/2020 3:29:58 PM | 3/21/2020 10:11:58 AM | 3/21/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| the_wsma_state_specialty_and_county_societies_support_gov_inslees_decision_on_elective_surgeries | The WSMA, State Specialty and County Societies Support Gov. Inslee's Decision on Elective Surgeries | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2020/the_wsma_state_specialty_and_county_societies_support_gov_inslees_decision_on_elective_surgeries | <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 20, 2020</h5>
<h2>The WSMA, State Specialty and County Societies Support Gov. Inslee's Decision on Elective Surgeries</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE - Washington state Governor Jay Inslee has issued a proclamation that prohibits all hospitals, ambulatory surgery facilities, dental, orthodontic and endodontic offices in Washington state from providing health care services, procedures, and surgeries that, if delayed, are not anticipated to cause harm to the patient within the next three months, with some exceptions.
</p>
<p>
As the facts and situation around novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 and its associated respiratory illness, COVID-19, continue to evolve, and in step with Gov. Inslee's proclamation, the WSMA and over 20 state specialty and county medical societies have issued recommended guidance for physicians in Washington state that follows the governor's mandate.
</p>
<p>
"This is not guidance that we issue lightly," said Bill Hirota, M.D., president of the WSMA. "The spread of COVID-19 will be determined by our collective actions now. We believe by taking these recommended precautions, physicians can make a difference in helping to preserve the limited supply of PPE critical for emergency care and frontline health care personnel responding to the pandemic, and keeping themselves, their patients, and their communities safe."
</p>
<p>
Examples of procedures to delay include joint replacements, most cataract and lens surgeries, cosmetic procedures and other non-urgent procedures.
</p>
<p>
The order does not apply to outpatient visits delivered in hospital-based clinics.
</p>
<p>
Also exempt are patients with emergency/urgent needs like heart attacks, strokes or motor vehicle accidents, and surgeries that, if not performed, would worsen the patient's condition.
</p>
<p>
WSMA is also encouraging practices to move routine care and chronic care management to telehealth.
</p>
<p>
"As health care professionals, we all have a role to play in slowing the spread of COVID-19 and 'flattening the curve,' by following sound scientific and public health advice, helping to limit infections, and slowing the spread of the virus," Hirota said.
</p>
<p>
<strong>Signing in support of this statement:</strong><br />
Benton Franklin County Medical Society<br />
Clark County Medical Society<br />
Grays Harbor County Medical Society<br />
Jefferson County Medical Society<br />
King County Medical Society<br />
Kitsap County Medical Society<br />
Northwest Washington Medical Society<br />
Spokane County Medical Society<br />
Thurston-Mason County Medical Society<br />
Washington Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons<br />
Washington Academy of Family Physicians<br />
Washington Academy of Physician Assistants<br />
Washington Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics<br />
Washington Chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians<br />
Washington Chapter of the American College of Physicians<br />
Washington State Chapter of the American College of Surgeons<br />
Washington State Council of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry<br />
Washington State Medical Oncology Society<br />
Washington State Orthopaedic Association<br />
Washington State Radiological Society<br />
Washington State Society for Post Acute and Long Term Medicine<br />
Washington State Urology Society<br />
Yakima County Medical Society
</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 nearly 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> | 3/20/2020 11:54:12 AM | 3/20/2020 11:43:45 AM | 3/20/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| WSMA_Statement_on_COVID-19 | WSMA Statement on COVID-19 | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2020/WSMA_Statement_on_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 6, 2020</h5>
<h2>
WSMA Statement on COVID-19 </h2>
<p>The physicians of Washington state want to reassure our patients as our state experiences an outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19). As you know, physicians treat patients with illnesses, diseases, broken bones and the like every day.</p>
<p>We are still learning about this new novel virus, but what we do know now is that by following the safety precautions being given by our public health leaders, you can protect yourself and your family from contracting and spreading the virus. For those that do contract the virus, the vast majority won’t require medical treatment or testing for COVID-19—for healthy younger or middle-aged individuals, symptoms will likely be mild, and self-quarantining at home, avoiding other people where possible, washing hands, etc., should be sufficient to recover and minimize further spread of the infection</p>
<p>We want to emphasize that just because you're sick, you don't necessarily need to be tested; as testing becomes more widely available, we want to focus on keeping it available to those at highest risk for health complications.</p>
<p>Here’s what you should know:</p>
<p><strong>First</strong>, our state’s public health responders and health care community are working around the clock to contain its spread, and—with your help—we believe we can slow its transmission.</p>
<p><strong>Second</strong>, for those of you who may experience symptoms that are associated with the virus, most likely you won’t need medical treatment or even need testing for COVID-19. Your symptoms will hopefully be mild and you and your family will benefit from the healthy practices you should follow for any viral infection, including:</p>
<ul>
<li>Washing your hands.</li>
<li>Covering your mouth with a tissue when you cough then throwing the tissue away.</li>
<li>If you feel sick, staying home and letting the virus run its course, using over-the-counter medicines to help relieve your symptoms.</li>
