| legislature-passes-wsma-priority-legislation-to-preserve-access-to-preventive-services-and-vaccines | Legislature Passes WSMA Priority Legislation to Preserve Access to Preventive Services and Vaccines | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/advocacy-report/2026/March 6/legislature-passes-wsma-priority-legislation-to-preserve-access-to-preventive-services-and-vaccines | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/advocacy-report/2026/march/getty-images-c2PPCDPMB-A-unsplash-for-web.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA 2026 Legislative Session Updates" /></div>
<h5>Mar. 6, 2026</h5>
<h2>Legislature Passes WSMA Priority Legislation to Preserve Access to Preventive Services and Vaccines</h2>
<p><em>Bill now heads to the governor's desk</em></p>
<p><a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary/?BillNumber=2242&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false">House Bill 2242</a>, sponsored by Rep. Dan Bronoske (D – Lakewood), which preserves access on a covered basis to preventive services, including vaccines, was passed by the Legislature last week with bipartisan support. The legislation, which was requested jointly by Gov. Bob Ferguson and the Office of the Insurance Commissioner, now heads to the governor’s desk, where it is presumed to be signed into law in the coming weeks.</p>
<p>This WSMA priority legislation allows the Washington State Department of Health to make recommendations on vaccines in consultation with expert organizations, including professional medical organizations and local health organizations. The law also preserves Washingtonians' access to preventive services without cost-sharing for residents enrolled in commercial health plans who choose to utilize these services.</p>
<p>As leadership at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is shaken up and recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices continue to shift away from evidence-based practices, this vital legislation will ensure Washingtonians can continue to access important preventive health services, including vaccines, on a covered basis.</p>
</div> | 3/5/2026 1:28:47 PM | 3/5/2026 3:29:43 PM |
| wsma-legislative-priorities-advancing-as-session-winds-down | WSMA Legislative Priorities Advancing as Session Winds Down | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/advocacy-report/2026/March 6/wsma-legislative-priorities-advancing-as-session-winds-down | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/advocacy-report/2026/february/2026-Leg-Session-Graphic.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA 2026 Legislative Session Updates" /></div>
<h5>Mar. 6, 2026</h5>
<h2>WSMA Legislative Priorities Advancing as Session Winds Down</h2>
<p><em>Plus, an update on scope of practice bills</em></p>
<p>The 2026 legislative session is scheduled to adjourn next Thursday, March 12, and the final days of session will be dominated by budget negotiations and deliberations over whether to establish a state income tax. If you missed last week's update on legislative budget proposals, you can read it <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/ceo-rounds/2026/ceo-rounds-feb-24-2026-legislative-budget-proposals-released-what-they-mean-for-health-care">here</a>. Meanwhile, in addition to House Bill 2242, which will preserve access to preventive care and vaccines in our state, the WSMA has been successful in advancing—and defeating—a number of key legislative priorities this year.</p>
<p>Over the last week, votes have been taken in House and Senate committees to approve insurance reforms related to prior authorization (<a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=5395&amp;Chamber=Senate&amp;Year=2025">SB 5395</a>) and prompt payment and insurance carrier claw backs (<a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=5845&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false">SB 5845</a>). Legislation to extend the statutory deadlines of the Medicaid Access Program (<a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=2385&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false">HB 2385</a>) is also advancing.</p>
<p>Defending against bills we oppose is just as important as advancing bills in Olympia, and as of this writing all scope of practice bills the WSMA opposes are considered "dead" for the 2026 session. A Senate proposal to expand scope of practice for pharmacists did get serious consideration this year, and the WSMA will be working with proponents of the bill over the legislative interim to try to work toward an appropriate compromise on the issue. The prime sponsors of the legislation in both the House and the Senate are pharmacists and have signaled their intention to have a bill approved in the 2027 session.</p>
</div> | 3/5/2026 1:42:19 PM | 3/5/2026 2:11:07 PM |
| 2026-ampac-candidate-workshop-returns-april-17-19 | 2026 AMPAC Candidate Workshop Returns April 17-19 | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/advocacy-report/2026/February 20/2026-ampac-candidate-workshop-returns-april-17-19 | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/advocacy-report/2026/february/US-Capitol-1024px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Image of US Capitol highlighting the 2026 AMPAC Candidate Workshop" /></div>
<h5>Feb. 20, 2026</h5>
<h2>2026 AMPAC Candidate Workshop Returns April 17-19</h2>
<p><em>Registration now open!</em></p>
<p>Ever wonder how physicians get elected to Congress or your state Legislature? Considering a run for office yourself? The <a href="https://ampaconline.org/political-education/ampac-candidate-workshop">AMPAC Candidate Workshop</a> will teach you how to run a winning political campaign because it is designed to help you make the leap from the exam room to the campaign trail and give you the skills and strategic approach you will need to make a run for public office.</p>
<p>At the Candidate Workshop, Republican and Democratic political veterans work together to give you expert advice about being a successful candidate and how to run a winning campaign. You will learn the importance of a disciplined campaign plan and message; the secrets of effective fundraising; what kinds of advertising may be right for your campaign; how to work with the media; and how to build your campaign team and a successful grassroots organization. </p>
<p>Attendees include physicians, spouses of physicians, residents, medical students, and state medical society staff interested in becoming more involved in politics.</p>
<p>Please note the following:</p>
<ul>
<li>The Candidate Workshop is open to American Medical Association physician members, member spouses, residents, medical students, and state medical society staff.</li>
<li>Registration fee is $250 for AMA members/spouses and $1,000 for non-AMA members. This fee is waived for AMA-member residents and students; however, space is limited and the AMPAC board will review and select four participants from the pool of qualified resident and student applicants.</li>
<li>Faculty, materials, and all meals during the meeting are covered by the AMA. Participants are responsible for their registration fee, travel to and from Washington, DC, and hotel accommodations (the AMA will provide you with a list of nearby hotels within walking distance of the AMA offices).</li>
<li>Participants will be required to bring a laptop or Wi-Fi-enabled tablet with them.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://ampaconline.org/political-education/ampac-candidate-workshop">Registration for the 2026 AMPAC Candidate Workshop is now open</a>. Space is limited and the deadline for registering is March 20, or sooner if maximum capacity is reached. For more information contact <a href="mailto:Politicaleducation@ama-assn.org">Politicaleducation@ama-assn.org</a>.</p>
</div> | 2/19/2026 12:56:49 PM | 2/19/2026 12:00:00 AM |
| tax-and-budget-discussions-ramping-up-in-olympia | Tax and Budget Discussions Ramping Up in Olympia | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/advocacy-report/2026/February 20/tax-and-budget-discussions-ramping-up-in-olympia | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/advocacy-report/2026/february/2026-Leg-Session-Graphic.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSM 2026 Legislative Session Updates" /></div>
<h5>Feb. 20, 2026</h5>
<h2>Tax and Budget Discussions Ramping Up in Olympia</h2>
<p><em>'Millionaires tax' advances to House</em></p>
<p>With the 2026 session now two-thirds of the way through its scheduled 60 days, legislators are turning their attention to negotiations on the state budget and associated revenue bills. Budget proposals are expected to be unveiled by majority-party Democratic lawmakers beginning on Sunday, and negotiations will likely continue through the last day of session, scheduled for March 12.</p>
<p>On Monday, the state released its latest revenue forecast, and while tax collections have been sluggish lately, legislators received good news this week with state revenue projected to increase by $827 million more than was forecasted in November. This will substantially help address the state's budget gap, which Gov. Bob Ferguson estimated at around $2 billion when he released his spending plan in December.</p>
<p>Future state budgets could be reshaped by the enactment of a "millionaires tax," a proposal from legislative Democrats to impose a 9.9% income tax on people with over $1 million in annual income. After nearly four hours of debate, Senate Democrats on Monday passed <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary/?BillNumber=6346&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false">SB 6346</a>, the bill that would establish the tax, and after adopting several amendments to the bill sent it to the House for further consideration. One of the amendments rolls back provisions of the sales tax on services bill adopted by the Legislature last year, including several that have impacts on the physician community, such as sales tax on temporary staffing services, IT projects, and live presentations (i.e., continuing education).</p>
