| weekly-rounds-december-1-2023-something-for-everyone-this-holiday-season | Weekly Rounds: December 1, 2023 - Something for Everyone This Holiday Season | Weekly_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2023/weekly-rounds-december-1-2023-something-for-everyone-this-holiday-season | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>December 1, 2023</h5>
<h2>Something for Everyone This Holiday Season</h2>
<p>Jennifer Hanscom, CEO</p>
<p>
In a recent survey of WSMA members, when asked why they joined the association, second to advocacy work was the desire to stay current with issues in the medical profession. At the WSMA we strive to keep you connected to what's happening in health care in Washington state but appreciate that you don't always have the time to read every email or newsletter or to peruse our website. As we often say, we understand that our members' job is to care for their patients while we look out for the profession. Still, we want to give you an opportunity to hear first-hand about our work. In the months ahead, we have several webinars, professional development courses, and events meant to provide value to you and your day job. Here are some of those opportunities:
</p>
<h3>2024 Pre-Session Legislative Preview Webinar</h3>
<p>
<em>Friday, Dec. 15 at noon</em>
</p>
<p>
In advance of the 2024 legislative session, WSMA's government affairs team will offer a legislative preview webinar via Zoom on Friday, Dec. 15 at noon. Our team will cover top priorities impacting medicine including across-the-board Medicaid rate increases; health care workforce retention and pipeline investments; and opposing inappropriate scope expansions; and we'll provide an overview of the broader health care policy landscape in Washington state. Your feedback is critical to WSMA's legislative advocacy, so we will welcome questions and encourage sharing of professional experiences and expertise to help guide our engagement at the Capitol. <a href="https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIlfuupqDsjG9Fzmh2JzDVgNCRa3XmVsYtf#/registration">Register online</a>.
</p>
<h3>Health Equity Leadership Development &amp; Action Collective</h3>
<p>
<em>Jan. 19-Nov. 15</em>
</p>
<p>
If you have an interest in DEI issues, we urge you to sign up for our Health Equity Leadership Development &amp; Action Collective, which provides education, guidance, and support in addressing inequities that exist within your sphere of influence. This collective is design to assist those who are ready to act on the understanding that systemic racism exists within health care, and who are positioned to lead and facilitate change in their organizations and beyond. If you are committed to making lasting, equitable change in your organization, then this course is here to support you on that path.
</p>
<p>
The collective will meet virtually in six two-hour sessions held monthly or every other month from January-November 2024. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em><sup>TM</sup>. <a href="[@]wsma/education/physician_leadership/health_equity/wsma/physician_leadership/health_equity_leadership_development_and_action_collective/health_equity_leadership_development_and_action_collective.aspx?hkey=17f095ae-34e3-407f-9877-3b0f79264c0a&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=6N5L9">Learn more and register</a>.
</p>
<h3>2024 WSMA Legislative Summit</h3>
<p>
<em>Wednesday, Jan. 24</em>
</p>
<p>
Grab your white coat and join us in Olympia for the 2024 WSMA Legislative Summit on Wednesday, Jan. 24! Free for members, the Summit gives Washington's physicians, physician assistants, and medical students an opportunity to amplify WSMA's advocacy message with state legislators.
</p>
<p>
This in-person event will feature a legislative update from WSMA's government affairs team, optional meetings with your legislative representatives, and keynote speakers such as Sen. Andy Billig (D-Spokane), majority leader of the state Senate and recipient of WSMA's 2023 Legislator of the Year award. Come to Olympia and help deliver our advocacy message directly to your elected representatives. Don't forget your white coat! <a href="[@]wsma/events/legislative_summit/wsma/events/wsma_legislative_summit/legislative_summit.aspx?hkey=795731a5-79ba-45b0-b78b-b9dfbfc336e5&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=7N5L9">Register online</a>.
</p>
<h3>Physician Leadership Course</h3>
<p>
<em>March 22-May 31</em>
</p>
<p>
The WSMA Physician Leadership Course is a 40+ hour hybrid-distance leadership skills-development course for physicians and physician assistants who want to know more about health care leadership.
</p>
<p>
Once out of residency, many physicians will find themselves leading a multidisciplinary team charged with delivering the highest quality care to our patients. To be an effective team leader, core leadership competencies are required-skills not taught in medical school. Without these skills, physicians may find themselves unprepared and overburdened with unexpected responsibilities-a recipe for burnout.
</p>
<p>
The Physician Leadership Course combines face-to-face and online learning to enable course participants to begin developing and honing their leadership skills at their convenience. Designed with a physician's busy schedule in mind, only three in-person classes are required; the remainder of the course is conducted online. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em><sup>TM</sup>. <a href="[@]wsma/education/physician_leadership/physician_leadership_course/wsma/physician_leadership/physician_leadership_course/physician_leadership_course.aspx?hkey=efdc4ad1-ff20-4089-ab51-caafbe73572b&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=8N5L9">Learn more and register</a>.
</p>
<h3>Dyad Leadership Course</h3>
<p>
<em>April 5-May 3</em>
</p>
<p>
Safe, cost-effective, and quality care can only be achieved when physicians and administrators are strong partners in leadership. Forging such a partnership effectively connects the culture of patient care with the culture of business, yielding better outcomes and real change.
</p>
<p>
The WSMA Dyad Leadership Course is a month-long hybrid-distance course with three in-person educational workshop days. This course is intended for physicians and their administrative dyad partners who wish to improve team function and achieve greater operational success within their clinical system. The course develops leadership knowledge and skills based on the ongoing operational needs of the physician and their administrative partners. The course is adapted to fit the specific clinical culture of participating teams. At the end of the course, participants will have a greater understanding of how to enhance leadership and operational success within their clinical system. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em><sup>TM</sup>. <a href="[@]wsma/education/physician_leadership/dyad_leadership_course/wsma/physician_leadership/dyad_leadership_course/dyad_leadership_course.aspx?hkey=f6387317-48e4-44f1-b623-4b00fcba57ab&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=9N5L9">Learn more and register</a>.
</p>
</div> | 12/1/2023 4:10:04 PM | 12/1/2023 4:09:42 PM | 12/1/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| weekly-rounds-november-3-2023-its-past-time-to-fix-medicaid-rates | Weekly Rounds: November 3, 2023 - It's (Past) Time to Fix Medicaid Rates | Weekly_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2023/weekly-rounds-november-3-2023-its-past-time-to-fix-medicaid-rates | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>November 3, 2023</h5>
<h2>It's (Past) Time to Fix Medicaid Rates</h2>
<p>Jennifer Hanscom, CEO</p>
<p>
With government-program reimbursement rates traditionally less than the cost of providing care, the effort to persuade legislators to keep up with costs feels continuous. What makes now different from other times?
</p>
<p>
A few numbers to know:
</p>
<ul>
<li>2024 will be the 10th anniversary of Washington state's expansion of Medicaid (known as Apple Health).</li>
<li>In 2013, Medicaid enrollment was 1.1 million.</li>
<li>In 2023, Medicaid enrollment was 2.1 million.</li>
<li>Around 25% of all Washington residents are Medicaid enrollees.</li>
<li>Medicaid rates for most specialty services are 43% lower than Medicare, whose rates are intended to cover the bare-bones cost of providing care.</li>
<li>Washington state's Medicaid reimbursement rates are among the worst in the nation, above only New Jersey, Rhode Island, and Tennessee.</li>
</ul>
<p>
Ten years ago, the WSMA supported the expansion of Medicaid because of the importance of insurance coverage for all patients, and we continue to support the program and the people it serves. But coverage does not equal access. Those on Medicaid may be protected from the economic catastrophe of a health emergency or serious illness, but they also may be turned away from many specialty services because the reimbursement rate does not cover the cost of service delivery.
</p>
<p>
Ten years ago, when the number of people enrolled in Medicaid was comparatively small, physicians, clinics, and medical groups were able to accommodate individual Medicaid patients in the context of a larger patient base that covered costs. But now that Medicaid enrollees comprise around one out of every four Washington state residents, the losses are increasingly difficult to sustain, and patients are being turned away.
</p>
<p>
The Legislature has done significant work in recent years to increase the reimbursement rates for many primary care physicians and advanced practitioners, and that has had substantial impact on the lives of patients in all parts of our state. Specialists, by our calculation, haven't seen a change in rates in more than 20 years. The impact of stagnant or decreasing reimbursement has played out in our marketplace with increasing consolidation and, for some patients, lack of access to needed and timely specialty care.
</p>
<h3>WSMA's solution</h3>
<p>
In Olympia there isn't sufficient political appetite for an increase that is funded solely by the state's general fund. That's why we have worked with legislators and other experts to identify a funding model that will improve access to care, increase federal dollars, and preserve the general fund.
</p>
<p>
A covered lives assessment is similar to Washington's current assessments for hospitals, nursing homes, and ambulances. In this case, the covered lives assessment would be applied to insurance carriers based on their enrollment, generating revenue to support Medicaid investments. These funds would allow us to draw down federal matching funds to make substantial increases in available Medicaid funding.
</p>
<p>
The 2024 legislative session is a "short" 60-day session, and the Legislature is not doing a complete update of the budget. However, this issue should not-cannot-wait. The state needs to implement a covered lives assessment, leverage federal funds, and increase Medicaid rates for professional services. With around a quarter of all Washington residents on Medicaid, we must act now to ensure access to care before it's too late.
</p>
<p>
No one likes a doomsday scenario or a threat that the sky is falling. However, it's important for all of us to be cognizant of changing conditions. In this case, our state has doubled the number of people on Medicaid without ensuring they can actually access life-saving care.
</p>
<p>
We are proud of the physician community in Washington, and we know you go to extraordinary lengths to serve Medicaid patients in your communities. We know many patients don't ever experience a loss of service because you are so good at "making it work." But Washington needs a more sustainable system, so physicians can treat a patient population that reflects their community without risking the financial solvency of their practice.
</p>
<p>
Currently at the WSMA we are developing the technical financial model and the legislative language that will give Washington state a solid assessment. We look forward to giving you more of those details as they are finalized.
</p>
<h3>Share your story</h3>
<p>
In the meantime, we need your stories.
</p>
<p>
One of our greatest challenges with legislators is showing the effects of something that <em>doesn't</em> happen: A diagnostic test is not done early enough; a treatment is delayed; a chronic condition that turns acute and must be treated in the emergency department.
</p>
<p>
We are working on a public survey to help illuminate the patient experience of being denied care, but we need your stories, as well. Some of your clinics have given us sample payment data models; others have talked about the number of people turned away or on waiting lists. We need all these and more. Email <a href="mailto:jen@wsma.org">WSMA CEO Jennifer Hanscom</a> or keep an eye out for a call for stories in the days ahead.
</p>
<p>
Raising Medicaid reimbursement rates is the most effective method of increasing physician participation in Medicaid networks. As more and more residents are enrolled in Medicaid plans, expanding physician participation in Medicaid networks and paying them appropriately for their care is desperately needed and long overdue.
</p>
</div> | 11/3/2023 10:53:29 AM | 11/3/2023 10:47:54 AM | 11/3/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| weekly-rounds-october-20-2023-medicare-reform-cant-wait | Weekly Rounds: October 20, 2023 - Medicare Reform Can't Wait | Weekly_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2023/weekly-rounds-october-20-2023-medicare-reform-cant-wait | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>October 20, 2023</h5>
<h2>Medicare Reform Can't Wait</h2>
<p>Jennifer Hanscom, CEO</p>
<p>
The need for Congress to act quickly and decisively to fix a broken Medicare payment system cannot be overstated. The fiscal stability of physician practices is in jeopardy, and with it, the ability for patients to access care in their communities across the country. However, the current dysfunction in Congress is presenting new challenges, particularly troubling as we near year-end and the annual adoption of the Medicare fee schedule rule.
</p>
<p>
With the U.S. House of Representatives speakerless, it's unclear when Congress will conduct votes on legislation like pending fiscal 2024 spending bills. If they rally behind a speaker in the coming days, attention will quickly turn to the six-week stopgap spending deal that prompted the removal of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy. This causes much trepidation in terms of stopping the looming 3.36% proposed Medicare cut and the corresponding reduction in anesthesia rates.
</p>
<p>
Although the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services indicated in 2023 that practice expenses rose 4.5%, the proposed 2024 Medicare physician fee schedule rule provides no inflationary update for physician services. The combination of a lack of an annual inflationary update and the ongoing threat of budget neutrality cuts in the fee schedule is adding to physicians' financial instability and undermining patient access to care across Washington state and the country.
</p>
<p>
The budget neutrality payment reductions in the proposed fee schedule are due to two factors: a 1.25% cut that Congress staved off in 2023 and a budget neutrality adjustment linked to the implementation of a CMS-developed office visit add-on code. Congress had delayed introduction of this code during the pandemic to prevent cuts to specialists.
</p>
<p>
In response to American Medical Association advocacy, CMS reduced its utilization assumptions from 100% to 38% for the new add-on code, which significantly reduced the amount of the conversion factor payment cuts to all physicians. However, the AMA is urging CMS to further reduce the utilization assumptions because there isn't clarity about the appropriate circumstances in which to bill this code. Doing this will also alleviate unwarranted Medicare payment cuts.
