| ceo-rounds-nov-22-2024-keeping-a-watchful-eye-on-both-washingtons | CEO Rounds: Nov. 22, 2024 - Keeping A Watchful Eye on Both Washingtons | CEO_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/ceo-rounds/2024/ceo-rounds-nov-22-2024-keeping-a-watchful-eye-on-both-washingtons | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>November 22, 2024</h5>
<h2>Keeping A Watchful Eye on Both Washingtons</h2>
<p>Jennifer Hanscom, CEO</p>
<p>As your state medical association, the WSMA's primary focus is, necessarily, on our state-we keep a close eye on what's happening in Olympia and the decisions made at state agencies, in the Legislature, or by the governor, and how those actions may affect our members and their patients.</p>
<p>At the same time, we can't-and don't-ignore what is happening in the other Washington.</p>
<p>As last week's Advocacy Report newsletter highlighted, there are three bills before Congress, one each on Medicare payment, prior authorization, and telehealth, that are crucial to your work. We urge all members and their teams to make their voices heard on these proposals. Take a moment and reach out to your congressional representatives and Washington's two senators to push for passage of these bills before <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2024/urgent-action-needed-on-bills-to-preserve-medicare-patients-access-to-care.aspx?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=N0Ew9">Congress adjourns for the year</a>.</p>
<p>Additionally, we have heard from many of you with concerns regarding proposed cabinet appointments as the incoming Trump administration begins to take shape. These appointments include leadership roles overseeing Medicare, Medicaid, public health, and regulatory decisions, and have far-reaching implications for physicians and patients alike.</p>
<p>Understanding the process of Senate confirmation and recess appointments is essential to advocate for leaders who prioritize patient care and the stability of our health care system.</p>
<p>Here's a quick summary of the process: Under the U.S. Constitution, many high-ranking federal positions require Senate confirmation. The process is designed to ensure that appointees are qualified and reflect the nation's interests.</p>
<p>How it works:</p>
<ul>
<li>Nomination: The president nominates an individual for a role.</li>
<li>Committee hearings: Senate committees hold hearings to evaluate the nominee's qualifications, vision, and potential conflicts of interest.</li>
<li>Full Senate vote: After the hearings, the nominee goes to the full Senate for a vote. A simple majority is needed for confirmation.</li>
</ul>
<p>This process enables the Senate to vet appointees thoroughly, ensuring accountability and transparency.</p>
<p>There has been coverage in the media about possible recess appointments. When the Senate is not in session, the president can make recess appointments to fill vacancies temporarily. That process is outlined in Article II, Section 2, Clause 3 of the Constitution.</p>
<p>How it works:</p>
<ul>
<li>Appointment: During a Senate recess, the president appoints someone to a vacant position without waiting for Senate approval.</li>
<li>Duration: The appointee serves until the end of the Senate's next session. If not confirmed by the Senate before this deadline, the position becomes vacant again.</li>
<li>Controversy: Recess appointments can bypass Senate oversight temporarily, leading to tension between the executive and legislative branches.</li>
</ul>
<p>What lies ahead is anyone's guess, but the WSMA will monitor appointments and engage with Washington's senators to advocate for health care leaders who prioritize patient care and support the medical community. Physicians can amplify these efforts by staying informed, contacting your senators directly, and collaborating with professional organizations to ensure your voice is heard. As a constituent, you too can add your voice by contacting Sen. Patty Murray and Sen. Maria Cantwell.</p>
<h3>2025 Legislative Summit: Doctors' Day on the Hill</h3>
<p>Closer to home, we encourage you to don your white coats and join your colleagues in Olympia on Jan. 22 for WSMA's yearly Legislative Summit. We will be joined by newly elected Insurance Commissioner Patty Kuderer. While the WSMA typically engages on hundreds of bills during the legislative session, we anticipate that for the Summit we'll focus on:</p>
<ul>
<li>Securing across-the-board Medicaid rate increases.</li>
<li>Defending against inappropriate scope of practice expansions.</li>
<li>Supporting our health care workforce by increasing education and training investments and promoting retention of existing workforce.</li>
<li>Opposing tax increases on the physician community and other proposals that adversely impact the viability of physician practices.</li>
<li>Issues related to public health.</li>
</ul>
<p>Be sure to <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=O0Ew9">register today for this event</a>, which is free for members. You can read more about <a href="[@]wsma/advocacy/advocacy-topics/wsma/advocacy/advocacy-topics/advocacy-topics.aspx?hkey=962a716c-d454-4e58-a72a-5931ef47cd68&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=P0Ew9">WSMA advocacy issues on our website</a>.</p>
<p>And as Thanksgiving draws near, I'll close with words of gratitude. Your involvement and engagement with the WSMA make a real difference-for the profession, for your patients, and for your colleagues. With new leadership in Olympia and Washington, D.C., we look forward to working together to keep the physician voice front and center.</p>
<p>We are stronger and better because of you.</p>
<p>Here's wishing you a Happy Thanksgiving!</p>
</div> | 11/22/2024 10:25:56 AM | 11/22/2024 9:51:02 AM | 11/22/2024 12:00:00 AM |
| ceo-rounds-oct-25-2024-changing-the-system-begins-by-building-relationships | CEO Rounds: Oct. 25, 2024 - Changing the System Begins by Building Relationships | CEO_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/ceo-rounds/2024/ceo-rounds-oct-25-2024-changing-the-system-begins-by-building-relationships | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/Weekly%20Rounds/ceo-rounds-article-graphic-2024-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="CEO Rounds graphic" /></div>
<h5>October 25, 2024</h5>
<h2>Changing the System Begins by Building Relationships</h2>
<p>Jennifer Hanscom, CEO</p>
<p>
How many articles have you read lately that start with the line "The health care system is changing..."? Yes, I admit at the WSMA we overuse that phrase. In fact, hasn't health care already changed? When I look at what is happening in the larger environment, what I see is policymakers who are trying to control the cost of health care by setting their sights on physicians, clinics, and hospitals, when, in reality, money is leaving the system.
</p>
<p>
As you'll soon read in the November/December issue of WSMA Reports, health care organizations increasingly rely on for-profit companies, including pharmaceuticals, EHR vendors, medical device manufacturers, technology consultants, and more, and these third-party vendors are rapidly driving up the cost of care while reimbursement for those who provide the care is rapidly declining.
</p>
<p>
How do we-in fact, can we-change this dynamic? I believe we can, but it won't be overnight, and it will take all of us in medicine working together to force change.
</p>
<p>
I'm so excited for this upcoming issue of WSMA Reports to hit your mailboxes so you can read more about what physician leaders believe needs to occur to evolve our current health care system for the benefit of patient care and the profession.
</p>
<p>
What's the WSMA's role in all of this? As I see it: Prepare the profession with the skills they need to be advocates within their clinics, systems, and organizations; and, secondly, fix the environment that is causing the system to be dysfunctional in the first place.
</p>
<p>
On the latter, as we have shared throughout this past year, policymakers and legislators are seeking ways to control cost in health care. We must show them the correct path and we need them to listen to and trust us-and that starts with building relationships.
</p>
<p>
Our political action committee, WAMPAC, headed by Alex Wehinger, has spent the last several months connecting our members with candidates seeking legislative or statewide office. Below Alex shares an update on what lies ahead.