<li>Frequently cleaning and disinfecting objects and surfaces around your home.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Third</strong>, the time to call your doctor is if you develop a high fever or severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing. If you do need to visit your doctor, make sure the office knows you may have COVID-19, so that they can take steps to prevent others from being exposed or infected.</p>
<p><strong>Fourth</strong>, if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, you may not need to be tested for COVID-19. The CDC is recommending testing for people at high risk for health complications, people who have been in close contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19, or people who have recently traveled to areas with ongoing spread of the virus. While more COVID-19 testing is becoming available, capacity is still limited. Please be understanding with physicians and office staff if it’s determined COVID-19 testing isn’t right for you. Have confidence that your care team will do everything possible to give you the treatment you need to help you feel better.</p>
<p><strong>Fifth</strong>, as we observe these precautions, remember that we’re all in this together. Let’s stay calm, take care of ourselves and each other, and do our best to keep our communities healthy and strong.</p>
<p>If you still have questions, call the Department of Health call center at 1.800.525.0127. It’s open from 6 a.m.-10 p.m., seven days a week.</p>
<p><strong>For more information, contact:</strong><br />
<br />
Graham Short<br />
WSMA Associate Director of Communications<br />
206.956.3633&nbsp;
<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 nearly 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> | 3/6/2020 2:48:05 PM | 3/6/2020 10:54:32 AM | 3/6/2020 2:48:05 PM |
| wcaap_and_wsma_respond_to_us_supreme_court_public_charge_ruling | WCAAP and WSMA Respond to U.S. Supreme Court Public Charge Ruling | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2020/wcaap_and_wsma_respond_to_us_supreme_court_public_charge_ruling | <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 29, 2020</h5>
<h2>WCAAP and WSMA Respond to U.S. Supreme Court Public Charge Ruling</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE - The Washington Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatricians (WCAAP) and the Washington State Medical Association (WSMA) issued the following statement today:
</p>
<p>
"We know that this public charge policy has already harmed children in our state and it is disappointing that the Supreme Court would affirm it," says Elizabeth Meade, MD, FAAP, president of the WCAAP. "When families fear utilizing programs they are eligible for that help them access stable housing, adequate food, and health care, children suffer. These are services that fill the most basic needs children require in order to grow, develop, and feel safe."
</p>
<p>
"We are dismayed by the Court's decision this week," William Hirota, MD, MHA, president of the WSMA. "The Trump administration's public charge rule essentially puts basic health care out of reach for immigrants and their families—hundreds of thousands in Washington state alone. These are individuals who are legally in the state, many gainfully employed, and many with children, and who are now being told 'the doctor is not in—not for you, and not for your family.' The WSMA supports access to safe, affordable health care for all Washingtonians—not just a select few."
</p>
<p>
Washington state, led by Attorney General Bob Ferguson, and 13 other states filed a lawsuit in 2019 to block the public charge rule. The WSMA and WCAAP, along with the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Physicians, and the American Medical Association, filed an amicus brief supporting the lawsuit, which is currently moving forward in the courts.
</p>
<p><strong>For more information, contact:</strong></p>
<p>
Jennifer Donahue<br />
Washington Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics<br />
Communications Manager<br />
Cell: 206.713.1087<br />
Email: <a href="mailto:jdonahue@wcaap.org">jdonahue@wcaap.org</a>
</p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
Washington State Medical Association<br />
Associate Director of Communications <br />
Cell: 206.329.6851<br />
Email: <a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a>
</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>
<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>
</div> | 1/29/2020 12:38:55 PM | 1/29/2020 10:47:57 AM | 1/29/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| honoring_choices_pacific_northwest_ucsf_granted_advance_care_planning_award | Honoring Choices Pacific Northwest & UCSF Granted Advance Care Planning Award | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2020/honoring_choices_pacific_northwest_ucsf_granted_advance_care_planning_award | <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 16, 2020</h5>
<h2>Honoring Choices Pacific Northwest &amp; UCSF Granted Advance Care Planning Award</h2>
<p>
</p>
<p>
SEATTLE - Honoring Choices Pacific Northwest (Honoring Choices PNW) and a team at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) have been granted an award to distribute Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI)-funded, evidenced-based advance care planning resources to vulnerable and Spanish-speaking communities in Washington state. The award was approved through the Eugene Washington PCORI Engagement Awards program, an initiative of PCORI.
</p>
<p>
Advance care planning allows people to prepare for future medical decision-making and communicate their values, goals and preferences for that care. With this award, UCSF researchers will collaborate with Honoring Choices PNW to further engage with community and health care partners across Washington and to build the infrastructure to disseminate and implement the PREPARE online program and the <a href="https://prepareforyourcare.org/advance-directive">PREPARE easy-to-read advance directives</a>. Honoring Choices PNW is a joint initiative of the Washington State Medical Association Foundation for Health Care Improvement and Washington State Hospital Association with established partnerships in health care and community organizations across the state.