<p>On the policy front, WSMA priority bills continue to advance. Over the last week, votes have been taken in the House and Senate to approve the vaccine and preventative services bill (<a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary/?BillNumber=2242&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false">HB 2242</a>), prior authorization reform (<a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=5395&amp;Chamber=Senate&amp;Year=2025">SB 5395</a>), prompt payment requirements (<a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=5845&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false">SB 5845</a>), and legislation to extend the stator deadlines of the Medicaid Access Program (<a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=2385&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false">HB 2385</a>). If you have questions about the status of a bill that's pending in this year's session, contact WSMA Senior Director of Government Affairs &amp; Policy <a href="mailto:sean@wsma.org">Sean Graham</a>.</p>
</div> | 2/19/2026 11:34:45 AM | 2/19/2026 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma-members-at-the-capitol-a-recap-of-the-2026-legislative-summit | WSMA Members at the Capitol: A Recap of the 2026 Legislative Summit | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/advocacy-report/2026/January 29/wsma-members-at-the-capitol-a-recap-of-the-2026-legislative-summit | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/advocacy-report/2026/january/029-Venticinque_260128_4768-straightened.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Dr. Bridget Bush shaking hands with Gov. Bob Ferguson" /></div>
<h5>Jan. 29, 2026</h5>
<h2>WSMA Members at the Capitol: A Recap of the 2026 Legislative Summit</h2>
<p><em>WSMA members make their voices heard at sold-out event</em>
</p>
<p>WSMA member physicians, physician assistants, residents, and medical students converged at the state Capitol in Olympia this week for WSMA's annual Legislative Summit. This year's Summit was a sold-out event, reaching room capacity within two months of announcing registration—a first for the WSMA and a strong sign of the interest in WSMA members for hands-on engagement in legislative advocacy.</p>
<p>The Columbia Room at the Capitol filled quickly with members ready to hear from several of our state's health care leaders and from WSMA's government affairs team on our priority issues for this session, including preserving physician practices and patients' access to care; defending against inappropriate scope of practice expansions; medical title transparency; and preserving access to preventive services, including vaccines.</p>
<p>WSMA President Bridget Bush, MD, FASA, kicked off the morning with a welcome message, followed by WSMA Senior Director of Government Affairs and Policy Sean Graham for the dos and don'ts of meeting with legislators.</p>
<p>Up next, Washington state's new Secretary of Health Dennis Worsham talked about his journey from growing up in the small town of Othello, Washington, to a long career in public health before being appointed as our state's top health officer. He emphasized the Department of Health's commitment to data integrity, preserving access to vaccines, and strengthening population health. He highlighted the importance of physician advocacy, saying, "The ability to have a policy affect the entire state and larger populations is really important, and it's great that you all do your individual practices and services directly to people you care for, but also, I'm grateful that you are stepping into this larger arena that sets policies and practices that have a greater impact across our systems to make sure that we are affordable and accessible for those people who need those services and our preventative services."</p>
<p>Dr. Bush then handed the microphone to the morning's surprise guest, Gov. Bob Ferguson, who similarly emphasized the state's commitment to making public health decisions based on science, highlighting the formation of the West Coast Health Alliance, and acknowledging the budget challenges the state is facing as a result of H.R. 1., federal legislation passed last summer that includes more than $1 trillion in cuts to health care. In closing, he said, "I appreciate the partnership for all you do for Washingtonians and I hope you have a really wonderful day here at the Capitol."</p>
<p>After a full morning, members braved the rainy weather to pose for our annual "white coat" photo on the steps of the Capitol, then headed back to the Columbia Room for a box lunch before our last presentation of the day—a Q&amp;A with legislators Rep. Dan Bronoske, Sen. Ron Muzzall, and Rep. Joe Schmick, three out of four heads of our Legislature's health care committees, who thoughtfully answered member questions.</p>
<p>Members then disbursed throughout the Capitol campus to attend meetings with legislators from their districts, bringing front-line advocacy home to lawmakers.</p>
<p>Those of you who weren't able to attend the sold-out event, keep an eye out for more opportunities for engagement this session through our weekly session update videos, calls to action, and opportunities to testify in public hearings. For year-round advocacy opportunities, visit wsma.org and look under <a href="https://wsma.org/wsma/advocacy/wsma/advocacy/advocacy.aspx">Advocacy</a> and <a href="https://wsma.org/wsma/advocacy/physician_advocacy/physician-advocacy.aspx">Physician Advocacy</a> for ways to engage.</p>
<p>Thank you to everyone who attended this year's event! We'll share the date for the 2027 Summit as soon as it's available.</p>
</div> | 1/29/2026 2:15:31 PM | 1/29/2026 4:53:46 PM |
| legislative-session-update-wsma-priority-bills-advance | Legislative Session Update: WSMA Priority Bills Advance | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/advocacy-report/2026/January 29/legislative-session-update-wsma-priority-bills-advance | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/advocacy-report/2026/january/2026-Leg-Session-Graphic%201.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSM 2026 Legislative Session Updates" /></div>
<h5>Jan. 29, 2026</h5>
<h2>Legislative Session Update: WSMA Priority Bills Advance</h2>
<p>Things are moving quickly in Olympia, where the 2026 legislative session is nearly one-third of the way through its scheduled 60 days. At this point in session, the primary focus of legislators is the consideration of the more than 1,100 bills that have been introduced this year, in addition to the approximately 1,500 that didn't pass last year and were automatically reintroduced.</p>
<p>The WSMA is tracking and engaging on more than 600 of the 2,600 bills in play and this week saw several of WSMA's priority bills approved by their respective policy and fiscal committees, including:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Vaccine and preventive service access</strong>
<ul>
<li>The WSMA is working in coalition to support <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=2242&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false" target="_blank">House Bill 2242</a> and <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=5967&amp;Chamber=Senate&amp;Year=2025" target="_blank">Senate Bill 5967</a> to preserve access to preventive services, including vaccines, on a covered basis through health insurance plans and the state's Childhood Vaccine Program, responding to recent and ongoing policy changes at the federal level.</li>
<li>Both HB 2242 and SB 5967 have been approved by their legislative health care committees. </li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Prior authorization</strong>
<ul>
<li>The WSMA is working in coalition to advance <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=5395&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false" target="_blank">Senate Bill 5395</a> to prohibit artificial intelligence from being used to deny coverage for services, require insurance carrier prior authorization policies be accessible in a standardized manner, and clarify an existing prohibition on retroactive denials of coverage authorizations.</li>
<li>SB 5395 was approved by the Senate Ways &amp; Means Committee on Jan. 27.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Medicaid rates</strong>
<ul>
<li>In the 2025 legislative session, the WSMA and the physician community successfully advocated for the passage of House Bill 1392, establishing the Medicaid Access Program. Unfortunately, implementation of the bill was blocked by HR 1. WSMA is advocating for <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary/?BillNumber=2385&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false" target="_blank">House Bill 2385</a> to extend the statutory deadlines of the Medicaid Access Program so that the state can pursue implementation of the law if the federal landscape changes.</li>
<li>HB 2385 was approved by the House Appropriations Committee on Jan. 28.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</div> | 1/29/2026 12:54:21 PM | 1/29/2026 4:53:46 PM |
| cms-awards-washington-181-million-for-rural-health-transformation-program | CMS Awards Washington $181 Million for Rural Health Transformation Program | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/advocacy-report/2026/january-16/cms-awards-washington-181-million-for-rural-health-transformation-program | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/advocacy-report/2026/january/senior-male-patient-with-physician-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Senior male patient with physician" /></div>
<h5>Jan. 16, 2026 </h5>
<h2>CMS Awards Washington $181 Million for Rural Health Transformation Program </h2>
<p>The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has approved Washington state's Rural Health Transformation Program plan and awarded approximately $181 million for the first year of the program.</p>
