| 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 |
| washingtons_health_care_community_applauds_state_legislature_for_passage_of_mmr_vaccine_bill | Washington's Health Care Community Applauds State Legislature for Passage of MMR Vaccine Bill | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2019/April/washingtons_health_care_community_applauds_state_legislature_for_passage_of_mmr_vaccine_bill | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img alt="" src="/images/News/Bill-Progress-Graphics-HB-1638-Signed-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" /></div>
<h5>April 24, 2019</h5>
<h2>Washington's Health Care Community Applauds State Legislature for Passage of MMR Vaccine Bill</h2>
<p>
Olympia, Wash. - The Washington State Medical Association and the Washington Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, together with the Washington State Association of Local Public Health Officials and members of the Public Health Round Table, which all together represent tens of thousands of physicians and other stakeholders in the Washington state health care community, applaud our state Legislature for the passage of legislation that eliminates personal and philosophical exemptions to school entry requirements for the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine (HB 1638). This improvement to Washington state law will increase MMR vaccination rates, providing important and potentially life-saving protections for children and other medically vulnerable persons in our communities.
</p>
<p>
Washington will become the 34th state that disallows personal and philosophical exemptions for MMR vaccinations required for school entries once Gov. Jay Inslee signs this essential legislation into law. Children with medical contraindications to vaccines can still be granted exemptions.
</p>
<p>
The measles outbreak in Clark County, as well as outbreaks currently happening in other parts of our country, are stark reminders that high immunization rates are necessary to protect children and the public-at-large from vaccine-preventable diseases. In order to do this, we must achieve the highest proportion of people who are vaccinated to help protect those who cannot be vaccinated, including children too young to be vaccinated, pregnant women, people with immune system problems, and those who are too ill to receive vaccines, such as some cancer patients. This is called "herd immunity." To achieve herd immunity for measles because of the disease's extreme contagiousness, at least 95 percent of the population needs to be vaccinated. Vaccinated individuals not only protect themselves from disease, but also play a critical role in protecting others in their communities.
</p>
<p>
Washington's medical community is committed to increasing vaccination rates for all childhood vaccinations to protect every Washington resident and help our state realize the promise of a future free from vaccine-preventable diseases. We will continue to honor our mission as health care providers by educating our patients, their families, and the public on the safety of vaccines and the importance of having children vaccinated.
</p>
<h3>Messages From the Washington State Health Care Community</h3>
<p>
"Speaking on behalf of the Washington State Medical Association, we are grateful for the courage and thoughtfulness of our state lawmakers who championed this important public health policy. We are also grateful for the many advocates in the physician and public health community who stood strong for vaccination policy that protects our patients and communities. As physicians, we know vaccines save lives, and that prevention is preferable to cure. As partners in fostering good health in our communities, we are here to help our patients and their families to make the best health decisions they can, and this bill will help us do just that."<br />
<strong><em>—Tom Schaaf, MD, president of the Washington State Medical Association </em></strong>
</p>
<p>
"The recent measles outbreak served as an alarm, and today our legislators bravely stood with facts over fiction. The core reason we are seeing measles outbreaks across the country is the loss of community immunity due to the rise of vaccine exemptions for personal and philosophical beliefs. We applaud our state legislature for protecting our children and other medically vulnerable persons in our communities by eliminating personal and philosophical exemptions to school entry requirements for the MMR vaccine. Pediatricians will continue to partner with parents to dispel the misinformation fueling the drop in vaccination rates and the rise of preventable disease."<br />
<strong><em>— Rupin Thakkar, MD, FAAP, president of the Washington Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics</em></strong>
</p>
<p>
"Improving measles vaccination rates can prevent outbreaks from occurring—protecting children, families, and the most vulnerable in our communities who cannot be vaccinated." <br />
<strong><em>—Jeff Duchin, MD, Public Health Seattle-King County</em></strong>
</p>
<p>
"Local public health is at the root of our public health and health care system and has been in the epicenter of the recent measles outbreak. Local health jurisdictions see the cost of poor vaccination rates and the impact from outbreaks in our communities, schools, and businesses. Vaccines are proven, time and again, to prevent outbreaks from occurring—protecting our most vulnerable in our communities and reducing the burden of vaccine-preventable diseases."<br />
<strong><em>—Alan Melnick, MD, Clark County Public Health </em></strong>
</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>
<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 3:47:59 PM | 4/25/2019 9:18:49 AM | 4/24/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| Washington_State_Physicians_Praise_Lawmakers_for_Raising_Purchase_Age_of_Tobacco_and_Vaping_Products | Washington State Physicians Praise Lawmakers for Raising Purchase Age of Tobacco and Vaping Products | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2019/March/Washington_State_Physicians_Praise_Lawmakers_for_Raising_Purchase_Age_of_Tobacco_and_Vaping_Products | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img alt="" src="/images/Advocacy/Bill-Progress-Graphics-HB-1074-T21-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" /></div>
<h5>March 28, 2019</h5>
<h2>
Washington State Physicians Praise Lawmakers for Raising Purchase Age of Tobacco and Vaping Products
</h2>
<p>Seattle, Wash. - The Washington State Medical Association, representing more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, and medical students, commends state lawmakers for passing House Bill 1074, which will raise the age of sale for tobacco and vapor products in Washington state from 18 to 21 and help protect our state’s youth from a lifetime of nicotine addiction. The bill is now headed to Gov. Jay Inslee for his signature.</p>
<p>“We are pleased to see state lawmakers in the Senate and House do the right thing for our patients by passing this bill,†said WSMA President Tom Schaaf, MD, MHA, chief medical officer of Providence Home and Community Care and Providence Sound Hospice. “We urge the governor to sign it into law and secure this hard-won public health victory. Washington’s children deserve a chance to grow up addiction-free.</p>
