| 2022-wsma-annual-meeting-final-call-for-preregistration | 2022 WSMA Annual Meeting: Final Call for Preregistration | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/september-23/2022-wsma-annual-meeting-final-call-for-preregistration | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/august/2022-annual-meeting-graphic-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="2022 Annual Meeting graphic" /></div>
<h5>September 23, 2022</h5>
<h2>2022 WSMA Annual Meeting: Final Call for Preregistration</h2>
<p>There's still time to preregister and join your colleagues next weekend, Oct. 1-2 in Spokane for the <a href="[@]wsma/events/annual_meeting/wsma/events/annual_meeting/annual_meeting.aspx?hkey=fea49254-3815-4dc9-8710-53ff2e3a100f">2022 Annual Meeting of the WSMA House of Delegates</a>. In addition to the policymaking and networking that are central to the meeting, you'll have an opportunity to attend thought-provoking CME sessions, participate in celebratory events, and be on hand as we inaugurate WSMA's next president, Katina Rue, DO, who will be the first osteopathic physician and the first Latina to hold WSMA's top office. <a href="[@]Shared_Content/Events/Event_Display.aspx?EventKey=ANNMTG2022">Reserve your spot today</a>-preregistration closes at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 28 (registration is free for all WSMA members). </p>
<h3>A quick look at Saturday afternoon presentations</h3>
<p>Our two plenary sessions on Saturday will seek to uncover what truly inspires us as physicians, what moves us, and what keeps us connected to ourselves and our work. Sessions include:</p>
<ul>
<li>The Obstacle is the Path: Finding Meaning and Purpose in Troubling Times: In this presentation, Washington Physicians Health Program Executive Medical Director Chris Bundy, MD, MPH, will explore the core existential concerns as defined in contemporary discourse and identify strategies that physicians can use to promote meaning and purpose in the face of adversity.</li>
<li>Thinking Deeper - Necessary Components to Achieve Health Equity: A conversation between Fernando De Maio, PhD, and Edwin Lindo, JD, two nationally recognized scholars and practitioners in health equity. This is an opportunity to observe the rigorous intellectual exploration of health equity, as speak about a few of the most challenging elements of this work.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Accommodations and COVID-19 precautions</h3>
<p>Room availability at The Historic Davenport is very limited. If no rooms are available, ask about availability at the Davenport Tower across the street. Call The Davenport at 800.899.1482 for room information at both locations.</p>
<p>The WSMA will have the following COVID-19 precautions in place at the 2022 Annual Meeting, as we look to have a safe and supportive gathering:</p>
<ul>
<li>Conference attendees and guests will have attested that they are up to date on their vaccines.</li>
<li>Wearing a mask during indoor meetings is recommended. We will have masks available at the registration desk.</li>
<li>Refunds for lunch and/or dinner tickets will be offered if you get sick prior to the event and are unable to attend. Please call 206.441.9762 or email <a href="mailto:abby@wsma.org">abby@wsma.org</a> if you test positive or are symptomatic for COVID-19.</li>
<li>We will have a limited number of COVID-19 test kits available at the registration desk.</li>
</ul>
<p><em>Thank you to our corporate partners for their generous support: Physicians Insurance, The Polyclinic and The Everett Clinic, and the UW Psychiatry Consultation Line. If your company would like to be a WSMA Corporate Partner, contact Jessica Martinson at </em><a href="mailto:jessica@wsma.org"><em>jessica@wsma.org</em></a><em>.</em></p>
</div> | 9/22/2022 10:34:01 AM | 9/23/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| department-of-health-announces-regional-medical-officers | Department of Health Announces Regional Medical Officers | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/september-23/department-of-health-announces-regional-medical-officers | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/september/doh-regional-health-offices-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Map of DOH regional health offices" /></div>
<h5>September 23, 2022</h5>
<h2>Department of Health Announces Regional Medical Officers </h2>
<p>The Washington State Department of Health has announced the four physicians who will serve as regional medical officers as part of a Legislature-directed effort to decentralize the agency's work and increase its responsiveness to community health needs.</p>
<p>The state Legislature directed the DOH to <a href="https://waportal.org/resources/state-rho">establish regional health offices</a> in the 2021 legislative session. The DOH divided the state into four operational areas, with each regional health office serving as an easy entry point for access to a regional liaison and a medical officer. Regional health offices will provide services such as:</p>
<ul>
<li>Assistance with unanticipated vacancies or workforce gaps.</li>
<li>Consultations with medical officer or regional liaison.</li>
<li>Support and resources for convening partners.</li>
<li>A point of contact to bring resources and support within DOH together.</li>
</ul>
<p>The following new regional health officers will join the new Division of Medical and Veterinary Science led by Scott Lindquist, MD, MPH:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Herbie Duber, MD, MPH</strong> - regional medical officer for Region 4, Northwest Waterway. Dr. Duber is an emergency physician at UW Medical Center and Harborview Medical Center in Seattle and president-elect of the Washington chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians.</li>
<li><strong>Bob Lutz, MD, MPH</strong> - regional medical officer for Region 2, Eastern Plains. Dr. Lutz is a family medicine physician with more than 30 years of urgent care experience, recently serving as the health officer for Spokane County until moving to DOH to serve as COVID-19 medical advisor.</li>
<li><strong>James ("Jay") S. Miller, MD, MPH</strong> - regional medical officer for Region 3, South Gorge. Dr. Miller is an internal medicine physician and epidemiologist who has worked on the DOH and the CDC COVID-19 response as a CDC epidemic intelligence service officer.</li>
<li><strong>Amy Person, MD</strong> - regional medical officer for Region 1, Central Corridor. Dr. Person is a pediatrician who, since 2011, has served as local health officer for Benton-Franklin Health District and additionally for Klickitat County Public Health.</li>
</ul>
<p>Joining the four regional health officers is Beth Lipton, who will serve as the new public health veterinarian.</p>
</div> | 9/22/2022 10:34:16 AM | 9/23/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| gov-inslee-to-rescind-remaining-emergency-proclamations-on-oct-31 | Gov. Inslee to Rescind Remaining Emergency Proclamations on Oct. 31 | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/september-23/gov-inslee-to-rescind-remaining-emergency-proclamations-on-oct-31 | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/september/state-capitol-olympia-2015-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Washington state capitol building" /></div>
<h5>September 23, 2022</h5>
<h2>Gov. Inslee to Rescind Remaining Emergency Proclamations on Oct. 31 </h2>
<p>After more than two years of emergency proclamations related to COVID-19 being in place, Gov. Jay Inslee <a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/news-media/inslee-announces-end-remaining-covid-19-emergency-orders-and-state-emergency-october-31">announced</a>&nbsp;that all remaining orders will be rescinded on Oct. 31.</p>
<p>Ten emergency orders are currently still in effect following the <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/August_12/gov_inslee_announces_termination_of_emergency_proclamations_related_to_health_care">rescission of 12 orders at the end of July</a>. Included in the list of remaining emergency proclamations is the <a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-05%20Coronavirus%20%28final%29.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">underlying order declaring the state of emergency</a> in Washington, which will also be rescinded on Oct. 31, effectively ending the state of emergency.</p>
