| board-of-naturopathy-moves-forward-with-non-surgical-cosmetic-procedures-rulemaking | Board of Naturopathy Moves Forward with Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures Rulemaking | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/november-23/board-of-naturopathy-moves-forward-with-non-surgical-cosmetic-procedures-rulemaking | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>November 23, 2022</h5>
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<h2>Board of Naturopathy Moves Forward with Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures Rulemaking</h2>
<p>Despite overwhelming opposition from the physician community and a division within the naturopathic community, the Washington State Board of Naturopathy voted to move forward with its years-long effort to include non-surgical cosmetic procedures within their scope of practice. The proposal was slimmed down to focus on the use of botulinum toxin. Previous iterations included the use of dermal fillers and other inert substances.</p>
<p>The board will likely revisit this rulemaking during a <a href="[@]wsma/advocacy/legislative___regulatory/understanding_the_regulatory_process/wsma/advocacy/legislative_regulatory/understanding_the_regulatory_process/understanding_the_regulatory_process.aspx?hkey=0695da42-202f-458b-8127-cbfc07207c56">CR-102</a> hearing at its Feb. 10 meeting. The WSMA will attend the meeting to again share our patient safety concerns and our positions that the rulemaking is inconsistent with naturopathic medicine and that the Legislature should set a profession's scope of practice. The board is still receiving public testimony on this issue, and we encourage physicians and physician assistants to share their opposition to the proposal by emailing <a href="mailto:susan.gragg@doh.wa.gov">susan.gragg@doh.wa.gov</a>.</p>
<p>The WSMA would like to thank WSMA President Katina Rue, DO; Chris Chambers, MD; Andrea Kalus, MD; Kendra Bergstrom, MD; and Kate Impastato, MD, for delivering expert testimony on this issue, and for clearing their schedules to accommodate the meeting on short notice. We'd also like to thank the Washington Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons, Washington Society of Plastic Surgeons, Washington State Dermatology Association, and the American Academy of Dermatology for their continued partnership on this rulemaking.</p>
<p>If you have questions or thoughts on this rulemaking, please contact <a href="mailto:billie@wsma.org">WSMA Associate Policy Director Billie Dickinson</a>&nbsp;at <a href="mailto:billie@wsma.org">billie@wsma.org</a>.</p>
</div> | 11/23/2022 11:28:46 AM | 11/23/2022 11:28:19 AM | 11/23/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| in-new-survey-practices-continue-to-grapple-with-economic-hardship | In New Survey, Practices Continue to Grapple with Economic Hardship | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/november-23/in-new-survey-practices-continue-to-grapple-with-economic-hardship | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>November 23, 2022</h5>
<h2>In New Survey, Practices Continue to Grapple with Economic Hardship</h2>
<p>Results from a new survey from the WSMA and the Washington State Medical Group Management Association make clear that physician practices and clinics in Washington continue to face severe economic strain, putting at risk the ability of patients to access care in communities across the state.</p>
<p>Throughout the pandemic, the WSMA and the WSMGMA have jointly conducted economic impact surveys of physician clinics in Washington state to gauge the impact of the pandemic and pandemic-associated pressures on patient access to care and to help inform our advocacy on behalf of the physician community.</p>
<p>A few key highlights from the latest survey, which featured responses from 82 physician practices:</p>
<ul>
<li>89% have experienced staffing shortages due to COVID-19. Of those:
<ul>
<li>77% are experiencing challenges filling administrative staff positions.</li>
<li>75% are experiencing challenges filling medical assistant positions.</li>
<li>40% are having trouble filling nursing positions.</li>
<li>33% are having trouble hiring physicians.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>46% have had to reduce patient access. Almost 40% have had to reduce their office hours, as well as services and treatments offered to patients.</li>
<li>93% have less than four months days cash on hand. Industry standard is 18 weeks.</li>
<li>51% said that inflation has had a significant impact on their practice, while 44% said that inflation has had some impact on their practice. Of those impacted by inflation:
<ul>
<li>89% noted the rising cost of labor.</li>
<li>Over 30% have reduced office hours, patient access, and services/treatments offered to patients in response.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Just over 50% are not confident they'll be able to provide the same level of patient access a year from now.</li>
<li>46% have had to limit Medicaid panels due to their financial situation. The most commonly cited solution: increasing Medicaid reimbursement rates to Medicare rates.</li>
</ul>
<p>Thank you to the practices that responded to the survey. The WSMA will use these data points as a snapshot of what is happening in practices across the state in its discussions with policymakers.</p>
</div> | 11/23/2022 11:22:22 AM | 11/23/2022 11:19:36 AM | 11/23/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| register-for-the-next-health-equity-m-and-m-webinar-on-dec-9 | Register for the Next Health Equity M&M Webinar on Dec. 9 | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/november-23/register-for-the-next-health-equity-m-and-m-webinar-on-dec-9 | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/november/mm-equity-webinar-series-2022-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="Health Equity M&amp;M Webinar graphic" /></div>
<h5>November 23, 2022</h5>
<h2>Register for the Next Health Equity M&amp;M Webinar on Dec. 9</h2>
<p>Every other month, the WSMA and WSMA Foundation host health equity M&amp;M discussions (think "morbidity and mortality," but with a focus on health equity), to help provide a framework for members to recognize and examine our biases and to identify the ways systemic racism exists in our organizations. You'll have new tools to think critically and identify when to advocate for your patients from historically marginalized communities, ensuring they receive the highest quality clinical care.</p>
<p>During each webinar, Edwin Lindo, JD, facilitates case-based discussions. Lindo is the assistant dean of social and health justice in the Office of Healthcare Equity, an associate teaching professor in the department of family medicine, and an adjunct associate teaching professor in the department of bioethics and humanities at the University of Washington School of Medicine. He teaches, presents, and writes on issues of race and racism within the field of medicine and greater society. He is internationally recognized as a conscious voice for racial and social justice.</p>
<p>This series fosters a space conducive to building a community of professionals focused on achieving health equity, allowing for discussions of charged but necessary topics. Each webinar is protected under WSMA's CQIP as recognized by the WA DOH and pursuant to RCW 70.225.040. By registering, you agree to maintain the confidentiality of the cases discussed pursuant to RCW 43.70.510, RCW 70.41.200, and RCW 4.24.250.</p>
<p>Register for the webinar <a href="[@]Shared_Content/Events/Event_Display.aspx?eventkey=hlthequimm">online</a> (members only; sign-in required). This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em>â„¢.</p>