</p>
<p>
While the WSMA is urging Washington's congressional delegation to avert these cuts before the end of the year, the annual need to do so speaks to the need for broader Medicare physician payment reform. Even with Congress in turmoil, the WSMA is joining the AMA in continuing to advocate for Congress to pass H.R. 2474 before the end of the year. H.R. 2474 would counteract the budget neutrality adjustments in the fee schedule and provide an annual inflation-based payment update to keep pace with costs. This bipartisan measure so far has the support of Rep. Kim Schrier and Rep. Derek Kilmer from Washington's congressional delegation, and the WSMA will continue to urge support from all of our elected representatives to Congress. <a href="https://votervoice.net/WSMA/Campaigns/107365/Respond">Learn more about H.R. 2474 and how you can add your voice of support</a>.
</p>
<p>
<strong>Additionally, please keep an eye out for the AMA Physician Practice Information Survey.</strong>The AMA survey is being distributed to thousands of physician practices and individual physicians across the U.S. The intent of the survey is to collect updated and accurate data on practice costs, which are a key element of physician payment. These data have not been updated since last collected over 15 years ago, and it is critically important to update these data to ensure accurate payment.
</p>
<p>
See <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/practice-management/medicare-medicaid/physician-answers-survey-will-shape-future-medicare-pay">here</a> for more information about this survey. <a href="https://www.mathematica.org">Mathematica</a>, a well-regarded consulting firm, is helping the AMA run this survey. Your practice may receive an email (from <a href="mailto:ppisurvey@mathematica-mpr.com">ppisurvey@mathematica-mpr.com</a>) and a USPS priority mail packet from Mathematica that contains a link to the survey as well as supporting information. We urge you to speak with your practice management colleagues to determine if they have received these communications and ask them to complete this important survey. In the coming weeks or months, your practice, or Mathematica, may ask you to complete a brief survey on the number of weekly hours spent on direct patient care. We urge you to complete this two-minute survey.
</p>
<p>
While challenges beset medicine and physicians from all sides these days, the need for federal reform of one of the nation's primary health insurance programs to ensure sustainability remains central to the advocacy of organized medicine, reflecting the central role the program serves in the lives of so many in Washington state and our country. As always, the physician voice is crucial in supporting this advocacy. We will keep members apprised of the developments at the federal level and of opportunities to make your voice heard in the coming weeks.
</p>
</div> | 10/27/2023 10:10:14 AM | 10/27/2023 10:09:47 AM | 10/20/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| weekly-rounds-october-6-2023-wsma-house-of-delegates-passes-policies-centered-on-patients | Weekly Rounds: October 6, 2023 - WSMA House of Delegates Passes Policies Centered on Patient | Weekly_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2023/weekly-rounds-october-6-2023-wsma-house-of-delegates-passes-policies-centered-on-patients | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>October 6, 2023</h5>
<h2>WSMA House of Delegates Passes Policies Centered on Patients and the Profession</h2>
<p>Jennifer Hanscom, CEO</p>
<p>
The WSMA wrapped its 134th Annual Meeting of the House of Delegates at the end of September. Over 175 physicians joined to debate a variety of issues, with a clear interest in topics that centered on the desire to advocate in the best interests of patients and the profession.
</p>
<p>
Topics related to noncompete contracts, physician unions, transparency, and patient care appeared to stem from the underlying frustration many in the profession are experiencing in their daily professional lives.
</p>
<p>
Underscoring that point, the meeting was held on the heels of the release of The Physicians Foundation 2023 Survey of America's Current and Future Physicians, with findings from physicians, residents, and medical students on their sentiments surrounding the practice environment and patient care. The survey found that physicians are experiencing burnout at record-high levels. For the third year in a row, six in 10 physicians often have feelings of burnout, compared to four in 10 before the pandemic in 2018. The research noted that numerous systemic factors and regulations, including health care consolidation, negatively impact physicians' well-being and impede their autonomy to deliver high-quality, cost-efficient health care.
</p>
<p>
Physicians, their ability to provide quality care to their patients, and the sanctity of the patient-physician relationship are under increasing strain in Washington state and across the U.S., as reflected in abnormally high rates of physician suicide, an epidemic of clinician burnout, and worsening health disparities impacting our communities. The policies passed during the House of Delegates meeting reflect an urgency on behalf of Washington's physician community to address some of the most pressing issues exacerbating this strain, which stand to further erode patient and physician autonomy in directing the health care they receive and provide, as well as the trust that is at the heart of the patient-physician relationship.
</p>
<h3>Patient-Focused Policies: Putting Patients First</h3>
<p>
Reflecting WSMA's "patient focused" motto, delegates took forward-thinking stands on artificial intelligence and patient autonomy at the end of life, and sought to curb two of the most pressing public health epidemics, opioid addiction and overdose and gun violence, with the following policies:
</p>
<h4>Artificial intelligence</h4>
<p>
Delegates passed a multipronged policy on the use of AI in health care, directing the WSMA to: support efforts to prevent discrimination by AI applications; ensure the use of AI in patient care is transparent to patients; require patient-facing AI systems to be interpretable by human coders and users; and to encourage physicians to engage in a continuous feedback loop with AI systems.
</p>
<h4>End-of-life care</h4>
<p>
Delegates amended WSMA's longstanding policy on the withdrawal of life support to read: "For humane reasons, with informed consent, a physician may cease treatment, including artificial nutrition or hydration, when such treatment is no longer desired by a patient, even if doing so would likely result in a patient's death," and coupled that amended policy with a second amended policy that the WSMA "remain committed to professional standards that will always allow our patients to feel safe under our care without fear regarding any conflicting motives physicians may have." These changes in policy reflect the will of a majority of delegates who, in their testimony supporting these amendments, sought to both honor the autonomy of patients in decision-making at the end of life and to empower the WSMA to engage with policymakers on future improvements to the state's Death with Dignity law.
</p>
<h4>Opioid use disorder</h4>
<p>
As they have in recent years, delegates adopted policy that continues to position the WSMA ahead of national opioid policy and at the forefront of states addressing the opioid epidemic. Policies adopted include: support for the elimination of non-evidence-based buprenorphine limits currently preventing physicians from providing appropriate treatment for opioid use disorder; support for all qualified physicians to prescribe methadone and other opioid use disorder treatment to be dispensed at pharmacies; support for ensuring patients can continue medical treatment of substance use disorder in post-acute and long-term care settings; and support for allocating funds from opioid settlements to be used for health care professional loan repayments that require addressing opioid use disorder.
</p>
<h4>Gun violence</h4>
<p>
Preventing gun violence has been a WSMA priority for decades, with many strong policies adopted by previous years' delegates. This year, to further raise awareness of the ravages of gun violence that physicians bear witness to when treating its victims, delegates adopted policy asking the WSMA to support legislation requiring firearm owners to obtain and maintain gun liability insurance covering losses or damages resulting from negligent or accidental use of the firearm, and for proof of insurance to be kept where the guns are stored or transported.
</p>
<h3>Physician-Driven: Policies Keeping Health Care Physician-led</h3>
<p>
Underscoring WSMA's "physician driven" motto, delegates sought to ensure not only that patient care remains physician-led in the face of a rapidly evolving health care industry, but also that physicians and clinicians are supported appropriately to ensure they are healthy enough to provide that care, by adopting the following policies:
</p>
<h4>Medical titles and patient safety</h4>
<p>
Delegates continue to be concerned about the proliferation of other professions using the term "doctor" and the potential for patient confusion and patient safety issues in health care settings when the credentials of the attending health professional are not easily understood. Delegates adopted policies advocating for: enforcement of regulations in health care settings to prevent the misappropriation of medical titles; initiatives to raise public awareness about the different health care disciplines and the responsibilities of each; establishment of a standardized system for verifying medical credentials; discouraging the misappropriation of titles such as doctor, physician, and specialty titles in health care settings; and condemning false advertising and misrepresentation of medical credentials by non-physicians.
</p>
<h4>Physician wellness</h4>
<p>
Confronting the epidemics of physician burnout and suicide, delegates passed policies advocating for state legislation recognizing entities that function as physician wellness programs and protecting the confidentiality of participants of such programs.
</p>
<h4>Protecting the profession</h4>
<p>
Reflecting the continued move away from independent medical practice and toward physician employment within hospitals and health systems, delegates sought to empower the employed physician voice by adopting policy supporting physicians in their decision-making when determining whether to unionize and for improvements in noncompete agreements and laws. Delegates directed the WSMA to provide more information on both topics, demonstrating growing concerns in the physician community that their clinical voice may diminish in today's health care environment.
</p>
<p>
To read all the actions of the House of Delegates go to the <a href="[@]wsma/about_us/who_we_are/house-of-delegates/wsma/about/who_we_are/house-of-delegates.aspx?hkey=c5e98d40-6e37-4bc0-9bda-a7aa66e67919&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=pO8F9">WSMA website</a>.
</p>
<p>
As newly elected 2023-2024 WSMA President Nariman Heshmati, MD, noted at the conclusion of the meeting, "The health care delivery system has rapidly evolved in Washington state over the past 10 years. It is critical that physicians continue to be the leading voice for what is paramount: our patients' health. The WSMA is committed to helping physicians in our state be engaged leaders and patient advocates to ensure a healthy Washington."
</p>
<h3>Introducing WSMA's 2023-2024 President, Nariman Heshmati, MD</h3>
<p>
At the meeting, Nariman Heshmati, MD, Mukilteo OB-GYN, was elected president of the WSMA for 2023-2024. Dr. Heshmati is the executive medical director of affordability, advocacy, and pharmacy for Optum Washington, which includes The Everett Clinic, The Polyclinic, and The Optum Care Network Pacific Northwest. In his role at Optum Washington, Dr. Heshmati has accountability for total cost of care, external relationships, and pharmacy services. Watch Dr. Heshmati's <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SooGZSQ6vcU">inauguration speech</a>, delivered Sunday, Sept. 24 at the Annual Meeting.
</p>
<p>
Also elected at the meeting and joining Dr. Heshmati on the WSMA Executive Committee are John Bramhall, MD, PhD, Seattle anesthesiologist, president-elect; Bridget Bush, MD, FASA, Anacortes anesthesiologist, vice president; and Matt Hollon, MD, MPH, FACP, Spokane internist, secretary-treasurer. The fifth officer of the executive committee is Past President Katina Rue, DO, FAAFP, FACOFP, Yakima family physician, who will serve as committee chair.
</p>
<p>
Newly elected WSMA board of trustees members include Rajneet Lamba, MD, Kirkland internist; Amy Ellingson, MD, Brewster family physician; Lisa Ivanjack, MD, Bothell internist; John Scott, MD, Seattle gastroenterologist; Peter Barkett, MD, Silverdale internist; and Andy Shang, medical student, Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences. For more information, see this <a href="[@]wsma/about/who_we_are/board-of-trustees.aspx?hkey=57dca355-fca4-4f4e-9c83-6e35aa4baabe&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">full roster of WSMA board of trustees members</a>.
</p>
<p>
To learn more about the House of Delegates and the voting delegates go to the <a href="[@]wsma/about_us/who_we_are/house-of-delegates/wsma/about/who_we_are/house-of-delegates.aspx?hkey=c5e98d40-6e37-4bc0-9bda-a7aa66e67919&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=pO8F9">House of Delegates webpage</a>.
</p>
</div> | 11/27/2023 3:30:10 PM | 11/27/2023 3:29:49 PM | 10/6/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| weekly-rounds-september-25-2023-facing-challenges-with-optimism | Weekly Rounds: September 25, 2023 - Facing Challenges With Optimism | Weekly_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2023/weekly-rounds-september-25-2023-facing-challenges-with-optimism | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>September 25, 2023</h5>
<h2>Facing Challenges With Optimism</h2>
<p>
<strong>Nariman Heshmati, MD, shares what motivates him in his inaugural address on Sunday, Sept. 24</strong>
</p>
<p>
It's a pleasure to be with you here in Bellevue for the opening session of our 2023 meeting of the House of Delegates! I'm honored to be standing here and look forward to our usual robust debate and policymaking. But first...</p>
<p>
Anyone here remember where you were on New Year's Day in 1980?
</p>
<p>
Well, to be honest, I don't remember either-because that's the day I was born.
</p>
<p>
In Iran.
</p>
<p>
For those of you who were "of an age" in 1980, you may not recall that particular New Year's Day, but I bet you do remember the drama of the Iran hostage crisis that was under way during the Iranian Revolution.
</p>
<p>
I entered the world in the midst of that upheaval-I can only imagine the fear my mom had to be feeling along with her contractions. Even as she labored to deliver me, our family's homeland was being ripped apart by war, it was the 59th day of the hostage situation, politics were making life dangerous there, and my dad-an orthopedic surgeon-knew we wouldn't be safe for too much longer.
</p>
<p>
That year, we fled our homeland leaving everything behind, crossed a good many borders, and in due time we made our way to Florida. Through hard work and a few minor miracles along the way, my dad reestablished his medical credentials, became a beloved pillar of our community, and set our family up for success.
</p>
<p>
Can you imagine, secretly planning a daring, life-threatening escape with three young children? And you have to leave everything behind? If you're lucky, you escape with your lives as we did, but it was so hard that many people died by suicide. It was a terrible, frightening time.
</p>
<p>
Through it all, my parents were optimists. They are my inspiration. I once asked my father about that time and he said, "America is a land of opportunity! Where else can you go, reestablish, make a life, and be welcomed?" My father always stressed that despite things being difficult, we were fortunate to have had the privilege to escape and come to a land of opportunity. He taught me-in words and actions-never to let the negative get in the way of recognizing opportunity.