<p>In a statement, the Health Care Authority notes "These funds will support the hospitals, clinics, and providers that rural families rely on every day. While the need remains significant, this investment will help rural communities take important steps forward in accessible, safe, and sustainable health care." </p>
<p>The WSMA is grateful to Gov. Bob Ferguson and his administration, including the HCA, Department of Health, and the Department of Social and Health Services, for their leadership and work to secure this funding. We will continue to engage with the governor's office and state agencies to help ensure Rural Health Transformation Program funds are deployed in a manner that meaningfully supports physicians, care teams, and the patients they serve in rural communities.</p>
<p>The awarded amount is close to the state's original request of $200 million. State agencies are now revising the program budget to reflect the approved funding level.</p>
<h3>What's next </h3>
<p>According to the HCA, the agency is working with DOH and DSHS, in coordination with the governor's office, to make targeted budget adjustments that reduce-but do not eliminate-planned funding allocations.</p>
<p>CMS requires submission of a revised budget by Jan. 30, after which the agency will conduct a review within 30 days. Following CMS review, the state and CMS will finalize a cooperative agreement to formally advance the program.</p>
<h3>About the Rural Health Transformation Program </h3>
<p>Authorized under H.R. 1, the Rural Health Transformation Program makes up to $50 billion in federal funding available nationwide to support rural health care transformation.</p>
<p>For Washington, the program presents an opportunity to strengthen rural health systems and address the unique challenges facing rural communities across the state.</p>
<p>Learn more on the state's Rural Health Transformation Program <a href="https://www.hca.wa.gov/about-hca/programs-and-initiatives/value-based-purchasing/rural-health-transformation-program">webpage</a>.</p>
</div> | 1/14/2026 11:27:44 AM | 1/16/2026 12:00:00 AM |
| congressional-advocacy-what-the-wsma-is-doing-at-the-federal-level | Congressional Advocacy: What the WSMA is Doing at the Federal Level | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/advocacy-report/2026/january-16/congressional-advocacy-what-the-wsma-is-doing-at-the-federal-level | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/advocacy-report/2026/january/us-capitol-building-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="US Capitol building" /></div>
<h5>Jan. 16, 2026 </h5>
<h2>Congressional Advocacy: What the WSMA is Doing at the Federal Level </h2>
<p>Important health care policies continue to be considered in Congress, and WSMA's advocacy efforts don't stop at our state border. Below are some updates from our work in the "other" Washington.</p>
<h3>Advocating against WISeR implementation </h3>
<p>At the request of Rep. Suzan DelBene's staff, the WSMA reached out to Washington's federal congressional delegation to request they sign on to a letter to House and Senate leadership and appropriators, co-led by Reps. Lois Frankel, Suzan DelBene, Lloyd Doggett, Mark Pocan, Greg Landsman, Ami Bera, Rick Larsen, Alexandria-Ocasio Cortez, and Jan Schakowsky, requesting language in any final FY26 funding agreement prohibiting the implementation of the WISeR Model or any related moves to introduce prior authorization requirements into traditional Medicare.</p>
<p>In 2025, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services announced plans to implement a pilot program that would contract private companies, using artificial intelligence, to utilize prior authorization on certain medical services and devices under Medicare Part B. Over the past year, the <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/advocacy-report/2025/december-19/end-of-year-update-wsma-advocacy-on-wiser-program.aspx?_zs=Pimae1&amp;_zl=pnKVA">WSMA has engaged extensively</a> to raise serious concerns about the WISeRModel and its potential impact on Washington physicians and Medicare patients.</p>
<h3>Are Medicare Advantage prior authorization policies harming your patients? Let us know</h3>
<p>The WSMA has received a request from Rep. Kim Shrier's office seeking patient stories or data from WSMA members about their experience with prior authorization utilized by Medicare Advantage that would assist in their advocacy and to track harmful impacts to Washington physicians and their patients. If you have an example of harm caused or barriers to patient care due to these policies, please contact <a href="mailto:policy@wsma.org">policy@wsma.org</a>.</p>
<h3>WSMA shares budget priorities with members of Congress </h3>
<p>Congress is currently negotiating a federal funding package ahead of the Jan. 30 funding deadline with implications for patients and physicians. The WSMA reached out to members of Washington's congressional delegation earlier this week, urging Congress to include extending enhanced premium tax credits and permanent Medicare telehealth flexibilities in any funding deal to protect access to affordable coverage and care.</p>
</div> | 1/14/2026 11:26:51 AM | 1/16/2026 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma-priorities-for-the-2026-legislative-session | WSMA Priorities for the 2026 Legislative Session | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/advocacy-report/2026/january-16/wsma-priorities-for-the-2026-legislative-session | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/advocacy-report/2026/january/2026-Leg-Session-Graphic%201.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSM 2026 Legislative Session Updates" /></div>
<h5>Jan. 16, 2026 </h5>
<h2>WSMA Priorities for the 2026 Legislative Session </h2>
<p>The 2026 legislative session began on Monday, Jan. 12, and over the next 60 days, lawmakers will be working to bridge an ongoing state budget deficit and consider more than 3,000 bills that are in play in Olympia this year.</p>
<p>Last week, WSMA's government affairs department held <a href="[@]wsma/advocacy/legislative___regulatory/Legislative%20Activities/wsma/advocacy/legislative_regulatory/legislative-activities.aspx#2026preSession">a pre-session webinar</a> where more than 100 physicians, residents, and medical students were provided a high-level overview of what's on the table for the physician community this session. If you weren't able to attend, a video of the event <a href="[@]wsma/advocacy/legislative_regulatory/legislative-activities.aspx?hkey=231ee068-da1d-49ae-b5bc-01a857b21a9b&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">can be found here</a> and below is a summary of WSMA's 2026 legislative priorities.</p>
<ul>
<li>Budget
<ul>
<li>H.R. 1 response
<ul>
<li>The tax and spending bill approved by Congress and signed into law by President Donald Trump in July contains numerous policies cutting federal funding for health care and limiting patients’ eligibility for enrollment in Medicaid. The WSMA is working in coalition with patient groups, state agencies, and other stakeholders to develop policy solutions to ensure as many residents of the state have access to essential health care services as possible.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>B&amp;O tax mitigation
<ul>
<li>Following business and occupation tax rate increases in 2019 and 2025, for most physician organizations the B&amp;O tax rate has increased by 40% in the last five years. Taken together, these tax increases cost health care organizations an estimated $100 million annually. The WSMA is asking the Legislature to revisit the B&amp;O tax rate for physician groups and health care organizations, mitigating the impact of recent increases in the interest of preserving independent practice and patient access to care.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Medicaid rates
<ul>
<li>WSMA successfully advocated for the passage of <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=1392&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false">House Bill 1392</a> during the 2025 session, establishing the Medicaid Access Program to increase Medicaid rates. Unfortunately, H.R. 1 includes a provision that blocks implementation of the law. While we continue to monitor for opportunities to pursue federal approval, we will be exploring alternative methods to increase Medicaid rates and promote access to care for patients. And we are also advocating for the passage of <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary/?BillNumber=2385&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false">House Bill 2385</a> to extend the statutory deadlines of the Medicaid Access Program so that the state can pursue implementation of the law if the federal landscape changes.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Policy
<ul>
<li>Vaccine and preventative service access
<ul>
<li>As federal institutions continue to move away from evidence-based recommendations on public health measures, our state's coverage of and access to immunizations and other preventative services are at risk. The WSMA is working in coalition to support <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=2242&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false">House Bill 2242</a> and <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=5967&amp;Chamber=Senate&amp;Year=2025">Senate Bill 5967</a> to preserve access to preventative services, including vaccines, on a covered basis through health insurance plans and the state's Childhood Vaccine Program.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Prior authorization
<ul>