</div> | 11/23/2022 11:03:38 AM | 11/22/2022 10:02:39 AM | 11/23/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| the-washington-medical-commission-is-recruiting | The Washington Medical Commission is Recruiting | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/november-23/the-washington-medical-commission-is-recruiting | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>November 23, 2022</h5>
<h2>The Washington Medical Commission is Recruiting </h2>
<p>The Washington Medical Commission is accepting applications from physicians to fill upcoming vacancies.</p>
<p>The commission is looking for people willing to study the issues, review disciplinary cases, and make decisions in the best interest of the public to help fulfill its mission of promoting patient safety and enhancing the integrity of the medical profession. The commission will have openings beginning July 1, 2023, for:</p>
<ul>
<li>One physician representing Congressional District 2</li>
<li>One physician representing Congressional District 4</li>
<li>One physician representing Congressional District 10</li>
<li>One physician-at-large</li>
<li>Two public members</li>
</ul>
<p>To learn more about the positions, <a href="https://wmc.wa.gov/sites/default/files/public/Notice%20of%20Recruitment%202023.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">review the recruitment notice</a>. Additional information regarding service and a link to the governor's application can be found on the <a href="https://wmc.wa.gov/medical-commission-members">Washington Medical Commission website</a>. Applications, along with a current resume, must be received by March 24. If you have questions, contact Amelia Boyd at <a href="mailto:amelia.boyd@wmc.wa.gov">amelia.boyd@wmc.wa.gov</a> or 360.918.6336.</p>
</div> | 11/23/2022 11:23:23 AM | 11/23/2022 11:22:57 AM | 11/23/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| webinars-on-long-covid-and-health-care-worker-behavioral-health-support | Webinars on Long COVID and Health Care Worker Behavioral Health Support | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/november-23/webinars-on-long-covid-and-health-care-worker-behavioral-health-support | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>November 23, 2022</h5>
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<h2>Webinars on Long COVID and Health Care Worker Behavioral Health Support </h2>
<p>The Washington State Department of Health is offering three upcoming sessions that may be of interest to some WSMA members.</p>
<h3>The Landscape of Post-COVID-19 Conditions - Where We Are Now?</h3>
<p>Dec. 2, noon<strong>-</strong>1 p.m. Free.</p>
<p>In this presentation, we will cover the known epidemiology and clinical considerations of post-COVID-19 conditions. We will review updates to case definitions, discuss the current understanding of the clinical spectrum, and explore possible underlying causes and risk factors.</p>
<p>Speaker: Dr. Eric J. Chow, MD, MS, MPH, chief of communicable disease epidemiology and immunization for Public Health-Seattle and King County and clinical assistant professor in the Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and in the Department of Epidemiology at the UW School of Medicine.</p>
<p><a href="https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/8047956050867195405">Find more information and register for the webinar</a>.</p>
<h3>Moral Injury and Personal Coping for Health Care Professionals</h3>
<p>Dec. 16, noon<strong>-</strong>1 p.m. Free.</p>
<p>Part 3 in the series: "Behavioral Health Support Refresher for Health Care Workers." Moral injury is a workplace term with origins in combat medicine that has recently been identified across work sectors with significant implications for physicians and health care professionals. This webinar will define and share more about how moral injury can "show up" at work, how some of the underlying causes can be effectively addressed, and how to recognize and divert unhealthy coping patterns to reduce symptoms of moral injury.</p>
<p>Speaker: Kira Mauseth, PhD, Washington State Department of Heath's Behavioral Health Strike Team.</p>
<p><a href="https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/5627802314613278219">Find more information and register for the webinar</a>.</p>
<h3>The Work Starts Here: Supporting Employees with Long COVID</h3>
<p>Jan. 13, noon<strong>-</strong>1p.m. Free.</p>
<p>This lecture serves to establish ways that employers can help identify, accommodate, and support employees with ongoing COVID-19 symptoms.</p>
<p>Speaker: Kyla Haggith, BSN, RN, PCCN-K, employee health services clinic and exposures team, Harborview Medical Center.</p>
<p><a href="https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/9123738018847843853">Find more information and register for the webinar</a>.</p>
</div> | 11/23/2022 11:06:31 AM | 11/22/2022 10:02:41 AM | 11/23/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| 2023-medicare-part-b-final-rule-features-expected-payment-reductions | 2023 Medicare Part B Final Rule Features Expected Payment Reductions | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/november-11/2023-medicare-part-b-final-rule-features-expected-payment-reductions | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>November 11, 2022</h5>
<h2>2023 Medicare Part B Final Rule Features Expected Payment Reductions</h2>
<p>The Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services has released the <a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/public-inspection/current">final rule for the CY 2023 Medicare physician fee schedule</a>. As expected, the rule contains provisions that, when combined with other cuts to the program, amount to about a 10% reduction in Medicare physician payments starting Jan. 1. The WSMA, the American Medical Association, and much of organized medicine are strongly opposing these cuts and urging congressional intervention before the end of the year. Join your voice to ours by <a href="https://physiciansgrassrootsnetwork.org/be-heard?vvsrc=%2fcampaigns%2f96014%2frespond">contacting your congressional representatives today</a>.</p>
<p>In the rule, the 2023 Medicare conversion factor will be reduced by approximately 4.48% from $34.61 to $33.06. This incorporates the budget neutrality adjustments, which are required by law to ensure payment rates for individual services don't result in changes to estimated Medicare spending, the required statutory update to the conversion factor for 2023 of 0%, and the expiration of the 3% supplemental increase to physician fee schedule payments for 2022.</p>
<p>In addition to the final rule's 4.48% reduction for physician services, congressional Pay-As-You-Go rules require an automatic 4% cut in the program starting in 2023 as a result of new federal spending having nothing to do with physicians. Unless <a href="https://physiciansgrassrootsnetwork.org/be-heard?vvsrc=%2fcampaigns%2f96014%2frespond">Congress acts by the end of the year</a>, cuts in physician Medicare payments will total 8.42% in 2023, which would severely impede patient access to care due to the forced closure of physician practices and put further strain on those that remained open during the pandemic.</p>
<p>In other top lines, courtesy of the Medical Group Management Association, the final rule:</p>
<ul>
<li>Finalizes implementation of provisions of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2022 that extend the application of certain Medicare telehealth flexibilities for an additional 151 days after the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency, such as allowing telehealth services to be furnished to patients in their homes.</li>