</p>
<p>
And so, my family was welcomed. In Florida! I know that's a long distance from Washington. My parents remind me of that often.
</p>
<p>
It was pretty much destiny that I would go into medicine. My father, uncles, and brother are all physicians. My mom and sister are psychologists. Florida was a great place to grow up, and to follow my dad's example of becoming a physician.
</p>
<p>
I literally grew up playing with toys in my father's medical office. When I was 10 years old my dad paid me to set up electronic insurance billing for him! Seriously, I was that nerdy of a kid that I was able to do that for him-and charge him for it! Do you remember the screeching sound the old 2400 baud modems use to make? I'll never forget that sound.
</p>
<p>
The optimism-and example-of my parents inspired me then and now. They lived out their optimism with the belief that no matter what the challenges are, we have the ability to effect change. My parents are the reason I'm able to stand here today, looking forward to serving as your WSMA president.
</p>
<p>
Inspired by my dad, I went into medicine for the same reasons you probably did-because we want to make a difference, we want to take care of people. To do that, we need the right ingredients, the right rules, the right system around us. If we're not at that table helping guide the process-that's when we start seeing increased administrative burdens, rules and regulations we don't need, policies that don't make sense, and interference in our relationship with our patients.
</p>
<p>
Health care is a dynamic and changing field. We have to be there to make it change in a positive direction, to make sure that at its core, it continues to help care for communities and keep patients healthy. We have significant power when we come together. Our patients and communities are counting on us to be their voice to impact how health care is delivered.
</p>
<p>
My father also instilled in me the notion that we have an obligation to improve our communities and that access to health care is a right. Back in his day, not everyone agreed with that concept. As director of the health department, my dad worked tirelessly to identify care gaps and create solutions. Every child in our county had access to immunizations. When OB-GYNs stopped seeing Medicaid patients because of soaring malpractice rates, he partially employed OB-GYNs with the health department and covered their malpractice if they agreed to see those patients. He always found a way to make sure people were cared for.
</p>
<p>
I know our health care system is broken and it's not that I'm so optimistic that I see it through rose-colored glasses. I'm optimistic because of all of you.
</p>
<p>
We all suffered our way through the pandemic and watched how it strained the system and impacted our communities. We focused on keeping our communities healthy despite the obstacles. When we had to close our practices, we pivoted to telehealth. When we ran out of PPE, we made our own. When critical lab products and medical equipment dwindled in supply, we found alternatives. The public called us health care heroes. All of you were-and still are-heroes.
</p>
<p>
As we exited the pandemic, we were reminded that the challenges facing health care hadn't gone away, they had worsened. Deaths from cardiac disease skyrocketed. Maternal outcomes digressed-especially in our most vulnerable populations. And according to a recent Medscape survey, 53% of us feel burned out and 23% are depressed. Medscape appropriately, but sadly, titled the report, "I cry, but no one cares."
</p>
<p>
I know we are facing complicated problems in a complex system. But I also know that we have to make it better, because otherwise it's going to impact the care our patients need, the care we're going to be able to give. And I believe we can make it better.
</p>
<p>
We have challenges. We've lost some trust from the public. We have physicians and physician assistants who are burned out, frustrated, and even considering retiring at younger ages. We've never seen that before. We have to make the system better, because you don't have a health care system if you don't have physicians or PAs in it. We must preserve the sanctity of evidence-based medicine and enable patients to receive health care without the interference of politics. Patients should be able, without interference, hurdles, or burdens, to have access to the best care we can provide.
</p>
<p>
We need change, and I believe we can be the change we want to see. I believe that the WSMA is the organization that can help make it happen. We are a leading voice for how health care should be delivered. We are at the table for all of the important health care meetings and work groups and processes that happen in this state. We are the voice of physicians and patients.
</p>
<p>
As I look out into the crowd, I see so many familiar faces-colleagues and friends-patient advocates and health care champions. More than that, I see the team that will make Washington the best place to practice medicine and receive care. We face monumental challenges that will take innovative ideas to fix. Sure, it's a big task-even overwhelming-but as always, I am optimistic!
</p>
<p>
You are a battle-tested team who've endured a pandemic, navigated regulatory changes, faced economic hardships-and every day you still provide the best care you can to those in need. You don't skip a beat. So, if health care in Washington is the challenge we need to fix, we couldn't ask for a better team.
</p>
<p>
I truly believe in WSMA's mission to make Washington the best place to practice medicine and receive care. My priorities-our priorities-are based on that, just as they have been for years.
</p>
<p>
We have an opportunity-just as my family had an opportunity when we came to the United States- to improve health care and not get bogged down in the negative. Just as my father taught me to improve our communities, I know each of you have your own similar stories that call you to action.
</p>
<p>
This work will be difficult, but we will get through it because we will support each other like family-and our patients are counting on us.
</p>
<p>
Together, we will make Washington the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
<p>
Thank you!
</p>
<p>
Watch Dr. Heshmati's inaugural address to the 2023 WSMA House of Delegates on his <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SooGZSQ6vcU">YouTube channel</a>.
</p>
</div> | 11/27/2023 3:43:04 PM | 9/27/2023 3:52:41 PM | 9/25/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| weekly-rounds-september-15-2023-on-the-state-of-physician-well-being | Weekly Rounds: September 15, 2023 - On the State of Physician Well-Being | Weekly_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2023/weekly-rounds-september-15-2023-on-the-state-of-physician-well-being | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>Sept. 15, 2023</h5>
<h2>
On the State of Physician Well-Being
</h2>
<p>Jennifer Hanscom, CEO</p>
<p>
In anticipation of <a href="https://npsaday.org/">National Physician Suicide Awareness Day</a> this Sunday, The Physicians Foundation has announced findings from its annual survey on the state of physician well-being. Surprising to no one within health care, the findings paint a picture of low physician morale and well-being. Additionally, the survey breaks out young physicians and physicians in training for the first time, and notes that residents and medical students are also plagued by the effects of burnout and suicide.
</p>
<p>
Key survey findings include:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Medical students' overall well-being is lower than both residents and physicians.
<ul>
<li>More than six in 10 residents (61%) and seven in 10 students (71%) report experiencing feelings of burnout.</li>
<li>Though just starting their careers, a shocking proportion of students (45%) know a colleague or peer who has considered suicide, compared to residents (38%) and physicians (36%).</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Current and future physicians alike report stigma and structural barriers negatively affect their overall well-being and mental health.
<ul>
<li>Nearly eight in 10 physicians (78%), residents (79%), and medical students (76%) agree that there is stigma surrounding mental health and seeking mental health care among physicians.</li>
<li>Nearly five in 10 residents and medical students were either afraid or knew another colleague fearful of seeking mental health care given questions asked in medical licensure/credentialing/insurance applications.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p>
Find the full survey findings from the 2023 Survey of America's Current and Future Physicians on <a href="https://physiciansfoundation.org/research/amplifying-physician-resident-and-student-voices-to-drive-wellbeing-and-care-delivery-solutions/">The Physicians Foundation website</a>.
</p>
<p>
Physician and clinician burnout and related resignations and early retirements continue to pose a major threat to a health care industry that remains in need of clinical leaders, physicians, and other front-line staff to ensure capacity.
</p>
<p>
The issue has been in the forefront of industry news for years, with the pandemic bringing it firmly into the national spotlight: In May 2022, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy issued an <a href="https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/health-worker-wellbeing-advisory.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">advisory highlighting the urgent need to address the health worker burnout crisis across the country</a>, pointing to the record numbers of health workers who are quitting or reporting that they intend to quit.
</p>
<p>
The future of medicine is dependent on change to offer the right resources and eliminate barriers that impact physicians' well-being. The solutions to improve physician well-being and prevent suicide are not a secret-physicians, residents, and medical students have identified the solutions they need. At the top of the list, physicians (80%) and residents (85%) agree that reducing administrative burdens, such as low-value work, insurance approvals, and unnecessary mandatory training, is helpful to improving well-being.
</p>
<p>
The health worker burnout and workforce retention crisis, if not addressed, will make it harder for patients to get care when they need it, cause health costs to rise, hinder our ability to prepare for the next public health emergency, and worsen health disparities.
</p>
<p>
To that end, the WSMA has convened a small work group with members from the Washington State Medical Group Management Association and several large group leaders to create a package of workforce policy solutions in advance of the 2024 legislative session. This workforce work group is putting the finishing touches on its draft recommendations, which will go before WSMA leadership this month. Look for a wider release of these recommendations later this year.
</p>
<p>
In addition, the WSMA Foundation has been awarded a grant from The Physicians Foundation for a physician wellness initiative that will look at systemic solutions to physician and physician assistant burnout, including convening health systems and large groups to develop best practices and to pledge their commitment to meet those best practices. We are seeking physician and PA members to join a new committee to help lead this work, with compensation available for your time and commitment. To learn more about the expectations of service on the committee, reach out to WSMA Associate Director of Quality and Leadership Programs <a href="monica@wsma.org">Monica Salgaonkar</a>.
</p>
<p>
For this Sunday's day of awareness around physician suicide, I hope you'll join me in doing what you can to raise the visibility of the issue. Find social media and other materials in the <a href="https://npsaday.org/toolkit/">Toolkit</a> section on the <a href="https://npsaday.org/">NPSA Day website</a>.
</p>
</div> | 10/27/2023 10:06:40 AM | 10/27/2023 10:06:10 AM | 9/15/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| weekly-rounds-september-1-2023-every-voice-counts-in-setting-policy | Weekly Rounds: September 1, 2023 - Every Voice Counts in Setting Policy | Weekly_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2023/weekly-rounds-september-1-2023-every-voice-counts-in-setting-policy | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>September 1, 2023</h5>
<h2>Every Voice Counts in Setting Policy</h2>
<p>Jennifer Hanscom, CEO</p>
<p>
In reflecting on the leadership role the WSMA plays within our community, I'm often reminded of this quote: "Individually, we are one drop. Together, we are an ocean." We all know too well that health care is complicated. Solving its problems, working for change, and striving for improvement take all the brilliant minds we can muster.
</p>
<h3>Engage in leading our profession</h3>
<p>
Leadership in health care is not a solo sport. That's where WSMA's House of Delegates comes in. It is a democratic structure of the members, by the members, and for the members of the WSMA. It enables a path by which policies emerge from the grassroots levels of the organization. Its duty is to represent not only societies and geography, but also the welfare of the association and our profession.
</p>
<p>
But that structure only works when <strong>all members</strong> are engaged, express their opinions, and utilize the process to advance issues that improve health care and the practice of medicine in Washington state.
</p>
<p>
While our House of Delegates is made up of approximately 175 delegates-representing county medical societies, specialty societies, special sections, and the WSMA board of trustees-too often, a good many voting seats go unfilled. When a delegate's seat is vacant, that means a critical voice isn't heard.
</p>
<p>
So, I urge you to consider serving as a voting delegate at the <a href="[@]wsma/events/annual_meeting/wsma/events/annual_meeting/annual_meeting.aspx?hkey=fea49254-3815-4dc9-8710-53ff2e3a100f&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=aHdB9">Annual Meeting of the WSMA House of Delegates</a>, being held Sept. 23-24 in Bellevue. Let us know about your interest and we will put you in touch with your county medical society or state specialty society. Please contact <a href="mailto:abby@wsma.org">Abby Vincent</a> if you are interested in serving.
</p>
<h3>Weigh in on proposed policymaking</h3>
<p>
This year has been an active one for resolution writing, with more than 30 resolutions submitted for debate by the House of Delegates at the Annual Meeting. These resolutions are posted to the <a href="[@]wsma/events/annual_meeting/virtual-reference-committees.aspx?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=bHdB9">WSMA Virtual Reference Committees</a>. Your perspective on these proposed policies counts, so I hope you will take time to lend your voice and share your opinions. Virtual testimony is closely reviewed by the reference committees and is considered equally alongside in-person testimony at the meeting. The committees rely on all of that input as they draft their final recommendations to the House for its final debate and vote on Sunday, Sept. 24.
</p>
<h3>Listen in on critical topics</h3>
<p>
Not only is the Annual Meeting free for members (although registration is required), as an added bonus, we will present two thoughtful presentations Saturday afternoon (approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em><sup>TM</sup>), in addition to an update from American Medical Association board member Sandra Adamson Fryhofer, MD.
</p>
<p>
The first, "How Can Doctors Make America Healthy Again?" by Stephen Bezruchka, MD, will explore factors that have the greatest impact on population health. As associate teaching professor emeritus in the departments of health systems and population health and global health at the University of Washington School of Public Health, Dr. Bezruchka reports on the ways that economic inequality kills, and how conditions in early life foretell adult health. By most measures, Hawaii is the healthiest state, and Dr. Bezruchka's presentation considers what it would it take for Washington state to achieve a similar status in health.
</p>
<p>
The second, "Are You Reacting to Crisis or Leading Transformational Change?" by Ed Walker, MD, MHA, will focus on the importance of burnout recognition and treatment from a system-level perspective rather than a self-care, wellness model. As professor of psychiatry and population health and services at the University of Washington and senior physician advisor for the WSMA Center for Leadership Development, Dr. Walker strives to equip leaders to understand and interact with administrative counterparts to build a more sustainable "care-full" system.
</p>
<p>
Saturday wraps up with the inauguration of 2023-2024 WSMA President Nariman Heshmati, MD, a networking reception for all meeting attendees, and a gathering of WSMA's leadership courses alumni with Dr. Walker. I hope to <a href="[@]wsma/events/annual_meeting/wsma/events/annual_meeting/annual_meeting.aspx?hkey=fea49254-3815-4dc9-8710-53ff2e3a100f&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=aHdB9">see you there</a>.