</p>
<p>
The PREPARE online program and advance directives have been specifically developed to help Englishand Spanish-speaking older adults engage in advance care planning. PREPARE is a free, bilingual, online program that uses lay language and video stories to guide users through five advance care planning steps to help them choose a medical decision maker, explore their wishes and learn how to discuss end of life care with family, friends and medical providers. The site also provides tools to create privacy protected, legally binding advance directives for all 50 states, in English and Spanish. Two randomized trials in over 1,400 English and Spanish-speaking patients, funded by PCORI and the National Institutes of Health, have demonstrated the efficacy of the PREPARE program in empowering diverse older adults in advance care planning conversations and increasing advance care planning documentation in the medical record.
</p>
<p>
Community and health care partners in Washington are invited to engage with this work. If you are interested in partnering with Honoring Choices PNW and UCSF, please contact <a href="mailto:info@honoringchoicespnw.org">info@honoringchoicespnw.org</a>.
</p>
<p>
"We are excited to use this award to connect with underserved communities in our state," Honoring Choices PNW Senior Director Mary Catlin said. "Everyone deserves to receive care that honors their values and preferences. Distributing the PCORI-funded PREPARE program will provide Washington residents with the tools needed to ensure that their wishes are respected throughout their care planning and at the end-of-life."
</p>
<p>
"Now that our randomized trials have demonstrated that the PREPARE program can empower diverse older adults to engage in advance care planning, we are excited to partner with Honoring Choices PNW and the Washington state hospital and medical associations to get these easy-to-read and easy-to-use materials to diverse English and Spanish-speaking communities in Washington," UCSF Professor of Medicine and Geriatrician and Palliative Medicine Physician Rebecca Sudore said.
</p>
<p>
</p>
<p><strong>For more information, contact:</strong></p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
Washington State Medical Association<br />
206.956.3633&nbsp;<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>&nbsp;</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 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 State Hospital Association</strong></p>
<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 www.wsha.org for more information.
</p>
<p><strong>About Honoring Choices Pacific Northwest </strong></p>
<p>
Honoring Choices® Pacific Northwest is a joint initiative between the Washington State Hospital Association and Washington State Medical Association Foundation for Healthcare 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. Visit www.honoringchoicespnw.org for more information.
</p>
</div> | 2/10/2020 9:25:55 AM | 1/23/2020 9:51:42 AM | 1/16/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| king_county_medical_society_and_washington_state_medical_association_endorse_ban_on_flavored_e_cigar | King County Medical Society and WSMA Endorse Ban on Flavored E-Cigarettes | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2019/October/king_county_medical_society_and_washington_state_medical_association_endorse_ban_on_flavored_e_cigar | <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 21, 2019</h5>
<h2>King County Medical Society and Washington State Medical Association Endorse Ban on Flavored E-Cigarettes </h2>
<p>
Seattle, Wash. - The members of the Washington State Medical Association (WSMA) House of Delegates have voted overwhelmingly to adopt a proposal from King County Medical Society advocating for a ban on the sale of flavored e-cigarettes in Washington state. The vote took place Sunday, Oct. 13, 2019 at the WSMA's annual meeting held in SeaTac.
</p>
<p>
In September, Gov. Jay Inslee issued an executive order asking the state board of health to impose an emergency temporary ban on flavored vaping products. The board of health unanimously approved the executive order, which institutes the temporary ban on the products through Feb. 7, 2020. The health board's decision to temporarily ban flavored vape products is similar to recent moves made in Michigan and New York. The King County Medical Society resolution adopted by the WSMA went further and called for a permanent ban of all flavored e-cigarette products.
</p>
<p>
Through adoption of the resolution, the WSMA joins the King County Medical Society, The American Lung Association, The American College of Physicians, and dozens of leading health experts who have announced their endorsement of such a ban. Supporters include hospitals, physicians, medical experts, patients, and health care professionals in addition to bipartisan legislators.
</p>
<p>
Newly voted into the WSMA's board of trustees, King County Medical Society President and author of the resolution Teresa Girolami, MD, clearly stated that, "I am proud of the work we are doing, and that the resolution for a permanent ban was passed unanimously and adopted by the WSMA. We look forward to the WSMA's AMA representatives presenting the resolution to the entire national AMA delegation very soon. KCMS is very proud to have authored this timely and important resolution that will protect our youth."
</p>
<p>
"The rise in vaping seen in Washington's kids and in kids across the nation should have everyone alarmed—not just physicians," said Bill Hirota, MD, WSMA's newly elected president. "Vaping induced injuries and deaths are increasingly being reported and represent a significant public health concern. We stand with our colleagues at King County Medical Society and across health care who are united in this fight to protect our kids and patients from harm."