<li>Extends flexibilities to permit split/shared E/M visits to be billed based on one of three components (history, exam, or medical decision-making) or time until 2024.</li>
<li>Expands access to behavioral health by permitting marriage and family therapists, licensed professional counselors, and others to furnish behavioral health services under general, instead of direct, supervision.</li>
<li>Maintains the MIPS performance threshold at 75 points for the 2023 MIPS performance year/2025 payment year.</li>
<li>Adds five new MIPS Value Pathways related to nephrology, oncology, neurological conditions, and promoting wellness for voluntary reporting beginning in 2023.</li>
<li>Creates an advanced incentive payment pathway for certain low-revenue, new entrant accountable care organizations to bolster participation in the Medicare Shared Savings Program.</li>
</ul>
<p>For more analysis of the rule's provisions, <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/health-care-advocacy/advocacy-update/nov-5-2021-advocacy-update-spotlight-final-rule-2022-medicare?utm_source=SFMC&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_term=1152021&amp;utm_content=21-9997+Advocacy+Update+Newsletter+110521&amp;utm_campaign=Advocacy_Email_Newsletter_AdvocacyUpdate&amp;utm_uid=8809453&amp;utm_effort=">see this AMA article</a>. Additional information about the final rule is available in the <a href="https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/calendar-year-cy-2023-medicare-physician-fee-schedule-final-rule?utm_source=email&amp;utm_medium=marketo&amp;utm_campaign=gov-washingtonconnection-oct-2022-regalert1031&amp;mkt_tok=MTQ0LUFNSi02MzkAAAGH1B53i5dWXBFoq6oxvHPyLpGNzdAQLASX61P5QkHiBNI8SoXosd1Z8l2xi4GQP6sqt18RwTR3U32mDW841r76RXp6PmAH2R_yonQD5eFwHQ">2023 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule fact sheet</a>.</p>
</div> | 11/11/2022 9:44:54 AM | 11/8/2022 4:11:47 PM | 11/11/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| election-update-democrats-signal-strong-showing | Election Update: Democrats Signal Strong Showing | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/november-11/election-update-democrats-signal-strong-showing | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/november/i-voted-stickers-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="I Voted stickers" /></div>
<h5>November 11, 2022</h5>
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<h2>Election Update: Democrats Signal Strong Showing</h2>
<p>After months of buildup and drama, the 2022 midterm elections were held this past Tuesday, Nov. 8. Early returns show Democrats picking up a seat in our state's congressional delegation and maintaining wide majorities in both chambers of the Washington State Legislature. But "early" is the operative word as our state's mail-in voting system yields late ballot returns that can shift races substantially. The <a href="https://results.vote.wa.gov/results/20221108/">Washington Secretary of State's website</a> displays the latest results, and your WSMA will continue to provide election updates as late votes are counted (below results are current as of Thursday evening).</p>
<p>Top of mind for the WSMA are the two physician candidates in the field. Rep. Kim Schrier (D-8<sup>th</sup> Congressional District) was staked to a 52-48 lead in her swing district reelection effort. Lelach Rave, MD, a pediatrician running as a Democrat for an open seat in North Seattle's 46<sup>th</sup> Legislative District, was trailing in her race by a margin of 56-43.</p>
<p>In other high-profile races, Democrat Sen. Patty Murray defeated Republican challenger Tiffany Smiley, Democrat Marie Gluesenkamp Perez is leading Republican Joe Kent 51-49 in Southwest Washington's 3<sup>rd</sup> Congressional District, and Democrat Steve Hobbs is leading independent Julie Anderson by a margin of 49-47 for secretary of state.</p>
<p>If Tuesday's vote counts were binding, Democrats would be adding to their already wide majorities in Olympia, picking up one seat in the state Senate and three seats in the state House. After the first day of counting there were more than 600,000 votes yet to be counted, representing around 27% of the total ballots received. Recent experience shows that Republicans tend to vote later, and if the pattern holds it's likely many races will tighten and a few will flip, likely yielding a dynamic in Olympia that's similar to what we've seen in recent years.</p>
<p>Campaign themes were well-worn by the time voters cast their ballots, with Republicans focusing on concerns about inflation and public safety, while Democrats highlighted the importance of ensuring access to abortion and reproductive health care services. Republican hopes for a "red wave" were tempered by results in August's primary election that didn't live up to their expectations, though they still had aims of making gains in the state Legislature that don't look to be materializing.</p>
</div> | 11/11/2022 7:37:06 AM | 11/8/2022 4:11:41 PM | 11/11/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| how-practices-can-help-keep-their-apple-health-clients-enrolled | How Practices Can Help Keep Their Apple Health Clients Enrolled | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/november-11/how-practices-can-help-keep-their-apple-health-clients-enrolled | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/november/patient-in-waiting-room-645x425px.jpeg" class="pull-right" alt="patient in a waiting room" /></div>
<h5>November 11, 2022</h5>
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<h2>How Practices Can Help Keep Their Apple Health Clients Enrolled</h2>
<p>The Washington State Health Care Authority is asking physicians and physician practices to help their Medicaid patients stay covered by prioritizing contact information updates at every patient interaction.</p>
<p>Current Washington Apple Health clients will not lose their coverage during the public health emergency as long as they continue to meet residency, citizenship, or immigration requirements and do not request closure. To help ensure continued enrollment, clients should report changes, including changes to their household contact information.</p>
<h3>How physician practices can help</h3>
<p>To ensure your clients do not miss letters or notifications about their coverage, make sure their contact information is up to date in <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjExMDEuNjYwMTk5OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LndhaGVhbHRocGxhbmZpbmRlci5vcmcvIn0.1gYjwgX4HPwLLjsvV7wYkKhUua9KN20d1AHdpec6hng/s/704563189/br/147171777689-l">Washington Healthplanfinder</a> or with <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjExMDEuNjYwMTk5OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy53YXNoaW5ndG9uY29ubmVjdGlvbi5vcmcvaG9tZS8ifQ.RFuOHPCLEIMiujNxsxDcfRpAGUIgO9nDQ5j5J8SAuvE/s/704563189/br/147171777689-l">Washington Connection</a>. Updating client contact information ensures they will receive important notices about their coverage including renewal and eligibility review letters. Visit <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjExMDEuNjYwMTk5OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5oY2Eud2EuZ292L2hlYWx0aC1jYXJlLXNlcnZpY2VzLXN1cHBvcnRzL2FwcGxlLWhlYWx0aC1tZWRpY2FpZC1jb3ZlcmFnZS91cGRhdGUtbXktaW5jb21lLW9yLWFkZHJlc3MtcmVwb3J0In0.y_Pb6rf9xllVqCDFYUqc4haf_sdddwIy6q4joR2rSsQ/s/704563189/br/147171777689-l">HCA Update my income or address (report a change) webpage</a> to learn how to report changes for Apple Health coverage or Classic Medicaid.</p>