</p>
<h3>Elections Are Less Than Two Weeks Away! Here's What You Need to Know</h3>
<p>
Alex Wehinger, WAMPAC Director
</p>
<p>
Ballots for the 2024 general election have been mailed to voters, featuring several initiatives and numerous candidates for office. Regardless of the outcome of the elections, Washington state will have a new governor, attorney general, and insurance commissioner for the first time in over a decade. There are also more than 100 seats in the Legislature up for election and a new House Health Care Committee chair yet to be determined.
</p>
<p>
WAMPAC, WSMA's nonpartisan campaign arm, works year-round to build connections with elected officials and ensure our state is the best place to practice medicine and receive care. Our work on campaigns helps promote WSMA's legislative agenda, which includes increasing Medicaid rates, defending against inappropriate scope of practice proposals, and supporting the health care workforce. The outcome of these elections impacts health care policy decisions and, ultimately, how care is delivered.
</p>
<p>
In addition to our standard campaign work, the WSMA is also engaging on two of this year's ballot initiatives pursuant to policy adopted by the House of Delegates. A resolution was approved by the 2024 House of Delegates directing the WSMA to oppose Initiative 2109, which would repeal the state's capital gains tax. During House debate, it was noted that passage of the initiative would significantly impact the state's budget, as the capital gains tax generates annual revenue of around $900 million. The WSMA also opposes Initiative 2117, which would repeal the state's Climate Commitment Act, pursuant to <a href="[@]wsma/about/policies/whats_our_policy/environmental-health/clean-air.aspx">policy adopted at the 2018 House of Delegates</a>.
</p>
<h4>Election resources</h4>
<p>
We know you care about electing candidates friendly to the physician community. Want to know how your state legislators supported the house of medicine during the 2023-24 legislative biennium? WAMPAC can help. As you fill out your ballot, be sure to check out the <a href="[@]wsma/advocacy/wampac/wampac_legislator_report_card.aspx?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=x8ir9">WAMPAC Legislator Report Card</a>, which details your legislators' track record on issues important to you and your patients.
</p>
<p>
As a reminder, the general election is on Tuesday, Nov. 5. If you need to register to vote, there's information about how to do so on the <a href="https://www.sos.wa.gov/elections/voters/voter-registration/register-vote-washington-state">secretary of state's website</a>. Voting in Washington state occurs by mail, so the outcomes of some elections may not be determined on election night as ballots continue to be counted over several days.
</p>
<p>
If you are interested in becoming more involved in campaigns, you can <a href="[@]wsma/advocacy/wampac/give_to_wampac/wsma/advocacy/wampac/give_to_wampac.aspx?hkey=665ce949-b574-4ec7-8e5a-7a796233e5d7&amp;_zs=lfaFd1&amp;_zl=Q35o9">join the Diamond Club</a> at the bronze level for a discounted rate of $100 for a limited time. Diamond Club members receive special election updates, opportunities to connect with elected officials, recognition at WSMA events, and more.
</p>
<h4>Join the WAMPAC board of directors</h4>
<p>
WAMPAC is governed by a board of physicians representing each of the state's 10 congressional districts and whose responsibilities are to direct campaign activities, such as candidate interviews and contributions. The board has several open positions and is seeking applicants to represent the 3rd Congressional District, which encompasses Lewis, Pacific, Wahkiakum, Cowlitz, Clark, and Skamania counties, and the 5th Congressional District, which comprises all or part of 12 counties in Eastern Washington. You can <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/DistrictFinder/">locate your congressional district here</a> by entering your home address.
</p>
<p>
For those who are interested in politics, board membership provides an excellent opportunity to gain a better understanding of campaigns and connect with elected officials and candidates for office. The WAMPAC board holds two in-person meetings per year and Zoom meetings as needed.
</p>
<p>
If you are interested in seeking a position on the WAMPAC board of directors or have any questions about our campaign work, please <a href="mailto:alex@wsma.org">reach out to me</a>.
</p>
</div> | 10/25/2024 12:20:45 PM | 10/25/2024 12:18:07 PM | 10/25/2024 12:00:00 AM |
| ceo-rounds-oct-1-2024-showing-up-for-each-other-and-the-house-of-medicine | CEO Rounds: Oct. 1, 2024 - Showing Up for Each Other and the House of Medicine | CEO_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/ceo-rounds/2024/ceo-rounds-oct-1-2024-showing-up-for-each-other-and-the-house-of-medicine | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/ceo-rounds/ceo-rounds-article-graphic-bramhall-2024-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="CEO Rounds logo, with John Bramhall, MD, PhD, WSMA President" /></div>
<h5>Oct. 1, 2024</h5>
<h2>Showing Up for Each Other and the House of Medicine</h2>
<p>
John Bramhall, MD, PhD, WSMA President
</p>
<p>
<em>John Bramhall, MD, PhD, on building community, relationships, and impact in his inaugural address before the WSMA House of Delegates on Sunday, Sept. 29. Read an edited transcription below. For a look at what WSMA's past year looked like, don't miss our <a href="https://vimeo.com/1012940949">Year in Review video</a> (keep an eye out for your colleagues and friends!).</em>
</p>
<p>
Here we are at 8 a.m. on a Sunday morning!
</p>
<p>
Thank you all for being here.
</p>
<p>
I know this is the traditional time for the incoming president's rite of passage, but wouldn't it be easier to face if we did it, say, at 8 p.m. after a cocktail reception?
</p>
<p>
We can only dream!
</p>
<p>
Ah well, thank you again for "showing up."
</p>
<p>
Showing up is so important.
</p>
<p>
The fact that I'm standing here, in front of you this morning, wearing both a gold medal and a tie is surely proof of Woody Allen's adage that 80% of success is just showing up!
</p>
<p>
I truly believe showing up yields three outcomes that matter to us, to the work at hand today, and in the work we do with the WSMA: <strong>community, relationships, and impact</strong>.
</p>
<p>
Let's talk about how showing up builds <strong>community</strong>. Look around-some 200 of you are here and highly engaged- just look at the energy levels in the reference committees yesterday! You are here to actively contribute, inform, and learn from each other, and to, quite literally, plot the future course of the WSMA.
</p>
<p>
Take a moment to look at your neighbor and thank them for showing up!
</p>
<p>
My own involvement with WSMA started with the simple act of showing up. Years ago, as I got settled in my work, a colleague and fellow countryman, Peter Dunbar, introduced me to the WSMA and to the Leadership Development Conference. Peter- and many of you know him directly- was president of the WSMA back then, very energetic, well-informed, and extremely well connected with state political leadership-he actually had quite a bit of influence on some decisions being made by then Gov. Christine Gregoire.
</p>
<p>
Seeing his influence on the house of medicine impressed me and the Leadership Development Conferences inspired me. Because I showed up for those and made my presence felt, in time, I was asked to join the WSMA board, then the EC, and here we are!
</p>
<p>
One of my favorite aspects of showing up is how doing so builds <strong>relationships</strong>. Across my WSMA journey, I've been fortunate to forge a wide range of relationships. I've come to know many physicians from all different walks of the profession. I hope to come to know many more of you during my year as president.
</p>
<p>
For those of you who don't know me yet, I'm a scientist by training and I've spent my entire career as an academic. Sorry! I studied biochemistry in the UK, came to the US as a Fulbright scholar, carried out research and teaching at UCLA and Stanford, got my medical education in La Jolla, and then came to Seattle for residency and stayed.