</p>
<h3>Consider nominations for AMA alternate delegate</h3>
<p>
In late-breaking news, there is a vacant American Medical Association alternate delegate position on the WSMA board of trustees. As a result, we will be accepting nominations over the next two weeks to complete the remainder of that term, which expires at the end of 2024. Candidates must be current WSMA and AMA members with an interest in state and national issues, and the ability to attend quarterly WSMA board meetings and two out-of-state AMA meetings per year.
</p>
<p>
Interested members should submit a <a href="https://wsma.informz.net/WSMA/data/images/Attachments/BOT-conflict-of-interest-2023.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">conflict of interest disclosure statement</a>, <a href="https://wsma.informz.net/WSMA/data/images/Attachments/BOT-candidate-info-sheet-2023.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">candidate information sheet</a>, and curriculum vitae to <a href="mailto:slb@wsma.org">Shannon Bozarth</a> by Wednesday, Sept. 13. The election will be held on Sunday, Sept. 24 at the WSMA Annual Meeting. We anticipate that this will be a competitive election and, as such, candidates will have the opportunity to submit a recorded two-minute speech, which will be made available to the members of the House prior to voting.
</p>
<p>
As noted in the WSMA bylaws, additional nominations for all open board positions are accepted from the floor of the House of Delegates.
</p>
<h3>Take action</h3>
<ul>
<li>Register for the 2023 Annual Meeting on the <a href="[@]wsma/events/annual_meeting/wsma/events/annual_meeting/annual_meeting.aspx?hkey=fea49254-3815-4dc9-8710-53ff2e3a100f&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=aHdB9">meeting webpage</a>.</li>
<li>To add your opinion to the 30+ resolutions available for member comments, visit the <a href="[@]wsma/events/annual_meeting/virtual-reference-committees.aspx?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=bHdB9">Virtual Reference Committees</a>.</li>
<li>To review delegate(s) for your specialty society and/or county medical society, visit the <a href="[@]wsma/about_us/who_we_are/house-of-delegates/wsma/about/who_we_are/house-of-delegates.aspx?hkey=c5e98d40-6e37-4bc0-9bda-a7aa66e67919&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=cHdB9">House of Delegates webpage</a>.</li>
<li>To submit a nomination for the AMA alternate delegate position, complete the necessary documents and email them to <a href="mailto:slb@wsma.org">Shannon Bozarth</a>.</li>
</ul>
<p>
I do hope you will join in on this critical democratic process. Your engagement ensures that the House hears diverse perspectives, benefits from the wisdom of many, and establishes the best policy for our profession.
</p>
</div> | 9/1/2023 12:03:34 PM | 9/1/2023 12:02:21 PM | 9/1/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| weekly-rounds-august-18-2023-a-preview-of-election-season-with-wampac | Weekly Rounds: August 18, 2023 - A Preview of Election Season With WAMPAC | Weekly_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2023/weekly-rounds-august-18-2023-a-preview-of-election-season-with-wampac | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/Weekly%20Rounds/weekly-rounds-article-graphic-alex-wehinger-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="Weekly Rounds logo with Alex Wehinger" /></div>
<h5>August 18, 2023</h5>
<h2>
A Preview of Election Season With WAMPAC
</h2>
<p>
Alex Wehinger, WSMA Associate Director of Legislative Advocacy, Director of WAMPAC
</p>
<p>
While the 2024 elections are still more than a year away, candidates have already begun to hit the campaign trail as a number of statewide offices will have open seats for the first time in over a decade. Soon enough, all our newsfeeds will become 24/7 election coverage as the 2024 races fall on a presidential election year. So, for now, you'll find a high-level overview below of the political landscape as we know it today.
</p>
<p>
Before diving into the elections preview, I want to invite you to attend the WAMPAC Luncheon at the Bellevue Westin on Saturday, Sept. 23 at 12:30 p.m. during the WSMA Annual Meeting. This luncheon is always popular, never more so than when a presidential election is on the horizon. Tickets can be purchased when <a href="https://wsma.org/wsma/events/annual_meeting/wsma/events/annual_meeting/annual_meeting.aspx?hkey=fea49254-3815-4dc9-8710-53ff2e3a100f&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=htEA9">registering</a><a href="https://wsma.org/wsma/events/annual_meeting/wsma/events/annual_meeting/annual_meeting.aspx?hkey=fea49254-3815-4dc9-8710-53ff2e3a100f&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=htEA9"> for the meeting</a>, with members of the WAMPAC Diamond Club receiving free admission as a perk of membership (a $50 value). Stay tuned for more information about the event's speakers and agenda.
</p>
<h3>
Governor
</h3>
<p>
Jay Inslee has served as Washington state governor since 2013, and he <a href="https://governor.wa.gov/news/2023/inslee-statement-weve-made-washington-beacon-progress-nation-im-ready-pass-torch#:~:text=Gov.%20Jay%20Inslee%20announced%20today%20he%20does%20not,Washington%20state%20governor%20to%20serve%20three%20consecutive%20terms.">announced in early May</a> that he would not seek an unprecedented fourth term in office. To date, the following noteworthy candidates have launched gubernatorial campaigns:
</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.bobferguson.com/">Bob Ferguson</a> (Democrat): Spent a decade on the King County Council and then another decade as the state's attorney general, where he prioritized gun safety (among other issues). He is considered by many as the likely frontrunner.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.mulletforgovernor.com/">Mark Mullet</a> (Democrat): Has served in the state Senate since 2012, sitting on budget and business-focused committees. As the owner of a pizza restaurant and ice cream shops, he is the favored candidate by many in the business community.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.hilaryfranz.com/">Hilary Franz</a> (Democrat): An attorney specializing in environmental law, she has been the state's commissioner of public lands since 2017.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.reichertforgovernor.com/">Dave Reichert</a> (Republican): A former law enforcement officer made famous for his role in apprehending Gary Ridgway, known as the Green River Killer, he later spent 14 years in Congress for the district now represented by Rep. Kim Schrier, MD.</li>
</ul>
<p>
As a reminder, Washington state has a top-two primary, so the two candidates in any race who receive the most votes will advance to the general election regardless of political party.
</p>
<h3>
Attorney general
</h3>
<p>
With the state's current Attorney General Bob Ferguson seeking the governor's office, that leaves another open seat for a statewide position. To date, the following noteworthy candidates have launched campaigns for attorney general:
</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://electmanka.com/">Manka Dhingra</a> (Democrat): A King County prosecutor for over two decades, she joined the state Senate in 2017, becoming the first Sikh state legislator elected in the nation. Sen. Dhingra currently serves as the deputy majority leader and chair of the Law &amp; Justice Committee.</li>
<li><a href="https://nickbrownforag.com/">Nick Brown</a> (Democrat): Previously served in the U.S. Army before becoming general counsel to Gov. Inslee and then the state's first Black U.S. attorney.</li>
</ul>
<h3>
Insurance commissioner
</h3>
<p>
Current Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler, who has held the statewide office for more than two decades, will also <a href="https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/longtime-wa-insurance-commissioner-mike-kreidler-will-not-seek-reelection/">not seek reelection</a>. At this time, only two candidates have filed to run for this office:
</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.pattykuderer.com/">Patty Kuderer</a> (Democrat): An attorney with a background in employment discrimination who has been in the state Legislature since 2015 and now chairs the Housing Committee.</li>
<li>Michele Forgues-Fisher (No party): Chief financial officer at Valley Medical Center, with a background in contracting with insurance carriers on behalf of hospitals.</li>
</ul>
<h3>
State Legislature
</h3>
<p>
While statewide races will likely garner a lot of attention, more than two-thirds of the state Legislature will also be up for election in 2024. Recent election cycles resulted in a fairly static composition of the Legislature, with Democrats maintaining control of both the state House and Senate since 2018. We already know that a handful of legislators will not be returning, most notably the Senate's lead budget writer Sen. Christine Rolfes (D-Bainbridge Island).
</p>
<h3>
Federal
</h3>
<p>
As a state-level political action committee, WAMPAC cannot contribute to federal races, however we do work with AMPAC (the American Medical Association's PAC) to help direct and deliver contributions to candidates for Washington state's U.S. Senate and House seats.
</p>
<p>
The presidential race will be at the top of the ticket in 2024, but of particular relevance to the physician community, Rep. Kim Schrier, MD, will be facing her fourth reelection campaign to the 8th Congressional District, which remains one of the most competitive in the nation. Yakima-area physician Raul Garcia, DO, has filed to run as a Republican against incumbent U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell.
</p>
<h3>
Support the PAC that supports you
</h3>
<p>
As you can see, there are many races ahead that could shift the health care policy landscape in our state. The relationships we build on the campaign trail will help achieve WSMA's goals to make Washington the best place to practice medicine and receive care. To ensure candidates supportive of our agenda advance into key positions, WAMPAC needs to raise enough money to make meaningful contributions in these races. By directing your political contributions through WAMPAC, together we can elect candidates who support our profession and our patients.
</p>
<p>
Contributing to WAMPAC is now easier than ever. Enroll in our new no-hassle <a href="https://takeaction.wsma.org/wampac-donation/?_zs=lfaFd1&amp;_zl=xhE69">auto-donation program</a> that allows you to set up your donation on a monthly recurring basis. You can also join as a <a href="https://takeaction.wsma.org/wampac-donation/?_zs=lfaFd1&amp;_zl=xhE69">Diamond Club member</a> and receive recognition at WSMA events, insider information on elections from our government affairs team, invitations to exclusive events, opportunities to connect with elected officials, and more.
</p>
<p>
If you have any questions about your Diamond Club membership or WAMPAC's engagement on campaigns, please <a href="mailto:alex@wsma.org">contact me</a>.
</p>
</div> | 11/27/2023 3:52:15 PM | 11/27/2023 3:51:50 PM | 8/18/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| weekly-rounds-august-4-2023-listen-and-learn-with-wsma-podcasts | Weekly Rounds: August 4, 2023 - Listen and Learn with WSMA Podcasts | Weekly_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2023/weekly-rounds-august-4-2023-listen-and-learn-with-wsma-podcasts | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/Weekly%20Rounds/Weekly-Rounds-Article-Graphic-2022-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="Weekly Rounds logo" /></div>
<h5>August 4, 2023</h5>
<h2>Listen and Learn with WSMA Podcasts</h2>
<p>Jennifer Hanscom, CEO&nbsp;</p>
<p>
At our all-staff appreciation luncheon this week, a few of us were discussing the first show we ever streamed. Can you remember what you first streamed? I believe mine was The Sopranos on HBO, if that counts. When Netflix moved from mailing videos to streaming online, I was busy balancing my career while starting my family, so those years are a little blurry for me.
</p>
<p>
Some of us were also talking about our commutes-with staff traveling to our Seattle event from Olympia, Port Orchard, Bainbridge Island, Shoreline, and other points around the Sound. As I thought about it, I realized I've never had a commute of less than 45 minutes. That's a lot of time with NPR. In fact, sometimes I'm in the car long enough that the morning news starts to repeat before I arrive at my destination. When that happens, I turn to music, audio books, or a podcast.
</p>
<p>
Lately, I've been tuning into WSMA's new podcast series on opioid prescribing. Hosted by former WSMA President Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD, the podcast series includes conversations with policymakers, physicians, and WSMA staff on an array of topics about the opioid crisis: How we got there; myths about treatment; and how to reduce the dependence on opioids for pain management where appropriate, help those suffering with chronic conditions safely, and help those with addiction.
</p>
<p>
In less than 30 minutes, the podcast can be listened to or viewed at your convenience, with a new episode posted every couple of weeks. Even better, each podcast has CME credit, as well.
</p>
<p>
If you are a commuter or are looking for something to listen to during your workouts or walks with your dog, give the Better Prescribing, Better Treatment Podcast a listen. Dr. Schlicher is so engaging and his conversations with guests on the podcast are informative and insightful. I've even recommended the series to my friends, particularly those who have read the excellent book "Dreamland" or watched the show "Dopesick." The podcast similarly explains how the opioid crisis has evolved in Washington state and provides useful information about work that is being done at the bedside to improve care for patients and our communities.
</p>
<p>
For your convenience, here is the current episode guide. Just click on a link below via your phone or computer to listen. We'll soon be launching an official podcast station, so stay tuned. Meanwhile, enjoy these episodes!