<p>Another notable proclamation among those being rescinded is <a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/21-14.5%20-%20COVID%20Vax_outdoor%20workers%20%28tmp%29.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">21-14</a> regarding vaccines, which requires state workers, staff at educational facilities, and health care employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. However, employers may still voluntarily choose to keep the requirement in place. In addition, the governor will keep the COVID-19 vaccine requirements in place for workers at most Washington state agencies. A separate order by the state Department of Health requiring face coverings for health care and long-term care facilities will remain in place beyond the end of the state of emergency. </p>
<h3>Pending issues</h3>
<p>In a meeting with the DOH this week, WSMA staff discussed the following issues, with outcomes pending:</p>
<ul>
<li>Infection control: Conversations continue around updating infection control procedures in health care facilities. The WSMA asked the DOH to continue coordinating with us going forward to ensure physicians in both outpatient and inpatient settings remain fully apprised of updates and have opportunities to provide feedback on any changes. WSMA staff also met with the Department of Labor &amp; Industries, which is in the early stages of drafting a permanent rule aimed at protecting health care workers from infectious diseases, including COVID-19.</li>
<li>Waiver on medical assistant supervision: There will be an effort to continue allowing for this flexibility, which has helped ameliorate staffing issues for physician practices during the pandemic.</li>
</ul>
<p>The WSMA will keep members apprised of developments. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us at <a href="mailto:policy@wsma.org">policy@wsma.org</a>.</p>
</div> | 9/22/2022 12:44:02 PM | 9/23/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| keep-your-messages-to-congress-coming-on-medicare-payment-cuts-and-prior-authorization | Keep Your Messages to Congress Coming on Medicare Payment Cuts and Prior Authorization | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/september-23/keep-your-messages-to-congress-coming-on-medicare-payment-cuts-and-prior-authorization | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/september/megaphone-evergreen-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="megaphone illustration" /></div>
<h5>September 23, 2022</h5>
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<h2>Keep Your Messages to Congress Coming on Medicare Payment Cuts and Prior Authorization</h2>
<p>There are two federal action alerts in play that need your attention: <a href="https://physiciansgrassrootsnetwork.org/be-heard?vvsrc=%2fCampaigns%2f96014%2fRespond%3fvvcgUT%3dU2n8B9gDicI8Np0q9ql0_w%26unregistered%3dU2n8B9gDicI8Np0q9ql0_w%26vvcgRD%3dBc7t28PAPWy22WQW%26vvsbr%3dZoWBN17BsEoKbiErNhiL7w">One to prevent a nearly 10% cut in Medicare payments in 2023</a> and one that will hold big insurance companies accountable by <a href="https://physiciansgrassrootsnetwork.org/be-heard?vvsrc=%2fCampaigns%2f85317%2fRespond%3fvvcgUT%3dU2n8B9gDicI8Np0q9ql0_w%26unregistered%3dU2n8B9gDicI8Np0q9ql0_w%26vvcgRD%3dB9btKzqAWPNi2fQP%26vvsbr%3dK_sKdH-101q6AMqONgb-0Q">requiring Medicare Advantage plans to adopt transparent prior authorization programs</a>. In both instances, there are promising bipartisan bills on the table-the Supporting Medicare Providers Act (H.R. 8800) and The Improving Seniors' Timely Access to Care Act (S. 301)-but lawmakers in the Senate and House must hear from more physicians and physician assistant constituents to ensure their passage. Click on the links above to learn more about these action alerts and send your messages today.</p>
</div> | 9/22/2022 12:42:58 PM | 9/23/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| resolutions-now-available-for-wsma-member-input | Resolutions Now Available for WSMA Member Input | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/august-26/resolutions-now-available-for-wsma-member-input | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/august/resolutions-print-2-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="resolutions on paper" /></div>
<h5>August 26, 2022 - (<em>Updated Sept. 23)</em></h5>
<h2>Virtual Reference Committees Close on Tuesday: Share Your Thoughts Now</h2>
<p>The WSMA's secure, password-protected virtual reference committees give all members an opportunity to review and provide feedback on policy proposals that will be considered by the WSMA House of Delegates at its <a href="https://wsma.org/wsma/events/annual_meeting/annual_meeting.aspx">annual meeting</a> in Spokane next weekend. Comments on the proposals will be compiled and reviewed by the reference committees when making their official recommendations to the House. Don't miss this opportunity to lend your expertise and insights to these proposals—your engagement can make a difference in shaping policy that has real-world impact. Share your thoughts now by visiting the <a href="https://wsma.org/wsma/membership/discussion_forums/virtual_reference_committees/wsma/membership/discussion_forums/virtual_reference_committees.aspx?hkey=d674a5ae-4fb5-48d6-b969-16aab9b63647">virtual reference committees</a> (sign-in to the WSMA website is required). The virtual reference committees close Tuesday, Sept. 27 at midnight—don’t delay.&nbsp;</p>
<p>WSMA members may also provide testimony during the in-person reference committee sessions scheduled on Saturday, Oct. 1 during the Annual Meeting. <a href="[@]WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/Annual_Meeting.aspx?hkey=fea49254-3815-4dc9-8710-53ff2e3a100f">Learn more about the meeting, which is free for members, and register online</a>.</p>
<p>Click on the resolution title to read the full resolution, any comments from your colleagues, and to comment (you'll be prompted to enter your password to enter the secure forums).</p>
<h3>Reference Committee B (professional and internal affairs)</h3>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=03680c4a-ca73-4c77-8379-a78bc23f3372&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-1 - Physician Noncompetes</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=baa8ac83-5392-47e1-a32e-8f8a47cb608b&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-2 - WSMA Dues Increase</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=88ce0ea2-6832-422a-a3ab-5940bb0f77aa&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-3 - SNF and Multiple Prescribers</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=06d75a8e-96ce-4846-a5f9-85d1f05d8ca3&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-4 - Soteria for Early Treatment of Acute Serious Mental Illness</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=c4c99b23-22ac-4138-a3df-772507f4a123&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-5 - Private Equity Purchase of Physician Practices</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=9131c4a7-56a8-4ed0-9d66-419037bdd73a&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-6 - Commitment to Limit Inhaler-Induced Climate Change</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=28c3b1a2-176e-46b1-b61c-21dd5063250b&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-7 - Removing the Race Coefficient from the Calculation of Estimated Glomerular F. Rate</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=4dc05e4f-89d2-476c-8970-ac6ebf92df37&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-8 - Parents Deserve Comprehensive Postpartum Care</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=3bbc3c75-6f97-45e2-8836-56cc0bff110d&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-9 - Allocate Opioid Funds to Student Debt of Addiction Treatment Physicians and Health Care Professionals</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=93b1c03a-bbd7-4587-9932-6a16acc23b20&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-10 - Addressing Physician Burnout Through the Elimination of Mandatory Reporting by Physician Wellness Groups</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=e377e86b-4d7d-477c-a497-8fe51789ba2d&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-11: Improving Access to Evidence-Based Harm Reduction Services</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=fe61ae2e-ac94-4727-b952-269ff026dd05&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-12: Legislative Advocacy to Support Harm Reduction Services in the State of Washington</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=304aed34-b346-41c6-a74c-cc4ded4ddebb&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-13: Racial Bias in Pulse Oximetry</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=c1371340-d1ce-4f3e-860d-20461995bfb2&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-14: Washington State Opioid Prescribing Rules</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=3fc16ad6-b511-491a-bc1b-4b65e87b9948&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-15: Improving Refugee Primary Care Access and Interpreter Certification Testing</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=425d5393-2a9e-44cf-a825-4afd157eed3f&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution B-16: Addressing Vaccine Misinformation</a></p>