<p>For more information on post-public health emergency activities view <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjExMDEuNjYwMTk5OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5oY2Eud2EuZ292L2Fzc2V0cy9mcmVlLW9yLWxvdy1jb3N0L2V4dGVybmFsLWd1aWRlLXRvLWFoLXBvc3QtcGhlLnBkZiJ9.t5WyV6xJvGXxvR95mWXSqQF7mztbxmt7ogBGyB9traE/s/704563189/br/147171777689-l">HCA External Guide to Washington Apple Health Post-PHE</a>. For questions about the public health emergency contact <a href="mailto:AHEligCovid19@hca.wa.gov">AHEligCovid19@hca.wa.gov</a>.</p>
</div> | 11/11/2022 9:53:01 AM | 11/8/2022 4:12:00 PM | 11/11/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| in-direct-appeal-washingtons-secretary-of-health-urges-health-care-to-promote-covid-19-boost | In Direct Appeal, Washington's Secretary of Health Urges Health Care to Promote COVID-19 Boo | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/november-11/in-direct-appeal-washingtons-secretary-of-health-urges-health-care-to-promote-covid-19-boost | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/november/woman-covid-vaccine-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Woman receiving COVID-19 vaccine" /></div>
<h5>November 11, 2022</h5>
<h2>In Direct Appeal, Washington's Secretary of Health Urges Health Care to Promote COVID-19 Booster</h2>
<p>The WSMA continues to encourage physician practices and clinics to incorporate the COVID-19 vaccines into practice workflows and employ effective strategies to talk with their patients about the vaccine, <a href="https://wsma.org/wsma/education/on_demand_webinars/covid-19-vaccines-webinar-series.aspx">offering education and resources to help</a>. This week, Washington Secretary of Health Umair A. Shah, MD, MPH, issued a letter to physicians and the health care community regarding bivalent COVID-19 boosters, underlining the need for greater attention and availability of these life-saving vaccines, noting that many patients are having difficulty scheduling timely appointments to receive it.</p>
<p>
The letter goes on to request the following actions:
</p>
<ol>
<li>"Encouraging your patients and staff members alike to get the bivalent booster if they are eligible by:</li>
<ol style="list-style-type: lower-alpha;">
<li>Contacting and/or sending reminder notices to your patients who are eligible.</li>
<li>Offering walk-in hours or clinics for patients in addition to scheduled appointments.</li>
<li>Holding employee vaccine clinics, offering work time of other benefits for your employees to get vaccinated to ensure your workforce stays healthy this winter.</li>
</ol>
<li>Making it easier for your patients to find appointments. <a href="https://doh.wa.gov/emergencies/covid-19/healthcare-providers/vaccine-information-healthcare-providers/toolkit-and-resources#AppointmentAccess">Find a guide on doing this here</a>.</li>
<ol style="list-style-type: lower-alpha;">
<li>Identify strategies to increase availability of appointments for your patients, especially in locations with high demand (in some areas, this can mean the next available COVID-19 booster appointment is several weeks out).</li>
</ol>
<li>Offering the COVID-19 booster to patients who are in your facility for other types of appointments. Remember, you can administer COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as the flu shot, and we strongly encourage you to recommend both vaccines to your patients. Combining appointments is convenient for your patient and can save staff time and resources.</li>
<li>Joining the <a href="https://doh.wa.gov/emergencies/covid-19/vaccine-information/power-providers-initiative">Power of Providers (POP) Initiative</a> launched last year and enlisting over 60,000 members of Washington's health care community since its inception. Please share POP resources available on our website with your patients and staff, including links to clinical information, patient handouts, and training videos."</li>
</ol>
<h3>Let the WSMA help</h3>
<p>If you haven't already, it's time to embed the COVID-19 vaccine into routine preventive care in your practice and engage patients in conversations about the vaccine. To help, the WSMA offers a two-part WSMA/DOH COVID-19 Vaccines Webinar Series. <a href="[@]wsma/education/on_demand_webinars/covid-19-vaccines-webinar-series.aspx">Begin CME activity</a>. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em>â„¢.</p>
</div> | 11/10/2022 4:21:54 PM | 11/10/2022 3:49:07 PM | 11/11/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| join-us-for-the-next-health-equity-m-and-m-webinar-on-dec-9 | Join Us for the Next Health Equity M&M Webinar on Dec. 9 | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/november-11/join-us-for-the-next-health-equity-m-and-m-webinar-on-dec-9 | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/november/mm-equity-webinar-series-2022-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="Health Equity M&amp;M Webinar series graphic" /></div>
<h5>November 11, 2022</h5>
<!-- **************************NEW ARTICLE****************************** -->
<h2>Join Us for the Next Health Equity M&amp;M Webinar on Dec. 9</h2>
<p>The WSMA and WSMA Foundation invite you to join your colleagues for the next session of our popular Health Equity M&amp;M Webinar Series (think "morbidity and mortality," but with a focus on health equity). Free for WSMA members, this webinar series is held on the second Friday of even-numbered months at noon.</p>
<p>Health equity M&amp;M discussions provide a framework for recognizing and examining our biases and identifying the ways systemic racism exists in our organizations. You'll have new tools to think critically and identify when to advocate for your patients from historically marginalized communities, ensuring they receive the highest quality clinical care.</p>
<p>During each webinar, Edwin Lindo, JD, facilitates case-based discussions. Lindo is the assistant dean of social and health justice in the Office of Healthcare Equity, an associate teaching professor in the department of family medicine, and an adjunct associate teaching professor in the department of bioethics and humanities at the University of Washington School of Medicine. He teaches, presents, and writes on issues of race and racism within the field of medicine and greater society. He is internationally recognized as a conscious voice for racial and social justice.</p>
<p>This series fosters a space conducive to building a community of professionals focused on achieving health equity; allowing for discussions of charged but necessary topics. Each webinar is protected under WSMA's CQIP as recognized by the WA DOH and pursuant to RCW 70.225.040. By registering, you agree to maintain the confidentiality of the cases discussed pursuant to RCW 43.70.510, RCW 70.41.200, and RCW 4.24.250.</p>
<p>Register for the webinar <a href="[@]Shared_Content/Events/Event_Display.aspx?eventkey=hlthequimm">online</a> (members only; sign-in required). This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em>â„¢.</p>
</div> | 11/10/2022 2:24:21 PM | 11/8/2022 4:10:38 PM | 11/11/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| your-advocate-behind-the-scenes-regulatory-and-policy-updates | Your Advocate Behind the Scenes: Regulatory and Policy Updates | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/november-11/your-advocate-behind-the-scenes-regulatory-and-policy-updates | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/november/state-capitol-olympia-2015-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="State capitol building in Olympia" /></div>
<h5>November 11, 2022</h5>
<!-- **************************NEW ARTICLE****************************** -->
<h2>Your Advocate Behind the Scenes: Regulatory and Policy Updates</h2>
<p>From protecting your data privacy to drawing focus to administrative costs, the following policy updates from this past month demonstrate WSMA's value to you, your patients, and your ability to practice medicine in Washington state.</p>