</p>
<p>
During clinical training, just like many of you, I found the team approach to problems- exemplified by "work rounds" and extensive collaboration was impressively effective. And, as I learned about anesthesia, I was really drawn to the OR environment-it's such a fascinating place. It's complicated. It's complex. A lot of stuff goes down day and night, and that appealed to me, that feeling of being part of a system that was humming.
</p>
<p>
And even though I'm a scientist at heart, I am also drawn to the overarching sense, really, of mystery in my work. We still are very unclear about the biophysical substrate of consciousness, the nature of awareness, so it stands to reason that we are even less clear about the exact mechanisms of chemical hypnosis. Anesthesia is a great example of safe, effective manipulation of processes that are incompletely understood. There is mystery, and that keeps me humble. This humility is not always an easy concept for physicians to introduce to patients.
</p>
<p>
I spent the past 30 years working primarily at Harborview where I was a medical director, an attending physician, and professor. It's been a privilege, in every way, to do this work. I stepped back from administrative work last month to allow time to serve as WSMA president but will maintain my toehold in clinical teaching and academics with the university.
</p>
<p>
I'm sure most of you have your own stories of how you came to be physicians, how you came to be here today; I'll look forward to finding out about some of these stories throughout the year.
</p>
<p>
Now let's consider how showing up creates <strong>impact</strong>.
</p>
<p>
Anyone wandering in and out of the reference committees yesterday would see the energy and focus of the WSMA being applied to a range of issues facing us: public health structure, AED distribution, access metrics, nano-plastic pollution, diaper access, air purification, firearm education- it's a really long list of issues that reflects our interconnectedness with, and concerns for, the well-being of Washingtonians.
</p>
<p>
Indeed, Washington state is a great place to live and it's also a pretty good place to be sick! We have first-rate emergency, medical, and surgical care provided by well-integrated teams. There's a long list of conditions where Washington leads the nation in quality of care and where physician practice is supported and sustained by state-of-the-art systems, and we attract smart doctors to the state.
</p>
<p>
But this is only part of the big picture. People can only benefit from our clinical excellence if they have access to it! There is a lot going on with our patients- nutrition, housing, gun violence, drug use, transmissible disease, mental health, relative poverty- a long list of problems that persist and are associated with poor health outcomes.
</p>
<p>
You've seen the distribution maps showing (to me, astonishing) the variation- to take one clear-cut example- in life expectancy between, and even within, various counties of our state. These local variations are also set in the context of an average US life expectancy that is already so much shorter than in other comparable advanced societies. Life expectancy is a complicated metric but it's a pretty objective, actuarial measure with robust data collection. Wherever you see this type of variation-for example in maternal mortality, or HIV infection rates-it's a sign that there are underlying local causes, causes that our members then want to identify and address, with a clear supportive role for the association in integrating, coordinating, and communicating.
</p>
<p>
Medicaid is relied upon by close to 2 million of our most vulnerable neighbors. We know access to care for patients on Medicaid is becoming more fragmented and we know the issues around that are more than complicated.
</p>
<p>
But decades of research and dozens of reports repeatedly show that evenly distributed, high-quality primary care for everyone improves health outcomes and life expectancy through more effective diagnosis, monitoring, management and coordinated prevention and treatment of conditions, reducing the need for more dangerous and costly care later on, particularly for vulnerable patients.
</p>
<p>
This is why our Medicaid Access Program is so vital. Your legislative team in Olympia is all over this now and will be all over it, redoubled, when the legislative session begins in January- notably, with newly restructured health care committees and many new state legislators. We will need all hands on deck to support our program and that includes all of you, along with all of our county and specialty societies. We will be looking for vocal support that calls out the Medicaid issue at every opportunity and at every legislator meeting. It's a state-level problem that will require an unrelenting state-level legislative effort.
</p>
<p>
In contrast, the problem with Medicare compensation is a national one. The Medicare physician fee schedule has a limited budget that does not include inflationary updates- the only Medicare fee schedule that does not receive them. MIPS, heavily dictated by Congress, is burdensome and resource intensive, leading to practices- especially smaller ones- being disproportionately penalized.
</p>
<p>
I don't think of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services as an enemy. Medicare has a limited budget and must perform its mandated work within that budget and that budget structure is heavily controlled by Congress. Internal Medicare decisions are guided by smart epidemiologists, and the agency tries hard to optimize overall public health by directing funding to areas where it will prove most helpful. The CMS is also evidence-driven and rarely chooses expensive options without supporting evidence. There is a thread of utilitarian ethics that runs through these big decisions- the most good for the most people- that makes it tough for "special case" thinking.
</p>
<p>
Even so, the cuts to physician compensation, together with lack of inflation adjustments over the years are so clearly egregious, so impossible to justify, that we must seek action. The WSMA is coordinating outreach to the congressional delegation and our two senators on legislation that has been introduced, and there does seem to be a consensus that this is a problem that must be fixed.
</p>
<p>
What about the bane of our existence: prior authorization? This is a perennial WSMA issue- as evidenced by several resolutions that are under consideration at this year's House of Delegates - and we have made solid strides in reducing administrative burden for us all. That movement continues with proposed prior authorization process integration with EMRs, for example. Also, we have sympathy from local legislators as well as a national push again at the AMA level. We are striving to make practical headway and will align with others working to do the same, such as the hospital association, whose initiative analyzing denial rates from billing data aligns well with our concerns.
</p>
<p>
We will continue to focus on resisting scope expansion efforts-another constant, every year, all year, analyzing the many scope proposals and fighting those that jeopardize patient safety, as well as pushing back on disinformation and title misappropriation campaigns. We're the bear and we're always getting poked! The WSMA will continue to prioritize policy decisions that promote accurate diagnosis with safe and effective care for patients by ensuring that care is provided by people who have undergone appropriate training. It's just one more example of how the WSMA advances the cause of quality care for all Washingtonians.
</p>
<p>
On all of these issues, and more, we are asking you to show up.
</p>
<p>
Here's why all this really does matter.
</p>
<p>
I don't have to tell you that we have faced growing reputational challenges caused by partisan battles over the COVID-19 pandemic, science- and evidence-based care, and the prevalence of mis- and disinformation. All coupled with a more generalized societal distrust of "authority" and even scientific method. "Alternative facts!"
</p>
<p>
These challenges pose the risk of distracting us from what matters most: the care we provide to patients. Unfortunately, decisions made by others dramatically limit the time we can spend with our patients.
</p>
<p>
We know that time spent listening to, responding to, and treating patients is essential to providing the quality care patients deserve. We need time to build trust and provide the most effective care and treatment, and we'll continue to push back against time-based, RVU-based metrics imposed on us for evaluation of patient care.
</p>
<p>
In the year ahead, your WSMA is undertaking a campaign within which everything I've talked about will intersect. You see the campaign around you here today: Your Care Is at Our Core. We are undertaking this campaign to publicize how our members, you all, work with patients to make the best health care decisions and that <strong>their care is at our core</strong>.
</p>
<p>
We are strong when we stand together, and we are counting on you.
</p>
<p>
Thank you for the trust you've shown in me, thank you to Dr. Rue and Dr. Heshmati for leading the way to this day, and thank you all for showing up.