<p>
“This is the fifth legislative session where Washington’s physicians have fought for policy to raise the tobacco and vaping purchasing age. In this instance, the fifth time’s the charm,†said Dr. Schaaf. “It’s a reminder to all of us that the health and well-being of our patients, families, and loved ones is worth fighting for, no matter how long and hard the fight.â€</p>
<p>
The WSMA has highlighted “Tobacco 21†policy as a key priority for its yearly physician lobby day, the WSMA Legislative Summit, since 2015. Tobacco remains the main cause of preventable disease and death in Washington state, with one in five deaths caused by cigarettes and secondhand smoke.</p>
<p><strong>For more information, contact:</strong></p>
<p>
Graham Short<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 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 3:46:54 PM | 3/28/2019 12:12:03 PM | 3/28/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| Washington_physicians_in_Olympia_on_Feb._7_to_talk_to_lawmakers_on_behalf_of_patients_and_profession | Washington physicians in Olympia on Feb. 7 to talk to lawmakers on behalf of patients and profession | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Releases/2019/Washington_physicians_in_Olympia_on_Feb._7_to_talk_to_lawmakers_on_behalf_of_patients_and_profession | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>February 7, 2019</h5>
<h2>
Washington Physicians, Wearing their White Coats, in Olympia Today Talking to Legislators on Behalf of Patients and Profession
</h2>
<p>Olympia, Wash. - Physicians and physician assistants from throughout the state are putting on their white coats and meeting with their elected officials in Olympia today for the 2019 WSMA Legislative Summit. More than 100 WSMA members will talk with legislators about issues important to their patients and their profession, including the vaccination issue, access to care for behavioral and mental health, and raising the age of the sale of tobacco and vapor products from age 18 to age 21.</p>
<p>"The mission of the Washington State Medical Association is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care," said Tom Schaaf, MD, MHA, WSMA president. "Because we work at the frontlines of care, we are visiting the capitol today because it's important for us to share what we experience in our practices everyday with our elected officials."</p>
<p>There are several key issues important to physicians and patients being addressed in the 2019 Washington state legislative session:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Increase the age of sale of tobacco and vapor products to 21:</strong> Smoking continues to be the number one cause of preventable death in the U.S. Most smokers start using tobacco before age of 21. Cities and towns across the country that increased legal smoking to age 21 have seen significant reductions in their youth smoking rates, in some cases as high as 50 percent. WSMA physicians are talking to legislators today in support of bills (House Bill 1074/Senate Bill 5057) that raise the age of sale for tobacco and vapor products from age 18 to 21.</li>
<li><strong>Vaccinations</strong>: To strengthen our state’s immunization policy and protect our communities, the WSMA supports the elimination of personal and philosophical vaccine exemptions for school, child care and preschool immunization requirements (House Bill 1638/Senate Bill 5841).</li>
<li><strong>Mental and Behavioral Health:</strong> Washington’s physicians support increases in funding for targeted behavioral/mental health and substance abuse disorder in primary care; support behavioral and mental health workforce initiatives; support integration of BH/MH treatment into primary care; and support tele-psych consult and training programs, all of which will help improve access to mental and behavioral health care for all Washington patients.</li>
</ul>
<p>Also at the WSMA Legislative Summit, the association will honor Rep. Steve Burquist with the Legislator of the Year Award for his support during the 2018 legislative session, at noon in the Columbia Room of the Legislative Building.</p>
<p>
B-roll footage and photos will be provided the afternoon of Feb. 7 on Vimeo (<a href="https://vimeo.com/wsma">www.Vimeo.com/WSMA</a>), on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/WSMA_update">@WSMA_update</a> and Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/wsma.org/">@wsma.org</a>. </p>
<p>
</p>
<p>
</p>
<p><strong>For more information, contact:</strong></p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
206.956.3633&nbsp;<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a></p>
<p>
Cindy Sharpe<br />
813.244.2883 cell/text<br />
<a href="mailto:cindy@wsma.org">cindy@wsma.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>
</div> | 9/16/2019 3:47:31 PM | 2/6/2019 12:07:04 PM | 3/14/2019 9:53:58 AM |
| WSMA_responds_to_Texas_federal_court_ACA_ruling | WSMA responds to Texas federal court ACA ruling | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Releases/2018/WSMA_responds_to_Texas_federal_court_ACA_ruling | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>December 17, 2018</h5>
<h2>
WSMA Responds to Texas Federal Court ACA Ruling
</h2>
<p>Seattle, Wash. - Washington State Medical Association President Tom Schaaf, MD, issued the following statement today in response to a federal U.S. District court judge ruling the Affordable Care Act unconstitutional:</p>
<p>"This decision threatens to turn back the clock to a time in our country when double-digit uninsured rates were the norm and when millions of Americans were at risk of being denied coverage due to a pre-existing condition. It would undo the tremendous amount of work done here in Washington state to extend coverage to hundreds of thousands through the expansion of Medicaid and establishment of the state exchange. We hope for a swift close to this chapter and urge policymakers to look forward, not backward, toward solutions that help ensure our patients have access to comprehensive, affordable health care coverage."</p>
<p><strong>For more information, contact:</strong></p>
<p>
Graham Short<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 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 3:48:23 PM | 12/17/2018 2:58:23 PM | 2/20/2019 9:45:51 AM |
| wsma_doctor_polio_survivor_take_it_from_me_childhood_diseases_are_dangerous | WSMA Doctor and Polio Survivor: Take It from Me, Childhood Diseases Are Dangerous | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2019/February/wsma_doctor_polio_survivor_take_it_from_me_childhood_diseases_are_dangerous | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img alt="" src="/images/News/Goldbaum_Gary-HB1638-2-8-2019-645x425.jpg" class="pull-right" /></div>
<h5>February 20, 2019</h5>
<h2>WSMA Doctor and Polio Survivor: Take It from Me, Childhood Diseases Are Dangerous</h2>
<p>Olympia, Wash. - Gary Goldbaum, MD, and his brother are polio survivors. Before vaccines were available, Dr. Goldbaum and his brother contracted poliomyelitis. "I have a photo of my brother in a wheelchair and braces while he endured months of physical and occupational therapy to support his recovery," Dr. Goldbaum said. "The days of iron lungs to treat polio are now behind us - thanks to vaccines."