<h3>WSMA testifies with concerns regarding state auditor's office PMP recommendations</h3>
<p>Earlier this month, the Office of the Washington State Auditor released a <a href="https://portal.sao.wa.gov/ReportSearch/Home/ViewReportFile?arn=1031260&amp;isFinding=false&amp;sp=false">performance audit of Washington state's prescription monitoring program</a>. In its audit, the auditor's office recommends that the Washington State Legislature amend the relevant data privacy law so that the auditor's office can access identifiable prescription monitoring program data. The auditor's office notes it would use the data to identify "1. Potential instances of doctor shopping 2. Unusually high quantities of opioids prescribed. 3. Dangerous drug combinations."</p>
<p>As noted in our <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/newsletters/2022/wsma-letter-on-sao-pmp-recommendation.pdf]">official comments</a>&nbsp;and in testimony from WSMA Past President Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD, MBA, and WSMA Director of Policy Jeb Shepard at an Oct. 19 hearing of the Joint Legislative Audit Review Committee, WSMA supports the intent of the audit - to improve the effectiveness of the prescription monitoring program - but we are greatly concerned about the recommendation that would give the auditor's office unfettered access to identifiable prescription monitoring program data. A blunt approach that seeks to identify prescribing "outliers" absent any patient-specific clinical context and referring those "outliers" to regulatory authorities will accelerate the well-documented problem of patients struggling to access appropriate pain medications.</p>
<h3>Sunshine Committee recommends keeping public records exemption for Washington Physician Health Program in place </h3>
<p>The Sunshine Committee makes recommendations to the Legislature to repeal or amend exemptions to the Public Records Act. During its Oct. 18 meeting, the committee considered whether to recommend to the Legislature that it repeal or maintain the Public Records Act exemption at <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=42.56.360">42.56.360(1)(e)</a> addressing health care records related to the Impaired Physician Program.</p>
<p>Washington Physicians Health Program Executive Director Chris Bundy, MD, MPH, Washington Medical Commission legal counsel Rick Glein, and WSMA Director of Policy Jeb Shepard testified in support of keeping the exemption in place to protect public safety and encourage physicians and nonphysician licensed professionals to seek services when necessary. The Sunshine Committee voted unanimously to recommend to the Legislature that it keep these protections in place.</p>
<h3>WSMA presents to Health Care Cost Transparency Board on administrative cost drivers </h3>
<p>During an Oct. 19 meeting, immediate WSMA Past President Mika Sinanan, MD, PhD, and WSMA Director of Policy Jeb Shepard presented to the <a href="https://www.hca.wa.gov/about-hca/who-we-are/health-care-cost-transparency-board">Health Care Cost Transparency Board</a> on the need to address administrative costs as part of any meaningful approach to reducing total health care costs. The presentation and conversation lasted around 40 minutes and was well received. The board is responsible for reducing the state's total health care expenditures by identifying cost trends and cost drivers in the health care system and setting a health care cost growth benchmark for physicians, health care professionals, and payers, as well as reporting annually to the Legislature, including providing recommendations for lowering health care costs. The WSMA requested time on the agenda to discuss administrative costs because while much attention has been given to the cost of health care services, <a href="[@]wsma/advocacy/health_care_cost_transparency/wsma/advocacy/health_care_cost_transparency/health_care_cost_transparency.aspx?hkey=a9ff53b5-1080-43e7-9b48-1fec039ce9c6">very little discussion has taken place around what is driving those costs</a>.</p>
</div> | 11/11/2022 9:49:10 AM | 11/8/2022 4:11:52 PM | 11/11/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| join-us-for-the-next-health-equity-m-and-m-webinar-on-dec-9 | Join Us for the Next Health Equity M&M Webinar on Dec. 9 | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/october-28/join-us-for-the-next-health-equity-m-and-m-webinar-on-dec-9 | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/october/mm-equity-webinar-series-2022-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="Health Equity M&amp;M Webinar Series graphic" /></div>
<h5>October 28, 2022</h5>
<!-- **************************NEW ARTICLE****************************** -->
<h2>Join Us for the Next Health Equity M&amp;M Webinar on Dec. 9</h2>
<p>The WSMA and WSMA Foundation invite you to join your colleagues for the next session of our popular Health Equity M&amp;M Webinar Series (think "morbidity and mortality," but with a focus on health equity). Free for WSMA members, this webinar series is held on the second Friday of even-numbered months at noon.</p>
<p>Health equity M&amp;M discussions provide a framework for recognizing and examining our biases and identifying the ways systemic racism exists in our organizations. You'll have new tools to think critically and identify when to advocate for your patients from historically marginalized communities, ensuring they receive the highest quality clinical care.</p>
<p>During each webinar, Edwin Lindo, JD, facilitates case-based discussions. Lindo is the assistant dean of social and health justice in the Office of Healthcare Equity, an associate teaching professor in the department of family medicine, and an adjunct associate teaching professor in the department of bioethics and humanities at the University of Washington School of Medicine. He teaches, presents, and writes on issues of race and racism within the field of medicine and greater society. He is internationally recognized as a conscious voice for racial and social justice.</p>
<p>This series fosters a space conducive to building a community of professionals focused on achieving health equity; allowing for discussions of charged but necessary topics. Each webinar is protected under WSMA's CQIP as recognized by the WA DOH and pursuant to RCW 70.225.040. By registering, you agree to maintain the confidentiality of the cases discussed pursuant to RCW 43.70.510, RCW 70.41.200, and RCW 4.24.250.</p>
<p>Register for the webinar <a href="[@]Shared_Content/Events/Event_Display.aspx?eventkey=hlthequimm">online</a> (members only; sign-in required). This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em>â„¢.</p>
</div> | 10/27/2022 2:52:38 PM | 10/27/2022 2:49:28 PM | 10/27/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| reminder-cme-other-licensing-requirements-reinstated-as-of-oct-27 | Reminder: CME, Other Licensing Requirements Reinstated as of Oct. 27 | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/october-28/reminder-cme-other-licensing-requirements-reinstated-as-of-oct-27 | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/october/steth-warm-background-645x425.jpeg" class="pull-right" alt="stethoscope" /></div>
<h5>October 28, 2022</h5>
<h2>Reminder: CME, Other Licensing Requirements Reinstated as of Oct. 27</h2>
<p>Gov. Jay Inslee's <a href="https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/20-32%20-%20COVID-19%20DOH%20Healthcare%20Worker%20Licensing%20%28tmp%29.pdf?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=govdelivery">Proclamation 20-32</a>, which extended certain licensing flexibilities to licensed health care professionals during the pandemic, ended this Thursday, along with waivers and holds on continuing medical education requirements.</p>