</p>
<h3>Episode Guide</h3>
<p>
Episode 1: <a href="[@]wsma/resources/opioids/better-prescribing-better-treatment-podcast.aspx?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=His89#episode1">The Future of the Better Prescribing, Better Treatment Program at WSMA</a>
</p>
<p>
Episode 2: <a href="[@]wsma/resources/opioids/better-prescribing-better-treatment-podcast.aspx?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=Iis89#episode2">The History of Opioid Prescribing Legislation</a>
</p>
<p>
Episode 3: <a href="[@]wsma/resources/opioids/better-prescribing-better-treatment-podcast.aspx?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=Jis89#episode3">Prescribing Opioids in a Rural Setting</a>
</p>
<p>
Episode 4: <a href="[@]wsma/resources/opioids/better-prescribing-better-treatment-podcast.aspx?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=Kis89#episode4">Opioids in Obstetrics</a>
</p>
<p>
Episode 5: <a href="[@]wsma/resources/opioids/better-prescribing-better-treatment-podcast.aspx?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=Lis89#episode5">Opioids in Pediatrics</a>
</p>
<p>
Episode 6: <a href="[@]wsma/resources/opioids/better-prescribing-better-treatment-podcast.aspx?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=Mis89#episode6">Opioids in Hospice</a>
</p>
</div> | 11/27/2023 3:53:18 PM | 11/27/2023 3:52:22 PM | 8/4/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| weekly-rounds-july-21-2023-cms-proposes-medicare-cuts-again | Weekly Rounds: July 21, 2023 - CMS Proposes Medicare Cuts...Again | Weekly_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2023/weekly-rounds-july-21-2023-cms-proposes-medicare-cuts-again | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>July 21, 2023</h5>
<h2>CMS Proposes Medicare Cuts...Again</h2>
<p>Jennifer Hanscom, CEO</p>
<p>
There are a handful of certainties in life: death, taxes, and for physicians, the August announcement of how much the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services proposes in Medicare cuts. This ritual has happened almost yearly since the mid-1990s, and this year is no exception. The proposed 2024 physician payment schedule was published late last week, highlighting a 3.36% cut in physician Medicare payments for the coming year.
</p>
<p>
Experts at the American Medical Association are analyzing the nearly 2,000-page proposal from CMS in detail, but here's what we know to date via communication from the AMA:
</p>
<ul>
<li>The 2024 Medicare conversion factor is proposed to be reduced by 3.36% from $33.8872 to $32.7476. Similarly, the anesthesia conversion factor is proposed to be reduced from $21.1249 to $20.4370.</li>
<li>CMS also proposes to increase the performance threshold to avoid a penalty in the Merit-based Incentive Payment System from 75 points to 82 points. CMS estimates this would result in an increase in the number of MIPS-eligible clinicians who would receive a penalty of up to -9%.</li>
<li>CMS proposes to delay mandatory electronic clinical quality measure adoption by Medicare Shared Savings Program participants, who would have the option to continue using the CMS web interface in 2024. As finalized in previous rulemaking, Medicare Shared Savings Program participants would have been required to report their quality measures electronically starting in 2024. We are very glad to see CMS recognize the lack of maturity with health information technology standards to seamlessly aggregate data from electronic health records from physicians who practice at multiple sites or are part of an accountable care organization.</li>
</ul>
<p>
The text of the proposed rule can be accessed <a href="https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2023-14624.pdf">here</a>.
</p>
<p>
The WSMA, the AMA, and organizations throughout organized medicine continue to call for Medicare payment reform with members of Congress. More details about that effort can be found at the <a href="https://fixmedicarenow.org">Fix Medicare Now website</a>.
</p>
<p>
This news is a disappointing, as just this past January the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission recommended tying the physician payment update to the Medical Economic Index, the government's measure of inflation on medical practices (currently measured at 4.5%).
</p>
<p>
Rest assured that the WSMA will join the AMA in our yearly effort to stop these drastic cuts before year end. In the coming months, we will also continue to draw attention for the <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/practice-management/medicare-medicaid/efforts-improve-medicare-payment-reform">need to reform the Medicare payment system</a> to ensure that physicians can continue to care for Medicare patients.
</p>
<p>
Another certainty in life is that the WSMA never stops its advocacy efforts to make Washington the best place to practice medicine and receive care. You can count on it.
</p>
</div> | 11/27/2023 3:55:39 PM | 11/27/2023 3:55:18 PM | 7/21/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| weekly-rounds-july-7-2023-big-changes-ahead-for-washington-state-politics | Weekly Rounds: July 7, 2023 - Big Changes Ahead for Washington State Politics | Weekly_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2023/weekly-rounds-july-7-2023-big-changes-ahead-for-washington-state-politics | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/Weekly%20Rounds/Weekly-Rounds-Article-Graphic-2022-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="Weekly Rounds logo" /></div>
<h5>July 7, 2023</h5>
<h2>Big Changes Ahead for Washington State Politics</h2>
<p>Jennifer Hanscom, CEO</p>
<p>
Things are about to get interesting in politics in Washington state, considering that Gov. Jay Inslee and Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler have both announced they will not seek reelection. While the 2024 election may seem far away, in campaign years it's just around the corner.
</p>
<p>
With that in mind, WSMA's nonpartisan campaign arm, <a href="[@]wsma/advocacy/wampac/wsma/advocacy/wampac/wampac.aspx?hkey=269c3c03-cf72-4568-be5b-7893557300a7&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=uhE69">WAMPAC</a>, is gearing up for the campaign season by meeting with candidates and donors.
</p>
<p>
The 2023-24 election cycle will see big races that will change the landscape of state politics and influence policy decisions that impact how health care is delivered in the coming years. For the first time in several years there will be open seats for governor, attorney general, and insurance commissioner, and more than half of the seats in the state Legislature will be up for election.
</p>
<p>
Your support of WAMPAC is critical to our ability to elect legislators and other statewide candidates who support medicine's agenda. Consider the results of our work this year: Due to our support of several legislators in critical positions, during this year's legislative session, the WSMA was able to secure prior authorization reform, Medicaid reimbursement rate increases, abortion protections, gun violence safeguards, and more. You can read all about that work in our 2023 Legislative Report, which was recently mailed to all members and is now available on the WSMA website: <a href="[@]wsma/advocacy/legislative_regulatory/wsma-legislative-report.aspx?WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=vhE69">WSMA Legislative Report</a>.
</p>
<p>
To ensure candidates supportive of our agenda advance into key positions, WAMPAC needs to raise enough money to make meaningful contributions in these races. That's where you come in. By directing your political contributions through WAMPAC, together we can elect candidates who support our profession and our patients.
</p>
<p>
Contributing to WAMPAC is now easier than ever. Enroll in our new no-hassle <a href="https://takeaction.wsma.org/wampac-donation/?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=xhE69">auto-donation program</a> that allows you to set up your donation on a monthly recurring basis-a set-it-and-forget-it option!
</p>
<p>
You can also join as a <a href="https://takeaction.wsma.org/wampac-donation/?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=xhE69">Diamond Club member</a> and receive recognition at WSMA events, insider information on elections from our government affairs team, invitations to exclusive events, opportunities to connect with elected officials, and more. If you have questions about the Diamond Club, including questions about your club membership status, contact WAMPAC staff lead <a href="mailto:alex@wsma.org">Alex Wehinger</a>.
</p>
<p>
The advocacy we do in Olympia and our campaign efforts work together to achieve WSMA's goals. That starts with a strong PAC ready to identify and support political candidates whose priorities align with the house of medicine.
</p>
<p>
Current members of the WAMPAC board of directors are:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Katina Rue, DO - Chair</li>
<li>Tony Quang, MD, JD - Vice Chair</li>
<li>Elizabeth Peterson, MD - Past Chair</li>
<li>Amish Dave, MD - Secretary-Treasurer</li>
<li>Bridget Bush, MD - Assistant Secretary-Treasurer</li>
<li>Stuart Freed, MD</li>
<li>Loren Ihle, MD</li>
<li>Dino Ramzi, MD</li>
<li>John Scott, MD</li>
<li>Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD, MBA</li>
<li>Kim Ha Wadsworth, DO</li>
<li>Hart Edmonson, medical student</li>
</ul>
<p>
There will be lots of action ahead and we want to be sure you're in the loop as things evolve. I urge you to <a href="https://takeaction.wsma.org/wampac-donation/?_zs=lfaFd1&amp;_zl=Doi59">donate today</a> and we'll keep you informed about WAMPAC's activities and events. As always, thanks for all you do.
</p>
</div> | 7/10/2023 4:54:50 PM | 7/10/2023 4:54:24 PM | 7/7/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| weekly-rounds-june-30-2023-5-things-to-know-on-the-4th | Weekly Rounds: June 30, 2023 - 5 Things to Know on the 4th | Weekly_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2023/weekly-rounds-june-30-2023-5-things-to-know-on-the-4th | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/Weekly%20Rounds/Weekly-Rounds-Article-Graphic-2022-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="Weekly Rounds logo" /></div>
<h5>June 30, 2023</h5>
<h2>5 Things to Know on the 4th</h2>
<p>Jennifer Hanscom, CEO</p>
<p>
As I write, the July 4th holiday is just days away. For many this is a time of celebration as our nation embraces its annual commemoration of our independence in 1776, a day that symbolizes the principles of liberty, freedom, and equality.
</p>
<p>
On the Fourth of July, my husband and I also celebrate our wedding anniversary! Our intention by marrying on that day was to try and form our own perfect union while viewing ourselves as equals and honoring and respecting our independent thoughts and opinions. After years of debate, we are still together, at 26 years!
</p>
<p>
With this year's holiday following just after the recent Supreme Court decision on affirmative action in college admissions, I'm reflecting even more on our nation's founding principle of equality. The principle of affirmative action is intended to embrace equal opportunity while also addressing historical and systemic inequalities. The court's decision to end affirmative action in college admissions, including medical schools, reflects a shift in the interpretation and application of the principles of equality and opportunity. I can't help but wonder, how we are to overcome the legacy of discrimination and foster a more inclusive society without this tool?
</p>
<p>
In case you hadn't seen it, I wanted to share the statement released by newly elected president of the AMA, Jesse Ehrenfeld, MD, MPH, who noted the implications on patient care:
</p>
<p>
"Today's decision by the U.S. Supreme Court undermines decades of progress centered on the educational value of diversity and will reverse gains made in the battle against health inequities. This ruling restricts medical schools from considering race and ethnicity among the multiple factors in admissions policies and will translate into a less diverse physician workforce. Diversity is vital to health care, and this court ruling deals a serious blow to our goal of increasing medical career opportunities for historically marginalized and minoritized people.
</p>
<p>
"While our country grows more diverse, historically marginalized communities have been left behind on nearly every health indicator. A physician workforce that reflects the diversity of the nation is key to eliminating racial inequities. There is <a href="https://www.aeaweb.org/articles?id=10.1257/aer.20181446">convincing evidence</a> that racially diverse care teams produce measurably positive health outcomes for patients in historically marginalized populations. The goal is not racially segregated care, but rather a health care workforce in which racial and ethnic representation is a more common aspect of care teams.
</p>
<p>
"<a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/press-center/press-releases/ama-adopts-policy-race-conscious-admissions-higher-education">Recently established AMA policy</a> reinforces our stance that medical schools must continue to make progress toward enrolling talented and highly qualified medical students in racial and ethnic groups that have been traditionally underrepresented in medicine. Eliminating health inequity requires more commitment to, investment in and support for Black, Latinx, and Native American and Indigenous communities, and LGBTQ+ people. Yet, today's ruling undermines policy that was producing positive results and improving the health of our patients, as well as making all physicians better practitioners. This ruling is bad for health care, bad for medicine, and undermines the health of our nation."
</p>
<p>
Now, more than ever, I'm proud that the WSMA and the WSMA Foundation remain committed to advancing diversity in the physician profession. Through our recently established <a href="https://foundation.wsma.org/?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=p7r59">Scholarship and Diversity Advancement Fund</a>, we seek to help support admitted medical students from underrepresented populations overcome the financial barrier of medical school.
</p>
<p>
This is an ambitious, yet imperative, goal as progress in creating diversity in the profession has been painfully slow. As an example, in 1978, Black men accounted for 3.1% of the national medical student body. By 2019, that percentage was 2.9%. This underscores the urgency of our work, because we know this effort matters to improved patient care and satisfaction.
</p>
<p>
To date, we have raised $800,000 to support this new endowment, but we have much more to raise to realize our vision of scholarships for one student at each of our state's medical schools. This fund can make a real and tangible difference on the pathway to medicine for underrepresented students. I ask you to join me in supporting this effort by <a href="https://foundation.wsma.org/?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=p7r59">donating today</a>.
</p>
<p>
In other news outside of the Supreme Court's recent announcements (and there are several), here are other developments to know about that impact health care in Washington state.
</p>
<h3>Cancer drug shortage impacting patient care locally and nationally</h3>
<p>
Medical oncology leaders, hospital executives, and insurance executives met this week to discuss the current cancer drug shortage in Washington state. Hospitals and cancer centers are facing widespread shortages of two widely used chemotherapy drugs, cisplatin and carboplatin, which are used to treat multiple common cancers, including lung, breast, ovarian, testicular, head and neck cancers, endometrial cancer, and many cancers impacting children.
</p>
<p>
While the Washington State Medical Oncology Society and the American Society of Clinical Oncology are working to address the issue with lawmakers and public agencies, local health care leaders met to ensure that patients can continue to get alternative therapies when needed without barriers from prior authorization or utilization review at insurance companies. The conversation was productive, and the WSMA will be sure to follow up on any developments that will help you navigate care for your cancer patients.
</p>
<p>
Additionally, the Washington Pharmacy Commission is aware of the situation and sent a notice out clarifying rules regarding to the transfer of drug supply:
</p>
<p>
"As a reminder, while the transfer of drugs from one facility to another may amount to wholesale distribution, there are notable exemptions within the commission's definition of wholesale distribution found in <a href="https://apps.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=246-945-001">WAC 246-945-001(81)(d) and (e)</a>. Additionally, the commission has an <a href="https://doh.wa.gov/sites/default/files/legacy/Documents/Pubs/690341.pdf#:~:text=This%20interpretive%20statement%20is%20intended%20to%20clarify%20and,when%20transferring%20prescription%20drugs%20for%20%E2%80%9Cemergency%20medical%20reasons.%E2%80%9D">interpretive statement</a> on its website providing guidance on the term 'emergency medical reasons' in WAC 246-945-001(81)(e). For clarification, the term 'emergency medical reasons' in WAC 246-945-001(81)(e) and the corresponding interpretive statement is not limited to a declared state of emergency."