</p>
</div> | 10/1/2024 4:06:36 PM | 10/1/2024 3:46:13 PM | 10/1/2024 12:00:00 AM |
| ceo-rounds-aug-23-2024-how-your-engagement-makes-a-difference | CEO Rounds: Aug 23, 2024 - How Your Engagement Makes a Difference | CEO_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/ceo-rounds/2024/ceo-rounds-aug-23-2024-how-your-engagement-makes-a-difference | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/Weekly%20Rounds/ceo-rounds-article-graphic-2024-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="CEO Rounds with Jennifer Hanscom" /></div>
<h5>Aug. 23, 2024</h5>
<h2>How Your Engagement Makes a Difference</h2>
<p>Jennifer Hanscom, CEO</p>
<p>The WSMA's guiding principle is being physician driven and patient focused. You are central to our decision-making, policymaking, advocacy, education, and, well, I could go on. We are able to represent your voice because you make your voice heard and we are always listening. To that end, here are five ways your voice makes a difference.</p>
<h3>You spoke, we listened</h3>
<p>We conducted a survey in July to better understand your interests and concerns. Some 245 physicians and physician assistants responded on topics about career satisfaction, noncompete agreements, and what the WSMA can do to support you. I thought you'd like to know how things shook out:</p>
<ul>
<li>A majority of respondents said they were subject to a noncompete agreement (57%).</li>
<li>The vast majority supported restrictions on the imposition of noncompetes, either in the form of a ban on their use (77%), significant limitations (15%), or some restrictions (5%). Just 2% said they supported noncompetes and opposed restrictions on their use.</li>
<li>Respondents subject to noncompete agreements noted that:</li>
<ul>
<li>98% included geographic restrictions.</li>
<li>91% included time-period restrictions.</li>
<li>A majority of agreements:</li>
<ul>
<li>Included provisions restricting the physical area where they may practice if they leave their current employer.</li>
<li>Imposed a set length of time a physician may not practice within a given physical area.</li>
</ul>
<li>Two less common, but still prevalent included restrictions around contacting and serving patients (47%) and line of business (46%).</li>
</ul>
<li>Interestingly, when looking at the demographic crosstabs of respondents, members who said they practiced at an independent group practice were more likely to be part of a noncompete agreement than average (65%), however, were slightly less likely to support a ban on noncompete agreements (61%).</li>
<li>The majority of survey respondents supported either a ban on noncompete agreements (76.54%) or significant limitations (15.23%). Just 4.53% of respondents supported only some restrictions on noncompete agreements and only 2.47% of respondents fully supported noncompete agreements and opposed any restrictions on them.</li>
</ul>
<p>You'll recall that in May, the Federal Trade Commission issued a final rule banning post-employment noncompete agreements as "unfair methods of competition" under the FTC Act, a development that could have a vast impact across the health care sector. In breaking news at the time of this writing, a <strong><a href="https://www.beckershospitalreview.com/legal-regulatory-issues/federal-judge-strikes-down-ftcs-noncompete-ban-nationwide.html">Texas court issued an injunction blocking implementation of the FTC rule</a></strong>, which was expected to go into effect Sept. 4, 2024. We will monitor the legal process around the FTC final rule and keep you posted on relevant developments in the weeks ahead.</p>
<h3>You asked for it, we're delivering it</h3>
<p>The survey noted above also provided an opportunity for us to better understand what tangible actions we can take to better support employed physicians. A majority of respondents (62%) noted they would appreciate help with reviewing physician employment contracts.</p>
<p>I'm happy to report that the WSMA Executive Committee recently approved a collaboration with a physician-focused contract review organization called <strong><a href="[@]wsma/membership/why_join_the_wsma_/partners-in-medicine/resolve.aspx?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=740m9">Resolve</a></strong> to assist WSMA members with employment contract reviews. Resolve currently partners with several state medical associations, including Nebraska, Oregon, New York, Missouri, Pennsylvania, and Florida, as well as national specialty societies such as the American College of Surgeons, American College of Radiology, American Academy of Otolaryngology, American College of Emergency Physicians, American College of Physicians, and American Academy of Family Physicians.</p>
<p>Whether you are signing your first employment contract or renegotiating a current one, their team ensures your terms are fair. Even better, as a WSMA member, you receive a 10% discount on Resolve's services.</p>
<p>By engaging with Resolve, you'll be connected with a specialized attorney who will take your priorities into account, review your contract in full, make suggestions, and even negotiate on your behalf. Detailed compensation data unique to your specialty and location is also provided, so you always know what you should be earning. With the right data, insights, and expertise, Resolve ensures your contract is written fairly and you are earning the compensation you deserve. Our partners at Resolve note that contracts they review and negotiate typically see an average of $24,000 in increased compensation. To get started, go to <strong><a href="https://go.resolve.com/wsma?utm_campaign=Washington%20State%20Medical%20Association&amp;utm_source=website&amp;utm_medium=partner-page">the Resolve website</a></strong> and use code WSMA10 at checkout.</p>
<h3>You-as WSMA members-set our policies</h3>
<p>At the WSMA we are constantly looking at ways we can improve representation of issues of importance to our physician members and their patients. Since our founding, we have held an annual meeting of our House of Delegates. That gathering is a critical way in which we hear from WSMA members who are active in their county medical associations or state specialty societies or sections, as well as from WSMA board members.</p>
<p>If you are interested in serving as a delegate to this year's annual meeting, please go to <strong><a href="[@]wsma/about_us/partner_organizations/wsma/about/partner_organizations/partner_organizations.aspx?hkey=906365b0-ebb4-491f-9dfa-407badb9a7e4&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=940m9">Partner Organizations</a></strong> on the WSMA website to contact your local county or state specialty society to see if they have open delegate positions.</p>
<p>For those attending the 2024 WSMA Annual Meeting in Spokane Sept. 28-29, be sure to register and arrange your accommodations in Spokane. Details on the <strong><a href="[@]wsma/events/annual_meeting/wsma/events/annual_meeting/annual_meeting.aspx?hkey=fea49254-3815-4dc9-8710-53ff2e3a100f&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=A40m9">meeting webpage</a></strong>.</p>
<h3>Make your voice heard via virtual reference committees</h3>
<p>For members not serving as delegates, you still have the opportunity to add your voice to the debate via our virtual reference committees. There, all WSMA members are invited to review and provide feedback on resolutions that will be debated during the WSMA Annual Meeting in Spokane. The virtual reference committees are secure, password-protected members-only discussion forums that enable all members greater access to the policymaking process.</p>
<p>Also, of critical importance: Testimony provided in the virtual reference committees is <strong>given equal weight to that of in-person testimony</strong>. Testimony provided in the virtual reference committees is compiled and provided to reference committee members prior to the Annual Meeting and made available to members attending the in-person reference committee hearings at the meeting. That commentary is closely reviewed by the reference committee members and considered equally with heard testimony at the meeting.</p>