<li>When physicians recommend a service or a drug for a patient, coverage is often conditioned on prior authorization from a patient's insurance carrier. The WSMA is grateful for recent legislative action to modernize prior authorization. As technology advances, further reform is needed to ensure care can be delivered in an appropriate and expeditious manner. The WSMA is working in coalition to advance <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=5395&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false">Senate Bill 5395</a> to prohibit artificial intelligence from being used to deny coverage for services, require insurance carrier prior authorization policies be accessible in a standardized manner, and clarify an existing prohibition on retroactive denials of coverage authorizations.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Insurance payment reforms
<ul>
<li>The administrative and financial burdens associated with insurance contracting and payment constitute a significant challenge in maintaining independent physician practices. The requirements from any given insurance carrier can be difficult to navigate; taken together across carriers, they form a complex and shifting labyrinth of hurdles for practices to navigate. We're advocating for <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=5845&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false">Senate Bill 5845</a> to require insurance carriers to provide prompt payment for care that is delivered; <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=6071&amp;Year=2026&amp;Initiative=false">Senate Bill 6071</a> to limit the ability of carriers to claw back payment after care is delivered; and <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=2106&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false">House Bill 2106</a> to require approval of significant contract revisions between insurance carriers and practices.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Medical title transparency
<ul>
<li>As care delivery has evolved to be more team-based, the credentials and titles used by health care practitioners play a crucial role in ensuring transparency and trust with patients. Similar to laws currently on the books in 38 states, <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/BillSummary/?BillNumber=2261&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false">House Bill 2261</a> would require disclosure of credentials in advertising and badging. This bill was developed by the WSMA in conjunction with physician specialty organizations.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Scope of practice
<ul>
<li>The WSMA annually engages on a host of scope of practice bills pursuant to <a href="[@]wsma/about/policies/whats_our_policy/scope-of-practice/scope-of-practice-general.aspx">our established policy</a> that focuses on appropriate education and training to ensure patient safety. In the 2026 session, we're expecting to work on scope proposals from pharmacists, naturopaths, psychologists, and nurses, in addition to returning proposals mandating reimbursement for advance practice providers at the same rate as physicians.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p>As session progresses, we'll be sharing opportunities for WSMA members to engage on these issues and others. If you have questions about our priority issues or anything that's being considered in Olympia this year, contact WSMA Senior Director of Government Affairs and Policy <a href="mailto:sean@wsma.org">Sean Graham</a>.</p>
</div> | 1/14/2026 11:27:47 AM | 1/16/2026 12:00:00 AM |
| cms_announces_rural_health_transformation_program_awards | CMS Announces Rural Health Transformation Program Awards | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2025/cms_announces_rural_health_transformation_program_awards | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/advocacy-report/2025/december/black-male-doctor-with-young-woman-645-425.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="2025 Session" /></div>
<h5>December 30, 2025</h5>
<!-- **************************NEW ARTICLE****************************** -->
<h2>CMS Announces Rural Health Transformation Program Awards</h2>
<p>Earlier this week, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services <a href="https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-announces-50-billion-awards-strengthen-rural-health-all-50-states">announced</a> that all 50 states will receive awards under the new <a href="https://www.cms.gov/priorities/rural-health-transformation-rht-program/overview">Rural Health Transformation Program</a>. For 2026, Washington state is slated to receive $181,257,515, representing a one-year investment as part of this five-year federal initiative to strengthen rural health care systems.</p>
<p>The WSMA engaged extensively on behalf of the physician community in the development of Washington state's <a href="https://www.hca.wa.gov/assets/program/rhtp-project-narrative.pdf">application</a>, including meeting with state policymakers, submitting feedback on funding priorities, and lending formal support to the state's proposal. An abstract of Washington’s application <a href="https://edit.cms.gov/files/document/rht-program-state-provided-abstracts.pdf">released by CMS</a> outlines the state's project goals, and we are pleased to see key elements the WSMA advocated for reflected in the plan, including investments in health care workforce, technology, and system capacity.</p>
<p>We are grateful to state agencies and the governor’s office for their collaboration and for the timely submission of a strong application to CMS. The WSMA will continue to engage with state partners and CMS to ensure physician perspectives remain central as these funds are deployed—and to advocate for investments that strengthen patient care, practice viability, and the long-term sustainability of rural health in Washington.</p>
<p>We will keep members informed as implementation details and stakeholder engagement opportunities become available.</p>
<h3>Update (Dec. 31)</h3>
<p>Just before press time, the governor's office released a <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/WAGOV/bulletins/4024cfa">press release</a> with additional information on how the funds will be distributed:</p>
<p>"
Washington specifically sought funding to help build a healthier, more resilient and financially sustainable rural health system. The Rural Health Transformation funding will help rural residents across all 39 counties. Of those, 22 counties are considered fully rural — Adams, Clallam, Columbia, Ferry, Garfield, Grant, Grays Harbor, Island, Jefferson, Kittitas, Klickitat, Lewis, Lincoln, Mason, Okanogan, Pacific, Pend Orielle, San Juan, Skamania, Stevens, Wahkiakum and Whitman. The funding will reach rural Washington residents in these counties, as well as the rural portions of the state’s remaining counties.</p>
<p>"Washington will use the funds to:</p>
<ul>
<li>Develop community-based health care options to help rural residents access the right level of care at the right time</li>
<li>Invest in the health of Native families</li>
<li>Invest in technology that increases efficiency, access and quality in Washington’s rural health care system, helping rural Washingtonians get specialty care and monitor chronic conditions</li>
<li>Invest in long-term solutions will give rural Washingtonians better access to high-quality specialty and emergency medical care</li>
<li>Grow, train and maintain the health care workforce in rural Washington</li>
<li>Expand and sustain Washington’s rural behavioral health system, decreasing the strain on rural hospitals and school-based behavioral health care services</li>
</ul>
<p>"The state will collaborate with Area Agencies on Aging, the Washington Hospital Association, the Rural Collaborative and others to target funding where it is needed most. It will also work with the state’s universities to expand existing programs and initiatives that benefit rural health care systems.</p>
<p>"For example, funds will be used to expand the University of Washington School of Medicine’s Project ECHO (Extension for Community Health Outcomes). ECHO offers a multidisciplinary tele-monitoring and education platform for Washington clinicians that helps providers deal with complex and specialized patient issues, infectious diseases, psychiatry and behavioral health and intellectual and developmental disabilities. Rural Heath Transformation program funds will help expand ECHO to additional health care facilities, as well as add new medical specialties."</p>
<p>Read the governor's <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/WAGOV/bulletins/4024cfa">press release</a>.</p>
</div> | 12/30/2025 4:10:12 PM | 12/31/2025 2:50:19 PM |
| doh_rejects_pharmacist_prescriptive_authority_proposal__offers_recommendations_on_how_to_improve | DOH Rejects Pharmacist Prescriptive Authority Proposal, Offers Recommendations on How to Improve | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2025/doh_rejects_pharmacist_prescriptive_authority_proposal__offers_recommendations_on_how_to_improve | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/advocacy-report/2025/december/man.holding.rx-small-645-425.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="pharmacy scope of practice" /></div>
<h5>December 30, 2025</h5>
<!-- **************************NEW ARTICLE****************************** -->
<h2>DOH Rejects Pharmacist Prescriptive Authority Proposal, Offers Recommendations on How to Improve</h2>
<p>The Department of Health has released its <a href="https://doh.wa.gov/sites/default/files/2025-12/631-117-PharmacistSunrise.pdf">final report</a> on the pharmacist prescriptive authority sunrise review. The report rejects the proposal offered by the Washington State Pharmacy Association as "...too broad to evaluate if it protects patient safety." The report does offer recommendations on how to narrow the proposal to meet sunrise criteria. Those recommendations include "...adding some of the limitations similar to Montana's law to restrict the proposed prescriptive authority to treating conditions that do not require a new diagnosis, are minor and self-limiting, are diagnosed through waived clinical tests, or are emergencies."</p>