</p>
<h3>New approaches to care launched in Washington state</h3>
<p>
On June 27, Optum Washington announced its entry into the hospital-at-home program. Citing limited in-patient bed capacity, total cost of care and capital constraints, as well as patient safety and satisfaction, Dr. Imelda Dacones, market president of Optum Washington, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/at-home-hospital-care-imelda-dacones-md-facp?trk=public_profile_article_view">announced on LinkedIn</a> Optum's move into this not-so-new endeavor. Dr. Dacones writes:
</p>
<p>
"Studies have shown at-home hospital programs can reduce readmissions, increase patient and family satisfaction, reduce and eliminate hospital-acquired infections and complications like delirium, and cut costs. This is not home health on steroids. This is truly hospital-level care in the home. Well-monitored 24/7 care with redundancies in the systems, physicians and nurses from virtual command center are connected with the patient and family via telehealth. Together, they, and in-home care provided by other clinicians, nurses, respiratory techs-with X-ray, ultrasound, blood and lab draws and more done at home-make up the team."
</p>
<h3>Optum Care and Virginia Mason Franciscan Health announce new partnership</h3>
<p>
It's been a busy week at Optum Washington. In addition to launching their new hospital-at-home program, the group announced a new partnership with Virginia Mason Franciscan Health that includes a twofold approach using Virginia Mason Medical Center as Optum Polyclinic's main acute care referral center and the management of Virginia Mason Franciscan's 25,000 Medicare Advantage patients. Ketul Patel, CEO of Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, is quoted in Modern Health care noting, "The partnership will broaden Virginia Mason's reach, and Optum's analytical expertise will help direct patients to the most appropriate care settings."
</p>
<h3>WSMA wins national communications awards</h3>
<p>
For the fourth year in a row, the WSMA won several EXCEL Awards for its communications efforts. The EXCEL Awards program is a national competition that recognizes excellence and leadership in association media, publishing, marketing, and communication.
</p>
<p>
This year, the WSMA won three awards including:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Silver in the Special Report category for the 2022 Legislative Report</li>
<li>Silver in the Direct Mail-Single Piece category for the 2022 Impact Report</li>
<li>Bronze in the Editorial/Opinion Piece category for "Bending the Curve," by Lucinda Grande, MD</li>
</ul>
<p>
We're proud to be included among the 211 awards presented across 74 categories, as the recognition highlights the WSMA's outstanding communications efforts at a national level.
</p>
<p>
The Software &amp; Information Industry Association announced the winners of the 43rd Annual AM&amp;P Network EXCEL Awards at the 2023 AM&amp;P Content &amp; Marketing Summit in Washington D.C. on June 27.
</p>
<p>
As always, we are here for you, advocating on your behalf and raising up the physician voice. Thanks for all you do.
</p>
</div> | 7/3/2023 10:21:00 AM | 7/3/2023 10:19:14 AM | 6/30/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| weekly-rounds-june-16-2023-5-summer-cme-opportunities-at-the-wsma | Weekly Rounds: June 16, 2023 - 5 Summer CME Opportunities at the WSMA | Weekly_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2023/weekly-rounds-june-16-2023-5-summer-cme-opportunities-at-the-wsma | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>June 16, 2023</h5>
<h2>5 Summer CME Opportunities at the WSMA</h2>
<p>Jennifer Hanscom, CEO</p>
<p>
This week I've returned from the AMA Annual Meeting in Chicago, where I was able to catch up with physicians and colleagues from across the country. The meeting is a great opportunity to network, learn, and develop policies that will hopefully result in a better system in which physicians work and patients receive care.
</p>
<p>
Speaking of learning, I want to highlight some educational opportunities with the WSMA, all offering CME credit. The WSMA offers continuing professional development as part of our commitment to supporting physicians and physician assistants on their lifelong learning journey. Except where noted, these sessions are offered exclusively to WSMA members at no cost as a benefit of membership.
</p>
<h3>Highly Functioning Interprofessional Teams</h3>
<p>
<em>Webinar: Friday, July 28, noon-1 p.m.</em>
</p>
<p>
Challenges to health professional well-being and interprofessional team cohesiveness were amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic. While there has been attention to individual health care professional well-being, little attention has been paid to the ways highly functioning interprofessional teams can support well-being, prevent burnout, and improve patient care. This session will offer actionable, evidence-informed strategies to cultivate strong, supportive, and sustainable interprofessional teams that enhance personal and professional well-being. Presenters are Dawn DeWitt, MD, professor and senior associate dean, CIPHERS, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University; and Skye McKennon, PharmD, associate professor, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em>â„¢. <a href="[@]Shared_Content/Events/Event_Display.aspx?eventkey=cpdhighly&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=gVX49">Register online</a>.
</p>
<h3>Health Equity M&amp;M Webinar Series</h3>
<p>
<em>Webinar: Friday, Aug. 11, 2023, noon-1 p.m.</em>
</p>
<p>
The WSMA and WSMA Foundation invite you to join your colleagues for our popular Health Equity M&amp;M Webinar Series. Think "morbidity and mortality," but with a focus on health equity. These Health Equity M&amp;M discussions provide a framework for recognizing and examining our biases and identifying the ways systemic racism exists in our organizations. You'll have new tools to think critically and identify when to advocate for your patients from historically marginalized communities, ensuring they receive the highest quality clinical care. The discussions are facilitated by Edwin Lindo, JD, the assistant dean of social and health justice in the Office of Healthcare Equity, an associate teaching professor in the department of family medicine, and an adjunct associate teaching professor in the department of bioethics and humanities at the University of Washington School of Medicine.
</p>
<p>
WSMA members are encouraged to <a href="https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=CgN5_wMfNU66xEvN3PBcAIl040VJfZtFmgd6Gl6BR-NUOVhWSlJaWVAyODJTUE9UVFVUTjc0ODZFUS4u">submit a patient case</a> to discuss at an upcoming session. Case submissions are CQIP and HIPAA compliant. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em>â„¢. <a href="[@]wsma/resources/health-equity/health-equity-m-and-m-webinar-series/wsma/resources/health-equity/health-equity-m-and-m-webinar-series.aspx?hkey=e22e883c-0ef2-4981-8a8c-4dbf120f5c8c&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=kVX49">Learn more and register</a>.
</p>
<h3>Restoring Hope for Meaning in Medicine</h3>
<p>
<em>Webinar: Friday, Aug. 18, noon-1 p.m.</em>
</p>
<p>
Sierra Sacramento Valley Medical Society's program, Joy of Medicine, is a community approach to physician and physician assistant well-being, helping them to reclaim the joy of practicing medicine through education, advocacy, programs, events, and services designed to nurture individual well-being and collegiality. This presentation will discuss the Joy of Medicine program and the intersection of systemic support and evidence-based habits that physicians and PAs can cultivate that provide hope for living well. Presenters are John Chuck, MD, professor of family medicine and chief wellness officer, California Northstate University; and Lindsay Coate, vice president of strategic operations, Sierra Sacramento Valley Medical Society. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em>â„¢. <a href="[@]shared_content/events/event_display.aspx?eventkey=cpdhope23&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=mVX49">Register online</a>.
</p>
<h3>First Two Episodes of Better Prescribing, Better Treatment Podcast Now Available</h3>
<p>
Last week, the WSMA introduced a new podcast featuring conversations with experts on an array of topics about how we can reduce the dependence on opioids for pain management where appropriate, help those suffering with chronic conditions safely, and help those with addiction. A sole production of the WSMA and hosted by Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD, the podcast is available at no cost to all physicians, physician assistants, and health professionals, and supports the goals of the <a href="[@]wsma/resources/opioids/better_prescribing_better_treatment/wsma/resources/opioids/better-prescribing-better-treatment.aspx?hkey=b6fb0ec0-8bc2-4e53-bf4c-9f148599cbeb&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=oVX49">Better Prescribing, Better Treatment safe-prescribing program</a>. Episodes will be posted approximately every two weeks through the summer months and are approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em>â„¢. The first two episodes are now available.
</p>
<ul>
<li>
<h4>The Future of the Better Prescribing, Better Treatment Program at the WSMA</h4>
<p>
In this inaugural episode of the podcast, Dr. Schlicher is joined by WSMA Program Manager Monica Salgaonkar, MHA, CPHQ, and WSMA Director of IT Troy Brown to discuss the new areas of development in the Better Prescribing, Better Treatment program at the WSMA. <a href="[@]wsma/resources/opioids/better-prescribing-better-treatment-podcast.aspx?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=qVX49">Access the podcast from the WSMA website</a>.
</p>
</li>
<li>
<h4>The History of Opioid Prescribing Legislation</h4>
<p>
In this podcast, Dr. Schlicher sits down with WSMA Policy Director Jeb Shepard to discuss the history of opioid prescribing in the state, the origins of BPBT, and its overall impact on prescribing. <a href="[@]wsma/resources/opioids/better-prescribing-better-treatment-podcast.aspx?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=qVX49">Access the podcast from the WSMA website</a>.
</p>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>The WSMA Physician Leadership Course</h3>
<p>
<em>Hybrid course: Sept. 8-Nov. 17. Member and non-member pricing available.</em>
</p>
<p>
Led by Edward A. Walker, MD, MHA, professor emeritus in the departments of psychiatry and behavioral sciences and health services at the University of Washington in Seattle, the WSMA Physician Leadership Course is a basic "boot camp" to familiarize physicians and physician assistants with the four important components of health care leadership:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Performance improvement, patient safety, and high reliability.</li>
<li>Leadership and management of individuals, teams, and organizations.</li>
<li>Planning and finance.</li>
<li>Creating and maintaining a personal leadership development plan.</li>
</ul>
<p>
The 11-week hybrid-distance course combines face-to-face and online learning to enable participants to begin developing and honing their leadership skills at their convenience. Only three in-person classes are required: Friday and Saturday, Sept. 8 and 9, and Friday, Nov. 17, at the Silver Cloud Broadway Hotel in Seattle. The remainder of the course is conducted online. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em>â„¢. For those who may prefer an all-virtual setting, a virtual-only Physician Leadership Course is scheduled for Oct. 13-Dec.15. <a href="[@]wsma/education/physician_leadership/physician_leadership_course/wsma/physician_leadership/physician_leadership_course/physician_leadership_course.aspx?hkey=efdc4ad1-ff20-4089-ab51-caafbe73572b&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=sVX49">Register online for these courses</a>.
</p>
<p>
I hope you take advantage of these CME opportunities from the air-conditioned comfort of your location of choice. Happy (almost) summer-and as always, thank you for all you do!
</p>
</div> | 6/20/2023 9:37:02 AM | 6/20/2023 9:10:49 AM | 6/16/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| weekly-rounds-june-2-2023-help-keep-the-wsma-physician-driven-by-telling-us-what-you-think | Weekly Rounds: June 2, 2023 - Help Keep the WSMA Physician Driven by Telling Us What You Think | Weekly_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2023/weekly-rounds-june-2-2023-help-keep-the-wsma-physician-driven-by-telling-us-what-you-think | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/Weekly%20Rounds/Weekly-Rounds-Article-Graphic-2022-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="Weekly Rounds logo" /></div>
<h5>June 2, 2023</h5>
<h2>Help Keep the WSMA Physician Driven by Telling Us What You Think</h2>
<p>Jennifer Hanscom, CEO</p>
<p>
One of my favorite things about WSMA's events is that I can connect face to face, once again, with our members. It's a great way to get feedback, hear your concerns, and learn more about what matters to you. The downside is that I can only hear from the folks who attend!
</p>
<p>
As we round out the first half of 2023, I'd like to check in with you. I know there's no way our thousands of members can all attend WSMA's in-person events, so as an alternative, I'm inviting you to share your opinions <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/DHZ6GK5">via a quick survey</a>. It shouldn't take too much time to complete, and your answers will most definitely help shape WSMA's work on your behalf.
</p>
<p>
The WSMA is a physician-driven organization. Your voice matters as we strive to ensure that our work is focused on issues and activities that matter to you.
</p>
<p>
Your feedback will be closely reviewed and considered. The WSMA Executive Committee will meet soon to reflect on WSMA's current strategic plan, achievements to date, and consider where our attention and resources should be focused in the future.
</p>
<p>
Let us hear from you! Please take a moment to <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/DHZ6GK5">raise your voice and be heard</a>. The reliability of the survey results depends on a strong response. Your responses will be anonymous and confidential. Please complete the survey by Friday, June 23.
</p>
<p>
Thanks for taking time to offer your feedback. As always, thanks for all you do!