</p>
<p>
</p>
<p>
</p>
<p><strong>For more information, contact:</strong><br />
<br />
Graham Short<br />
WSMA Associate Director of Communications<br />
206.956.3633&nbsp;
<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a></p>
<p><strong>About the WSMA&nbsp;</strong><br />
The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians and medical students in Washington state with the vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.</p>
</div> | 10/21/2019 9:54:20 AM | 10/21/2019 9:09:13 AM | 10/21/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| WSMA_Presents_Patient_Safety_Award_to_Community_Health_Center_of_Snohomish_County | WSMA Presents Patient Safety Award to Community Health Center of Snohomish County | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2019/October/WSMA_Presents_Patient_Safety_Award_to_Community_Health_Center_of_Snohomish_County | <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 15, 2019</h5>
<h2>
WSMA Presents Patient Safety Award to Community Health Center of Snohomish County</h2>
<p>
Seattle, Wash.&nbsp;-&nbsp;The Community Health Center of Snohomish County has been recognized by the Washington State Medical Association for its program to expand access to treatment for patients with opioid use disorder. The health center was presented the William O. Robertson, MD Patient Safety Award of Excellence on Saturday, Oct. 12 at the medical association's annual meeting at the Hilton Seattle Airport &amp; Conference Center in SeaTac.
</p>
<p>
Recognizing that medication-assisted treatment (MAT) has repeatedly been shown to be safe and effective for patients with opioid use disorder, and that there was a dearth of medical providers who had the necessary training to provide the treatment, the health center set out to establish a comprehensive MAT program. As part of the program, the health center:
</p>
<ul>
<li>
Required primary care providers who see adult patients to complete MAT waiver training.
</li>
<li>
Developed a MAT reporting and tracking system.
</li>
<li>
Redesigned its MAT intake process to use a team-based approach so that the patient meets with an RN, a chemical dependency specialist, and then the physician.
</li>
<li>
Reduced stigma often attached to opioid use disorder by encouraging its providers to think about their patients with OUD in the same way they think about patients with diabetes.
</li>
</ul>
<p>
The health center currently has 482 active patients on MAT, and that number grows by approximately 20 each month. “These community members are no longer using opioids and are at lower risk for HIV, Hep B and C, syphilis, and TB,†said WSMA Past President Donna Smith, MD, when presenting the award during a dinner celebration at the meeting. “They are starting to put their lives back together.â€
</p>
<p>
Accepting the award on behalf of the health center was Thomas Tocher, MD, a WSMA-member and an internist with the health center.
</p>
<p>
The WSMA established its William O. Robertson, MD Patient Safety Awards in 2005 to recognize and share innovative patient safety initiatives in the ambulatory care setting. The award was named after another WSMA past president, the late Dr. William O. Robertson, who was a champion for patient safety, risk management, and quality improvement throughout his long and distinguished career.
</p>
<p><strong>For more information, contact:</strong><br />
<br />
Graham Short<br />
WSMA Associate Director of Communications<br />
206.956.3633&nbsp;
<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 nearly 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> | 10/15/2019 11:26:14 AM | 10/15/2019 10:10:11 AM | 10/15/2019 11:26:13 AM |
| Representative_Harris_Receives_Legislator_of_The_Year_Award_from_State_Medical_Association | Representative Harris Receives Legislator of The Year Award from State Medical Association | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2019/October/Representative_Harris_Receives_Legislator_of_The_Year_Award_from_State_Medical_Association | <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 15, 2019</h5>
<h2>
Representative Harris Receives Legislator of The Year Award from State Medical Association</h2>
<p>
Seattle, Wash.&nbsp;-&nbsp;Representative Paul Harris, representing the 17th Legislative District, serving eastern Vancouver and parts of southwest Clark County, has been named 2019 Legislator of the Year by the Washington State Medical Association for his support of the association's 2019 legislative efforts. He received the award from WSMA Past President Nick Rajacich, MD, on Saturday, Oct. 12 during the association’s annual meeting in SeaTac.
</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. Rep. Harris’ accomplishments of relevance to the WSMA include:
</p>
<ul>
<li>
Prime sponsorship of legislation removing the personal/philosophical exemption for the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Despite well-organized opposition, he worked diligently with his colleagues across the aisle to shepherd the passage of this bill.
</li>
<li>
Prime sponsorship of legislation raising the purchasing age of tobacco to age 21. Rep. Harris led the multi-year effort in the state Legislature on this WSMA priority public health issue.
</li>
</ul>
<p>
Rep. Harris also supported the WSMA and Washington physicians by opposing legislation that would have negative repercussions for patients’ access to care as well as physician practices, including:
</p>
<ul>
<li>
Legislation imposing a 20 percent surcharge on the business and occupation professional services tax paid by independent physician practices.
</li>
<li>
Legislation expanding exposure to liability for physicians, physician assistants, medical group practices and other providers by broadening who can sue in cases of wrongful death and what types of damages they can recover.