<p>As background, the pharmacy association proposal would have delegated the Legislature's authority to set a pharmacist scope of practice to the Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission. That commission, comprised of pharmacists and members of the public, would have authority to decide drugs a pharmacist could prescribe, the types of patients they could treat, and the circumstances in which care could be provided. The proposal would’ve also left to the pharmacy commission’s jurisdiction what, if any, additional education and training would be required for pharmacists to be eligible for scope expansion.</p>
<p>The WSMA, leading a coalition of physician specialty organizations, submitted <a href="https://wsma.org/doc_library/news/physician-delegation-letter-doh-pharmacist-sunrise-4-1.pdf">comments in opposition</a> to the pharmacist scope of practice sunrise review proposal citing concerns not limited to patient safety, lack of requisite education and training, and absence of regulatory safeguards. WSMA physicians also testified in opposition to the proposal during a May 2025 public hearing.</p>
<p>This issue will be considered during the 2026 legislative session, as the pharmacy association has introduced <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary/?BillNumber=5924&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false">Senate Bill 5924</a> to grant prescriptive authority for pharmacists. The bill takes a different, and arguably broader, approach to expanding pharmacists’ scope than what was proposed through the sunrise review by simply stipulating that pharmacists would be able to diagnose and prescribe drugs and devices “based on his or her education, training, and experience.†The bill does not propose any additional or stipulated education or training for pharmacists to be able to diagnose and prescribe. The WSMA will meet with the proponents of the bill to learn more about the proposal, but on its face it does not meet the bar set by WSMA’s <a href="https://wsma.org/wsma/about/policies/whats_our_policy/scope-of-practice/scope-of-practice-general.aspx">policy on scope of practice</a> which seeks to ensure that practitioners receive commensurate education and training to that of a physician when proposing to expand their scope.</p>
</div> | 12/30/2025 4:12:47 PM | 12/30/2025 4:32:42 PM |
| an_end-of-year_message_of_gratitude_and_progress | An End-of-Year Message of Gratitude and Progress | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Latest_News/2025/an_end-of-year_message_of_gratitude_and_progress | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2025/december/LDC_white-coat-2024.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA members at LDC" /></div>
<h5>Dec. 30, 2025</h5>
<h2>An End-of-Year Message of Gratitude and Progress</h2>
<p>From WSMA CEO Jennifer Hanscom</p>
<p>As 2025 draws to a close, I wanted to express my deepest appreciation to you, our members, for your support, engagement, and unwavering commitment to medicine and to your WSMA.</p>
<p>Going into my 13<sup>th</sup> year as WSMA’s CEO, it remains an extraordinary privilege to serve Washington state's physician community. Over the past decade, health care has evolved in increasingly complex and unpredictable ways. While that reality brought challenges, it also reinforced why WSMA's mission, and your collective voice, matter more than ever.</p>
<p>Thanks to your engagement, the leadership of our physician volunteers, and the dedication of our professional staff, WSMA’s membership grew by 3.5% in 2025. Our membership retention remained strong at 90%, and we welcomed 856 brand-new members, exceeding our yearly goal. These numbers represent something far more important than metrics: They reflect a growing, engaged physician community committed to advocacy and leadership.</p>
<p>In 2025, WSMA’s advocacy was proactive, strategic, and effective. Together, we protected patients, physicians, and science-based medicine by:</p>
<ul>
<li>Successfully suing the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to restore <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2025/defendants-in-wsma-v-kennedy-agree-to-restore-deleted-public-health-data">deleted taxpayer-funded public health data</a> impacting marginalized communities.</li>
<li><a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2025/president-john-bramhall-md-phd-reaffirms-the-wsmas-commitment-to-medical-ethics">Combating incorrect or misleading medical information</a>.</li>
<li>Ensuring timely licensure approvals for newly hired physicians and staff.</li>
<li>Defeating all <a href="https://wsma.org/wsma/advocacy/legislative___regulatory/Legislative%20Activities/wsma/advocacy/legislative_regulatory/legislative-activities.aspx?hkey=231ee068-da1d-49ae-b5bc-01a857b21a9b">unsafe scope-of-practice legislation</a>.</li>
<li>Securing <a href="https://wsma.org/wsma/advocacy/legislative___regulatory/Legislative%20Activities/wsma/advocacy/legislative_regulatory/legislative-activities.aspx?hkey=231ee068-da1d-49ae-b5bc-01a857b21a9b">confidentiality protections</a> for physician and physician assistant well-being programs.</li>
<li>Preserving science-guided <a href="https://wsma.org/wsma/advocacy/legislative___regulatory/Legislative%20Activities/wsma/advocacy/legislative_regulatory/legislative-activities.aspx?hkey=231ee068-da1d-49ae-b5bc-01a857b21a9b">public health and vaccine communications</a>.</li>
<li>Passing the <a href="https://wsma.org/wsma/advocacy/advocacy-topics/medicaid-reimbursement/wsma/advocacy/advocacy-topics/medicaid-reimbursement.aspx?hkey=9d480d44-163e-4124-a5bd-b02c424b845e">Medicaid Access Program</a> to pursue future reimbursement increases.</li>
<li><a href="https://wsma.org/wsma/membership/why_join_the_wsma/our_impact/wsma/membership/why_join_the_wsma_/our_impact.aspx?hkey=4cbb82b9-b1fe-4983-8e98-9208c0f6fe95">Advancing federal advocacy</a> around Medicaid cuts, much-needed Medicare payment reform, prior authorization modernization, and opposing harmful federal proposals.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://wsma.org/wsma/membership/why_join_the_wsma/our_impact/wsma/membership/why_join_the_wsma_/our_impact.aspx?hkey=4cbb82b9-b1fe-4983-8e98-9208c0f6fe95">By the numbers</a>, your engagement helped drive action on more than 400 bills impacting the profession and patients, generated more than 3,000 messages to legislators, filled a sold-out Legislative Summit, supported nine statewide road-trip events, and informed 72 state and federal rulemakings.</p>
<p>Beyond the Legislature, your WSMA actively <a href="https://wsma.org/wsma/advocacy/your-care-is-at-our-core/wsma/advocacy/your-care-is-at-our-core.aspx?hkey=e7b72239-4fec-4a55-92d9-462cbf769389">champions science, evidence-based medicine, and affordable patient care</a>, and you, our members, are central to that work. In 2025 alone, the WSMA and physician voices were featured in more than 700 local, state, and national media mentions, shaping public understanding and influencing key conversations. We amplify these efforts across <a href="https://www.facebook.com/wsma.org/">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://x.com/WSMA_update">Twitter</a>, and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/washington-state-medical-association">LinkedIn</a>, and provide ready-to-use <a href="https://wsma.org/wsma/advocacy/physician_advocacy/social-media-ambassador-program/wsma/advocacy/physician_advocacy/wsma-social-media-ambassador-program.aspx?hkey=1fe9fbaf-de48-4b56-bac6-fb1b4ca288c3">social media toolkits</a> so you can easily add your voice and extend our reach. By engaging with WSMA’s advocacy and communications efforts, you help build trust with patients, strengthen the physician voice, and advance the care our communities depend on.</p>
<p>We also made important investments in the future of medicine and public health. We secured more than $300,000 for our <a href="https://wsma.org/wsma/resources/better-prescribing-better-treatment/wsma/resources/better-prescribing-better-treatment/better-prescribing-better-treatment.aspx?hkey=a292b39e-5cd1-4d1f-88ad-2dab80619b46">WSMA Better Prescribing, Better Treatment Program</a>, a $150,000 two-year grant to address social drivers of health, and a $45,000 AMA Scope of Practice Partnership grant for 2026. Additionally, the WSMA Foundation will begin awarding its first <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2025/wsma-selects-elson-s-floyd-college-of-medicine-for-new-medical-school-scholarship">$40,000 annual scholarship for a medical student</a> in 2026 to increase representation in medicine, an exciting milestone made possible by your generosity.</p>
<p>None of these accomplishments belong to any one individual. They reflect the collective strength of WSMA’s members, physician leaders, and staff working together on behalf of patients and the profession.</p>
<p>Thank you for your membership, your advocacy, and your belief in the power of organized medicine. As we look ahead to 2026, I am deeply optimistic about what we will continue to accomplish together.</p>
</div> | 12/30/2025 9:16:35 AM | 12/30/2025 9:55:25 AM |
| end-of-year-update-wsma-advocacy-on-wiser-program | End-of-Year Update: WSMA Advocacy on WISeR Program | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/advocacy-report/2025/december-19/end-of-year-update-wsma-advocacy-on-wiser-program | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/advocacy-report/2025/december/medicare-istock-1047505000-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Paper with Medicare as a heading" /></div>
<h5>Dec. 19, 2025 </h5>
<h2>End-of-Year Update: WSMA Advocacy on WISeR Program </h2>
<p>Washington state is among six states selected for a new federal prior authorization pilot program scheduled to begin Jan. 1, 2026 for enrollees of traditional Medicare. Known as the Wasteful and Inappropriate Service Reduction Model, the program was developed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and will apply prior authorization requirements to selected services, with artificial intelligence playing a major role in utilization management.</p>