</p>
</div> | 6/2/2023 8:56:39 AM | 6/2/2023 8:55:06 AM | 6/2/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| weekly-rounds-may-19-2023-meeting-the-challenge-of-improving-access-to-physician-services | Weekly Rounds: May 19, 2023 - Meeting the Challenge of Improving Access to Physician Service | Weekly_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2023/weekly-rounds-may-19-2023-meeting-the-challenge-of-improving-access-to-physician-services | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/Weekly%20Rounds/Weekly-Rounds-Article-Graphic-2022-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="Weekly Rounds logo" /></div>
<h5>May 19, 2023</h5>
<h2>Meeting the Challenge of Improving Access to Physician Services</h2>
<p>Jennifer Hanscom, CEO</p>
<p>
In case you missed it:
</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/health/wa-hospitals-close-labor-and-delivery-units-raising-fears-for-new-parents/">WA hospitals close labor and delivery units, raising fears for new parents</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.kitsapsun.com/restricted/?return=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.kitsapsun.com%2Fstory%2Fopinion%2Fcolumnists%2F2023%2F05%2F05%2Flow-reimbursement-rates-are-crippling-healthcare-in-kitsap-and-beyond%2F70188239007%2F">Obstetrics canary in coal mine</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.beckershospitalreview.com/strategy/confluence-health-cuts-coo-role.html">Confluence Health cuts COO role</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.thenewstribune.com/news/local/article274517126.html">Tacoma hospital's latest issue: 'Anesthesia doctors have been leaving for several months'</a></li>
</ul>
<p>
These headlines are just the latest from recent media reports that demonstrate the growing need for investments in health care. Cutting costs alone will not fix this problem, at least not in the short term. The WSMA has been focused in several areas to improve access to physician services in Washington state: This past legislative session, we were successful in getting additional dollars for Medicaid professional services (although more must be done) and we made <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2023/weekly-rounds-may-5-2023-progress-on-improving-prior-authorizations?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=HVU19">improvements to the prior authorization process</a>. Additionally, Washington lawmakers appropriated dollars toward residency programs, loan repayment for health care professionals, and public health. However, while all of these investments are appreciated, they aren't enough to stem the tide of continuing workforce shortages, growing expenses, and the unfortunate situation of patients losing access to critical services in their local communities.
</p>
<p>
Over the legislative interim, the WSMA will continue to strategize on solutions we can put into action to both ensure access to affordable care and that our members are paid appropriately for their services and their time spent on patient care, rather than on inefficient processes.
</p>
<p>
While we will be working with our members to shape and drive our success, I thought I would also ask the A.I. community for some ideas. Here's what ChatGPT had to say when I asked, "Got any ideas for improving access to physicians in Washington state?":
</p>
<p>
"Improving access to physicians in Washington state can be a multifaceted challenge, but there are several potential strategies that could help enhance access to health care services. Here are some ideas:
</p>
<ol>
<li>Telemedicine expansion: Promote and expand telemedicine services to allow patients to remotely consult with physicians. This approach can help overcome geographical barriers and improve access for individuals in rural or underserved areas.</li>
<li>Incentives for rural practice: Implement programs that offer financial incentives or loan forgiveness for physicians who choose to practice in rural or underserved areas. This approach can help attract health care professionals to regions with limited access to medical services.</li>
<li>Increase medical school capacity: Expand the capacity of medical schools in the state to train and graduate more physicians. By increasing the number of medical students and residency positions, Washington can address the physician shortage and improve access to health care services.</li>
<li>Enhanced scope of practice for non-physicians: Review and consider expanding the scope of practice for nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and other non-physician practitioners. Allowing these professionals to practice to the full extent of their training and capabilities can help meet the increasing demand for primary care.</li>
<li>Collaborative care models: Develop and promote collaborative care models that involve interdisciplinary teams of health care professionals. This approach encourages shared responsibilities, with physicians focusing on complex cases while other health care practitioners handle routine and preventive care. This can help optimize physician resources and improve access to care.</li>
<li>Streamline licensing and credentialing: Simplify the licensing and credentialing processes for physicians, especially those trained out of state or internationally. Reducing bureaucratic barriers can expedite the entry of qualified physicians into the workforce and increase access to care.</li>
<li>Community health centers: Invest in and expand community health centers, particularly in underserved areas. These centers often provide comprehensive primary care services, including preventive care, chronic disease management, and mental health services, improving access for vulnerable populations.</li>
<li>Health information technology: Invest in robust health information technology infrastructure, including electronic health records and health information exchanges. Seamless sharing of patient information across health care settings can improve coordination and continuity of care, making it easier for physicians to provide timely and efficient services.</li>
<li>Public health initiatives: Implement public health initiatives focused on preventive care, health education, and disease management. By promoting healthier lifestyles and preventing diseases, the demand for physician services may decrease, enabling physicians to dedicate more time to complex cases.</li>
<li>Physician workforce planning: Conduct comprehensive physician workforce planning to identify areas of need and develop targeted recruitment and retention strategies. This approach ensures a balanced distribution of physicians across the state, addressing access disparities."</li>
</ol>
<p>
Well done, ChatGPT. With the exception of No. 4, these strategies align with WSMA's advocacy agenda in recent years and encapsulate many of our successes (see numbers 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, and 9).
</p>
<p>
The WSMA continues to grapple with No. 4 and remains committed to using teams to their fullest potential. Our stated policy, however, is clear that absent commensurate education and training requirements to ensure patient safety and a demonstrable and compelling societal need, the WSMA opposes efforts of non-physician practitioners to expand the scope of their practice to include additional services currently performed by physicians.
</p>
<p>
During this interim, the WSMA will be working on No. 10, with a particular focus on workforce in the outpatient ambulatory community. We'll work with physician leaders, the Washington State Medical Group Management Association, and other experts on workforce issues to put forward solutions to improve access to care and physician services in communities throughout Washington.
</p>
<p>
Speaking of solutions, we continue to be vexed by decreasing <a href="[@]wsma/advocacy/legislative_regulatory/issue-briefs/medicaid-professional-services-rate-increase.aspx?WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=IVU19">Medicaid</a> and <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2023/may-12/wsma-urges-washingtons-congressional-delegation-to-support-medicare-payment-reform?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=KVU19">Medicare</a> payments. While not addressed by ChatGPT, we remain committed to improving payment via these public programs. We continue our efforts at both the state and federal levels to draw attention to the need to pay physicians adequately to ensure patients have access to care in their communities.
</p>
<p>
At the closing of my inquiry with ChatGPT, the program noted:
</p>
<p>
"Collaboration between policymakers, health care organizations, and communities is crucial for successful implementation."
</p>
<p>
Agreed! Together, no matter how tired the message may seem, we need to continue to advocate for change if we are to make Washington the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
</div> | 6/13/2023 11:14:59 AM | 5/19/2023 10:16:58 AM | 5/19/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| weekly-rounds-may-5-2023-progress-on-improving-prior-authorizations | Weekly Rounds: May 5, 2023 - Progress on Improving Prior Authorizations | Weekly_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2023/weekly-rounds-may-5-2023-progress-on-improving-prior-authorizations | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/Weekly%20Rounds/Weekly-Rounds-Article-Graphic-2022-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="Weekly Rounds logo" /></div>
<h5>May 5, 2023</h5>
<h2>Progress on Improving Prior Authorizations</h2>
<p>Jennifer Hanscom, CEO</p>
<p>When the WSMA surveys our members on the most pressing advocacy issues we face, reforming prior authorization almost invariably is at the top of the list. It's easy to see why-prior authorization can delay care for patients, increase administrative burden and costs for physicians, and divert scarce health care workforce from care delivery.</p>
<p>The reforms contained in <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1357&amp;Year=2023&amp;Initiative=false">House Bill 1357</a>, which passed the House and Senate unanimously during the 2023 state legislative session, will help establish Washington state as a leader in prior authorization reform. The bill expedites turnaround times for determinations and mandates the implementation of electronic prior authorization processes that integrate into electronic health records, which has been proven to reduce administrative burden. And importantly, the bill applies as broadly as possible on the state level - to all state-regulated health plans and not only to health care services, but also to prescription drugs.</p>
<p>I'd like to take a moment to thank the following WSMA members who joined our prior authorization task force last summer to develop legislation for the 2023 session:</p>
<ul>
<li>Katina Rue, DO</li>
<li>Carrie Horwitch, MD</li>
<li>Garrett Jeffery, DO</li>
<li>Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD</li>
<li>Rodney Anderson, MD</li>
</ul>
<p>Task force members drew from their own firsthand experiences, as well as from insights shared at the WSMA Annual Meetings and policy changes on prior authorization proposed by Teresa Girolami, MD; Hal Quinn, MD; Jeffrey Frankel, MD; and the King County Medical Society via the resolution process. Through this highly member-driven process, HB 1357 was drafted, and Rep. Tarra Simmons (D-Bremerton) signed on as the prime sponsor of the bill.</p>
<p>As history often shows, the legislative process demands patience and tempered expectations. This year was no exception with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services releasing a <a href="https://www.cms.gov/regulations-and-guidance/guidance/interoperability/index">draft prior authorization rule</a> on the eve of the state legislative session.</p>
<p>Undeterred by the federal announcement, WSMA's government affairs team worked with Rep. Simmons to amend HB 1357 to build on the CMS rulemaking, expediting the implementation of integrated prior authorization requirements for health care services (to take effect in 2025, rather than 2026 as proposed by CMS) and extending the requirements to prescription drugs beginning in 2027.</p>
<p>Passing both the House and the Senate unanimously and now awaiting Gov. Jay Inslee's signature, the new law will go into effect Jan. 1, 2024 for all state-regulated health plans across health care services and prescription drugs. The bill applies the following timelines for prior authorization determinations:</p>
<ul>
<li>For prior authorizations submitted through electronic processes such as web portals:
<ul>
<li>One calendar day for expedited requests</li>
<li>Three calendar days for standard requests (excluding holidays)</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>For prior authorizations submitted through non-electronic processes such as faxes:
<ul>
<li>Two calendar days for expedited requests</li>
<li>Five calendar days for standard requests</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p>Throughout the recent legislative session, HB 1357 faced strong opposition from insurance carriers who argued that the bill would prove costly and the timelines proposed were overly aggressive. Legislative leaders such as Rep. Simmons, Rep. Marcus Riccelli (D-Spokane), and Rep. Joe Schmick (R-Colfax) convened negotiations and worked toward compromise. Support from patient groups and the hospital community was integral in maintaining momentum for the bill throughout the process. And to their credit, insurance carriers negotiated in good faith on a difficult issue and ultimately moved to neutral on the final bill.</p>
<p>The WSMA will be actively engaged in the implementation of HB 1357, as well as in the associated rulemaking from CMS. There's more work to be done on the issue of prior authorization-this year's successes represent important steps forward, rather than the finish line. But we're proud of this work and deeply appreciative of the physician leaders who helped develop and advocate for House Bill 1357, and for the support of legislators such as Rep. Simmons who helped shepherd the bill through the legislative process.</p>
</div> | 5/18/2023 10:31:55 AM | 5/5/2023 10:14:27 AM | 5/5/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| weekly-rounds-april-21-2023-make-a-difference-by-leading-and-serving-the-profession | Weekly Rounds: April 21, 2023 - Make a Difference by Leading and Serving the Profession | Weekly_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2023/weekly-rounds-april-21-2023-make-a-difference-by-leading-and-serving-the-profession | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>April 21, 2023</h5>
<h2>Make a Difference by Leading and Serving the Profession</h2>
<p>Jennifer Hanscom, CEO</p>
<p>
<em>Nominate yourself or a colleague by next Friday, April 28
</em></p>
<p>
Leadership is one of WSMA's strategic priorities-perhaps an obvious choice, as we strive to influence and shape the future of the medical profession. We've heard, loud and clear, from our members that leadership development is one aspect of our work that they highly value. That's another reason why we work hard to offer top-ranked educational opportunities to the medical community through our leadership courses and <a href="http://wsma.org/ldc?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=dM4w8">Leadership Development Conference</a>.
</p>
<p>
We're so committed to strong physician leadership that it's called out specifically in our motto: "Physician Driven, Patient Focused." With the ever-shifting landscape of health care, the unpredictable direction of regulation and policy, and the need to preserve the sanctity of the physician-patient relationship, we know that physicians must be directly involved in leadership to navigate a healthy way forward for patients and the profession.
</p>
<p>
Another way to grow your leadership skills is to serve in a leadership position with the WSMA. We depend on your engagement so that we are equipped to represent your voice, and those of patients, as we seek to shape the future of health care in Washington state. Your voice, your leadership, and your service with the WSMA do make a difference.
</p>
<p>
I am personally inviting you to consider stepping into WSMA leadership by nominating yourself or a colleague for consideration for a position on the WSMA board of trustees, executive committee, or as a delegate to the American Medical Association.
</p>
<p>
More information about the desired qualifications, a roster of current board members, a nomination form, conflict of interest disclosure statement, and candidate information sheet <a href="[@]wsma/about_us/who_we_are/board-of-trustees/wsma/about/who_we_are/board-of-trustees.aspx?hkey=57dca355-fca4-4f4e-9c83-6e35aa4baabe&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=fM4w8">are available here</a>.
</p>
<p>
Here are a few more things to know about the nomination process:
</p>
<ul>
<li>The WSMA Nominating Committee will meet in late May to prepare a slate of nominees.</li>
<li>The slate will be presented to the House of Delegates during the 2023 WSMA Annual Meeting, scheduled for Sept. 23-24 at The Westin Bellevue (all are welcome to attend the meeting-save the dates).</li>
<li>The deadline for nominations is next Friday, April 28, although additional nominations may be made from the floor of the House of Delegates.</li>
<li>In considering yourself or colleagues for the board of trustees, consider whether you or they are:
<ul>
<li>Well-informed.</li>
<li>Forward-thinking.</li>
<li>Committed to the future of the profession.</li>
<li>Committed to service and the profession above oneself.</li>
<li>Experienced, enthusiastic, credible, and open-minded.</li>
<li>Able to put the WSMA above personal desires or agenda.</li>
<li>Capable of serving as a future president of the WSMA.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p>
It takes bold leadership and a strong sense of service to tackle the challenges facing the profession, your patients, and our communities. If you believe in our mission to provide strong physician leadership and advocacy to shape the future of medicine and advance quality of care for all Washingtonians, I hope you will consider this opportunity.