</p>
<p>
Dr. Goldbaum will be representing the Washington State Medical Association (WSMA) in Olympia on Feb. 20 testifying before the Senate Health &amp; Long Term Care Committee giving his firsthand account of the life-threatening dangers that diseases, once considered nearly eliminated, can pose to a whole new generation of children. "Before vaccines were available, infectious diseases including measles killed thousands and hospitalized tens of thousands nationwide. We must do all we can to keep that Pandora's box from opening again in our state," he said.
</p>
<p>
Goldbaum, a former health officer and director of the Snohomish Health District, remembers the pertussis (whooping cough) outbreak and the H1N1 influenza pandemic, when unvaccinated Snohomish County residents fell victim to these dangerous diseases, and some died. "I do not wish to see such events like this occur again in our state," he said.
</p>
<p>
The WSMA, together with the Washington Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (WCAAP), support the elimination of personal and philosophical vaccine exemptions for school, child care, and preschool immunization requirements (Senate Bill 5841) to strengthen our state's immunization policy and protect our communities. Vaccines are safe—they are rigorously tested for safety before being approved for use.
</p>
<p>
Vaccinations are very important in protecting our most vulnerable citizens—newborns and those with compromised immune systems, such as persons undergoing cancer treatment—who cannot be vaccinated. In order to protect them, it's critical that we vaccinate more than 95 percent of the population, often called "herd immunity." Unfortunately, Washington state fails to reach this level of vaccination of our population, and one of the primary reasons is parents exempting their children for personal and philosophical reasons. Washington is one of only 17 states in the nation that allow for a personal/philosophical exemption.
</p>
<p>
"We know that if these personal/philosophical exemptions are eliminated we will see vaccination rates rise, be-cause states that have eliminated this exemption have proven it," said Tom Schaaf, MD, president of the WSMA. "And when vaccine rates rise, not only are vaccinated people protected, but so are others in the community who cannot be vaccinated, because their potential for exposure to dangerous diseases drops as the number of vaccinated people increase in their community."
</p>
<p>
<em>Pictured: Gary Goldbaum MD, earlier this month testifying before lawmakers in the House Health Care &amp; Wellness Committee in support of a proposal to eliminate the personal and philosophical exemption for childrens' measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine (House Bill 1638).</em>
</p>
<p><strong>For more information, contact:</strong></p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
206.956.3633&nbsp;<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a></p>
<p>
Cindy Sharpe<br />
813.244.2883 cell/text<br />
<a href="mailto:cindy@wsma.org">cindy@wsma.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>
</div> | 9/16/2019 3:47:23 PM | 2/20/2019 12:22:54 PM | 2/20/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| Representative_Bergquist_receives_2018_Legislator_of_the_Year_award_from_the_WSMA | Representative Bergquist receives 2018 Legislator of the Year award from the WSMA | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Releases/2019/Representative_Bergquist_receives_2018_Legislator_of_the_Year_award_from_the_WSMA | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img alt="" src="/images/HeadShots/LOY2018_Berquist_Schaaf_645x425.jpg" class="pull-right" /></div>
<h5>February 7, 2019</h5>
<h2>
Representative Bergquist Receives 2018 Legislator of the Year Award from the WSMA
</h2>
<p>Olympia, Wash. - Representative Steve Bergquist, representing the state's 11th Legislative District serving parts of South Seattle, Tukwila, and Renton, has been named WSMA's 2018 Legislator of the Year for his support of the medical association's 2018 legislative efforts. He received the award from WSMA 2019 President Thomas Schaaf, MD, on Feb. 7, 2019 during the association's 2019 Legislative Summit in the Columbia Room at the Legislative Building in Olympia.</p>
<p>Each year the WSMA, the largest professional physician organization in the state, honors a legislator whose knowledge and influence help improve the health of Washingtonians while making Washington one of the best states in the nation to practice medicine. Rep. Bergquist's accomplishments of relevance to the WSMA include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Co-sponsorship of legislation creating a statewide drug take-back program for the safe and secure disposal of unwanted medication—the first program of its kind in the nation.</li>
<li>Co-sponsorship of legislation raising the purchasing age of tobacco to age 21. As a teacher, Rep. Bergquist understands firsthand how tobacco can infiltrate schools and its harmful effects on children. The bill passed the House with overwhelming support, but ultimately died in the Senate during the 2018 legislative session. The WSMA is continuing to advocate for this issue in 2019, supporting HB 1074 (Rep. Bergquist is a secondary sponsor) and SB 5057.</li>
<li>Prime sponsorship of legislation to ensure coverage of services delivered via telemedicine.</li>
</ul>
<p>Rep. Bergquist, who was elected by his colleagues in the House Democratic Caucus to serve as Deputy Majority Floor Leader, serves on various committees including Appropriations (2nd Vice Chair), College and Workforce Development, Education and Rules.</p>
<p>“Representative Bergquist has been a champion for Washington’s patients, physicians and medical community in recent years, and has worked with us on several top-priority issues,†said Dr. Smith. “One of those top issues is Tobacco 21, and we look forward to continuing our work with Rep. Bergquist. About 95% of smokers start before age 21. In Washington, 3,900 kids become daily smokers every year, and one-third of them will die prematurely as a result. Raising the tobacco sale age to 21 is an effective strategy to save lives.â€</p>