<h3>CME requirements </h3>
<p>As a reminder to WSMA members, the Washington Medical Commission will exercise enforcement discretion for MDs and physician assistants regarding the resumption of CME requirements, including instating a grace period for MDs and PAs to complete their CME requirements. See <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/august-26/washington-medical-commission-announces-grace-period-for-cme-requirements-.aspx?_zs=A3aFd1&amp;_zl=vJ5X8">this Membership Memo article for a timetable of CME attestation requirements</a>.</p>
<p>In a recent notice, the Washington Medical Commission indicated it has received questions regarding the required suicide prevention training. Visit the commission's website for FAQs regarding <a href="https://wmc.wa.gov/resources/faq#faq-cat-28">Suicide Assessment, Treatment, Management Training</a>. For a specific list of training courses visit the <a href="https://doh.wa.gov/public-health-healthcare-providers/healthcare-professions-and-facilities/suicide-prevention/training-programs/model-list">Department of Health model list webpage</a>.</p>
<p>For our DO members: The Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery will excuse osteopathic physicians from attesting to completion of CME requirements as a requirement for license renewal until they have completed their next full CME cycle after Oct. 27, 2022. “Full cycle†means the full timeframe for completing CME, which is three years for osteopathic physicians. This will assure osteopathic physicians have ample time to meet CME requirements for license renewal.</p>
<h3>Waivers by profession</h3>
<p>Effective Oct. 27, the following requirements have been reinstated:</p>
<ul>
<li>Physician assistants - physician supervision ratios and delegation agreement requirements.</li>
<li>Limited license holders - restrictions regarding geographic locations or specific jobs as described in their appointments.</li>
<li>Retired active MD and DO licensees - restrictions that include not receiving compensation for health care services and only practicing in emergent or intermittent circumstances.</li>
<li>Retired active PA licensees - requirements to have a delegation agreement and will be prohibited from receiving compensation for health care services.</li>
</ul>
<h3>For questions or more information</h3>
<p>For questions regarding the rescission of waivers and the return of CME, contact the Washington Medical Commission Licensing Unit at 360.236.2750 or <a href="mailto:medical.licensing@wmc.wa.gov">medical.licensing@wmc.wa.gov</a>, or watch this <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEwMjUuNjU2NzE3NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy55b3V0dWJlLmNvbS93YXRjaD92PVMwS1lWSWstSzNNIn0.TDnHz2ycKxJ9L9gVk5BRK9Hq1IsOQqFBm26Ez_3vJ9Y/s/1385682275/br/146724394379-l">informational webinar</a>. For our DO members, email <a href="mailto:osteopath@doh.wa.gov">osteopath@doh.wa.gov</a> or call 360.236.4700.</p>
</div> | 10/28/2022 3:23:58 PM | 10/27/2022 10:41:12 AM | 10/27/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| washington-behavioral-health-agencies-may-continue-telehealth-assessments | Washington Behavioral Health Agencies May Continue Telehealth Assessments | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/october-28/washington-behavioral-health-agencies-may-continue-telehealth-assessments | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/october/telemedicine-patient-tablet-645x425px.jpeg" class="pull-right" alt="telemedicine appointment happening over tablet computer" /></div>
<h5>October 28, 2022</h5>
<!-- **************************NEW ARTICLE****************************** -->
<h2>Washington Behavioral Health Agencies May Continue Telehealth Assessments</h2>
<p>To help licensed behavioral health agencies continue providing key mental health and substance use disorder services, the Washington State Department of Health extended a key telehealth assessment flexibility set to expire on Oct. 31 as part of Gov. Jay Inslee's rescinding of Washington's state of emergency.</p>
<p>During the COVID-19 pandemic, DOH <a href="https://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/Law/WSR/2020/07/20-07-105.htm">waived</a> behavioral health licensing and certification requirements regarding "in-person" or "face-to-face" assessments or services under <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.F8VTov7oxU_K1z7wXAdhauonc8byqBZi7ZoUkOOUO7E/s/690743948/br/146293273072-l">chapter 246-341 WAC</a>, which allowed behavioral health agencies to provide those services via telehealth technologies.</p>
<p>Washington's state of emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic will end on Oct. 31, at which time this waiver will also expire. In response, the DOH has released a <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEwMjAuNjU0MjE1OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2NvbnRlbnQuZ292ZGVsaXZlcnkuY29tL2F0dGFjaG1lbnRzL1dBRE9ILzIwMjIvMTAvMTkvZmlsZV9hdHRhY2htZW50cy8yMzAzNjEwLzIyMjEwNjVCSFNGYWNldG9GYWNlUG9saWN5Q0hTMDkxMzIyLnBkZiJ9.IsK-xb-3SLWry0-q9vAiNKv2tH0JJOYRXan9U3czhS4/s/690743948/br/146293273072-l">policy statement</a> allowing these services or assessments to continue to be provided either in person or via telehealth. As detailed in the statement, rulemaking is underway to update chapter 246-341 WAC to define "face-to-face" as occurring either in person or by way of synchronous video conferencing. Until the rules are amended, licensed behavioral health agencies may continue to use telehealth for assessments or services.</p>
</div> | 10/27/2022 12:09:10 PM | 10/27/2022 10:41:18 AM | 10/27/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma-backs-texas-medical-associations-latest-no-surprises-act-lawsuit | WSMA Backs Texas Medical Association's Latest No Surprises Act Lawsuit | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/october-28/wsma-backs-texas-medical-associations-latest-no-surprises-act-lawsuit | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/october/bill-oxford-oxghu60nwxu-unsplash-645x425px.jpeg" class="pull-right" alt="gavel" /></div>
<h5>October 28, 2022</h5>
<h2>WSMA Backs Texas Medical Association's Latest No Surprises Act Lawsuit</h2>
<p>The WSMA has joined with other state medical and medical specialty associations in signing on to an amicus brief supporting a new Texas Medical Association lawsuit challenging the independent dispute resolution provisions of the federal No Surprises Act, the latest volley in an ongoing debate over the implementation of the balance billing legislation.</p>
<p>The brief, filed this month by the Physicians Advocacy Institute, supports TMA's legal challenge filed in September, which alleges that federal regulators, when issuing a final rule implementing the independent dispute resolutionprovisions, violated the No Surprises Act by giving preference to the "qualifying payment amount," which unfairly favors insurers when settling payment disputes between physicians and payers. This flawed approach was struck down by the Eastern District of Texas earlier this year before federal regulators sidestepped the court's decision in the final rule.</p>
<p>The WSMA continues to hear from physician groups struggling with the No Surprises Act, primarily due to changes in carrier contracting practices resulting from the more favorable independent dispute resolution process. In many of these cases, carriers are less willing to contract with physician groups on reasonable terms as they perceive they'll be successful in disputes with out-of-network physicians.</p>
