WSMA Reports: September-October 2026
The Looming Disaster for Medicaid
As new eligibility changes to the program are being phased in, physicians worry about loss of patient access to care and potential new administrative burdens. With details on the implementation of work requirements and other impacts from H.R. 1 now coming into focus, feature writer John Gallagher speaks with physician leaders and agency officials on what physicians, clinics, and medical groups need to be aware of to help prepare for the changes, mitigate the fallout, and help advocate for patient- and physician-friendly changes.
WSMA Foundation awards inaugural Future Physician Scholarship: This summer, the WSMA Foundation for Health Care Improvement, the philanthropic arm of the WSMA, announced Isabela Lydston, from Fall City, as the first recipient of its WSMA Future Physician Scholarship, a four-year scholarship awarded to a student from an underrepresented background attending Washington State University Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine. Feature writer Rita Colorito speaks with Isabela on her journey into medicine and her hopes for the future.
Meet incoming WSMA President Matt Hollon, MD, MPH: In this special feature, Milana McLead finds out what makes Dr. Hollon tick and what his hopes are for the WSMA and physician community heading into his term as the association’s president.
Everything you need to know about service animals in healthcare: Our risk management experts at Physicians Insurance bring us a timely reminder that a service animal is a legal accommodation and, in many cases, provides an essential patient support. When engaging with animals on site, healthcare organizations must balance disability rights, patient safety, infection prevention, and operational integrity.
Download the September/October issue of WSMA Reports.
Also in the issue:
- Member spotlight on Elizabeth Wako, MD.
- Daniel Low, MD, is a doctor making a difference.
- Salary by gender: A look by the numbers.
- Patrick Hewes, MS4, argues it’s time to build the road that turns public money into doctors where they are needed.
- And more.
This issue’s cover illustration is by the always impressive Adrián Astorgano.
WSMA Reports is WSMA’s flagship magazine, published six times a year as an exclusive member benefit, with each issue containing news, analysis, and opinion for the physician community in Washington state.