<p>Rep. Bergquist lives with his physician wife, Avanti, and their children in Tukwila.</p>
<p><em>Pictured: Rep. Bergquist and WSMA President Tom Schaaf, MD during the award presentation. <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Press Room/LOY2018_Berquist_Schaaf.jpg]">Download a full-sized, hi-resolution photo</a>. Photos courtesy of Meryl Schenker.</em></p>
<p><strong>For more information, contact:</strong></p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
206.956.3633&nbsp;<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a></p>
<p>
Cindy Sharpe<br />
813.244.2883 cell/text<br />
<a href="mailto:cindy@wsma.org">cindy@wsma.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>
</div> | 9/16/2019 3:48:39 PM | 2/7/2019 3:20:24 PM | 2/7/2019 12:00:00 AM |
| WSMA_formally_opposes_dhs_rule_that_increases_adverse_events_for_children | The WSMA formally opposes DHS rule that increases adverse events for children | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Releases/2018/WSMA_formally_opposes_dhs_rule_that_increases_adverse_events_for_children | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>November 2, 2018</h5>
<h2>The WSMA Formally Opposes DHS Rule that Increases Adverse Events for Children</h2>
<p>Seattle, Wash.&nbsp;- The Washington State Medical Association (WSMA) today sent a <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Press Room/WSMA formal comment on FSA-FINAL-110218.pdf]">formal public submission</a> into the Federal Register strongly opposing the proposed rule "<a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/d/2018-19052">Apprehension, Processing, Care, and Custody of Alien Minors and Unaccompanied Alien Children</a>"&nbsp;(Document Citation 83 FR 45486, Agency/Docket Number: ICEB-2018-0002). The final day to submit comments on this proposed rule is November 6, 2018. </p>
<p>The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) propose to “amend regulations relating to the apprehension, processing, care, custody, and release of alien juveniles.†In 1985, plaintiffs in a class action lawsuit, Flores v. Reno, challenged the policies of the legacy Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) relating to the detention, processing, and release of child immigrants. The parties reached a settlement agreement, referred to as the Flores Settlement Agreement (FSA).</p>
<p>The Flores Settlement Agreement, in addition to placing other restrictions on the government’s actions, requires that children be released from custody within 20 days, (preferably to a parent) and establishes a general policy that a detained child be held in the least restrictive setting, taking into account the child’s age and special needs, until the child can safely be released (generally, in a non-secure facility licensed by a child welfare entity). </p>
<p>The administration's proposed regulation would end key provisions of the FSA. The WSMA submitted formal comment to the Department of Homeland Security opposing the proposed rule, opposing policy that is likely to increase Adverse Childhood Events (ACEs) and called on the administration to retain the Flores Settlement Agreement. </p>
<p>“The WSMA and our House of Delegates voted at our Annual Meeting in October to endorse a resolution that opposes family immigration detention and the separation of children from their parents in detention. The detention of children is harmful and medical research shows it can result in lifelong health and mental health consequences,†said Donna Smith, MD, past president of WSMA and Seattle area pediatrician.</p>
<p>From a healthcare perspective, children held in detention facilities experience increased Adverse Childhood Events (ACEs). ACEs refer to categories of abuse, neglect and household/family challenges that children experience during the first 18 years of life. Peer-reviewed research demonstrates that ACEs have negative health outcomes, and the more adverse events a child experiences, the more that child is likely to experience an increased severity of poor health outcomes.</p>
<p>Current immigration practices that force the separation of families result in children experiencing at least three ACEs—parental separation, emotional neglect and physical neglect from parents who are forcibly separated from their children and cannot provide care for them.</p>
<p>Experiencing an increased number of ACEs in childhood specifically has been shown to increase the risk for autoimmune disease, alcoholism, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, depression, early death, illicit drug use, ischemic heart disease, liver disease, poor work performance, intimate partner violence, sexually transmitted diseases, smoking, suicide attempts, and unintended pregnancies into adulthood.</p>
<p>Studies of detained immigrant children have further shown that children often subsequently suffer negative physical and emotional symptoms from detention, including anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.</p>
<p>The Washington State Medical Association opposes policies that force family immigration detention and the separation of children from their parents and it supports policies that promote unification of families at the border.</p>
<h4>About the WSMA</h4>
<p>The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, residents, fellows 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>
<p><strong>For more information, contact:</strong><br />
<br />
Cindy Sharpe, APR, WSMA Communications<br />
813.244.2883&nbsp; cell/text<br />
<a href="mailto:cindy@wsma.org">cindy@wsma.org</a><br />
<br />
</p>
</div> | 9/16/2019 3:47:30 PM | 11/2/2018 11:02:03 AM | 11/2/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| Public-private_safe_prescribing_initiative_results_in_reductions_in_Medicaid_opioid_prescriptions | Public-private safe prescribing initiative results in reductions in Medicaid opioid prescriptions | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Releases/2018/Public-private_safe_prescribing_initiative_results_in_reductions_in_Medicaid_opioid_prescriptions | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>October 17, 2018</h5>