<h3>Reference Committee C (legislative affairs and health care economics/reform)</h3>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=9592e3d3-f8ff-46f4-9d0b-21bf17523ca6&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-1 - Improving Health Care Staff and Physician Workforce in Washington</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=aa6a451e-888f-4a80-a00b-212b2512f2b7&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-2 - Increasing Access to Vasectomies</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=6d4ddf07-d362-4042-8a62-71f1c25e113c&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-3 - Education and Support for Physicians Delivering End-of-Life Care</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=0fd80a18-93ca-4d64-9018-5da142d16e13&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-4 - Support for Legislation that Improves Health via Implementation of Statewide GBI</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=c4a5b58e-c538-465c-a675-f489ffe72ebc&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-5 - Protecting Patient Access</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=b642dc9c-8b85-4b75-a108-32361a876d0e&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-6 - Shortage of Mental Health Professionals and Ancillary Mental Health Workers</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=d960aa6d-8d48-471c-9e29-b0a04c933fe9&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-7 - Equitable Youth Physical Activity and Sport Organization</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=f1023f18-1a6c-4e2b-8670-b17efce69aa3&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-8 - Restricting Derogatory and Stigmatizing Language of ICD-10 Codes</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=b3e46e1f-5779-43bb-bd1f-5dd307f39dd0&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-9 - Support Eat, Sleep, Console as Treatment for Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=23f6b645-d2d4-4b90-8901-723cf131452d&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-10 - Advocating for the Informed Consent for Access to Transgender Health Care Model</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=28d7f3aa-4a29-4897-8107-c61a7d82ed08&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-11 - Patient Access to Safe and Legal Information</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=8fdee19e-a49b-4243-a723-a65574abf460&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-12: Decreasing Exposure to Air Pollution Near Airports</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=4fbe03ee-11ad-4968-b6a9-39b6cb5762ec&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-13: Protecting Physicians who Provide Reproductive Services</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=39afb657-a5fc-4338-94c7-e94a3b93120b&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-14: Reducing Gun Harm by Requiring Gun Owners to Obtain and Maintain Liability Insuranc</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=b9ebcb5b-8f30-435b-943f-3aa90a7c8bd9&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-15: Expanding Behavioral Health Urgent Care</a></p>
<p><a href="[@]iCore/Communities/TopicDefault.aspx?iUniformKey=e1f102ce-3c23-40da-95a5-62481ff53d4e&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">Resolution C-16: Recognizing Issues of Stigma and Equity Amidst the Monkeypox Epidemic</a></p>
</div> | 8/25/2022 3:15:17 PM | 9/22/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| biden-administration-issues-final-rules-on-balance-billing-arbitration | Biden Administration Issues Final Rules on Balance Billing Arbitration | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/september-9/biden-administration-issues-final-rules-on-balance-billing-arbitration | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/september/billing-invoice-645x425.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="billing invoice" /></div>
<h5>September 9, 2022</h5>
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<h2>Biden Administration Issues Final Rules on Balance Billing Arbitration</h2>
<p>The U.S. Departments of Health and Human Services and the Treasury have issued <a href="https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/EBSA/about-ebsa/our-activities/resource-center/faqs/ebsa1210-ac00-and-1210ab99-idr-process-final-rule-dol816-final.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">final rules</a> and supporting <a href="https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/EBSA/about-ebsa/our-activities/resource-center/faqs/aca-part-55.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">guidance</a>&nbsp;addressing several provisions of the payment process for out-of-network care under the federal No Surprises Act. The rules make <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/health-care-advocacy/advocacy-update/sept-2-2022-advocacy-update-spotlight-final-rules-nsa?utm_source=SFMC&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_term=922022&amp;utm_content=22-9997_Advocacy_Update_090222&amp;utm_campaign=Advocacy_Email_Newsletter_AdvocacyUpdate&amp;utm_uid=8809453&amp;utm_effort=">several important changes</a>, including the removal of provisions that directed the independent resolution process arbiter to presume that the qualifying payment amount is the appropriate out-of-network rate (an <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/February_25/federal_judge_rules_for_physicians_in_lawsuit_challenging_no_surprises_act?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=fmjX8">interpretation of the legislation challenged in a WSMA-supported lawsuit filed by the Texas Medical Association</a>). While there are outstanding concerns, the final rules represent a step toward a more balanced independent resolution process.</p>
<p>Ultimately, the No Surprises Act will end up superseding most provisions of our <a href="[@]wsma/resources/balance_billing/wsma/resources/balance_billing/balance_billing.aspx?hkey=a3b550fb-fd76-4368-83ba-800b0d57c8a6">state balance billing law</a>, hard-won compromise legislation that protects patients from unexpected bills while preserving physicians' ability to negotiate fair reimbursement from Washington's health insurers. Since passage of the federal bill, the WSMA has worked at the state level with the Legislature and the Office of the Insurance Commissioner to ensure that physicians in Washington are not unduly disadvantaged from these balance billing laws, both in contract negotiations with insurance carriers and during the dispute resolution processes that kick in when out-of-network patients are treated under the laws.</p>
<p>While the recently updated final rules should help to deemphasize the importance of carriers' contracted rates during arbitration, <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2022/weekly-rounds-september-2-2022-playing-hardball-on-your-behalf">insurance carriers are wasting no time using balance billing laws to play hardball in contract negotiations</a>. If your practice is among those that are experiencing challenges in contracting with insurance carriers due to balance billing laws, we'd like to hear from you: Contact Sean Graham at <a href="mailto:sean@wsma.org">sean@wsma.org</a>.</p>
</div> | 9/8/2022 12:00:06 PM | 9/9/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| serve-as-a-delegate-at-the-wsma-annual-meeting | Serve as a Delegate at the WSMA Annual Meeting | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/september-9/serve-as-a-delegate-at-the-wsma-annual-meeting | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/september/am-2019-10-263-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA Annual Meeting conference room" /></div>
<h5>September 9, 2022</h5>
<h2>Serve as a Delegate at the WSMA Annual Meeting</h2>