</li>
</ul>
<p>
“The WSMA can count on Representative Harris to consider the impact of legislation and budget issues on Washington’s physician community,†said Dr. Rajacich, who chairs WAMPAC, the association’s political action committee. “Overall, the advocacy and leadership demonstrated by Rep. Harris on issues impacting public health and practicing physicians was unrivaled during the 2019 legislative session.â€
</p>
<p><strong>For more information, contact:</strong><br />
<br />
Graham Short<br />
WSMA Associate Director of Communications<br />
206.956.3633&nbsp;
<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 nearly 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> | 10/15/2019 11:25:23 AM | 10/15/2019 9:12:43 AM | 10/15/2019 11:25:22 AM |
| Washington_State_Medical_Association_Recognizes_Member_Physicians_for_Exemplary_Service | Washington State Medical Association Recognizes Member Physicians for Exemplary Service | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2019/October/Washington_State_Medical_Association_Recognizes_Member_Physicians_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>October 15, 2019</h5>
<h2>
Washington State Medical Association Recognizes Member Physicians for Exemplary Service</h2>
<p>
Seattle, Wash.&nbsp;-&nbsp;Seven physician members and one community program have been recognized by the Washington State Medical Association for going above and beyond the call of duty in leadership, contributions, and service to the health of the profession and our citizens. The recognitions were part of the medical association's new "Apple Awards," program, and the awards were presented at the 2019 WSMA Annual Meeting in SeaTac on Saturday, Oct. 12.
</p>
<p>
Recipients of the 2019 Apple Awards included:
</p>
<p>
<strong>Darryl Potyk, MD</strong>, Spokane internist, 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. Dr. Potyk is the chief of medical education for UW School of Medicine-Gonzaga University Regional Health Partnership and associate dean for Eastern Washington for the UW School of Medicine.
</p>
<p>
<strong>Matthew Grierson, MD</strong>, Seattle physiatrist, 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). Dr. Grierson practices at the Seattle Spine &amp; Sports Medicine clinic.
</p>
<p>
Five WSMA members received the Grassroots Advocate Award, which recognizes their advocacy efforts and activities supporting WSMA legislative priorities. They include:
</p>
<p>
<strong>Avanti Bergquist, MD</strong>, Bellevue psychiatrist, for her support of mental health priorities; <strong>James Burkman, MD</strong>, Seattle anesthesiologist, for his work helping the association find a solution protecting patients from unnecessary balance bills; <strong>Lucinda Grande, MD</strong>, Olympia family physician, for her advocacy around opioid use disorder treatment; <strong>Alan Melnick, MD</strong>, Vancouver preventative medicine physician and Clark County public health officer, for his support of childhood immunizations; and <strong>Chelsea Unruh, MD</strong>, Olympia family physician, for their support of issues impacting independent physician practices.
</p>
<p>
The seventh Apple Award, the Community Unsung Hero Award, recognizes community contributions to the health and wellness of our state’s citizens and was presented to Pierce County Project Access. PCPA received the award in recognition of its mission to provide donated care for patients in need in Pierce County.
</p>
<p>
“Our members are heroes every day in our book,†said WSMA’s outgoing 2019 president, Tom Schaaf, MD, who presented the awards during the opening session of the association’s annual House of Delegates at the Hilton Seattle Airport &amp; Conference Center. “That’s why we created these Apple Awards—to really call out the ‘extra’ in the extraordinary work Washington’s physicians are doing, each and every day.â€<br />
<br />
Photos of the award presentations from the meeting are available upon request (email <a href="mailto:katiehoward@wsma.org">katiehoward@wsma.org</a>) and will be available from the<a href="[@]WSMA/Membership/Awards_Program/Awards_Program.aspx"> WSMA's Awards Program page</a>.</p>
<p><strong>For more information, contact:</strong><br />
<br />
Graham Short<br />
WSMA Associate Director of Communications<br />
206.956.3633&nbsp;
<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 nearly 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> | 10/15/2019 10:54:42 AM | 10/15/2019 9:30:36 AM | 10/15/2019 10:54:42 AM |
| Tacoma_Gastroenterologist_Named_President_of_State_Medical_Association | Tacoma Gastroenterologist Named President of State Medical Association | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2019/October/Tacoma_Gastroenterologist_Named_President_of_State_Medical_Association | <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 14, 2019</h5>
<h2>
Tacoma Gastroenterologist Named President of State Medical Association
</h2>
<p>
Seattle, Wash.&nbsp;-&nbsp;Tacoma gastroenterologist William "Bill" Hirota, MD, was named president of the Washington State Medical Association at the association's annual meeting in SeaTac on Sunday, Oct. 13. The WSMA represents physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians and medical students throughout Washington state.
</p>
<p>
Dr. Hirota practices at Franciscan Digestive Care Associates in Tacoma and sees patients at Tacoma-area hospitals St. Clare, St. Joseph and Multicare. He is primarily affiliated with CHI Franciscan health care system
</p>
<p>
Dr. Hirota received his medical doctorate degree in 1990 from Georgetown University School of Medicine in Washington D.C., supporting his education by joining the U.S. Army to be part of the Health Professionals Scholarship Program. Dr. Hirota followed his primary medical education with an internal medicine residency and gastroenterology fellowship at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, also in D.C.
</p>
<p>
By 2000, he’d completed his Army obligations at Madigan Army Medical Center at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Ft. Lewis and started in private practice in Tacoma. Dr. Hirota served in various leadership roles while in the Army, including chief of special care and chief of internal medicine service. After moving to Tacoma, he served as the president of the Pierce County Medical Society and chair of Franciscan’s medical executive committee. He joined WSMA’s executive committee in 2014 after serving several years on the association’s board of trustees.