<p>Over the past year, the WSMA has engaged extensively to raise serious concerns about the WISeR Model and its potential impact on Washington physicians and Medicare patients.</p>
<h3>WSMA advocacy and congressional engagement </h3>
<p>The WSMA has communicated numerous significant concerns about the WISeR Model to Washington state's congressional delegation, CMS Regional Office X, and other federal policymakers. In addition, the WSMA led a coalition of impacted state medical associations in a <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/newsletters/2025/wiser-coalition-letter-11042025.pdf]" target="_blank">joint letter to CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz</a>&nbsp;outlining shared concerns, including: </p>
<ul>
<li>Increased administrative burden on physician practices.</li>
<li>New barriers to timely, appropriate care for traditional Medicare patients.</li>
<li>A vendor incentive structure that could encourage excessive denials driven more by profit motives than by fair, clinically grounded decision-making.</li>
</ul>
<p>The WSMA emphasized that introducing AI-enabled utilization management into traditional Medicare represents a fundamental shift with far-reaching implications, and that CMS has not adequately demonstrated patient protections, transparency, or accountability safeguards.</p>
<h3>Legislative efforts to repeal the WISeR Model </h3>
<p>At the request of Sen. Patty Murray and Rep. Suzan DelBene, the WSMA formally endorsed both the Senate and House versions of the Seniors Deserve SMARTER (Streamlined Medical Approvals for Timely, Efficient Recovery) Care Act, legislation that would repeal the WISeR Model in its entirety.</p>
<p>In support of the Senate version, Bridget Bush, MD, FASA, shared the following statement: </p>
<p>"The Washington State Medical Association applauds Senator Murray for introducing the Seniors Deserve SMARTER Care Act - a necessary step toward protecting patients from burdensome prior authorization policies. The proposed legislation recognizes what physicians and patients have long warned about: the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services' WISeR pilot would impose unnecessary delays, expand administrative waste, and ultimately jeopardize patient access to care. We stand firmly with Senator Murray in calling for a complete prohibition on implementation of the WISeR Model and urge lawmakers to enact the SMARTER Care Act swiftly to ensure timely, patient-centered care remains the priority." </p>
<h3>Media coverage and public awareness </h3>
<p>Advocacy on the part of WSMA's physician leadership and staff has helped elevate concerns about the WISeR Model in both state and national media: </p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/health/murray-pushes-to-halt-federal-pilot-adding-ai-to-medicare-approvals/">Murray pushes to halt federal pilot adding AI to Medicare approvals - Seattle Times</a> </li>
<li><a href="https://stateline.org/2025/12/04/medicares-new-ai-experiment-sparks-alarm-among-doctors-lawmakers/">Medicare's new AI experiment sparks alarm among doctors, lawmakers - Stateline</a> </li>
<li><a href="https://www.kuow.org/stories/thousands-of-washington-state-medicare-users-could-soon-have-claims-denied-by-ai">Thousands of Washington state Medicare users could soon have claims denied by AI - KUOW Radio</a> </li>
<li><a href="https://www.modernhealthcare.com/politics-regulation/mh-wiser-model-medicare-prior-authorization-providers/?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20Daily%20Health%20Policy%20Report&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9cdbAV9yDZnMa-xoBE32OsKk80Antek437bX_czcpbT6jRlndjIH3oI390aEqk5H0bGBdKJU2-MdhttHbVsw69QQYk9A&amp;_hsmi=388105771&amp;utm_content=388105771&amp;utm_source=hs_email">WISeR Model Adding Medicare Prior Auth Worries Providers - Modern Healthcare</a> </li>
<li><a href="https://washingtonstatestandard.com/2025/09/25/ai-reviews-rolling-out-for-medicare-in-wa-for-some-procedures/">AI reviews rolling out for Medicare in WA for some procedures - Washington State Standard</a> </li>
</ul>
<h3>Looking ahead: Monitoring implementation requires physician feedback </h3>
<p>Despite sustained advocacy efforts from the WSMA and other medical associations at the federal level, CMS has not indicated an intention to abandon or delay implementation of the WISeR Model. As a result, WSMA's focus will now expand to supporting impacted physician groups as they prepare for and navigate the program.</p>
<p>At the same time, WSMA's advocacy does not end here. Physician experience under WISeR will be critical to informing ongoing congressional oversight and future CMS decision-making. The WSMA is uniquely positioned to serve as a conduit between Washington physicians, members of Congress, and CMS.</p>
<p>We strongly encourage physician groups subject to WISeR to share their experiences, including administrative challenges, access issues, and any observed impacts on patient care-positive or negative. This feedback will be essential as the WSMA continues to press for accountability and reform.</p>
<p>To share your experience or concerns, contact WSMA Director of Policy Jeb Shepard at <a href="mailto:jeb@wsma.org">jeb@wsma.org</a>.</p>
</div> | 12/18/2025 11:59:43 AM | 12/19/2025 12:00:00 AM |
| 5-dates-you-need-to-know-for-the-2026-legislative-session | 5 Dates You Need to Know for the 2026 Legislative Session | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/advocacy-report/2025/december-5/5-dates-you-need-to-know-for-the-2026-legislative-session | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/advocacy-report/2025/december/stock-image-2025-wa-state-capitol-fall-large-for-web.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Washington state capitol building seen through trees" /></div>
<h5>Dec. 5, 2025 </h5>
<h2>5 Dates You Need to Know for the 2026 Legislative Session </h2>
<ul>
<li><strong>Dec. 4 - Election certification</strong>: There were nine special elections for state legislative positions across six legislative districts on the ballot this year. Democrats retained all nine seats to maintain strong majorities in both the state House and Senate. The election was certified yesterday, Dec. 4, and is another step in the process toward swearing in new and returning legislators for the 2026 session. </li>
<li><strong>Mid-December - Gov. Bob Ferguson's budget proposal</strong>: By law, the governor must annually propose a budget by Dec. 20. The 2026 legislative session takes place in a supplemental budget year, meaning lawmakers' focus is typically on making tweaks to last session's enacted two-year budget. This will be Gov. Ferguson's first opportunity to propose a comprehensive budget to the Legislature, against the backdrop of a worsening state budget gap and state impacts of cuts from H.R. 1 at the federal level. </li>
<li><strong>Jan. 7 at 5:30 p.m. - WSMA pre-session webinar</strong>: Join WSMA's government affairs team for a legislative update via Zoom at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 7. We'll run through our priority issues for the 2026 session and everything else in Olympia that will be impacting patient care and the physician community when session starts on Jan. 12. <a href="https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/OnbzytQKSgKIfMlltbnTnQ#/registration">Registration is required</a>. You will receive a confirmation email containing the connection details after completing the registration. </li>
<li><strong>Jan. 28 - 2026 WSMA Legislative Summit</strong>: The Summit takes place at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia and gives Washington's physicians, physician assistants, residents, and medical students an opportunity to amplify our advocacy message with state legislators. The event will include updates from health care policy leaders, information on WSMA's legislative agenda, and optional meetings with your local legislators. This event is free for WSMA members and space is limited so <a href="[@]wsma/events/legislative_summit/wsma/events/wsma_legislative_summit/legislative_summit.aspx?hkey=795731a5-79ba-45b0-b78b-b9dfbfc336e5">register today</a>! </li>
<li><strong>March 12 - Sine die</strong>: The 2026 legislative session is a short, 60-day session scheduled to adjourn on March 12, provided legislators do not need additional time to work through budget or policy issues that would require a special session. </li>
</ul>
</div> | 12/4/2025 11:46:37 AM | 12/5/2025 12:00:00 AM |
| doh-update-on-respiratory-viruses-including-highly-pathogenic-avian-influenza | DOH Update on Respiratory Viruses, Including Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/advocacy-report/2025/december-5/doh-update-on-respiratory-viruses-including-highly-pathogenic-avian-influenza | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/advocacy-report/2025/december/getty-images-43gphjyczae-unsplash-for-web.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Masked patient getting a vaccination" /></div>
<h5>Dec. 5, 2025 </h5>
<h2>DOH Update on Respiratory Viruses, Including Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza </h2>
<p>As respiratory virus season approaches, the Washington State Department of Health encourages all Washington residents to protect themselves by getting updated vaccines for <a href="https://doh.wa.gov/you-and-your-family/immunization/diseases-and-vaccines/covid-19">COVID-19</a>, <a href="https://doh.wa.gov/public-health-provider-resources/public-health-system-resources-and-services/immunization/influenza-flu-information">flu</a>, and <a href="https://doh.wa.gov/you-and-your-family/immunization/diseases-and-vaccines/respiratory-syncytial-virus-rsv">RSV</a>, if recommended. The DOH <a href="https://doh.wa.gov/data-and-statistical-reports/diseases-and-chronic-conditions/communicable-disease-surveillance-data/respiratory-illness-data-dashboard">Respiratory Illness Dashboard</a> shows that while COVID-19 activity is decreasing from an early autumn peak, emergency department visits and hospitalizations for influenza and RSV are starting to slowly climb and are expected to continue rising in the coming weeks. Influenza positive laboratory tests are also increasing according to the DOH <a href="https://doh.wa.gov/data-and-statistical-reports/diseases-and-chronic-conditions/communicable-disease-surveillance-data/influenza-surveillance-data">Weekly Influenza Update</a>. </p>