<p>There are still seats remaining in the House of Delegates for the <a href="https://wsma.org/wsma/events/annual_meeting/wsma/events/annual_meeting/annual_meeting.aspx?hkey=fea49254-3815-4dc9-8710-53ff2e3a100f">2022 WSMA Annual Meeting</a>, Oct. 1-2 in Spokane. Review the <a href="https://wsma.org/wsma/about_us/leadership/house_of_delegates/wsma/about/leadership/house_of_delegates/house_of_delegates.aspx?hkey=e2c50002-384d-4ff7-9116-5ce7a51116e7">2022 delegate roster</a> to find out if there are openings within your county or specialty, then contact your <a href="https://wsma.org/wsma/about_us/partner_organizations/county_medical_societies/wsma/about/partner_organizations/County_Medical_Societies/county_medical_societies.aspx?hkey=718f0a74-10ca-4fe2-8c45-d2434ed861de&amp;_zs=A3aFd1&amp;_zl=N5rX8">county medical society</a> or <a href="https://wsma.org/wsma/about_us/partner_organizations/state_specialty_societies/wsma/about/partner_organizations/State_Specialty_Societies/state_specialty_societies.aspx?hkey=df249f5e-6385-417e-ba44-426ac03fa84d&amp;_zs=lfaFd1&amp;_zl=UOmX8">state specialty society</a> about serving as a delegate. To review the issues to be considered for action by the House, download the 2022 Delegate Handbook, now available <a href="https://wsma.org/wsma/events/annual_meeting/wsma/events/annual_meeting/annual_meeting.aspx?hkey=fea49254-3815-4dc9-8710-53ff2e3a100f">on the Annual Meeting webpage</a>. Delegates are expected to be available for one year of service beginning with the House of Delegates meeting. Review the <a href="https://wsma.informz.net/WSMA/data/images/Attachments/WSMA_2022_Delegate-Duties.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">delegate duties information sheet</a> for expectations of service. If you're unsure who to contact or have any questions about serving on the WSMA House of Delegates, email Shannon Bozarth at <a href="mailto:slb@wsma.org">slb@wsma.org</a> for assistance.</p>
</div> | 9/8/2022 12:00:34 PM | 9/9/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| Notice_of_Proposed_Amendments_to_the_WSMA_Bylaws | Notice of Proposed Amendments to the WSMA Bylaws | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2022/Notice_of_Proposed_Amendments_to_the_WSMA_Bylaws | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/august/2022-annual-meeting-graphic-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="2022 WSMA Annual Meeting logo" /></div>
<h5>September 1, 2022</h5>
<h2>Notice of Proposed Amendments to the WSMA Bylaws</h2>
<p>The WSMA Bylaws Committee hereby provides notice of its proposals to amend the WSMA bylaws (as required by Article XIX of the bylaws). The bylaws committee will introduce the proposed amendments listed below at the House of Delegates' annual fall meeting.</p>
<p>Proposed amendments to the WSMA Bylaws for 2022 include changes that would:</p>
<ul>
<li>Reduce the number of years that WSMA policies sunset (expire) from 10 years to five years and require the board of trustees to forward the list of pending policies and final recommendations to the Speakers and the House of Delegates at least 30 days prior to the WSMA Annual Meeting.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Increase the number of delegates entitled to the Medical Student Section from one delegate and one alternate delegate to three delegates and three alternate delegates to be filled by medical student representatives from each of the three medical schools in Washington state: University of Washington School of Medicine, Washington State University Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, and Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Add AMA alternate delegate to the list of offices that medical student members may hold.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Latest News/2022/2022_proposed_bylaws_amendments.pdf]">Download the 2022 bylaws amendments</a>. These proposed changes will be presented to the WSMA House of Delegates for adoption at the <a href="[@]wsma/events/annual_meeting/annual_meeting.aspx">2022 WSMA Annual Meeting, Oct. 1-2 in Spokane</a>.</p>
</div> | 9/7/2022 11:42:07 AM | 9/1/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| 2022-wsma-annual-meeting-deadline-for-special-davenport-room-rate-is-aug-30 | 2022 WSMA Annual Meeting: Deadline for Special Davenport Room Rate Is Aug. 30 | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/august-26/2022-wsma-annual-meeting-deadline-for-special-davenport-room-rate-is-aug-30 | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/august/2022-annual-meeting-graphic-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="2022 WSMA Annual Meeting logo" /></div>
<h5>August 26, 2022</h5>
<h2>2022 WSMA Annual Meeting: Deadline for Special Davenport Room Rate Is Aug. 30 </h2>
<p>For members attending the 2022 Annual Meeting of the WSMA House of Delegates this October in Spokane, next Tuesday, Aug. 30 is the deadline to reserve your room at The Historic Davenport Hotel and receive the special discounted room rate. Don't delay: Register for the WSMA Annual Meeting <a href="https://wsma.org/wsma/events/annual_meeting/wsma/events/annual_meeting/annual_meeting.aspx?hkey=fea49254-3815-4dc9-8710-53ff2e3a100f">online</a> and call 509.455.8888 or <a href="https://www.marriott.com/event-reservations/reservation-link.mi?id=1656621320466&amp;key=GRP&amp;app=resvlink">follow this link</a> to arrange your accommodations with the hotel today.</p>
<h3>About the meeting</h3>
<p>All WSMA members are welcome to attend the 2022 WSMA Annual Meeting, Oct. 1-2, when your WSMA delegates convene to set policy for the association, elect officers, and network. We have a great lineup of speakers for the weekend's CME sessions.</p>
<p>On Saturday, Oct. 1, Chris Bundy, MD, MPH, will present The Obstacle is the Path: Finding Meaning and Purpose in Troubling Times. Dr. Bundy, who is the executive medical director of the Washington Physicians Health Program, will explore the core existential concerns as defined in contemporary philosophical and psychological discourse, discuss the existential concerns that emerged during the pandemic, and identify tools and strategies that physicians can use to promote meaning and purpose in the face of adversity.</p>
<p>In addition to his role with WPHP, Dr. Bundy is also president of the Federation of State Physician Health Programs, and clinical associate professor of psychiatry at the University of Washington School of Medicine and Washington State University's Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine. He was last year's President's Unsung Hero Apple Award winner, thanks to his amazing work on behalf of us all.</p>
<p>This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em>â„¢. Stay tuned for more information about additional speakers, including Fernando De Maio, PhD, and Edwin Lindo, JD, who will present on health equity.</p>
<p>Register for the WSMA Annual Meeting <a href="[@]wsma/events/annual_meeting/wsma/events/annual_meeting/annual_meeting.aspx?hkey=fea49254-3815-4dc9-8710-53ff2e3a100f">online</a>. Tickets for the WSMA Foundation luncheon and WAMPAC dinner are sold separately and can be purchased when registering for the Annual Meeting.</p>
<p><em>Thank you to our corporate partners for their generous support: Physicians Insurance, The Polyclinic and The Everett Clinic, and the UW Psychiatry Consultation Line. If your company would like to be a WSMA Corporate Partner, contact Jessica Martinson at </em><a href="mailto:jessica@wsma.org"><em>jessica@wsma.org</em></a><em>.</em></p>
</div> | 8/22/2022 12:03:43 PM | 8/26/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| action-alert-on-medicare-payment-cuts-and-prior-authorization | Action Alert on Medicare Payment Cuts and Prior Authorization | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/august-26/action-alert-on-medicare-payment-cuts-and-prior-authorization | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/august/megaphone-evergreen-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="megaphone illustration" /></div>
<h5>August 26, 2022</h5>
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<h2>Action Alert on Medicare Payment Cuts and Prior Authorization</h2>
<p>The August recess is in full swing, and your members of Congress are currently back in their districts meeting with their constituents. Now is the perfect opportunity for you to remind them that there is still much work to be done before the November elections on important health care issues, including looming cuts to physician Medicare payments and fixing the cumbersome prior authorization process.