<h2>
Public/private safe prescribing initiative results in significant reductions of Apple Health (Medicaid) opioid prescriptions
</h2>
<p>Olympia, Wash.&nbsp;- A public/private safe prescribing initiative launched in late 2017, called Better Prescribing, Better Treatment, has resulted in significant reductions in Apple Health (Medicaid) opioid prescriptions in less than a year, initiative partners announced today.</p>
<p>The partners, the Washington State Medical Association (WSMA), the Washington State Hospital Association (WSHA) and the Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA), are reporting that the initiative has reduced opioid prescriptions exceeding new state Apple Health (Medicaid) program prescribing guidelines by nearly 70 percent. It has also reduced total Apple Health opioid prescriptions for acute (non-chronic) pain by nearly 30 percent.</p>
<p>Better Prescribing, Better Treatment is a component of <a href="https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/1000/140-182-StateOpioidResponsePlan.pdf">the state opioid response plan</a>. The initiative was conceived and designed by a joint opioid task force comprised of physicians from WSMA and WSHA, who then partnered with the Washington State Health Care Authority to help implement the initiative. The goal of the initiative is to reduce the number of opioids in Washington’s communities by encouraging prescribers treating Apple Health patients to follow the latest evidence-based best practices and by providing data to help inform their prescribing.</p>
<p>More than 20 health systems and groups are currently participating in the Better Prescribing, Better Treatment initiative, representing more than 11,000 Apple Health prescribers in the state.</p>
<p>“I’m pleased to see positive results in our Apple Health program,†said Gov. Jay Inslee, whose executive order set this change in motion in 2016. “We are leading the nation in taking action to reduce inappropriate opioid prescribing and now we’re seeing 50 percent declines in prescription opioid-related overdose deaths. We have reason to hope that we can prevent even more death, and that our programs are working as designed. But we must focus on the next phase of the work to provide opioid treatment for people who need it and that’s what we’re doing here in Washington with our <a href="https://medium.com/wagovernor/what-are-hubs-and-spokes-and-how-can-they-help-fight-the-opioid-epidemic-d65f4f20345f">hub and spoke treatment networks</a>.â€</p>
<p>“This initiative is allowing us to drive change without adding more administrative requirements that create barriers to patient care,†said Dr. Nathan Schlicher, Tacoma emergency medicine physician and one of the lead architects of the initiative. “Physicians want to do the right thing for their patients, and through this initiative they are taking the lead on reducing the amount of these dangerous addictive medications in our communities while keeping appropriate pain treatments accessible for patients who need them. This initiative allows them to do both with a gentle nudge towards better care.â€</p>
<p>Better Prescribing, Better Treatment takes a three-pronged approach to safe prescribing:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Apple Health prescribing policy.</strong> The initiative encourages compliance with a new opioid prescribing policy for Washington’s Apple Health program that establishes pill limits for all opioid prescriptions written for the treatment of acute pain—commonly understood as pain expected to last less than three months. This limits doses to 18 (an approximate three-day supply) for patients age 20 or younger, and 42 (an approximate a seven-day supply) for patients age 21 or older.</li>
<li><strong>Prescriber discretion.</strong> The initiative emphasizes a broad exemption in the policy that allows the prescribing clinician to override those limits if they feel it’s in the best interest of their patient by simply documenting in the medical record and indicating the reason on the prescription. Importantly, this approach avoids the additional paperwork and administrative burden that accompany similar policies adopted in other states and that can take time away from patient care.</li>
<li><strong>Physician-led feedback program.</strong> Washington Opioid Reports provides data compiled from the state’s prescription monitoring program to physicians and other prescribing providers allowing them to see how their opioid prescribing practices compare to others in their health care system and specialty. This comparison to peers has been successful at encouraging physicians to adjust their prescribing habits, reducing the number of prescriptions exceeding the policy’s pill limits per quarter by 64.7 percent (3,462 to 1,223). And it has reduced the total acute pain prescriptions per quarter by almost 2,500 prescriptions.</li>
</ul>
<p>“The feedback program, combined with the exemption and pill limits, is driving safer prescribing in the Apple Health program while not burdening providers with additional paperwork, a win-win solution for the health care system,†said Health Care Authority Chief Medical Officer Dr. Judy Zerzan.</p>
<p>“Better Prescribing, Better Treatment enables physicians to reduce the number of opioids in our community without compromising patient care, and so far the results have been very promising,†WSHA President and CEO Cassie Sauer said. “We believe this strategy will be key to addressing the opioid epidemic, which has impacted all parts of our state. Working together, we will save lives.â€</p>
<p>As a result of the program’s success, the Washington State Department of Health is currently in negotiations with the initiative partners to merge all data from the state’s Prescription Monitoring Program with the physician feedback program, meaning at some point in the future, Better Prescribing, Better Treatment will expand beyond Medicaid to improve care for all patients in Washington state, regardless of their insurance carrier.</p>