<p>Resolutions are now posted in the virtual reference committees. These proposed policies, if adopted by the House of Delegates, will help determine WSMA advocacy on issues impacting patients and the physician community. To ensure these discussions are secure, those new to the virtual reference committees must submit a one-time request to join, then create a dedicated password. Learn more and join the discussion on our <strong><a href="[@]wsma/events/annual_meeting/virtual-reference-committees/wsma/events/annual_meeting/virtual-reference-committees.aspx?hkey=e30c0e9a-efb8-4160-821e-fa2485cc6bdd&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=B40m9">Virtual Reference Committees page</a></strong>.</p>
<p>Resolutions now available for discussion in the virtual reference committees:</p>
<ul>
<li>Resolution B-1: Public Health Advisory Board Resolution</li>
<li>Resolution B-2: Directing WSMA to Advocate for a Reduced Volume of Prior Authorizations</li>
<li>Resolution B-3: Improving Sexual Health in Washington State</li>
<li>Resolution B-4: Increasing Harm Reduction Education and Resources</li>
<li>Resolution B-5: Inactive Counties Section to the House of Delegates</li>
<li>Resolution B-6: Liability Protections and Mentorship Program for Physicians</li>
<li>Resolution B-7: Maintaining Medicaid Reimbursement for Audio-Only Telehealth Visits</li>
<li>Resolution B-8: Health Risks of Micro and Nano Plastics</li>
<li>Resolution B-9: Ensuring Effective Collaboration Between WSMA and County Medical Societies</li>
<li>Resolution B-10: Training Primary Care Physicians in Prescribing Medications for Psychiatric Conditions</li>
<li>Resolution B-11: Adolescent Screening for Unhealthy Social Media Use in the Health Care Setting</li>
<li>Resolution B-12: Removing Prior Authorization from the Buprenorphine Monoproduct</li>
<li>Resolution B-13: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Standing Committee</li>
<li>Resolution B-14: Supporting Physician Use of AI in Practice Settings</li>
<li>Resolution B-15: Expanding Payment for Visit Complexity for Office/Other Outpatient Services to Commercial Payers</li>
<li>Resolution B-16: Advancing Access to Health Savings Accounts for All Americans</li>
<li>Resolution B-17: Reporting of Health Care Access Metrics</li>
<li>Resolution B-18: Enhancing Public Safety Through Standardized Placement and Expanded Access of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in Public Spaces</li>
<li>Resolution C-1: Supporting Access to Contraception Without Prior Authorization</li>
<li>Resolution C-2: Creating a Digital Repository for Sterilization and Hysterectomy Consents</li>
<li>Resolution C-3: Diaper Product Access and Retail Tax Exemption</li>
<li>Resolution C-4: Expanding Medicaid Coverage to Include Air Purifiers or Air Cleaners in Washington State for Individuals with Asthma</li>
<li>Resolution C-5: Urging Washington State Department of Transportation to Complete Full AMTRAK CASCADES Infrastructure Plan</li>
<li>Resolution C-6: Making Education on Firearm Injury Prevention a Standard Part of the Health Curriculum for Washington State High School Students</li>
<li>Resolution C-7: Hospital Pricing and Ensuring Equitable Distribution of Health Care Funds</li>
<li>Resolution C-8: Establishing the Washington State Commission on Boys and Men</li>
<li>Resolution C-9: Continuous Glucose Monitoring for People with Diabetes</li>
<li>Resolution C-10: Regarding Reducing Climate Impacts of Anesthesia</li>
<li>Resolution C-11: Maintaining Training Requirements for Coroners and Medical Examiners in Counties Under 40,000 Population</li>
<li>Resolution C-12: Support for Legislation that Improves Health via Implementation of a Tax on Extreme Wealth</li>
<li>Resolution C-13: Washington State Return-to-Service Loan Repayment</li>
<li>Resolution C-14: Washington State Senior Medical Corp</li>
<li>Resolution C-15: Washington State Single Source Credentialing</li>
<li>Resolution C-16: Support for the Health Engagement Hub Model of Addiction Treatment</li>
<li>Resolution C-17: Reforming the Prior Authorization Processes</li>
<li>Resolution C-18: Addressing Health Disparities in Maternal and Infant Mortality</li>
</ul>
<h3>You are seeking community</h3>
<p>We often hear from members that they have a desire to engage directly with other members who have similar interests or backgrounds. Among those interest groups is our Latinx Advisory Council. If you identify as Latinx and are interested in being part of that community and providing leadership for WSMA's Latinx members, we invite you to send a letter of intent and your CV to <strong><a href="mailto:milana@wsma.org">Milana McLead</a></strong> by Aug. 30. Meet the current council <strong><a href="[@]wsma/about_us/who_we_are/latinx-advisory-council/wsma/about/who_we_are/latinx-advisory-council.aspx?hkey=f8623efe-ee07-47f7-bc61-220f49369bc6&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=C40m9">here</a></strong>. The council meets bimonthly via Zoom to build connections, engage in activities such as National Latino Physician Day, share and address concerns, and more.</p>
<p>The WSMA exists for its members, by its members, and with its members. We are here for you. As always, thanks for all you do.</p>
</div> | 8/23/2024 12:32:33 PM | 8/20/2024 9:52:34 AM | 8/23/2024 12:00:00 AM |
| ceo-rounds-july-26-2024-how-to-advocate-for-patient-care-during-a-tumultuous-campaign-season | CEO Rounds: July 26, 2024 - How to Advocate for Patient Care During a Tumultuous Campaign Season | CEO_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/ceo-rounds/2024/ceo-rounds-july-26-2024-how-to-advocate-for-patient-care-during-a-tumultuous-campaign-season | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/Weekly%20Rounds/ceo-rounds-article-graphic-2024-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="CEO Rounds with Jennifer Hanscom" /></div>
<h5>July 26, 2024</h5>
<h2>How to Advocate for Patient Care During a Tumultuous Campaign Season</h2>
<p>Jennifer Hanscom, CEO</p>
<p>
The last few weeks in national politics have seemed surreal, with the unexpected happening nearly daily. This lyric from the Grateful Dead's famous song "Truckin'" seems especially apt right now: "What a long, strange trip it's been"! With the election just 102 days away, it's anyone's guess as to what will happen next.
</p>
<p>
In the WSMA world, we do have some insight into what's coming, as we look ahead to big issues for medicine at both the state and federal levels. I appreciate the way that so many of you are leaning in and getting involved this campaign season-it really does make a difference to our work and to the house of medicine. Lately I've been to numerous fundraisers hosted by WSMA members, and I've appreciated the opportunity to watch our members engage with the candidates on issues of importance to medicine and the profession. As is our tradition, the WSMA is glad to promote campaign fundraisers that are organized by WAMPAC, hosted by our members, or are of particular relevance to the physician community. If there's an event you'd like us to promote, or if you're interested in getting more involved in campaigns in any way, please don't hesitate to let us know.
</p>
<p>
Remember that these campaign events are important opportunities to discuss two priority issues for the physician community:
</p>
<ul>
<li>For state legislative or statewide races: Please urge state-level candidates to increase Medicaid reimbursement to all physician specialties. Find more information on WSMA's <a href="https://takeaction.wsma.org/?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=qFXj9">Medicaid reimbursement and patient access to care advocacy</a>.</li>
<li>In meetings with congressional candidates, please continue to share how detrimental further cuts to Medicare are to our communities. Find more information on our <a href="[@]wsma/advocacy/medicare_payment_reform/wsma/advocacy/medicare_payment_reform/medicare_payment_reform.aspx?hkey=d1a48c1c-af7b-4680-bd55-967338f3c977&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=rFXj9">Medicare physician payment advocacy</a>.</li>
</ul>
<p>
I urge you to reach out and talk to your local legislators about Medicaid reimbursement and your members of Congress about the need for Medicare physician payment reform. If you check out the webpages linked above, you'll find everything you need-talking points, data references, etc.-to be fully equipped for these discussions.