</p>
<h3>Physician Medicare payment cuts</h3>
<p>Late last year, physician advocates from across the country united to successfully persuade Congress to delay Medicare payment cuts that, if enacted, would have severely impeded patient access to care. Unfortunately, if Congress does not act by the end of the year, these delayed cuts, and some new ones, will take effect in 2023 and cause serious financial hardship to physician practices.</p>
<p>It's clear that Congress must work with the physician community to develop long-term solutions to the systemic problems with the Medicare physician payment system. In the meantime, we are once again urging Congress to:</p>
<ul>
<li>Extend the congressionally enacted 3% temporary increase in the Medicare physician fee schedule.</li>
<li>Provide relief for an additional 1.5% budget neutrality cut that is planned for 2023.</li>
<li>End the statutory annual freeze and provide an inflation-based update for the coming year.</li>
<li>Waive the 4% PAYGO sequester necessitated by passage of legislation unrelated to Medicare.</li>
</ul>
<p>Join us in reaching out to Congress: <a href="https://physiciansgrassrootsnetwork.org/be-heard?vvsrc=%2fcampaigns%2f96014%2frespond">Send a message</a>.</p>
<h3>Prior authorization</h3>
<p>Physicians complete an average of 41 prior authorizations per week, amounting to roughly 13 hours weekly that physicians and their staff must spend on administrative work instead of seeing and treating patients. If an insurance plan covers a treatment that would benefit a patient, physicians should not have to waste time ensuring access to it.</p>
<p>Further, the criteria used for prior authorizations are unclear. Physicians rarely know at the point-of-care if the prescribed treatment requires prior authorization, only to find out later when a patient's access is delayed or denied. This ineffective system can cause unnecessary tension in the physician-patient relationship and negatively impact patient health.</p>
<p>Congress has taken steps to address this by introducing the Improving Seniors' Timely Access to Care Act (H.R. 8487), which would require Medicare Advantage plans to adopt transparent prior authorization programs that adhere to evidence-based medical guidelines and hold plans accountable for making timely determinations and providing rationales for denials.</p>
<p>With enough grassroots pressure this month, we can get H.R. 8487 across the finish line when Congress returns in the fall. <a href="https://physiciansgrassrootsnetwork.org/be-heard?vvsrc=%2fCampaigns%2f85317%2fRespond">Send a message</a>.</p>
<p>Remember, elections are approaching, and time is running out for this Congress to take the critical steps required to help physicians and the patients they care for. Please do your part by answering these urgent calls to action!</p>
</div> | 8/22/2022 12:03:19 PM | 8/26/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| a-look-at-health-provisions-in-inflation-reduction-act-legislation | A Look at Health Provisions in Inflation Reduction Act Legislation | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/august-26/a-look-at-health-provisions-in-inflation-reduction-act-legislation | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/august/stock-image-2017-us-capitol-building-bright-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="U.S. Capitol" /></div>
<h5>August 26, 2022</h5>
<h2>A Look at Health Provisions in Inflation Reduction Act Legislation </h2>
<p>President Joe Biden signed the <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/5376/text">Inflation Reduction Act</a> on Tuesday, Aug. 16. The sweeping legislation was passed through the budget reconciliation process and focuses on addressing climate change and improving access to health care, including several provisions that may affect you as a physician or a patient, or both.</p>
<p>Notable health care provisions of the law include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Extending through 2025 the enhanced premium subsidies for people who buy insurance on the Affordable Care Act marketplaces that Congress put in place in 2021 to help respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.</li>
<li>Giving the federal government the ability to negotiate prices of some drugs purchased by Medicare beneficiaries. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is directed to identify Medicare's 100 most expensive drugs and then pick 10 for price negotiations starting in 2023, to take effect in 2026. Over the next two years, another 10 drugs will be added to the list.</li>
<li>Creating patient protections for Medicare Part D program enrollees including capping annual out-of-pocket payments for drugs at $2,000 effective in 2025; expanding eligibility for low-income subsidies; removing cost sharing for certain vaccines; limiting premium growth to no more than 6% annually from 2024-2029; and limiting insulin cost sharing to $35 a month. An effort to apply some of these provisions more broadly, including the insulin cost sharing limit, was blocked by Senate Republicans, though Washington state currently has <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5546&amp;Year=2021&amp;Initiative=false">a law in place</a>&nbsp;limiting insulin cost-sharing to $35 a month for state-regulated health plans through 2023.</li>
</ul>
</div> | 8/25/2022 3:14:06 PM | 8/26/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| board-of-naturopathy-considers-if-abortions-vasectomies-are-within-scope-of-practice | Board of Naturopathy Considers if Abortions, Vasectomies Are Within Scope of Practice | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/august-26/board-of-naturopathy-considers-if-abortions-vasectomies-are-within-scope-of-practice | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/august/mortar-pestle-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="mortar and pestle" /></div>
<h5>August 26, 2022</h5>
<h2>Board of Naturopathy Considers if Abortions, Vasectomies Are Within Scope of Practice </h2>
<p>The WSMA recently received a copy of a letter from the Washington Association of Naturopathic Physicians requesting that the Board of Naturopathy-comprising naturopaths and public members-decide whether in-clinic abortions (dilation and evacuation, vacuum aspiration) and vasectomies are within the scope of practice of naturopaths. The naturopathic <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=18.36A&amp;full=true#18.36A.040">scope of practice</a> includes a "minor office procedures" provision that WANP argues allows them to perform these procedures. They also requested that the board petition the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to add naturopaths to the list of authorized prescribers for mifepristone.</p>
<p>The board considered these requests at its Aug. 12 meeting. WSMA President-Elect Katina Rue, DO, spoke in opposition to the request related to abortions and vasectomies, noting that while the WSMA supports reproductive freedom, there is no reasonable way to interpret the definition of "minor office procedures" as intending to include the performance of in-office operations like D&amp;E/aspiration abortions and vasectomies. Dr. Rue held that it is within the jurisdiction of the Legislature, not the board, to determine scope of practice. Jeffrey Frankel, MD, on behalf of the Washington State Urological Society, and Linda Dale, PA-C, on behalf of the Washington Academy of Physician Assistants, also shared their concerns.</p>
<p>The board ultimately decided to postpone a decision on the performance of abortions and vasectomies until its next meeting in November. It did, however, agree to petition the FDA on the use of mifepristone. The WSMA will continue to engage on this issue. We will be sharing additional written comments and plan to participate heavily in November's WANP board meeting.</p>
<p>If you have questions or thoughts on this proposal, email WSMA Associate Policy Director Billie Dickinson at <a href="mailto:billie@wsma.org">billie@wsma.org</a>.</p>
</div> | 8/25/2022 3:14:40 PM | 8/26/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| ama_campaign_school_returns_in_person_this_fall | AMA Campaign School Returns in Person this Fall | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/August_12/ama_campaign_school_returns_in_person_this_fall | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/august/ampac-campaign-school-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="AMPAC Campaign School logo" /></div>
<h5>August 12, 2022</h5>
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<h2>AMA Campaign School Returns in Person this Fall</h2>
<p>After two years of virtual programming due to the COVID-19 pandemic, AMPAC is excited to announce that the <a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/www.ampaconline.org/political-education/ampac-campaign-school__;!!AI0rnoUB!9nn-iWogTrVZT3mzn-6SpIrryvwY96y5Bj6zdVkZi9732lzaz56obZWEyKJmOd98B_kj0x92u8kPF1TqIYE43ZW3ew$">2022 Campaign School</a> will be returning in person Sept. 29-Oct. 2 at the American Medical Association offices in Washington, D.C.</p>