<p>In addition to this initiative, new state rules covering all prescribers of opioids are being implemented this fall. <a href="http://www.doh.wa.gov/opioidprescribing">More details on those rules are on DOH’s webpage</a>.</p>
<p><strong>About the Washington State Medical Association (WSMA) </strong></p>
<p>The Washington State Medical Association (WSMA) represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, residents, fellows 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. Visit <a href="http://www.wsma.org">www.wsma.org</a> for more information.</p>
<p><strong>About the Washington State Hospital Association (WSHA)</strong></p>
<p>The Washington State Hospital Association (WSHA) works to improve the health of all Washington state residents by being active on key issues of policy and quality. 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 Triple Aim guides our members and our work, as we strive to improve the patient experience, improve the health of populations and reduce the cost of health care. Visit <a href="http://wsha.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=381c2b109dc0809662b7cd0da&amp;id=5c73ae3cad&amp;e=f15fdd481e">www.wsha.org</a> for more information.</p>
<p><strong>About the Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA)</strong></p>
<p>The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) is committed to whole-person care, integrating physical health and behavioral health services for better results and healthier residents. HCA purchases health care for more than two million Washington residents through Apple Health (Medicaid), the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) Program, and, beginning in 2020, the School Employees Benefits Board (SEBB) Program. As the largest health care purchaser in the state, we lead the effort to transform health care, helping ensure Washington residents have access to better health and better care at a lower cost. Visit <a href="http://www.hca.wa.gov">www.hca.wa.gov</a> for more information.</p>
<p><strong>For more information, contact:</strong><br />
<br />
Graham Short, WSMA Associate Director, Communications<br />
206.956.3633&nbsp;
<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a><br />
<br />
Cindy Sharpe<br />
813.244.2883
<br />
Rhonda Curry, WSHA SVP, Membership and Communication<br />
206.216.2556<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">rhondac@wsha.org</a><br />
<br />
Amy Blondin, Health Care Authority Chief Communications Officer<br />
360.725.1915<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">amy.gravelet-blondin@hca.wa.gov</a><br />
<br />
</p>
</div> | 9/16/2019 3:47:49 PM | 10/16/2018 2:28:53 PM | 10/17/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| WSMA_patient_safety_awards_go_to_TeamHealth_Northwest_and_PeaceHealth_Medical_Group | WSMA patient safety awards go to TeamHealth Northwest and PeaceHealth Medical Group | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Releases/2018/WSMA_patient_safety_awards_go_to_TeamHealth_Northwest_and_PeaceHealth_Medical_Group | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>October 17, 2018</h5>
<h2>
WSMA patient safety awards go to TeamHealth Northwest and PeaceHealth Medical Group
</h2>
<p>Seattle, Wash. - Two health care organizations in Washington state have been recognized by the Washington State Medical Association for their contributions to improving patient safety and quality care in the state. TeamHealth Northwest at CHI Franciscan and PeaceHealth Medical Group were each presented a William O. Robertson Patient Safety Award on Saturday, Oct. 13 at the medical association’s annual meeting at the Historic Davenport Hotel in Spokane.</p>
<p>Each year, the WSMA, which represents physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians and medical students throughout the state, honors innovative patient safety initiatives in the ambulatory care setting. This year, the medical association gave two awards: an award of excellence and an award of achievement.</p>
<p>The William O. Robertson Patient Safety Award of Excellence was given to TeamHealth Northwest at CHI Franciscan for its work on addressing opioid prescribing practices in the emergency department.</p>
<p>To reduce the overall rate of opioid prescriptions and prescribing variation between providers, TeamHealth Northwest leveraged the Hawthorne effect (in which individuals modify an aspect of their behavior in response to their awareness of being observed), informing providers of their prescribing behavior as compared to their colleagues. Over time, participating departments significantly reduced the variation and standardized the experience for patients.</p>
<p>The William O. Robertson Patient Safety Award of Achievement was presented to PeaceHealth Medical Group for its work elevating and integrating the importance of advance care planning (ACP) within their system. PeaceHealth Medical Group provided ACP education for all caregivers and physicians, increased the number of facilitated ACP conversations, and streamlined electronic medical record processes to more swiftly integrate ACP documentation. PeaceHealth has a long history of working on advance care planning, and the WSMA has appreciated PeaceHealth’s leadership in helping ensure its patients receive care at the end of life that reflects their values and preferences.</p>
<p>The WSMA established the William O. Robertson Patient Safety Award in 2005 to recognize and share innovative patient safety initiatives in the ambulatory care setting. The award was named after WSMA past-president, the late William O. Robertson, MD, who was a champion for patient safety, risk management and quality improvement throughout his long and distinguished career.</p>
<p>For more information on TeamHealth Northwest's&nbsp; efforts to encourage safe opioid prescribing, contact Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD at <a href="mailto:schlicnr@yahoo.com">schlicnr@yahoo.com</a>. For more information on PeaceHealth Medical Group's advance care planning efforts, contact Hilary Walker at <a href="mailto:hwalker@peacehealth.org">hwalker@peacehealth.org</a>.</p>
<p><strong>For more information, contact:</strong><br />