</p>
<p>
Also, as mentioned in last week's WSMA Advocacy Report, ballots for the Aug. 6 primary election are being mailed to voters this week. If you need to register to vote, you can do so on the <a href="https://www.sos.wa.gov/elections/voters/voter-registration/register-vote-washington-state">secretary of state's website</a>. As you consider legislative candidates, remember to review the WAMPAC Legislator Report Card in the 2024 WSMA Legislative Report to see how your local legislators voted on the issues most important to the house of medicine. The report card begins on page 23 of the <a href="[@]wsma/advocacy/legislative_regulatory/wsma-legislative-report.aspx?WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=tFXj9">Legislative Report</a>, which can be downloaded by WSMA members.
</p>
<p>
In other news, health care got another unexpected IT hit last Thursday with a widespread outage to Microsoft systems leading to <a href="https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/health/how-the-crowdstrike-outage-is-impacting-wa-hospitals-and-patients/">local hospitals temporarily cancelling or rescheduling non-urgent medical appointments and surgeries</a>. While not a cyberattack, physician practices should still prepare for such incidents that are becoming all too frequent. The American Medical Association has a <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/practice-management/sustainability/recent-cyber-attacks-ransomware-trends-and-cybersecurity-threats">good primer on cybersecurity and physician practices</a>.
</p>
<p>
With all that is impacting health care today, the WSMA remains steady in its commitment to representing the profession. We look forward to hearing what's on your minds at the 2024 Annual Meeting of the WSMA House of Delegates, Sept. 28-29 in Spokane. If you haven't yet registered and reserved your room at the Historic Davenport, <a href="[@]wsma/events/annual_meeting/wsma/events/annual_meeting/annual_meeting.aspx?hkey=fea49254-3815-4dc9-8710-53ff2e3a100f&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=xFXj9">be sure to do so soon</a>. The deadline for resolutions is Aug. 9, and they will soon be posted on our <a href="[@]wsma/events/annual_meeting/virtual-reference-committees/wsma/events/annual_meeting/virtual-reference-committees.aspx?hkey=e30c0e9a-efb8-4160-821e-fa2485cc6bdd&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=1GXj9">virtual reference committees</a> where you can lend your opinions to the matters before the House. The virtual reference committees are a great way for members to engage and have their voices be heard in WSMA's policymaking process. Member testimony posted in these virtual forums is considered equal to the testimony heard at the in-person reference committee hearings at the House of Delegates meeting, so I urge you to make your thoughts known in that forum.
</p>
<p>
As for voting on issues, remember the House of Delegates is made up of WSMA board members, county medical society delegates, state specialty society delegates, and a few special sections (e.g., the WSMA Medical Student Section). If you'd like to participate as a delegate, please contact your local county medical society, specialty society, or <a href="mailto:hod@wsma.org">the WSMA</a>. Learn more about the House of Delegates and the responsibilities of being a delegate on 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=3GXj9">WSMA website</a>.
</p>
<p>
All to say, there's never a dull moment and there's always something to do. Let's heed the wise words from the Dead and "keep truckin'"!
</p>
<p>
<em>CEO Rounds, formerly Weekly Rounds, will now be published monthly, to accommodate WSMA's newest member newsletter, WSMA Advocacy Report.</em>
</p>
</div> | 8/20/2024 9:49:46 AM | 8/16/2024 3:47:41 PM | 7/26/2024 12:00:00 AM |
| weekly-rounds-july-4-2024-three-things-to-know-before-watching-the-fireworks | Weekly Rounds: July 4, 2024 - Three Things to Know Before Watching the Fireworks | CEO_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2024/weekly-rounds-july-4-2024-three-things-to-know-before-watching-the-fireworks | <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 with Jennifer Hanscom, WSMA CEO" /></div>
<h5>July 4, 2024</h5>
<h2>Three Things to Know Before Watching the Fireworks</h2>
<p>Jennifer Hanscom, CEO</p>
<p>
Every Fourth of July is something to celebrate in my household and not just because of our nation's independence! Besides that, every year on the Fourth, my husband and I celebrate our wedding anniversary-and this year is our 27th. To do it justice, we'll spend the day with our boys cheering for the Mariners. Fingers crossed that we'll be their lucky charm and they'll overcome their slump…in spite of the naysayers betting on the Orioles.
</p>
<p>
As you're prepping your July Fourth activities, here are a couple of reminders on things to know from the WSMA.
</p>
<h3>New neighborhood</h3>
<p>
It was exciting to start this week in our new office in the Financial District of downtown Seattle! We are now officially settled in our new digs. If you've ever visited us in person at our Belltown address, you will know how very difficult it was to navigate the building's security. Thankfully our visitors won't have as many challenges in our new space. We look forward to hosting meetings at our new office or in one of the many conference rooms we have access to.
</p>
<h3>Seeking input on non-compete agreements</h3>
<p>
We have been getting some great input on how our members feel about non-compete agreements. If you haven't yet <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/7BLXC8Y">taken the survey</a>, we'd be grateful for your perspective. It will only take you 5-10 minutes. With resolutions debated at the 2023 WSMA House of Delegates, policy discussions in Olympia, and a Federal Trade Commission rule restricting their use, non-compete agreements are a current area of focus for the physician community (including at the recent American Medical Association Annual Meeting). As we participate in these conversations and advocate on your behalf, we want to know how non-competes have impacted you.
</p>
<h3>Don't miss the WSMA Annual Meeting</h3>
<p>
I've been attending WSMA annual meetings longer than I've been celebrating my wedding anniversary! The meeting is a highlight of the year for our organization as thought leaders come together to raise the physician voice, set policy for the WSMA, and build on the strength of our organization. As a physician driven, patient focused organization, this is our opportunity to hear from our members and ensure our agenda and policies are focused on what's important to you and your patients. The meeting, taking place Sept. 28-29 in Spokane, is open to all members, with opportunities for education, socializing, and networking. It's also a great way to witness first hand how policy is set at the WSMA. <a href="[@]wsma/events/annual_meeting/wsma/events/annual_meeting/annual_meeting.aspx?hkey=fea49254-3815-4dc9-8710-53ff2e3a100f&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=smoh9">Register today</a> and remember to <a href="https://www.marriott.com/event-reservations/reservation-link.mi?id=1704478035241&amp;key=GRP&amp;app=resvlink">book your room at The Historic Davenport</a> by Aug. 28 to receive our special room rate.
</p>
<p>
For now, have fun today as you celebrate the Fourth of July and, as always, thanks for all you do.
</p>
</div> | 8/20/2024 9:49:47 AM | 7/8/2024 9:16:59 AM | 7/4/2024 12:00:00 AM |
| weekly-rounds-june-21-2024-making-connections-through-the-wsma | Weekly Rounds: June 21, 2024 - Making Connections Through the WSMA | CEO_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2024/weekly-rounds-june-21-2024-making-connections-through-the-wsma | <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 with Jennifer Hanscom, WSMA CEO" /></div>
<h5>June 21, 2024</h5>
<h2>Making Connections Through the WSMA</h2>
<p>Jennifer Hanscom, CEO</p>
<p>
Have you played Connections, a relatively new game by the New York Times? Friends of mine are obsessed with playing it daily and I admit to thinking about joining them. In case you're not as familiar with that game as you are with Wordle, the concept is that there are 16 words from which you create four groups of four words that share a common thread. The connections are clever, always interesting, and often quite challenging. What I like the most about it is just that, the connections. And that got me thinking recently about all the ways the WSMA makes and fosters connections with you, the profession, and our broader community. Check out these examples.