<p>A Grays Harbor County resident with <a href="https://doh.wa.gov/newsroom/grays-harbor-county-resident-dies-complications-avian-influenza">H5N5 avian influenza died in November</a>. Exposure to domestic poultry, their environment, or wild birds were the most likely source of exposure for this patient. The risk of avian influenza increases in the fall and winter because migratory birds can carry the virus and spread it to domestic animals, including commercial poultry farms and backyard flocks. </p>
<p>Physicians should consider highly pathogenic avian influenza infection in patients who present with acute respiratory illness, isolated conjunctivitis, or influenza-like illness. Assess patients with suspected or confirmed influenza for exposure to wild, captive, and livestock animals, including poultry and cattle; sick or dead animals or their environment, including pets; consuming or handling raw animal products (e.g., raw cow milk, products made with raw cow milk, and raw meat-based pet food); or recent close contact with a symptomatic person who is suspected or confirmed to have avian influenza. Additional details on highly pathogenic avian influenza are available from the <a href="https://doh.wa.gov/sites/default/files/2025-11/ProviderAlert-H5N5-11-2025.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Department of Health's recent provider alert.</a> </p>
</div> | 12/4/2025 11:45:13 AM | 12/5/2025 12:00:00 AM |
| end-of-year-update-wsma-on-enhanced-premium-tax-credits | End-of-Year Update: WSMA on Enhanced Premium Tax Credits | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/advocacy-report/2025/december-19/end-of-year-update-wsma-on-enhanced-premium-tax-credits | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/advocacy-report/2025/december/aca-stock-image-645px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Paper with &quot;Affordable Care Act&quot; highlighted" /></div>
<h5>Dec. 19, 2025 </h5>
<h2>End-of-Year Update: WSMA on Enhanced Premium Tax Credits </h2>
<p>Throughout 2025, the WSMA has been closely tracking Congress's efforts around enhanced Affordable Care Act premium tax credits-the subsidies that have helped keep health insurance affordable for millions of Americans, including many in Washington. Enhanced credits enacted during the pandemic and extended through this year are set to expire on Dec. 31, risking <a href="https://www.insurance.wa.gov/about-us/news/2025/average-21-rate-increase-approved-washingtons-2026-exchange-health-insurance-market">significant premium increases</a> and coverage disruptions for patients if not extended.</p>
<p>The WSMA has expressed support during meetings with Washington's congressional delegation, followed by <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/newsletters/2025/wsma-letter-sen-murray-premium-tax-credits.pdf]" target="_blank">written correspondence</a>, and has urged WSMA members to reach out to lawmakers. Thank you to those of you who took the time to respond to our calls to action.</p>
<p>Last week in the U.S. Senate, lawmakers voted on competing proposals to address the expiration. Both the Democratic plan to extend the enhanced credits for three years and a Republican alternative that sought to deposit funds directly into health savings accounts failed to secure the 60 votes needed under Senate rules, effectively leaving the enhanced credits set to lapse and creating uncertainty about costs for 2026.</p>
<p>This week in the U.S. House of Representatives, after discussion of one or more votes being brought up to address health care affordability, House Republican leadership announced on Tuesday that no deal was in place and further consideration of the issue would be deferred indefinitely.</p>
<p>We will continue to monitor these developments and advocate for policies that preserve patient access to affordable coverage and minimize downstream impacts on physicians and practices. Stay tuned for updates early in the new year as Congress resumes work.</p>
</div> | 12/18/2025 11:58:51 AM | 12/5/2025 12:00:00 AM |
| join-wsma-in-urging-washingtons-congressional-delegation-to-extend-enhanced-premium-tax-credits | Join WSMA in Urging Washington's Congressional Delegation to Extend Enhanced Premium Tax Credits | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/advocacy-report/2025/november-21/join-wsma-in-urging-washingtons-congressional-delegation-to-extend-enhanced-premium-tax-credits | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/advocacy-report/2025/november/aca-stock-image-645px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Text on a page, with Affordable Care Act highlighted" /></div>
<h5>Nov. 21, 2025 </h5>
<h2>Join WSMA in Urging Washington's Congressional Delegation to Extend Enhanced Premium Tax Credits </h2>
<p>The WSMA sent letters to members of Washington's congressional delegation this week urging action before year's end to extend the enhanced premium tax credits and protect patients from major health insurance premium increases. Our letter highlighted the impact on coverage affordability, market stability, and continuity of care for communities across our state.</p>
<p>If Congress fails to reauthorize the tax credits, an estimated 216,000 Washingtonians will be affected, with many likely to drop their insurance coverage. These potential losses would compound the harmful Medicaid cuts included in H.R. 1, the "One Big Beautiful Bill" that passed in July, which KFF estimates will reduce Medicaid spending in Washington by $4.75 billion when the <a href="https://wsma.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMjE3MDUwOSZwPTEmdT0xMDkzMTc0NjI5JmxpPTExODc4NzI3NQ/index.html">bill takes effect</a>. To see how your congressional district would be impacted, visit Washington Health Benefit Exchange's <a href="https://wsma.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMjE3MDUwOSZwPTEmdT0xMDkzMTc0NjI5JmxpPTExODc4NzI3Ng/index.html">Legislative Reports &amp; Presentations page</a>.</p>
<p>Now we need your voice, too. Please take a moment to participate in our call to action and send a message to your <a href="https://takeaction.wsma.org/urge-lawmakers-to-extend-enhanced-premium-tax-credits-house/" target="_blank">representatives</a> and <a href="https://takeaction.wsma.org/urge-lawmakers-to-extend-enhanced-premium-tax-credits-senate/" target="_blank">senators</a>. Your advocacy helps ensure Congress understands the real-world consequences for Washington patients and practices.</p>
</div> | 11/20/2025 12:56:15 PM | 11/21/2025 12:00:00 AM |
| legislators-to-convene-in-olympia-as-2026-session-nears | Legislators to Convene in Olympia as 2026 Session Nears | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/advocacy-report/2025/november-21/legislators-to-convene-in-olympia-as-2026-session-nears | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/advocacy-report/2025/november/stock-image-2025-wa-state-capitol-fall-large-for-web.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="State capitol building visible through trees" /></div>
<h5>Nov. 21, 2025 </h5>
<h2>Legislators to Convene in Olympia as 2026 Session Nears </h2>
<p>State lawmakers will be at the Capitol the week of Dec. 1 for legislative committee assembly, an annual event intended to provide a preview of the upcoming legislative session that begins on Jan. 12 and allow legislators and stakeholders to reconnect. Standing legislative committees meet in conjunction with the event, with the House Health Care and Wellness Committee receiving updates on artificial intelligence in health care and certificate of need, and the Senate Health and Long Term Care Committee considering palliative care and health care pricing transparency. The full schedule of committee meetings can be found <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/committeeschedules/Home#//0/11-18-2025/12-18-2025/Schedule///Bill/">here</a>.</p>
<p>WSMA staff will use the opportunity to share information with legislators about our priorities for the 2026 session of maintaining access to care for Medicaid enrollees and increasing reimbursement rates; mitigating the business and occupation tax increase; reforming prior authorization; preserving access to vaccines and preventative services; promoting medical title transparency; and defending against inappropriate scope of practice proposals. We will also be connecting with lobbyists from the physician community and other allies.</p>
<p>Legislative budget writers got marginally good news this week in the final state revenue forecast of the year, with a nominal uptick in anticipated tax collections. The state is still expected to face a considerable deficit of at least $2 billion that will need to be reconciled in the 2026 session, however, following a $16 billion budget gap that was bridged earlier this year through a combination of tax increases and spending cuts.</p>
<p>Further tax increases and budget cuts are expected to be considered in the coming months. On the revenue side of the ledger, a new high-earner income tax <a href="https://washingtonstatestandard.com/2025/10/30/washington-state-democrats-look-at-imposing-income-tax-on-higher-earners/">is being floated</a>, joining existing proposals to establish a state wealth tax and another to create a payroll tax along the lines of what is in place in the city of Seattle. The WSMA will engage extensively in conversations around the state budget, looking to defend against cuts to health care programs and ensure that tax proposals do not adversely impact physician organizations.</p>