<br />
Graham Short<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> | 9/16/2019 3:48:00 PM | 10/16/2018 1:58:22 PM | 10/17/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| Spokane_geriatrician_named_president_of_Washington_State_Medical_Association | Spokane geriatrician named president of Washington State Medical Association | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Releases/2018/Spokane_geriatrician_named_president_of_Washington_State_Medical_Association | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>October 15, 2018</h5>
<h2>
Spokane geriatrician named president of Washington State Medical Association
</h2>
<p>Seattle, Wash. - Tom Schaaf, MD, MHA was elected president of the Washington State Medical Association at the association's annual meeting in Spokane, Sunday, Oct. 14. The WSMA represents physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians and medical students throughout Washington state.</p>
<p>Dr. Schaaf, who lives in Spokane, specializes in geriatrics and hospice care. He serves as the chief medical officer of Providence Home and Community Care in Tukwila and provides patient care at Providence Sound Hospice in Olympia.</p>
<p>Dr. Schaaf received his medical degree from the University of California, Los Angeles School of Medicine (now the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA). He completed his family medicine internship and residency at Northridge Hospital Medical Center in Los Angeles before joining his father’s geriatric and family medicine private practice in California. Dr. Schaaf moved to Washington state in 1992 after being recruited to join Group Health Physicians in Spokane.</p>
<p>Dr. Schaaf served in various leadership roles in the Spokane area before joining Providence, including as regional primary care medical director for Group Health Cooperative; hospitalist team leader for Group Health at Sacred Heart Medical Center; and medical executive committee member for Sacred Heart Medical Center. Dr. Schaaf is a member of both the WSMA and the Spokane County Medical Society. He joined WSMA’s executive committee in 2015 after serving several years on the association’s board.</p>
<p>The following physicians were also elected as officers at the meeting: Bill Hirota, MD, Tacoma gastroenterologist, president-elect; Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD, Tacoma emergency physician, 1<sup>st</sup> vice president; Mika Sinanan, MD, PhD, Seattle surgeon, 2<sup>nd</sup> vice president; Katina Rue, DO, Yakima osteopathic physician, secretary-treasurer; Nariman Heshmati, MD, Mukilteo OB/GYN, assistant secretary-treasurer. The seventh officer of WSMA’s executive committee is past-president Donna Smith, MD, Seattle pediatrician, who will serve as committee chair.<br />
<br />
<a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Press Room/Schaaf.Tom_2018.Portrait_hi-res.jpg]">Download a hi-res photo of Dr. Schaaf</a>.</p>
<p><strong>For more information, contact:</strong><br />
<br />
Graham Short<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> | 9/16/2019 3:46:57 PM | 10/15/2018 9:29:46 AM | 10/15/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| governor_inslee_proclaims_april_16_healthcare_decisions_day | Governor Inslee proclaims April 16 Healthcare Decisions Day | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Releases/2018/governor_inslee_proclaims_april_16_healthcare_decisions_day | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>April 16, 2018</h5>
<h2>
Governor Inslee proclaims April 16 Healthcare Decisions Day
</h2>
<div class="shrink">
<p>
Seattle, Wash. - Gov. Jay Inslee has proclaimed April 16, 2018 as Healthcare Decisions Day in Washington. The day recognizes the need for and efforts to encourage individuals to discuss and record choices ahead of time regarding future medical treatment-known as advance care planning-and to have those wishes honored.
</p>
<p>
Honoring Choices Pacific Northwest (PNW), a joint initiative between the Washington State Hospital Association and the Washington State Medical Association, is part of a national effort to spotlight the importance of advance care planning on April 16, National Healthcare Decisions Day.
</p>
<p>
Inspiring conversations about the care people want at the end of life, Honoring Choices PNW helps to inform the public on available treatment options and supports health care organizations and community groups in discussing, recording and honoring the expressed wishes of individuals on their choices for care should they be unable to speak for themselves. Honoring Choices PNW's vision is that everyone will receive care that honors personal values and goals at the end of life.
</p>
<p>
"Advance care planning is for all adults over 18," said Joanne Roberts, MD, MHA, chair of the Honoring Choices PNW Advisory Council and an administrative physician at Providence St. Joseph Health who specializes in hospice and palliative care medicine. "Whatever your level of health, it's important to consider what is important to you and what future health care decisions you would want. Then, you can write them down in an advance directive, which can be used to guide care if you are not able to make those decisions. It's also critical to share your preferences with anyone who would be at that bedside-friends, family, loved ones and providers-so they will know and can honor your wishes."
</p>
<p>
Advance directives are forms that allow individuals to name a person to make medical decisions for them if they cannot; state values, goals and preferences; and select specific treatment options. Completing an advance directive and discussing it with the named decision-maker and loved ones better ensures personal choices can be honored.
</p>
<p>
Honoring Choices PNW partners with 26 organizations throughout Washington state, and many have local events to promote National Healthcare Decisions Day. Additional information can be found at Honoring Choices PNW's website (<a href="http://www.honoringchoicespnw.org/">honoringchoicespnw.org</a>), which includes a free advance directive to download and videos explaining advance care planning.