</p>
</div> | 5/18/2023 10:31:54 AM | 4/21/2023 2:55:51 PM | 4/21/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| weekly-rounds-april-7-2023-five-things-to-know-that-may-impact-your-practice | Weekly Rounds: April 7, 2023 - Five Things to Know That May Impact Your Practice | Weekly_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2023/weekly-rounds-april-7-2023-five-things-to-know-that-may-impact-your-practice | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/Weekly%20Rounds/Weekly-Rounds-Article-Graphic-2022-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="Weekly Rounds logo" /></div>
<h5>April 7, 2023</h5>
<h2>Five Things to Know That May Impact Your Practice</h2>
<p>Jennifer Hanscom, CEO</p>
<p>
With spring break in full swing, I'm away for a few days to visit my sons in California. Having this time with them, I'm reminded again of how important it is to take time to recharge, reconnect, and refresh. It's not often that we have the chance to take a break and learn, network, and socialize, while still enjoying our families and the great outdoors. The WSMA Leadership Development Conference, held on the shores of Lake Chelan, offers just that-it's a great opportunity for physicians, physician assistants, and practice staff from all over Washington state to gather, learn about trends in health care, and sharpen leadership skills while also having time to relax with family, friends, and all that a lakeside resort has to offer.
</p>
<p>
I hope to see you at this year's conference on May 19-20. <a href="[@]wsma/events/ldc/leadership_development_conference.aspx?hkey=c7532c38-057a-4568-8a3c-078182469222&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=MEdu8">Learn more about the conference agenda and be sure to register today</a>.
</p>
<p>
In other news, I wanted to give you a heads up about developments that may impact you and your patients. If we can answer any questions or provide more details, don't hesitate to reach out.
</p>
<h3>Cigna rereleases burdensome modifier 25 policy</h3>
<p>
Over the objections of state and federal medical associations, Cigna is rereleasing its policy to require the submission of medical records with all evaluation and management (E/M) claims with CPT 99212-99215 and modifier 25 when a minor procedure is billed. The updated policy goes into effect on May 25.
</p>
<p>
The WSMA is adding its objections to the chorus of opposition from state medical associations, specialty societies, and the American Medical Association. The policy, if it goes into effect, would add significant, unnecessary administrative burden and compliance costs to physician practices, disincentivize physicians from providing unscheduled services, and create duplicate requests.
</p>
<p>
If you have questions or concerns, contact Cigna customer service at 800.882.4462 or contact WSMA Director of Policy Jeb Shepard at <a href="mailto:jeb@wsma.org">jeb@wsma.org</a>.
</p>
<h3>Help Ensure Medicaid patients stay covered with printable flyer for physician offices</h3>
<p>
If you see Apple Health clients in your practice, <a href="https://wsma.informz.net/WSMA/data/images/Attachments/Apple-Health-Renewals-2023.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">considering posting this printable flyer</a>, which urges patients to ensure their contact information is up to date so they can be contacted about the Medicaid coverage renewal process, in the following settings:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Office waiting rooms</li>
<li>Patient exam rooms</li>
<li>Hallways or common walkways</li>
<li>Restrooms</li>
</ul>
<p>
The federal public health emergency is set to expire on May 11. The Washington State Health Care Authority and the Department of Social and Health Services resumed normal operations on April 1, meaning they will now begin redetermining all client eligibility for Apple Health coverage.
</p>
<p>
Contact the WSMA's policy department at <a href="mailto:policy@wsma.org">policy@wsma.org</a> if you have any questions or concerns.
</p>
<h3>Narcan now easier to access, and what you need to know about MATE training</h3>
<p>
In late March, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved selling naloxone over the counter without a prescription. Narcan, the approved branded nasal spray that is the best-known form of naloxone, can reverse opioid overdoses and is expected to be available over the counter by late summer 2023.
</p>
<p>
Additionally, new requirements for training for medication-assisted treatment as part of the Medication Access and Training Expansion (MATE) Act, passed as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023, have been released. The MATE Act's training requirement, which is tied to initial registration or renewal with the Drug Enforcement Administration beginning on June 27, 2023, requires a total of at least eight hours of accredited continuing education on the treatment and management of patients with opioid or other substance use disorders. <a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/medications-substance-use-disorders/provider-support-services/recommendations-curricular-elements-substance-use-disorders-training">The full guidance is available here</a>.
</p>
<h3>Physicians Insurance demystifies the litigation process in new webinar</h3>
<p>
Have you ever wondered what a trial looks like? How you and your care delivery would be represented? How your story would be told? Unfortunately, litigation is something that many physicians will face at some point in their careers. What that means and how that experience may play out are important to understand, as is the support you can expect from Physicians Insurance/MedChoice.
</p>
<p>
As a benefit to the longstanding partnership between the WSMA and Physicians Insurance, WSMA members are exclusively invited to join PI's experts for this upcoming Trial Takeaways webinar on Thursday, April 20 from noon-1:30 p.m. During the 90-minute event, you will hear a formal statement of the facts surrounding a hypothetical, but common, medical negligence claim. Jeffrey Street and Tracy Hooper will present mock opening arguments from both the plaintiff and defense perspectives, followed by discussion and an in-depth look at the strategies, tools, and preparation that can help ensure a successful trial defense. <a href="https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/805757734652001883">Register here</a>.
</p>
<h3>Urge your representative to oppose the optometrist scope of practice expansion bill</h3>
<p>
Senate Bill 5389, currently pending a vote in the state House of Representatives, proposes to expand the scope of practice for optometrists, allowing them to perform surgical procedures without sufficient education and training, and broadening their prescribing authority to include oral steroids and injections on and around the eye for the treatment of eye disease. It is essential that legislators hear from physicians and others who are opposed to the bill due to concerns about patient safety.
</p>
<p>
Optometrists are valued members of the health care team and provide important services, such as assessing glasses and contact lens prescriptions, fitting lenses, evaluating and treating less complex and non-surgical eye disease, and adapting prosthetic eyes. However, their education and training does not prepare them for surgical procedures, which require the highest level of surgical precision and technical skills. Optometrists are not surgeons, and it is essential that they work within the scope of their training and experience to ensure patient safety. Please take a moment to <a href="https://votervoice.net/WSMA/Campaigns/102612/Respond">contact your representative today and urge their opposition to SB 5389</a>.
</p>
<p>
As spring continues to emerge, I hope you'll find time for you and yours. And as always, thank you for your support of the WSMA.
</p>
</div> | 5/18/2023 10:31:54 AM | 4/7/2023 9:22:30 AM | 4/7/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| weekly-rounds-march-31-2023-olympia-update-budget-proposals | Weekly Rounds: March 31, 2023 - Olympia Update: What the Legislative Budget Proposals Mean | Weekly_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2023/weekly-rounds-march-31-2023-olympia-update-budget-proposals | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>March 31, 2023</h5>
<h2>Olympia Update: What the Legislative Budget Proposals Mean for Physicians</h2>
<p>
Sean Graham, WSMA Director of Government Affairs
</p>
<p>
With less than a month remaining in the 2023 legislative session, lawmakers are turning their attention to budget negotiations. Against the backdrop of a <a href="https://erfc.wa.gov/sites/default/files/public/documents/meetings/rev20230320.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">recently released, relatively foreboding state revenue forecast</a>, majority party Democrats in the Senate and House of Representatives rolled out their 2023-25 operating budget proposals over the last week, each advocating to appropriate around $70 billion over the two-year cycle.
</p>
<p>
In broad strokes, the two spending plans are similar. Both prioritize addressing climate change, behavioral health, education, and housing and homelessness. And neither relies on significant new or increased taxes, including no new taxes on the physician community. But there are hundreds of wrinkles between the two budgets that will need to be ironed out before a final agreement is reached and session adjourns on April 23.
</p>
<p>
WSMA's top budget priority for the 2023 session is across-the-board Medicaid rate increases for "professional services" delivered by physicians, physician assistants, and other health care practitioners. Our ask is to bump up rates to at least the equivalent paid by Medicare and adjust to inflation moving forward. Important for ensuring access to care for patients, it's been years since the state made broad investments in physicians' Medicaid rates.
</p>
<p>
The House budget proposes to increase rates for professional services by a total of $67.8 million (inclusive of federal matching funds), with rate increases going into effect July 1, 2024. This only partially funds our request but would represent a positive first step. The Senate failed to fund this ask in their budget. We are disappointed that neither budget fully funded the ask in the interest of supporting physicians who deliver services in the Medicaid program and the patients they serve. The WSMA will advocate for the inclusion of rate increases at least at the proposed House level in the final state budget.
</p>
<p>
Both budget proposals do fund Medicaid rate increases in other contexts, most notably for hospitals. In the case of hospitals, nursing homes, and ambulances, those increases are funded through "safety net assessments," or taxes, which are levied against the relevant entities to leverage increased federal funds. By comparison, WSMA's ask for a professional services rate increases was from the state's general fund revenue.
</p>
<p>
Another priority funding area for the WSMA in the 2023 session is health care workforce. State funding for physician residencies is maintained in both budgets, with each proposing $2 million in new spending for residencies. There's a distinction in approach between the two budgets, however, with the Senate increasing investments in the state's Family Medicine Residency Network housed at UW Medicine, and the House proposing to run the increased funding through the Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine at Washington State University, designating it for "rural" residencies.
</p>
<p>
Both budgets invest around $20 million in loan repayment programs for health care professionals, though there are some differences in how the funds are appropriated. In addition to existing programs, the Senate proposes to create a new $1.4 million loan repayment program for forensic pathologists. Significant new investments are also proposed for the education and training of nurses and behavioral health professionals, as well as support for apprenticeships.
</p>
<p>
Public health is another bright spot in legislative budget proposals. The House sets a high-water mark of $340 million for Foundational Public Health Services in the 2023-25 biennium, representing a continued prioritization of public health. Both budgets also increase appropriations to the Office of Firearm Safety and Violence Prevention. And both propose new investments to address the opioid epidemic, with the Senate proposing to spend $1.8 million on opioid education, including expanding the Better Prescribing, Better Treatment safe-prescribing initiative jointly run by the WSMA and the Washington State Hospital Association.
</p>
<p>
In other areas of the budget, WSMA staff continue their review and work with legislators and legislative staff to understand the implications of funding proposals. An example is abortion care access, where both proposals make investments short of the level requested by abortion access advocates. Another area where more review is needed is around the differing approaches for funding health care coverage options for undocumented residents of the state.
</p>
<p>
Looking beyond the conclusion of the 2023 session, it's clear that more work will be needed in support of fully funding the state's Medicaid program to ensure access to care for patients and fair reimbursement for physicians. We're disappointed that despite our collective advocacy, with hundreds of WSMA members engaging their legislators from across the state, our ask likely will not be fully funded this year. Legislative advocacy is often a long game, however, and the WSMA is committed to making this our top budget priority until its resolved.
</p>
</div> | 5/18/2023 10:31:55 AM | 3/31/2023 9:50:57 AM | 3/31/2023 12:00:00 AM |
| weekly-rounds-march-20-2023-remembering-tom-curry | Weekly Rounds: March 20, 2023 - Remembering Tom Curry, Former WSMA CEO | Weekly_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2023/weekly-rounds-march-20-2023-remembering-tom-curry | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>March 20, 2023</h5>
<h2>Remembering Tom Curry, Former WSMA CEO</h2>
<p>Jennifer Hanscom, CEO</p>
<p>
It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of the passing of Tom Curry. Tom was the executive director and CEO of the WSMA from 1986 to 2013, in addition to being a dear friend, mentor, and supporter not only to me, but to many in organized medicine and the physician community.
</p>
<p>
During his 27 years at the WSMA, Tom had many achievements that centered on building a forward-leaning and progressive professional society. From working with the Legislature in the 1990s to help create the Basic Health Plan, to being the voice for needed tort reform in the early 2000s, Tom was an ardent supporter of Washington state physicians and patients. He helped incorporate and secure stable funding for the Washington Physicians Health Program and supported Physicians Insurance's evolution into a national professional liability insurance company leader.
</p>
<p>
During his tenure at the WSMA, Tom served as a member of the board of directors of Physicians Insurance a Mutual Company, the state's largest professional liability insurance company. He was also a member of the board of directors of the Washington Physicians Health Program, the Association of Washington Business, the Washington Health Care Forum, and the Foundation for Health Care Quality.
</p>
<p>
Prior to joining the WSMA, Tom was the executive director of the Pierce County Medical Society and manager of corporate relations at Blue Cross of Washington and Alaska.
</p>
<p>
Tom was deeply respected by all in organized medicine-both within Washington state as well as throughout the U.S. His charming wit and engaging sense of humor will be deeply missed.
</p>
<p>
On behalf of all of the staff and members of the WSMA, we extend sincerest condolences to Tom's wife, Deedle, sons Ian and James, daughter Jennifer, and grandchildren.
</p>
</div> | 5/18/2023 10:31:54 AM | 3/23/2023 3:39:42 PM | 3/20/2023 12:00:00 AM |