</div> | 11/20/2025 12:56:08 PM | 11/21/2025 12:00:00 AM |
| registration-now-available-for-all-physician-leadership-trainings-in-2026 | Registration Now Available for All Physician Leadership Trainings in 2026 | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2025/november-14/registration-now-available-for-all-physician-leadership-trainings-in-2026 | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2025/november/image002.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="people in meeting room listening to a speaker" /></div>
<h5>Nov. 14, 2025</h5>
<h2>Registration Now Available for All Physician Leadership Trainings in 2026 </h2>
<p>Make the WSMA's Center for Leadership Development your home for professional development in 2026, to help you hone competencies not taught in medical school but increasingly important to thrive in your chosen career path both professionally and personally. You'll join a growing cohort of physician alumni throughout Washington state, many of whom have since moved into leadership tracks in their practice settings. WSMA's leadership courses are led by Edward A. Walker, MD, MHA. Non-WSMA member pricing is available for all courses. These activities have been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em>â„¢.</p>
<h3><strong>Physician Leadership Course - </strong><strong><em>Most popular! </em></strong> </h3>
<p><em>Two hybrid-distance options available </em> </p>
<p>The WSMA's <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">Physician Leadership Course</a> combines face-to-face and online learning to enable physicians and physician assistants 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. Two sessions will be offered in 2026. Space is limited; <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">register</a> to reserve your spot today.</p>
<p>March 6 - May 8, 2026 - <em>Space is filling fast, register soon! </em> </p>
<p>Sept. 11 - Nov. 20, 2026</p>
<h3><strong>Team-Based Leadership Course </strong></h3>
<p> </p>
<p><em>Sept. 18 - Oct. 16, 2026 </em> </p>
<p>A month-long hybrid-distance course with three live educational workshop days intended for physicians and their administrative partners who wish to improve team function and achieve greater operational success. The <a href="[@]wsma/education/physician_leadership/team-based-leadership-course/wsma/physician_leadership/dyad_leadership_course/dyad_leadership_course.aspx?hkey=37c40fee-c1ac-4056-a613-cd82a083db6c">Team-Based Leadership Course</a> develops knowledge and skills based on your operational needs and is adapted to fit the specific clinical culture of participating teams. Registrants must have completed the WSMA Physician Leadership Course or be on a leadership track within their practice or organization. Space is limited; <a href="[@]wsma/education/physician_leadership/team-based-leadership-course/wsma/physician_leadership/dyad_leadership_course/dyad_leadership_course.aspx?hkey=37c40fee-c1ac-4056-a613-cd82a083db6c">register</a> to reserve your spot today.</p>
<h3><strong>Leadership Masterclass </strong></h3>
<p> </p>
<p><em>Oct. 8-10, 2026 </em> </p>
<p>WSMA's <a href="[@]wsma/education/physician_leadership/leadership_masterclass/wsma/physician_leadership/leadership_masterclass/leadership_masterclass.aspx?hkey=b3ffc0a4-6cad-4a06-98aa-6e1a5e1e64b2">Leadership Masterclass</a> is an intensive three-day adaptive-learning course that examines the complex challenges faced by seasoned physician leaders and provides the tools necessary to solve them. The course will provide additional growth opportunities to physicians who have completed our <a href="https://wsma.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMjE0OTkwNiZwPTEmdT0xMDc4MTA4MzYwJmxpPTExODQ3MjUwNw/index.html">Physician Leadership Course</a> and have moved on to middle levels of management in their facilities. Space is limited; <a href="[@]wsma/education/physician_leadership/leadership_masterclass/wsma/physician_leadership/leadership_masterclass/leadership_masterclass.aspx?hkey=b3ffc0a4-6cad-4a06-98aa-6e1a5e1e64b2">register</a> to reserve your spot today.</p>
<h3><strong>WSMA LEAD Program</strong></h3>
<p> </p>
<p><em>Flexible schedules</em> </p>
<p>Looking for one-on-one leadership coaching? Check out WSMA's LEAD Program, an integrated model that combines traditional coaching with operational mentorship advice. Perfect for physicians or physician assistants who may prefer more personalized and flexible education. Learn more on the <a href="https://wsma.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMjE0OTkwNiZwPTEmdT0xMDc4MTA4MzYwJmxpPTExODQ3MjUxMA/index.html">program webpage</a> </p>
<h3><strong>Questions</strong></h3>
<p> </p>
<p>Visit the <a href="https://wsma.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMjE0OTkwNiZwPTEmdT0xMDc4MTA4MzYwJmxpPTExODQ3MjUwOQ/index.html">WSMA Center for Leadership Development</a> to learn more about these courses and other resources designed with your career and personal development in mind. Questions? Contact <a href="mailto:monica@wsma.org">Monica Salgaonkar</a>.</p>
</div> | 11/13/2025 11:28:23 AM | 11/14/2025 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma-joins-others-in-calling-for-hhs-secretary-kennedys-resignation | WSMA Joins Others in Calling for HHS Secretary Kennedy's Resignation | Advocacy | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2025/november-14/wsma-joins-others-in-calling-for-hhs-secretary-kennedys-resignation | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2025/november/dept-health-and-human-services-hq-sign-washington-dc-2025-02-07-13-58-43-1.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="HHS Building" /></div>
<h5>Nov. 14, 2025</h5>
<h2>WSMA Joins Others in Calling for HHS Secretary Kennedy's Resignation </h2>
<p>WSMA President Bridget Bush, MD, this week issued a message to WSMA members: </p>
<p>"Earlier this year, the Washington State Medical Association issued a <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2025/president-john-bramhall-md-phd-reaffirms-the-wsmas-commitment-to-medical-ethics">statement</a> reaffirming its support for the AMA Principles of Medical Ethics, a code of conduct for the physician profession that calls for a dedication to professional integrity and a recognition of patient welfare as paramount. That statement was prompted by a series of concerning actions from our federal administration, central among them the confirmation of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as the country's leading authority on matters of health care over the concerns of thousands of <a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/25482818-committee-to-protect-health-care-rfk-jr/">physicians</a> and <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/09/health/kennedy-hhs-nobel-laureates.html">scientists</a> who pointed to his lack of credentials, his lack of respect for scientific evidence, and his attacks on established medical approaches to disease prevention, such as vaccination, as rendering him unsuitable for assuming the charge of Americans' health and welfare.</p>
<p>"Soon after releasing that statement, the WSMA was compelled to <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2025/defendants-in-wsma-v-kennedy-agree-to-restore-deleted-public-health-data">sue Sec. Kennedy and the Department of Health and Human Services</a> to stop the deletion of vital public health and science data from taxpayer-funded websites. We believed this nonpartisan action was critical for restoring information access, promoting transparency, and supporting the evidence-based decision-making at the heart of the patient-physician relationship, and fully in accordance with the ethical principles that guide the physician profession.</p>
<p>"Now, at the request of the Infectious Diseases Society of Washington, the WSMA has joined more than 50 medical organizations, including more than 20 national medical associations, in signing on to <a href="https://www.idsociety.org/news--publications-new/articles/2025/joint-statement-calling-for-secretary-kennedy-resignation/">a letter calling for Secretary Kennedy's resignation to protect the health of the American people</a>. This decision was reached after careful consideration by our executive committee and board of trustees.</p>
<p>"This is not a political or partisan stance, but rather one grounded in what's best for patients and community health and wellness. As trained health care professionals, we have a responsibility to speak when we see anti-science actions that undermine public health and safety of our patients. In the past several months, we have witnessed a consistent pattern of behavior that has undermined scientific integrity, disrupted the work of our Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Department of Health and Human Services, sowed vaccine policy disinformation and confusion, and helped to spread unproven and dangerous medical advice.</p>
<p>"We cannot stand by and tolerate these injustices to our population which will inevitably cost lives. We stand with the 50 medical organizations, as well as the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American College of Physicians, and others who call for the replacement of Secretary Kennedy with an appointee who has appropriate experience and expertise, who will make health care decisions based on accurate data and scientific findings." </p>
<h3>Keep WSMA's voice strong </h3>
<p>Regardless of the challenges confronting us, providing leadership for Washington's physician community and ensuring physicians have a strong voice for safe, quality, and equitable care is WSMA's value proposition to its members. Membership support makes our work for you possible. Please take a moment to <a href="[@]wsma/membership/join_renew/wsma/membership/join_renew/join_renew.aspx?hkey=37a820cf-9d05-4812-b9dd-c29b9a75356d">renew your membership for 2026</a>. Thank you.</p>
</div> | 11/13/2025 11:28:17 AM | 11/14/2025 12:00:00 AM |