</p>
<p>
For additional information about the national efforts around National Healthcare Decisions Day, visit
<a href="http://www.nationalhealthcaredecisionsday.org/">
nationalhealthcaredecisionsday.org</a>.
</p>
<p>
<strong>About Honoring Choices Pacific Northwest</strong>
</p>
<p>
Honoring Choices Pacific Northwest is an initiative of the Washington State Hospital Association and the Washington State Medical Association who have gathered together professionals from various organizations across the region to work on a strategic plan for promoting advance care planning through increasing awareness, knowledge and resources.
</p>
<p>
<strong>About the Washington State Medical Association</strong>
</p>
<p>
The Washington State Medical Association represents physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians and medical students throughout Washington state. Its vision is to make Washington the best place to practice medicine and to receive care. For more information on the WSMA, visit <a href="https://wsma.org/">wsma.org</a>.
</p>
<p>
<strong>About the Washington State Hospital Association</strong>
</p>
<p>
The Washington State Hospital Association works to improve the health of all Washington state residents by being active on key issues of policy and quality. 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 Triple Aim guides our members and our work, as we strive to improve the patient experience, improve the health of populations and reduce the cost of health care. Visit <a href="http://www.wsha.org/">wsha.org</a> for more information.
</p>
<p>
</p>
<p><strong>For more information, contact:</strong><br />
<br />
Graham Short<br />
<span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: #4d6476;">WSMA Associate Director, Communications</span><br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: #4d6476;">Jennifer Graves</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #ffffff; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: #4d6476;">WSHA Senior Vice President, Patient Safety &amp; Quality</span><br />
<a href="mailto:jennifer@wsha.org">jennifer@wsha.org</a></p>
</div>
</div> | 9/16/2019 3:48:41 PM | 4/19/2018 2:01:56 PM | 4/16/2018 12:00:00 AM |
| wa_physicians_make_house_and_senate_calls_in_olympia_today_to_lobby_for_patients_and_profession | WA physicians make House (and Senate) calls in Olympia today to lobby for patients & profession | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Releases/2018/wa_physicians_make_house_and_senate_calls_in_olympia_today_to_lobby_for_patients_and_profession | <div class="col-md-12">
<h5>January 31, 2018</h5>
<h2>
WA physicians make House (and Senate) calls in Olympia today to lobby for patients &amp; profession
</h2>
<p>
Olympia, Wash. - Physicians and physician assistants from throughout the state are putting on their white coats and meeting with their elected officials in Olympia today for the 2018 Washington State Medical Association (WSMA) Legislative Summit. More than 100 WSMA members will talk with legislators about issues important to their patients and their profession, including the opioid epidemic, affordable drug pricing and accessibility and raising the age of the sale of tobacco and vapor products from age 18 to age 21.
</p>
<p>
"Members of the Washington State Medical Association are committed to making Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care," said Donna Smith, M.D., WSMA president and executive medical director of Virginia Mason Clinics. "We convene in Olympia each year to advocate for issues that protect patients and improve the practice of medicine in our state. As physicians, we are on the frontlines of care, and it's important for us to share what we experience in our practices across the state with our legislators."
</p>
<p>
There are several key issues important to physicians and patients being addressed in the 2018 Legislative Session:
</p>
<ul>
<li>
Opioid epidemic: Physicians see firsthand the toll the opioid epidemic is taking on Washington patients, families and communities, and they are speaking to legislators today about efforts to reduce opioid-related overdose and death, and increase the availability of addiction treatment. WSMA is supporting numerous bills that would create a comprehensive approach to opioid misuse, addiction treatment (SB 6150 and HB 2489) and drug take back programs (HB 1047), as well as reminding the legislature of their action during the 2017 legislative session in passing HB 1427, which is currently going through the regulatory rule making process, and will improve opioid prescribing practices and facilitate access to the state's prescription monitoring program.
<br />
<br />
</li>
<li>
Drug pricing and availability: High drug costs adversely affect patients and their families. WSMA physicians are supporting bills that will attempt to make drug pricing changes transparent and allow access to affordable, appropriate medications.
<br />
<br />
</li>
<li>
<strong>
</strong>Increase the age of sale of tobacco and vapor products to 21: Smoking continues to be the number one cause of preventable death in the U.S. Most smokers start using tobacco before age of 21. WSMA physicians are talking to legislators today in support of bills that raise the age of sale for tobacco and vapor products from age 18 to 21.
</li>
</ul>
<p>
Video b-roll and soundbites of the 2018 WSMA Legislative Summit are available at <a href="https://vimeo.com/253701376">www.vimeo.com/wsma</a>, Twitter at <a href="https://twitter.com/?logged_out=1&amp;lang=en">@wsma_update</a> and Facebook at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/wsma.org/">@wsma</a>.
</p>
<p><strong>For more information, contact:</strong><br />
<br />
Graham Short<br />
206.956.3633&nbsp;
<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a><br />
<br />
Cindy Sharpe<br />
813.244.2883
<br />
<a href="mailto:cindy@wsma.org">cindy@wsma.org</a></p>
<p><strong>About the WSMA</strong></p>
<p>The Washington State Medical Association represents 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> | 9/16/2019 3:47:25 PM | 2/23/2018 2:57:14 PM | 1/31/2018 12:00:00 AM |