</p>
<p>
The following physicians were also elected as officers at the meeting: Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD, Tacoma emergency physician, president-elect; Mika Sinanan, MD, PhD, Seattle surgeon, 1st vice president; Katina Rue, DO, Yakima osteopathic physician, 2nd vice president; Nariman Heshmati, MD, Mukilteo OB/GYN, secretary-treasurer; John Bramhall, MD, Seattle anesthesiologist, assistant secretary-treasurer. The seventh officer of WSMA’s executive committee is past-president Tom Schaaf, MD, MHA, Spokane geriatrician, who will serve as committee chair.
</p>
<p>
<a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Press Room/Hirota.Bill_2019_3024x4032.jpg]">Download a photo of Dr. Hirota</a>.</p>
<p><strong>For more information, contact:</strong><br />
<br />
Graham Short<br />
WSMA Associate Director of Communications<br />
206.956.3633&nbsp;
<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 nearly 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> | 10/15/2019 11:44:48 AM | 10/14/2019 10:08:02 AM | 10/14/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| physicians_unite_to_oppose_trump_administration_immigration_policy | Physicians Unite to Oppose Trump Administration Immigration Policy | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2019/September/physicians_unite_to_oppose_trump_administration_immigration_policy | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img alt="" src="/images/Misc/Press-Release-Graphic_645x425.jpg" class="pull-right" /></div>
<h5>September 24, 2019</h5>
<h2>Physicians Unite to Oppose Trump Administration Immigration Policy</h2>
<p>
<em>Thousands of children and families in Washington state and the U.S. will lose access to health care under new "public charge" rule</em>
</p>
<p>
SEATTLE - Two of Washington state's leading physician associations have joined with their national counterparts to push back against Trump administration efforts to restrict immigration by punishing legal immigrants - including more than 140,000 Washingtonians and their children - who access health care and other basic public services.
</p>
<p>
The Washington Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (WCAAP) and the Washington State Medical Association (WSMA), together representing more than 11,000 physicians in the state, have joined with the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Physicians, and the American Medical Association to file a brief supporting a multi-state lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Homeland Security over changes to the "public charge" rule that target low-income immigrants and their families.
</p>
<p>
The updated rule, set to go into effect Oct. 15, gives immigration officials far greater latitude to deny green cards and visas to immigrants lawfully in the U.S., particularly those who access legally available public benefits for themselves and their families, including essential health care services.
</p>
<p>
Currently, under long-standing immigration policy, the only benefits considered by the federal government when reviewing immigration status are cash assistance and government-funded long-term care. Under the new rule, a legal immigrant who lawfully uses basic health care services, housing and food assistance programs can have their application for permanent residency denied.
</p>
<p>
Even people who have not used these programs, which include Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Section 8 housing vouchers, and Medicare Part D, can be denied a green card or visa if there is a suspected risk they are "likely" to use them in the future.
</p>
<p>
"This cruelly misguided attempt to stem legal immigration unfairly targets some of our most vulnerable patients by singling out low-income immigrants who are lawfully in the state trying to attain citizenship and who are trying to take care of themselves and their families. This rule change effectively says to these individuals, 'Want to see a doctor? Well guess what—the federal government will probably kick you out if you do.'" said WSMA President Tom Schaaf, MD, MHA. "This will undeniably add another barrier between those who need health care and their physicians. And perhaps most unconscionable is that this rule change will directly impact the children of immigrants, who were born in Washington and are U.S. citizens."
</p>
<p>
Washington estimates that more than 140,000 legal immigrants will likely lose their health insurance under the new rule. The rule's impact goes further: Nearly a half million children in Washington have at least one immigrant parent. Under the new rule, while those under age 21, pregnant women, and new moms are exempt, families will likely refrain from applying for services they need out of fear it would be used against the immigrant parent. Many of these people will go to the emergency room for routine medical care, requiring Washington to cover the vastly more expensive medical costs. Moreover, families who fear seeking timely preventive care for their children may be less likely to receive vaccinations on time or identify emerging medical issues, leading to poorer health and development for these children.
</p>
<p>
Nationwide, the rule will affect more than 19 million children of immigrants in the U.S.; nearly all U.S. citizens.
</p>
<p>
"Each day, WCAAP members care for immigrant families across our state who are doing all they can to build better lives for their children" said WCAAP President Elizabeth Meade, MD, FAAP. "We are certain that this regulation change will result in families foregoing medical care or other services they are entitled to for fear of impacting their immigration status. Children need stable housing, adequate nutrition, and access to health care to grow and thrive, and losing access to any of these threatens their well-being and development."
</p>
<p>
Washington state, led by Attorney General Bob Ferguson, has joined a coalition of 13 states in the lawsuit to block the new public charge rule. The WCAAP, WSMA, AAP, ACP, and the AMA filed the amicus brief supporting the lawsuit last week.