<p>If allowed to stand, the federal regulators' approach will encourage even more health care consolidation and give insurers an unfair advantage contracting with physicians. This will further constrict already narrow, insurer-built networks of physicians and clinicians, raising serious concerns about patients' ability to access affordable, quality specialty care.</p>
<p>TMA's lawsuit and the supporting amicus brief do not challenge the No Surprises Act's critical patient protections, which went into effect in January of this year and which physicians strongly support. The WSMA will keep members apprised of developments as the legal challenge proceeds.</p>
</div> | 10/27/2022 12:07:05 PM | 10/27/2022 10:41:36 AM | 10/27/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| health-information-blocking-rules-now-in-effect-prepare-your-practice | Health Information Blocking Rules Now in Effect: Prepare Your Practice | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/october-14/health-information-blocking-rules-now-in-effect-prepare-your-practice | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/october/laptop-hands-steth-645x425px.jpeg" class="pull-right" alt="hands typing on a laptop computer" /></div>
<h5>October 14, 2022</h5>
<h2>Health Information Blocking Rules Now in Effect: Prepare Your Practice </h2>
<p>In April 2021, the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology's rules on information blocking went into effect. Physicians, hospitals, electronic health record vendors, health information exchanges, and health information networks are all subject to these regulations. Since going into effect, the ONC information blocking requirements have been focused on a narrow subset of health information, however, starting Oct. 6, 2022, these requirements shift to the entire set of electronic health information. After Oct. 6, physicians are responsible for the access, exchange, or use of the full electronic health information requirement.</p>
<h3>What does this mean for me and my medical practice?</h3>
<p>The first step is to make sure your practice has implemented a process to evaluate and comply with the information blocking requirements. <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/newsletters/2022/information-blocking-requirements-on-ehi.pdf]">This document</a> &nbsp;provides an overview of the information blocking regulations, EHI definition, and recommendations for physicians to prepare for the upcoming deadline.</p>
<p>Below are resources to help you and your medical practice prepare for the upcoming EHI requirements.</p>
<p><strong>AMA resources</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Part one: <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/system/files/2021-01/information-blocking-part-1.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">What is information blocking?</a> Defines information blocking, outlines key terms, illustrates information blocking practices, and a summarizes exceptions.</li>
<li>Part two: <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/system/files/2020-11/info-blocking-compliance.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">How do I comply with info blocking and where do I start?</a> Provides a roadmap for compliance, including questions to consider, factors for maintaining a compliance program, and next steps.</li>
<li>CME module: "<a href="https://edhub.ama-assn.org/interactive/18602106">Information Blocking Regulations: What to know and how to comply</a>" accessible through the <a href="https://edhub.ama-assn.org/">AMA Ed Hub</a>â„¢ online learning platform.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>HHS resources</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.healthit.gov/topic/information-blocking?options=2450b60a-e96a-4f4c-ab17-40aac81e40be">Information blocking overview</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.healthit.gov/buzz-blog/information-blocking/say-hi-to-ehi">EHI blog post</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.healthit.gov/sites/default/files/page2/2021-12/Understanding_EHI.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Understanding EHI</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.healthit.gov/faqs?f[0]=subtopic%3A7026">EHI frequently asked questions</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.healthit.gov/sites/default/files/page2/2020-03/InformationBlockingExceptions.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Information blocking exceptions</a></li>
</ul>
</div> | 10/13/2022 9:42:14 AM | 10/12/2022 10:11:10 AM | 10/14/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| quality-leader-learning-collaborative-opioid-stewardship-conference | Quality Leader Learning Collaborative: Opioid Stewardship Conference | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/october-14/quality-leader-learning-collaborative-opioid-stewardship-conference | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/october/wsma-bpbt-logo-645x425.png" class="pull-right" alt="Better Prescribing, Better Treatment logo" /></div>
<h5>October 14, 2022</h5>
<h2>Quality Leader Learning Collaborative: Opioid Stewardship Conference </h2>
<p>Join past WSMA president Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD, MBA, FACEP, as he shares outcomes from the Better Prescribing, Better Treatment program, a peer-driven clinical quality improvement collaborative between the WSMA, Washington State Hospital Association, Washington State Department of Health, and the Washington State Health Care Authority to promote safe opioid prescribing practices. In addition, peer-led discussions on timely, relevant, and evidence-based practices will support your efforts to reduce harm from opioid prescribing. Speakers will provide you with information, resources, and supportive services to prevent and treat opioid misuse, as well as outline an inclusion, equity, and conversations framework to address stigma with opioid use disorder.</p>
<p>For more information about WSHA's Northwest Safety and Quality Partnership - Quality Leader Learning Collaborative and to register for free to attend the Opioid Stewardship Conference, visit the <a href="https://www.wsha.org/event/quality-leader-learning-collaborative-opioid-stewardship-conference/">WSHA website</a>.</p>
<p>To opt in to BPBT's quarterly opioid prescribing reports, hospital and health system CMOs can email Melina Ovchiyan at <a href="mailto:melinao@wsha.org">melinao@wsha.org</a>, and medical group CMOs and individual prescribers can email Monica Salgaonkar at <a href="mailto:monica@wsma.org">monica@wsma.org</a>. </p>
</div> | 10/13/2022 9:43:07 AM | 10/12/2022 10:09:42 AM | 10/14/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| secretary-of-health-shah-extends-medical-assistant-practice-flexibilities | Secretary of Health Shah Extends Medical Assistant Practice Flexibilities | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/october-14/secretary-of-health-shah-extends-medical-assistant-practice-flexibilities | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/october/stethoscope-on-table-645x425px.jpeg" class="pull-right" alt="stethoscope on a table" /></div>
<h5>October 14, 2022</h5>
<h2>Secretary of Health Shah Extends Medical Assistant Practice Flexibilities</h2>
<p>Washington State Secretary of Health Umair A. Shah, MD, MPH, has issued a <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/WADOH/2022/09/27/file_attachments/2281306/WA_DOH_PREP_act_authorization_medical_assistants_Signed.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act authorization</a> allowing a medical assistant-registered and medical assistant-certified to perform COVID-19 tests and administer COVID-19 vaccines without an on-site supervisor. MA-Cs and MA-Rs are required to have a supervising health care practitioner who is "immediately available" to them.</p>