</p>
<h3>New neighborhood coming soon for the WSMA</h3>
<p>
After five decades on the same block in Belltown, the WSMA is relocating to a new part of town as of July 1. Our new Seattle office address will be 1215 4th Ave., Suite 1901, Seattle, WA 98161. Our main phone line and fax numbers remain the same. Let's be sure to stay connected, so please take note of our new location. And while updating that information, another way to ensure we stay in touch is to update your member profile by signing into <a href="[@]?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=rvhg9">our website</a> and making sure your contact information is correct. If you need assistance, contact us <a href="mailto:membership@wsma.org">by email</a> or call 206.441.9762.
</p>
<h3>What do you think about non-competes?</h3>
<p>
With resolutions debated at the 2023 WSMA House of Delegates, policy discussions in Olympia, and a Federal Trade Commission rule restricting their use, non-compete agreements are a current area of focus for the physician community, including at the American Medical Association Annual Meeting I just attended. As we participate in these conversations and advocate on your behalf, we want to understand your thoughts on non-compete agreements and how they have impacted you. Please complete this <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/7BLXC8Y">5-10-minute survey</a>.
</p>
<h3>Making physician leadership connections</h3>
<p>
I so enjoyed seeing many of you in person at the WSMA Leadership Development Conference in Chelan. While the blustery weather could have been better, the camaraderie was great-as always-and what a wonderful way to recharge our batteries.
</p>
<p>
To further develop your leadership skills and connect with other physician leaders, WSMA's Physician Leadership Course will once again be offered this fall. The fall course is offered virtually in order to appeal to physicians around the state and to accommodate your busy work schedules. The dates are Oct. 4-Dec. 13, beginning with two live virtual sessions on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 4 and 5. Course participants will then engage in 11 weeks of online instruction and interaction that you can do at your own pace, finishing with a third live virtual session on Friday, Dec. 13. The deadline for registration is Sept. 4. This course is sure to fill up quickly so be sure to <a href="[@]eventdetail?eventkey=PLC100424&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=tvhg9">register soon</a>.
</p>
<h3>Connect and make policy at the WSMA Annual Meeting</h3>
<p>
<a href="[@]wsma/events/annual_meeting/wsma/events/annual_meeting/annual_meeting.aspx?hkey=fea49254-3815-4dc9-8710-53ff2e3a100f&amp;_zs=lfaFd1&amp;_zl=iGdg9">Registration is now open</a> for the 2024 Annual Meeting of the WSMA House of Delegates, scheduled for Sept. 28-29 at the Historic Davenport Hotel in Spokane. There are a few key deadlines to know, especially the Aug. 9 deadline for resolutions to be included in the delegate handbook. If you have an idea for a resolution but are not sure how to get started, visit the <a href="[@]wsma/events/annual_meeting/how_to_write_a_resolution/wsma/events/annual_meeting/How_to_Write_a_Resolution/how_to_write_a_resolution.aspx?hkey=a22cd977-aaed-4445-9ee2-6fc4716a7136&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=xvhg9">How to Write a Resolution</a> page on the WSMA website for everything you need to know about writing and submitting a resolution. If you are looking to serve as a county or state special society delegate, contact your society directly. For contact information, visit our <a href="[@]wsma/about_us/partner_organizations/wsma/about/partner_organizations/partner_organizations.aspx?hkey=906365b0-ebb4-491f-9dfa-407badb9a7e4&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=0whg9">Partner Organizations page</a>.
</p>
<h3>WSMA's Latinx members create community</h3>
<p>
We are excited to have Michael Galvez, MD, join the upcoming Zoom meeting of WSMA's Latinx Advsory Council on July 1 at 5:15 p.m. Dr. Galvez is the creator of National Latino and Latina Physician Day. He introduced legislation in 2023 to designate Oct. 1 as National Latino and Latina Physician Day and to encourage the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to support Latinx medical students and aspiring students through increased funding, awareness, and retention programs. All are welcome, though a quick registration is required. <a href="https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUrdOGgrT0tHdIntTrePypiUTc5rlL2Dtd6#/registration">Register online</a>.
</p>
<p>
WSMA's Latinx member interest group is just one example of how the WSMA is creating opportunities for our members to network with each other. As a statewide organization, our members have asked us to create these opportunities for connections and we are responding! <a href="[@]wsma/membership/wsma-communities/wsma/membership/wsma-communities.aspx?hkey=d63f5896-20c4-4bc3-98e5-9ea442cc9adf&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=3whg9">Find out more here</a> and let us know of your interest.
</p>
<p>
Thanks for being part of the WSMA and for connecting with us. I'm always glad to hear from you. Meanwhile, let's go see how we do on the NYT Connections game!
</p>
</div> | 8/20/2024 9:49:47 AM | 6/21/2024 10:39:45 AM | 6/21/2024 12:00:00 AM |
| weekly-rounds-june-7-2024-five-things-to-know-as-the-sun-arrives | Weekly Rounds: June 7, 2024 - Five Things to Know as the Sun Arrives | CEO_Rounds | Shared_Content/News/Weekly_Rounds/2024/weekly-rounds-june-7-2024-five-things-to-know-as-the-sun-arrives | <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 with Jennifer Hanscom, WSMA CEO" /></div>
<h5>June 7, 2024</h5>
<h2>Five Things to Know as the Sun Arrives</h2>
<p>Jennifer Hanscom, CEO</p>
<p>
It's been a busy week and as we emerged into sunshine after two wildly windy "atmospheric rivers," I headed to Chicago for the American Medical Association's annual meeting. During the next several days, there will be lots going on there, including an election for the AMA Council on Science and Public Health. Your WSMA president, Nari Heshmati, MD, is running for that council and I hope you'll join us in pulling for a win on that next week!
</p>
<p>
In the meantime, with so much going on, I wanted to flag five key items you need to know about while you're enjoying the sunshine.
</p>
<h3>Prior authorization bill expected to be introduced on June 11</h3>
<p>
An updated version of the Improving Seniors' Timely Access to Care Act, bipartisan legislation to streamline and standardize the use of prior authorization within Medicare Advantage, will be introduced in the House and Senate on June 11. The WSMA has joined the AMA and other organizations in supporting the latest version of this bill sponsored by several representatives, including Washington <a href="https://delbene.house.gov/">Rep. Suzan DelBene</a>, Democrat from the 1st Congressional District.
</p>
<p>
During the 117th Congress (2021-2022), the act garnered more than 378 total bipartisan co-sponsors in the House and Senate and passed the full House of Representatives. In addition, the legislation secured endorsements from more than 500 organizations, including the AMA and numerous national and state medical societies. Unfortunately, the version of this bill that passed the House in the 117th Congress was never considered in the Senate because of its $16 billion "score," or anticipated fiscal impact, from the Congressional Budget Office, thus necessitating modifications to lessen the bill's cost.
</p>
<p>
While <a href="https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/cms-interoperability-and-prior-authorization-final-rule-cms-0057-f">electronic prior authorization rules</a> that were finalized by the Biden administration in <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/press-center/press-releases/ama-applauds-new-prior-authorization-regulation">January 2024</a> lowered the score substantially, the forthcoming bill that will be introduced in the 118th Congress has been amended to ensure it has minimal fiscal impact. Among other provisions, the legislation is intended to advance real-time prior authorization decisions for routinely approved services.