<p>Under the direction of lead trainers, participants will be broken into campaign staff teams to run a simulated congressional campaign using what they've learned during group sessions on strategy, vote targeting, social media, advertising, and more.  </p>
<p>Please note the following: </p>
<ul>
<li>Registration fee is $350 for AMA members and $1,000 for non-AMA members. This fee is waived for AMA-member residents and students; however, space is limited and the AMPAC board will review and select four participants from the pool of qualified resident and student applicants.</li>
<li>Faculty, materials, and all meals during the meeting are covered by the AMA. Participants are responsible for their registration fee, travel expenses, and hotel accommodations (AMPAC staff will provide you with a list of nearby hotels within walking distance of the AMA offices).</li>
<li>All participants will be required to provide proof of full vaccination and at least one booster for the COVID-19 virus.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://meetingregistration.ama-assn.org/mtgregcvent/register/search?ECODE=7522440c-c17c-4778-b47c-b712b9a9b963">Registration for the 2022 Campaign School is now open</a>. Space is limited and the deadline to register is Sept. 4 (or sooner if maximum capacity is reached). For more information, you may contact <a href="mailto:politicaleducation@ama-assn.org">politicaleducation@ama-assn.org</a>.</p>
</div> | 8/8/2022 1:15:49 PM | 8/12/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| gov_inslee_announces_termination_of_emergency_proclamations_related_to_health_care | Gov. Inslee Announces Termination of Emergency Proclamations Related to Health Care | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/August_12/gov_inslee_announces_termination_of_emergency_proclamations_related_to_health_care | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/august/wa-capitol-july2022-3-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Washington capitol building" /></div>
<h5>August 12, 2022</h5>
<!-- **************************NEW ARTICLE****************************** -->
<h2>Gov. Inslee Announces Termination of Emergency Proclamations Related to Health Care </h2>
<p>Gov. Jay Inslee will rescind several emergency proclamations originally put in place by the governor early in the pandemic to help slow the spread of the virus and to help physicians, health care professionals, and facilities respond to the crisis. The proclamations as announced by the governor will be rescinded as of 12:01 a.m. on Oct. 27, 2022. Physicians are advised to prepare now to transition as the end of these flexibilities draws near.</p>
<p>Below is a comprehensive list of all proclamations that will be rescinded on Oct. 27.</p>
<h3>Continuing education for health care professionals</h3>
<p><a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-32%20-%20COVID-19%20DOH%20Healthcare%20Worker%20Licensing%20%28tmp%29.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Proclamation 20-32</a>: This proclamation temporarily waived the requirements in <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=246-12">Chapter 246-12 WAC</a> related to continuing education for health care professionals.</p>
<p><strong>For medical assistants</strong>: This proclamation includes the one-year time limit for Medical Assistant Interim Certification Permits (MAIC). This proclamation applies to MA-Cs, who are required to have passed a certification exam within the five years prior to licensure. This proclamation does not apply to MA-Rs, MA-Ps, or MA-HTs. The Washington State Department of Health is encouraging those who hold an interim permit to consider moving forward with scheduling a national examination as Washington transitions back to the one-year limit for MAIC permit holders. According to the DOH, many of these national examinations have wait lists several months long.</p>
<p><strong>For physician assistants</strong>: PAs will be required to submit their practice agreement to the Washington Medical Commission if they have not done so already. Due to the passage of House Bill 2378, which passed the Legislature in 2020, these practice agreements do not need to be approved by the commission, just submitted. If you filed a practice agreement (formerly delegation agreement) before July 1, 2021, you do not need to update to reflect the changes in HB 2378.</p>
<p><strong>Osteopathic physicians</strong>: The Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery will excuse osteopathic physicians from attesting to completion of CE requirements as a requirement for license renewal until they have completed their next full CE cycle after Oct. 27, 2022.</p>
<h3>Certificate of need</h3>
<p><a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-36%20-%20COVID-19%20-%20DOH%20Health%20Care%20Facilities-Hand%20Sanitizer%20%28tmp%29.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Proclamation 20-36</a>: A provision of this proclamation addresses certificate of need, among other things: </p>
<p>For those facilities requiring a certificate of need: </p>
<p><strong>By Aug. 28, 2022</strong>, facilities must submit a letter of intent to the DOH conforming to WAC 246-310-080. Letters of intent must describe the increase in capacity or new locations the facility wants to maintain and be accompanied by a patient transition plan should the department not approve the application. Send the letter of intent to <a href="mailto:covidwaiver@doh.wa.gov">covidwaiver@doh.wa.gov</a>.</p>
<p><strong>By Oct. 27, 2022</strong>, facilities must submit a CN application and the appropriate fee to the DOH following existing CN application processes and requirements. Facilities must also submit applications to modify their facility license within this same timeframe, as appropriate. If your CN application is denied, you must execute your patient transition plan and revert your operations to your previously approved CN.</p>
<p><strong>Exception</strong>: Health care facility types on a concurrent review cycle for CN applications (nursing homes, hospice care centers, and end-stage renal disease facilities) will be required to submit a second letter of intent, CN application, and appropriate fee in compliance with the DOH's published schedule the next time the application cycle opens. Facilities must also submit applications to modify their facility license within this same timeframe, as appropriate. If your CN application is denied, you must execute your patient transition plan and revert your operations to your previously approved CN.</p>
<h3>Long-term care facilities</h3>
<p><a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-52%20-%20COVID-19%20LTC%20Extensions%20%28tmp%29.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Proclamation 20-52</a>: This proclamation incorporated proclamations 20-06, 20-10, 20-16, 20-17, and 20-18 and does the following: </p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-06%20Coronavirus%20%28tmp%29.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">20-06</a>: Restricted visitor access to nursing homes and assisted living facilities.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-10%20Coronavirus%20LTC%20Workers%20%28tmp%29.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">20-10</a>: Extended the above restriction to adult family homes and addressed a shortage of long-term care workers.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-16%20Coronavirus%20No%20visitors%20LTC%20%28tmp%29.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">20-16</a>: Extended the above restrictions to all visitors.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-17%20COVID-19%20Prohibiting%20Visitors%20at%20LTCs%20%28tmp%29.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">20-17</a>: Applied the above restrictions to additional facilities.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-18%20-%20COVID-19%20-%20DSHS%20Waivers%20%28tmp%29.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">20-18</a>: Expanded Family Emergency Assistance Program eligibility and waived some provisions to address worker shortages.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Restrictions on elective procedures</h3>
<p><a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-24%20COVID-19%20non-urgent%20medical%20procedures%20%28tmp%29.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Proclamation 20-24</a>: This proclamation temporarily restricted the practice of non-urgent medical procedures, prioritizing only medically necessary surgeries and services.</p>
<h3>Temporary practice permits</h3>
<p><a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-59%20-%20COVID-19%20Temp%20Licensing-ProfProgGrads%20%28tmp%29.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Proclamation 20-59</a>: This proclamation temporarily waived some statutes for temporary practice permit issuance. This made it easier for recently graduated health care workers in programs such as dentistry, pharmacy, and dental hygiene to obtain permits and enter the workforce.</p>