</p>
<p>
<strong>For more information, contact:</strong>
</p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
Washington State Medical Association<br />
Associate Director of Communications<br />
Cell: 206.329.6851<br />
Email: <a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<p>
Jennifer Donahue<br />
Washington Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics<br />
Communications Manager<br />
Cell: 206.713.1087<br />
Email: <a href="mailto:jdonahue@wcaap.org">jdonahue@wcaap.org</a>
</p>
<h3>About the Washington State Medical Association </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> | 9/24/2019 9:05:56 AM | 9/23/2019 2:08:52 PM | 9/24/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| new_law_will_improve_health_care_decision-making_for_incapacitated_patients_in_washington_state | New Law Will Improve Health Care Decision-Making for Incapacitated Patients in Washington State | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2019/July/new_law_will_improve_health_care_decision-making_for_incapacitated_patients_in_washington_state | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img alt="" src="/images/Misc/Press-Release-Graphic_645x425.jpg" class="pull-right" /></div>
<h5>July 24, 2019</h5>
<h2>New Law Will Improve Health Care Decision-Making for Incapacitated Patients in Washington State</h2>
<p>
Seattle, Wash. - A newly passed law in Washington state represents a significant increase in health care autonomy for its patients. House Bill 1175, passed during the recent state legislative session, expands decision-making options for patients who lack capacity and helps health care providers ensure patients’ health care decisions are known and honored. The Washington State Hospital Association (WSHA) and Washington State Medical Association (WSMA) collaborated with the bill’s primary sponsor, Representative Christine Kilduff (D-University Place), as well as Honoring Choices Pacific Northwest – the joint WSHA/WSMA advance care planning initiative – to advocate in support of the bill during legislative session. The law will go into effect on July 28, 2019.
</p>
<p>The newly enacted law has two elements that will help patients when they are unable to make their own medical decisions. First, the law expands the type of people who can be a surrogate health care decision-maker to include extended family members and close friends. Second, the law allows a notary to finalize a health care directive (commonly known as an advance directive for health care or a living will). Previously, two witnesses were required to finalize a health care directive, which presented a barrier for some patients wishing to complete this form.</p>
<p>“WSHA is dedicated to helping Washington hospitals have the resources to support and recognize the health care decisions of their patients,†WSHA President and CEO Cassie Sauer said. “This law not only increases health care accessibility for incapacitated patients, it ensures that hospitals can collaborate with patients and their loved ones to deliver the highest quality of care.â€</p>
<p> Before passage, only a few types of family members could make medical decisions for a patient who lacked capacity and hadn’t previously named a health care agent. If a patient didn’t have a spouse, child, parent or sibling available to be their surrogate decision-maker, the only option was to wait in a hospital or other care setting for a court to appoint a guardian. The guardianship process is often lengthy and expensive, and resulting medical decisions are ultimately made by someone who doesn’t know the patient personally.</p>
<p>“It is important for all adults to name their health care agent on a durable power of attorney for health care form,†Donna Smith, MD, WSMA immediate past president and chair of the Honoring Choices Pacific Northwest advisory council said. “But for those who don’t have a health care agent and find themselves unable to speak after a medical emergency, we can now talk to the people who know the patient best, rather than relying on a state appointed guardian—a virtual stranger—to guide their medical care.â€</p>
<p>“House Bill 1175 is about honoring people’s wishes and delivering the best care possible at critical moments in their lives. For patients unable to make decisions about their medical needs, and family members or close friends watching a loved one struggling, this law catches Washington up with other states,†Rep. Christine Kilduff, D-University Place, the prime sponsor of the legislation said.</p>
<p>Preventing situations where patients are inappropriately and avoidably waiting in a hospital or other care setting is a priority for Washington’s health care community. WSHA and WSMA members are committed to providing the best possible care for their patients. The passage of this law is another step in addressing both priorities. Both associations will continue advocating at the state and federal levels for policies that increase access in health care to ensure that Washington patients have access to the highest possible quality of care and resources.</p>
<p>The Washington State Medical Association and Honoring Choices Pacific Northwest will release updated health care directive forms on July 28, available at <a href="http://www.wsma.org/advance-directives">www.wsma.org/advance-directives</a> and <a href="http://www.honoringchoicespnw.org/plan/write-it-down/">www.honoringchoicespnw.org/plan/write-it-down/</a>. Previously completed or executed health care directives will not be impacted by the new law.</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>
Beth Zborowski
<br />
Washington State Hospital Association<br />
206.577.1807<br />
<a href="mailto:BethZ@wsha.org">bethz@wsha.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 for more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
</div> | 9/16/2019 3:48:02 PM | 7/23/2019 12:25:46 PM | 7/24/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| vulnerable_patient_health_care_jeopardized_by_proposed_b_and_o_tax_increase | Vulnerable Patient Health Care Jeopardized by Proposed B&O Tax Increase | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2019/April/vulnerable_patient_health_care_jeopardized_by_proposed_b_and_o_tax_increase | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img alt="" src="/images/Misc/Press-Release-Graphic_645x425.jpg" class="pull-right" /></div>
<h5>April 25, 2019</h5>
<h2>Vulnerable Patient Health Care Jeopardized by Proposed B&amp;O Tax Increase</h2>
<p>
Seattle, Wash. - A proposed increase to Washington state's business and occupation tax now under consideration in the House of Representatives would have a devastating impact on health care access for the most vulnerable of populations, especially children, a coalition of physicians and other health care providers vehemently opposed to the measure warned Thursday.