<p>This flexibility in utilizing MA-Cs and MA-Rs, currently allowed under Gov. Jay Inslee's proclamation 20-32, which is set to terminate Oct. 27, has been a benefit to many practice settings to ensure timely access to COVID-19 vaccines and tests. Without the PREP Act authorization, state law would have reverted to requiring the supervising practitioner to be physically present and immediately available in the facility when the MA-R or MA-C is performing these duties.</p>
<p>This PREP Act authorization also allows MAs to administer products to treat serious conditions caused by tests or vaccines (e.g., epi autoinjectors), subject to normal requirements in state law. Many thanks to Secretary Shah for listening to the WSMA and many others in the physician and practice community who have advocated for this flexibility.</p>
</div> | 10/21/2022 11:40:31 AM | 10/21/2022 11:39:28 AM | 10/14/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| 2022-wsma-annual-meeting-final-call-for-preregistration | 2022 WSMA Annual Meeting: Final Call for Preregistration | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/september-23/2022-wsma-annual-meeting-final-call-for-preregistration | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2022/august/2022-annual-meeting-graphic-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="2022 Annual Meeting graphic" /></div>
<h5>September 23, 2022</h5>
<h2>2022 WSMA Annual Meeting: Final Call for Preregistration</h2>
<p>There's still time to preregister and join your colleagues next weekend, Oct. 1-2 in Spokane for the <a href="[@]wsma/events/annual_meeting/wsma/events/annual_meeting/annual_meeting.aspx?hkey=fea49254-3815-4dc9-8710-53ff2e3a100f">2022 Annual Meeting of the WSMA House of Delegates</a>. In addition to the policymaking and networking that are central to the meeting, you'll have an opportunity to attend thought-provoking CME sessions, participate in celebratory events, and be on hand as we inaugurate WSMA's next president, Katina Rue, DO, who will be the first osteopathic physician and the first Latina to hold WSMA's top office. <a href="[@]Shared_Content/Events/Event_Display.aspx?EventKey=ANNMTG2022">Reserve your spot today</a>-preregistration closes at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 28 (registration is free for all WSMA members). </p>
<h3>A quick look at Saturday afternoon presentations</h3>
<p>Our two plenary sessions on Saturday will seek to uncover what truly inspires us as physicians, what moves us, and what keeps us connected to ourselves and our work. Sessions include:</p>
<ul>
<li>The Obstacle is the Path: Finding Meaning and Purpose in Troubling Times: In this presentation, Washington Physicians Health Program Executive Medical Director Chris Bundy, MD, MPH, will explore the core existential concerns as defined in contemporary discourse and identify strategies that physicians can use to promote meaning and purpose in the face of adversity.</li>
<li>Thinking Deeper - Necessary Components to Achieve Health Equity: A conversation between Fernando De Maio, PhD, and Edwin Lindo, JD, two nationally recognized scholars and practitioners in health equity. This is an opportunity to observe the rigorous intellectual exploration of health equity, as speak about a few of the most challenging elements of this work.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Accommodations and COVID-19 precautions</h3>
<p>Room availability at The Historic Davenport is very limited. If no rooms are available, ask about availability at the Davenport Tower across the street. Call The Davenport at 800.899.1482 for room information at both locations.</p>
<p>The WSMA will have the following COVID-19 precautions in place at the 2022 Annual Meeting, as we look to have a safe and supportive gathering:</p>
<ul>
<li>Conference attendees and guests will have attested that they are up to date on their vaccines.</li>
<li>Wearing a mask during indoor meetings is recommended. We will have masks available at the registration desk.</li>
<li>Refunds for lunch and/or dinner tickets will be offered if you get sick prior to the event and are unable to attend. Please call 206.441.9762 or email <a href="mailto:abby@wsma.org">abby@wsma.org</a> if you test positive or are symptomatic for COVID-19.</li>
<li>We will have a limited number of COVID-19 test kits available at the registration desk.</li>
</ul>
<p><em>Thank you to our corporate partners for their generous support: Physicians Insurance, The Polyclinic and The Everett Clinic, and the UW Psychiatry Consultation Line. If your company would like to be a WSMA Corporate Partner, contact Jessica Martinson at </em><a href="mailto:jessica@wsma.org"><em>jessica@wsma.org</em></a><em>.</em></p>
</div> | 9/22/2022 11:58:08 AM | 9/22/2022 10:34:01 AM | 9/23/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| department-of-health-announces-regional-medical-officers | Department of Health Announces Regional Medical Officers | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2022/september-23/department-of-health-announces-regional-medical-officers | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>September 23, 2022</h5>
<h2>Department of Health Announces Regional Medical Officers </h2>
<p>The Washington State Department of Health has announced the four physicians who will serve as regional medical officers as part of a Legislature-directed effort to decentralize the agency's work and increase its responsiveness to community health needs.</p>
<p>The state Legislature directed the DOH to <a href="https://waportal.org/resources/state-rho">establish regional health offices</a> in the 2021 legislative session. The DOH divided the state into four operational areas, with each regional health office serving as an easy entry point for access to a regional liaison and a medical officer. Regional health offices will provide services such as:</p>
<ul>
<li>Assistance with unanticipated vacancies or workforce gaps.</li>
<li>Consultations with medical officer or regional liaison.</li>
<li>Support and resources for convening partners.</li>
<li>A point of contact to bring resources and support within DOH together.</li>
</ul>
<p>The following new regional health officers will join the new Division of Medical and Veterinary Science led by Scott Lindquist, MD, MPH:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Herbie Duber, MD, MPH</strong> - regional medical officer for Region 4, Northwest Waterway. Dr. Duber is an emergency physician at UW Medical Center and Harborview Medical Center in Seattle and president-elect of the Washington chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians.</li>
<li><strong>Bob Lutz, MD, MPH</strong> - regional medical officer for Region 2, Eastern Plains. Dr. Lutz is a family medicine physician with more than 30 years of urgent care experience, recently serving as the health officer for Spokane County until moving to DOH to serve as COVID-19 medical advisor.</li>
<li><strong>James ("Jay") S. Miller, MD, MPH</strong> - regional medical officer for Region 3, South Gorge. Dr. Miller is an internal medicine physician and epidemiologist who has worked on the DOH and the CDC COVID-19 response as a CDC epidemic intelligence service officer.</li>
<li><strong>Amy Person, MD</strong> - regional medical officer for Region 1, Central Corridor. Dr. Person is a pediatrician who, since 2011, has served as local health officer for Benton-Franklin Health District and additionally for Klickitat County Public Health.</li>
</ul>
<p>Joining the four regional health officers is Beth Lipton, who will serve as the new public health veterinarian.</p>
</div> | 9/22/2022 12:12:58 PM | 9/22/2022 10:34:16 AM | 9/23/2022 12:00:00 AM |