<h3>Other</h3>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-65%20-%20COVID-19%20LTC-Workforce%26Facilities%20%28tmp%29.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Proclamation 20-65</a>: This proclamation considered the statutes required of staff at congregate living and care facilities, waiving some, and extending some other waivers.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-66%20-%20COVID-19%20LTC-OperationsVisitation%20%28tmp%29%20%28002%29.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Proclamation 20-66</a>: This proclamation gave specific parameters for different kinds of care facilities regarding visitation policies throughout the pandemic.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/proc_20-74.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Proclamation 20-74</a>: This proclamation gave specific parameters for different kinds of care facilities regarding visitation policies for long-term treatment of children.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Looking ahead</h3>
<p>The WSMA continues to advocate on behalf of physicians and practices as officials at the state and federal levels navigate the transition out of the public health emergency. For more, see the cover feature in the July/August issue of <em>WSMA Reports</em>, mailed to members (<a href="[@]WSMA/News_Publications/Latest_News/WSMA_Reports/WSMA/News_Publications/Newsletters/WSMA_Reports.aspx?hkey=b19e8949-47e1-4478-be31-53621de96ecc">and available online</a>). As part of our effort to help our members and the profession recover from the trauma of the pandemic, the WSMA is joining the American Medical Association to support a <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/amaone/ama-recovery-plan-america-s-physicians">Recovery Plan for America's Physicians</a>. More information to come in the months ahead.</p>
</div> | 8/11/2022 3:40:36 PM | 8/12/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| house_committee_on_ways_and_means_advances_prior_authorization_bill | House Committee on Ways and Means Advances Prior Authorization Bill | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/August_12/house_committee_on_ways_and_means_advances_prior_authorization_bill | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/august/administrative-burden-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="administrative burden illustration" /></div>
<h5>August 12, 2022</h5>
<h2>House Committee on Ways and Means Advances Prior Authorization Bill</h2>
<p>The WSMA joins a chorus of physician specialty and professional organizations in applauding the House Committee on Ways and Means for advancing the Improving Seniors' Timely Access to Care Act, legislation to streamline prior authorization in the Medicare Advantage program. The bill is sponsored by Washington Rep. Suzan DelBene, with other co-signers from Washington state including Reps. Kim Schrier, Adam Smith, Marilyn Strickland, Jaime Herrera-Beutler, and Rick Larsen.</p>
<p>For a look at the bill specifics, see WSMA CEO Jennifer Hanscom's <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2022/weekly_rounds_april_29_2022_prior_authorization_plagues_us_all">April 23 issue of Weekly Rounds</a>. The WSMA thanks the leadership of the House Committee on Ways and Means, Chair Richard Neal (D-MA) and Ranking Member Kevin Brady (R-TX), for their commitment to protecting patients from unnecessary delays in care. While only applying to Medicare Advantage plans, full passage of the legislation would represent a major first step at the federal level toward combatting insurer oversteps.</p>
<p>The WSMA is urging Congress to follow the committee's action by passing this bipartisan legislation before the end of this year.</p>
</div> | 8/11/2022 3:31:52 PM | 8/12/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| register_today_for_the_2022_annual_meeting_of_the_wsma_house_of_delegates | Register Today for the 2022 Annual Meeting of the WSMA House of Delegates | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/August_12/register_today_for_the_2022_annual_meeting_of_the_wsma_house_of_delegates | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/august/2022-annual-meeting-graphic-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="2022 WSMA Annual Meeting graphic" /></div>
<h5>August 12, 2022</h5>
<h2>Register Today for the 2022 Annual Meeting of the WSMA House of Delegates </h2>
<p>Join your colleagues from across the state for WSMA's premier policymaking event, when the approximately 200 voting members of the WSMA House of Delegates gather to determine policy for the association, elect officers, and network. This year's meeting will be held Oct. 1<em>-</em>2 at The Historic Davenport in Spokane.</p>
<p>The Annual Meeting isn't just for delegates-all are welcome to attend the event. Come and take advantage of the educational offerings, social events, and networking opportunities. It's a great way to gain insight into how policy is made at the association and witness firsthand how the dedicated, passionate physicians and physician assistants of the WSMA are working to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.</p>
<p>Learn more about the meeting and register <a href="http://wsma.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMDY4MTY5MSZwPTEmdT0xMDc4MTA4MzYwJmxpPTk2MjM0MTUw/index.html">online</a>. More information on individual events will be added in the days ahead. Tickets for the WSMA Foundation luncheon and WAMPAC dinner are sold separately and can be purchased when registering for the Annual Meeting.</p>
<p>Join us Saturday afternoon for CME sessions on wellness with Chris Bundy, MD, MPH, and on health equity with Fernando De Maio, PhD, and Edwin Lindo, JD. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em>â„¢.</p>
<p>Thank you to our corporate partners for their generous support: Physicians Insurance, The Polyclinic and The Everett Clinic, and the UW Psychiatry Consultation Line.</p>
<p><em>On Friday, Sept. 30, the Spokane County Medical Society will present Medicine 2022, also at The Historic Davenport. Come a day early to attend! Information for Medicine 2022 can be found on the Spokane County Medical Society </em><a href="http://wsma.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMDY4MTY5MSZwPTEmdT0xMDc4MTA4MzYwJmxpPTk2MjM0MTUx/index.html"><em>website</em></a>.</p>
</div> | 8/8/2022 1:16:03 PM | 8/12/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| aetna_rescinds_prior_authorization_requirement_on_cataract_surgeries | Aetna Rescinds Prior Authorization Requirement on Cataract Surgeries | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/July_22/aetna_rescinds_prior_authorization_requirement_on_cataract_surgeries | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/july/surgeon-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="closeup photo of surgeon with headgear" /></div>
<h5>July 22, 2022</h5>
<h2>Aetna Rescinds Prior Authorization Requirement on Cataract Surgeries</h2>
<p>Aetna recently <a href="https://www.aetna.com/content/dam/aetna/pdfs/olu/July-2022-olu-monthly-notice-final.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">announced</a> that as of July 1, it will no longer require prior authorization for cataract surgery, with the exception of Florida and Georgia Medicare Advantage patients. This change follows advocacy by the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, and other members of the federation of medicine that highlighted the care delays, practice administrative burdens, and patient and public safety concerns associated with this policy. For an update on other prior authorization reform efforts, including federal legislation that would streamline prior authorization in Medicare Advantage plans, see this <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2022/weekly_rounds_april_29_2022_prior_authorization_plagues_us_all">recent Weekly Rounds issue</a>&nbsp;from WSMA CEO Jennifer Hanscom.</p>
<p>The WSMA has worked hard to address prior authorization challenges in Washington state. You may recall that <a href="https://apps.leg.wa.gov/WAC/default.aspx?cite=284-43-2050">new rules</a> went into effect in 2018 that were intended to ease the administrative burden you face as you strive to meet the requirements of state-regulated insurers or their third-party administrators when seeking prior authorization of medical services. To help practices adjust workflows to accommodate the new requirements, the WSMA introduced the <a href="https://priorauth.wsma.org/">Prior Authorization Navigator</a>&nbsp;- a mobile-friendly "one-stop-shop" website for guidance on the new rules. There you'll find a <a href="https://priorauth.wsma.org/">one-minute bullet-point summary</a> of the new rules as well as in-depth guidance on the rules' provisions. You'll also find guidance on 2015 rules covering <a href="https://priorauth.wsma.org/prescription-drugs/">prior authorization of prescription drugs</a>.</p>