</p>
<p>
<a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=2158&amp;Year=2019&amp;Initiative=false">House Bill 2158</a> would increase the B&amp;O professional services tax on independent physicians and medical practices from its current rate of 1.5 percent to 1.8 percent—a total increase of 20 percent. Physicians practicing within large hospitals or organized medical centers will not incur the tax.
</p>
<p>
The Washington State Medical Association (WSMA), Washington Chapter of the Academy of Pediatrics (WCAAP) and the King County Medical Society (KCMS) are among those adamantly opposed to this proposed B&amp;O tax increase because of its impact on the most vulnerable patients they serve – especially the lowest of income and rural populations.
</p>
<p>
The proposed B&amp;O tax would have the following effects:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Limit access to care: Adding additional taxes onto physician practices could force many physicians to stop seeing Medicaid patients to stay financially viable. This will have a particularly significant impact on pediatricians and independent pediatric clinics.</li>
<li>Medicaid payment for some medical care in Washington State decreased more than 30% in 2015, when a two-year federal provision to maintain Medicaid-Medicare equity ended. Currently Medicaid payment to physicians for pediatric care in our state is two-thirds of Medicare payment. And Medicare is considered a "floor" – the bare minimum to possibly cover costs. This makes it difficult for providers to continue to see children insured by Medicaid today. </li>
<li>In Washington one in every two children relies on Apple Health for health coverage, but payment often doesn't cover the cost of care. As a result, multiple rural and suburban clinics have closed or no longer accept children on Apple Health. </li>
<li>Lack of timely preventive care leads parents to rely on expensive, episodic care in urgent care and emergency rooms. Washington state's current Medicaid payment rate creates a tiered system of care in this state, where children with private insurance have timely access to cost-effective medical care and children enrolled in Medicaid do not. If Washington state fails to invest in adequate Medicaid payment and increases the B&amp;O taxes, health care for our most vulnerable populations will be significantly hindered. </li>
</ul>
<p>
The B&amp;O tax increase would also:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Disproportionately harm those in private practice and independent medical clinics—about a third or more of our state's physicians.</li>
<li>Put an enormous strain on many practices' ability to remain economically viable and competitive in today's marketplace. The tax only applies to physicians' services delivered in a private practice or independent clinic, which puts these doctors at a competitive disadvantage to their peers practicing in hospital-based medical groups, which are protected from the increase.</li>
<li>Result in a loss of jobs, impact the ability of practices to invest in innovations that improve patient safety and population health and stifle their ability to be competitive in today's marketplace, as independent physician practices run on very tight margins. </li>
<li>Limit independent practices' ability to make investments in EHRs, comply with increasing regulatory burdens or hire more people, effecting the economy in many communities.</li>
</ul>
<p>
The WSMA, WCAAP and KCMS represent thousands of physicians in Washington state and are collectively asking the legislature to exempt all physicians from the B&amp;O tax increase to protect the vital health interests of our communities.
</p>
<p>
"Medicaid-dependent patients are already having a hard time getting seen, especially in more rural areas," said Dr. Frances Chalmers, MD, a recently retired pediatrician with Skagit Pediatrics in Mount Vernon, WA. "Patients aren't able to get the basic medical care they need, so many put off preventative care, which leads to more chronic illnesses, treatment in expensive urgent care or emergency room settings, and long term health problems that cost us all far more in the long run," said Chalmers, a longtime member and trustee of the Washington Chapter of the Academy of Pediatrics.
</p>
<p>
"On behalf of the Washington State Medical Association, I urge our elected officials not to raise this B&amp;O tax on health care services, which would unfairly impact our state's independent practice physicians, and stands to increase the cost of health care at a time when patients can least afford it" said Tom Schaaf, MD, Washington State Medical Association president. "And make no mistake, even though the tax unfairly targets independent physicians--roughly 40% of our state's active practice physicians--it will impact our patients, as the tax increase threatens these practices' economic viability in an increasingly competitive marketplace. This is tax is unwise and unfair for both patients and physicians, and we urge lawmakers to exempt our state's independent physicians from this tax increase."
</p>
<p>
"We need to focus on the children. Especially special needs, at-risk, Medicaid Insured, rural children," said Nancy L. Belcher, PhD, CEO of the King County Medical Society. "Nearly 50% of children are on Medicaid statewide. A high percentage of those children live in more rural areas. A greater number of children with special health care needs are on Medicaid. Make no mistake. Pediatricians in physician-owned practices that serve these populations will be hit hard. More clinics will close, more patients will go without care," Belcher said.
</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>
Jennifer Donahue<br />
Washington Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics<br />
206.713.1087<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">jdonahue@wcaap.org</a>
</p>
<p>Josh Kerns<br />
King County Medical Society<br />
206.920.1482<br />
<a href="mailto:jkerns@kcmsociety.org">jkerns@kcmsociety.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 for more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
</div> | 9/16/2019 3:47:30 PM | 4/25/2019 12:33:43 PM | 4/25/2019 12:00:00 AM |