</p>
<p>
We will keep you up to date on this bill's journey through Congress. In the meantime, it's worth noting that Washington was one of the first states to pass legislation to modernize prior authorization along the lines of the federal bill. During the 2023 state legislative session, the WSMA successfully championed <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1357&amp;Year=2023&amp;Initiative=false">House Bill 1357</a> to facilitate the transition to electronic prior authorization processes and shorten processing timelines across state-regulated insurance plans for both health care services and prescription drugs.
</p>
<p>
You can read more about the new state rules in place as of January 2024 on our <a href="[@]wsma/resources/Administrative_Simplification/prior-authorization.aspx?hkey=753be15f-bb92-4091-9bf5-a1e45ddda525&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927&amp;_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=PObf9">Prior Authorization resources page</a>.
</p>
<h3>WSMA board votes to oppose Initiative 2117</h3>
<p>
At its May meeting, the WSMA board of trustees voted to support the "No on 2117" campaign, pursuant to WSMA <a href="[@]wsma/about/policies/whats_our_policy/environmental-health/clean-air.aspx?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=QObf9">policy adopted in 2018</a> that specifically supports investments in clean energy via a fee on large suppliers of CO2-emitting products. The policy was adopted by the WSMA House of Delegates in response to a then-pending ballot initiative that would have established a cap-and-invest system, a precursor to <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5126&amp;Initiative=false&amp;Year=2021">Senate Bill 5126</a> from 2021, which created the Climate Commitment Act.
</p>
<p>
Initiative 2117 is also in direct opposition to WSMA policy that acknowledges climate change as a critical public health issue. The WSMA's House of Delegates, since 2016, has adopted policies that urge the association to work on solutions that both reduce pollution and address the issue of climate change to promote healthier, sustainable communities.
</p>
<p>
You can read WSMA's statement opposing Initiative 2117 <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2024/statement-from-washington-state-medical-association-opposing-initiative-2117?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=SObf9">on our website</a>.
</p>
<h3>WSMA Foundation seeks board members</h3>
<p>
The <a href="[@]wsma/foundation/wsma-foundation/about-the-foundation.aspx?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=TObf9">WSMA Foundation for Health Care Improvement</a>, a 501(c)(3), has several openings on its board. This fall, foundation membership will be voting on applicants for two physician-at-large positions as well as a position designed for a member of the WSMA board of trustees.
</p>
<p>
The WSMA Foundation's 2024 strategic plan focuses on:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Strengthening physician wellness and restoring the joy of practice.</li>
<li>Advancing health equity in all communities.</li>
<li>Honoring peoples' goals, values, and preferences.</li>
</ul>
<p>
In particular, the foundation has launched a <a href="https://foundation.wsma.org/?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=UObf9">Scholarship and Diversity Advancement Fund</a> to build a more diverse physician population in Washington state by supporting students who are underrepresented in medicine.
</p>
<p>
If you are interested in serving on the WSMA Foundation board, <a href="mailto:jen@wsma.org">send your cover letter and CV to me</a>.
</p>
<h3>Do you have a chief wellness officer?</h3>
<p>
This week's "Pearl of the Week" from the AMA focuses on the practice environment and, in particular, the role of the chief wellness officer. A health care organization's chief wellness officer has a significantly different role than those in other industries. In health care, the chief wellness officer focuses on the unique needs of health care professionals and works to improve the efficiency of their practice environment. Critical areas include reducing EHR burden, building leadership skills that foster a culture of wellness, and improving workflows and team functions.
</p>
<p>
Access the AMA's toolkits on the topic below:
</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://edhub.ama-assn.org/steps-forward/module/2767739?j=2368846&amp;sfmc_sub=368087502&amp;l=5497_HTML&amp;u=46989448&amp;mid=515000152&amp;jb=76&amp;utm_source=SFMC&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_term=632024&amp;utm_content=24-9986+POW+W142+06-03-24&amp;utm_campaign=PS2_Email_Newsletter_STEPSForward_Pearl&amp;utm_uid=&amp;utm_effort=RENPS2">Establishing a Chief Wellness Officer Position</a></li>
<li><a href="https://edhub.ama-assn.org/steps-forward/module/2767764?j=2368846&amp;sfmc_sub=368087502&amp;l=5497_HTML&amp;u=46989450&amp;mid=515000152&amp;jb=76&amp;utm_source=SFMC&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_term=632024&amp;utm_content=24-9986+POW+W142+06-03-24&amp;utm_campaign=PS2_Email_Newsletter_STEPSForward_Pearl&amp;utm_uid=&amp;utm_effort=RENPS2">Chief Wellness Officer Road Map</a></li>
</ul>
<p>
Through its Wellness Action Committee, the WSMA Foundation is currently working on the development of organizational-level intervention plans to reduce burnout and improve wellness within medical practices and systems.
</p>
<p>
The best practices document will be unveiled at a WSMA Foundation CEO-CMO Wellness Summit on Oct. 16, 2024. CEOs, CMOs, and wellness leaders from medical groups, health care organizations, and systems will gather to learn about the new criteria and pledge to meet it. The summit will be held at SeaTac Conference Center. For details contact <a href="mailto:alyssa@wsma.org">Alyssa Crawford</a>.
</p>
<h3>Now available: WSMA podcast meets new health equity CME mandate</h3>
<p>
In response to the new state health equity CME mandate, the WSMA developed a four-part audio miniseries, "Health Equity in Medicine." The podcast features host Edwin Lindo, JD, who covers the history of racism in medicine and the impacts of the medical profession on health equity. He shares how your colleagues tackled these complicated issues-both structurally and individually-and provides ideas on how to incorporate equity principles into practice. The series is free for WSMA members, and nonmember pricing is also available.
</p>
<p>
This engaging educational series, available only on the WSMA website, fulfills the Washington state requirement of two hours of health equity education at least once every four years. The requirement is the result of <a href="https://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/biennium/2021-22/Pdf/Bills/Session%20Laws/Senate/5229-S.SL.pdf?q=20240307094750">Senate Bill 5229</a> passed by the Washington State Legislature in 2021 and implemented in 2024 after a period of rulemaking by the Washington State Department of Health.
</p>
<p>
The entire four-part program totals two and a half hours, which meets the state requirement. Episodes include:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Episode 1: Definitions and Background</li>
<li>Episode 2: Impact of Medical Profession on Health Equity</li>
<li>Episode 3: Individual Interventions with Estell Williams, MD</li>
<li>Episode 4: Structural Interventions with Mabel Bodell, MD, and Bindu Nayak MD</li>
</ul>
<p>
WSMA members may <a href="[@]wsma/foundation/health-equity/health-equity-in-medicine-podcast.aspx?_zs=B3aFd1&amp;_zl=aObf9">access the episodes on the WSMA website</a>. This activity is approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em><sup>TM</sup>.
</p>
<p>
Everything we do here at the WSMA is to support our members and the physician community. We'll never stop on that count, but we are always grateful for your engagement. Thanks for everything you do!
</p>
</div> | 8/20/2024 9:49:48 AM | 6/7/2024 10:31:48 AM | 6/7/2024 12:00:00 AM |