<p>If you encounter an insurer or third-party administrator out of compliance with Office of the Insurance Commissioner's prior authorization requirements, you can easily file a complaint by utilizing the WSMA's Prior Authorization Navigator's <a href="https://priorauth.wsma.org/file-a-complaint/?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=IInK8">complaint form</a>. We urge you to take advantage of this tool.</p>
</div> | 7/28/2022 4:30:00 PM | 7/22/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| medicare_proposes_2023_payment_and_quality_reporting_changes | Medicare Proposes 2023 Payment and Quality Reporting Changes | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/July_22/medicare_proposes_2023_payment_and_quality_reporting_changes | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/june/medicare-barcode-645px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Medicare barcode" /></div>
<h5>July 22, 2022</h5>
<h2>Medicare Proposes 2023 Payment and Quality Reporting Changes</h2>
<p>The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services recently <a href="https://go.mgma.com/dc/6IIm65rHtrowjNzJAQcAY2TBRUJgOKRhdZbxwGDBcw4aMem6nvgfFcxcgPBwVFPFREZTbKrTMzTGEUfcURfDDn5EOnKgk6e5tx_ucpKlF8QSjXKx_OMBI3DJEA0wV_pIYRhy91F-We3pCNarDP4d6a2h-0lmMML5he2PRHC2gjGJtq3lqFAAlYEABEboSD4QXMP66dkscCjNQg38AhMQXD2PrVCPlAKoMODPTDR9Cy6rVYh27ENJAQbOxwtVfKtJ4qPnW6TCwOBo9J76QjKeO7XiPs4XgV1HfXLtFeL9p_0dLR62Thf1wAVQlvdGPUdS/MTQ0LUFNSi02MzkAAAGFebYYFqWbemWcipDhyALzm6lx9stGRy0xwsUnJ5fE-JOJgtaIwdf29Fouqia1aQbOmiOG564=">released</a> its proposed 2023 Medicare physician fee schedule rule, which includes proposed changes to the Merit-based Incentive Payment System and alternative payment model participation options and requirements for 2023.</p>
<p>Key proposals include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Setting 2023 Medicare payment rates for physician services. For 2023, CMS proposes a conversion factor of $33.0775 and $20.7191 for anesthesia (a decrease of -4.42% and -3.91%, respectively, over final 2022 rates).</li>
<li>Permitting certain telehealth services to remain on the Medicare Telehealth Service list for 151 days after the expiration of the COVID-19 public health emergency, such as telephone E/M codes (99441 - 99443).</li>
<li>Extending flexibilities to permit split/shared E/M visits to be billed based on one of three components (history, exam, or medical decision making) or time until 2024.</li>
<li>Expanding access to behavioral health by permitting marriage and family therapists, licensed professional counselors, addiction counselors, and others to furnish behavioral health services under general supervision instead of direct.</li>
<li>Maintaining the MIPS performance threshold at 75 points for the 2023 MIPS performance year/2025 payment year.</li>
<li>Adding five new MIPS Value Pathways related to nephrology, oncology, neurological conditions, and promoting wellness for voluntary reporting beginning in 2023.</li>
<li>Creating an advanced incentive payment pathway for certain low-revenue, new entrant accountable care organizations to bolster participation in the Medicare Shared Savings Program.</li>
</ul>
<p>The WSMA remains <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/June_24/full_medicare_sequester_will_be_applied_on_july_1.aspx?_zs=A3aFd1&amp;_zl=tWxQ8">committed to the sustainability</a> of the <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/June_24/wsma_endorses_ama_medicare_physician_payment_reform_principles.aspx?_zs=A3aFd1&amp;_zl=xWxQ8">Medicare program for physicians and patients</a>. While we are still analyzing the proposal, we are deeply concerned about the across-the-board payment reductions and will continue to work with the American Medical Association and Congress to prevent them.</p>
<p>Review the <a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/public-inspection/2022-14562/medicare-and-medicaid-programs-calendar-year-2023-payment-policies-under-the-physician-fee-schedule">proposed rule</a>, the <a href="https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/calendar-year-cy-2023-medicare-physician-fee-schedule-proposed-rule">2023 Medicare physician fee schedule fact sheet,</a> and the <a href="https://qpp-cm-prod-content.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/1972/2023%20Quality%20Payment%20Program%20Proposed%20Rule%20Resources.zip">2023 Quality Payment Program fact sheet</a> (zip file). The final rule is expected by Nov. 1, 2022.</p>
<p><em>Update courtesy of the Medical Group Management Association.</em></p>
</div> | 7/19/2022 4:40:48 PM | 7/22/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| register_for_aug_16_webinar_on_wsmas_2023_legislative_advocacy_agenda | Register for Aug. 16 Webinar on WSMA's 2023 Legislative Advocacy Agenda | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/July_22/register_for_aug_16_webinar_on_wsmas_2023_legislative_advocacy_agenda | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/july/spring-wa-capitol-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Washington capitol in springtime" /></div>
<h5>July 22, 2022</h5>
<h2>Register for Aug. 16 Webinar on WSMA's 2023 Legislative Advocacy Agenda</h2>
<p>Join us for a WSMA Advocacy Council meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 16 at noon via Zoom. Sean Graham and Alex Wehinger from WSMA's government affairs team will discuss how the results of WSMA's annual advocacy survey are informing our draft 2023 legislative agenda and share notes from the campaign trail ahead of the midterm elections in November. Most importantly, we look forward to getting your feedback on the issues facing your practice so we can effectively advocate for you.</p>
<p><a href="https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAsf-qqrD4uGdf1lsde7ItlaqVlUGqxCIRr">Registration is required for this meeting.</a> You will receive an email confirmation containing the Zoom connection details upon completing your registration. The meeting will be recorded for those who are unable to attend. If you have any questions about our upcoming Advocacy Council meeting, please contact Alex Wehinger at <a href="mailto:alex@wsma.org">alex@wsma.org</a>.</p>
</div> | 7/19/2022 4:40:50 PM | 7/22/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| reminder_to_submit_your_resolution_by_aug_12_for_publication_in_delegate_handbook | Reminder to Submit Your Resolution by Aug. 12 for Publication in Delegate Handbook | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/July_22/reminder_to_submit_your_resolution_by_aug_12_for_publication_in_delegate_handbook | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/july/resolutions-print-2-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="printouts of WSMA resolutions" /></div>
<h5>July 22, 2022</h5>
<h2>Reminder to Submit Your Resolution by Aug. 12 for Publication in Delegate Handbook</h2>
<p>Friday, Aug. 12 is the deadline to submit your resolution for publication in the delegate handbook, the compilation of resolutions and other business to be considered by WSMA delegates during the Annual Meeting of the House of Delegates this fall.</p>
<p>The following resources are available to assist you in drafting and submitting your resolution:</p>
<ul>
<li>A <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2022/wsma-2022-resolution-guidelines.pdf]">one-pager</a> which guides you through the process, as well as offering tips and tricks for success.</li>
<li>A <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Newsletters/2022/draft-resolution-template.docx]">template</a> to guide formatting and ensure clarity.</li>
<li>The WSMA website features a webpage with instructions on <a href="[@]WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/How_to_Write_a_Resolution/WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/How_to_Write_a_Resolution/How_to_Write_a_Resolution.aspx?hkey=a22cd977-aaed-4445-9ee2-6fc4716a7136">how to write, format, and submit a resolution</a>.</li>
<li>Watch a brief, <a href="https://vimeo.com/730122009">5-minute video overview</a> of the House of Delegates and how to draft, introduce, and successfully bring a resolution to fruition.</li>
<li>Watch this <a href="https://vimeo.com/730121983">7-minute video</a> for real-world examples of the impact of resolutions in our state.</li>
</ul>
<p>Resolutions must be sponsored by at least two members of the House of Delegates, which includes delegates, alternate delegates, or members of the board of trustees, and must be submitted in writing by a member of the House. If you are interested in authoring a resolution but are not a delegate or board member, the WSMA will work with you to develop your resolution idea and find a sponsor. Contact us at <a href="mailto:hod@wsma.org">hod@wsma.org</a> or 206.441.9762 for assistance.</p>
<p>Registration is now available for the 2022 Annual Meeting of the WSMA House of Delegates, to be held in person Oct. 1-2 at The Historic Davenport in Spokane. Learn more about the <a href="[@]WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/WSMA/Events/Annual_Meeting/Annual_Meeting.aspx?hkey=fea49254-3815-4dc9-8710-53ff2e3a100f">2022 Annual Meeting of the WSMA House of Delegates</a>.</p>
</div> | 7/19/2022 4:40:56 PM | 7/22/2022 12:00:00 AM |