| before-you-sign-that-contract-heres-what-you-need-to-know | Before You Sign that Contract: Here's What You Need to Know | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2025/July-11/before-you-sign-that-contract-heres-what-you-need-to-know | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2025/july/ldc-kyle-claussen-cropped.png" class="pull-right" alt="Kyle Claussen presenting at a WSMA meeting" /></div>
<h5>July 11, 2025</h5>
<h2>Before You Sign that Contract: Here's What You Need to Know </h2>
<p>"What's worth roughly $2.9 million to each of you individually?" asked Kyle Claussen at the opening of his session at the WSMA's Leadership Development Conference in Chelan in May. By the end of his fast-paced 45-minute presentation, he brought the answer full circle for conference attendees. But first, he highlighted key components of physician contracts that WSMA members should keep front of mind before they sign on the dotted line. Besides specializing in physician contract review, Claussen is married to a physician and has a front row seat to the art of the deal.</p>
<p>When you're considering your next contract, he advises keeping several things in mind.</p>
<h3>First: What types of risk should you be thinking about in your contract? </h3>
<p>He notes that physicians need to pay close attention to scheduling, duties, responsibilities, when and where you'll work, how much call you'll take, whether you can "moonlight" or consult, keep your intellectual property, supervise advanced practice providers with or without pay, and have time for administration and research. Claussen notes, "All of this is failure number one in most contracts in that they start out saying the employer controls all of it." </p>
<h3>Second: Closely review the termination section. </h3>
<p>"We have to know the notice periods and how you get out of these things," he says. It's critical to know if it's for cause or without cause, what the effects might be on the next employer, if there's "tail" coverage, noncompetes, repayment obligations, damage amounts required, or force majeure clauses. "All of these things matter," Claussen says, "and a lot of the time, physicians overlook this part in favor of what the salary and signing bonus are." </p>
<h3>Third: Research and evaluate the compensation. </h3>
<p>The typical elements of compensation are base salary, production bonus, signing bonus, relocation allowance, CME, and vacation time, etc. You may also see quality bonuses (these are generally very subjective), possibly compensation for APP supervision, student loan forgiveness, and retention bonuses. But evaluating these elements requires some data analysis. "If a percentage of your total compensation is tied to patient satisfaction, whether you show up to committee meetings or other things out of your control, we don't like that," Claussen says. "Most of what you're doing should be quantifiable or objective for your compensation." The next step is researching the data. "You have to know what the market says is the right number for your specialty," he says. "You have access to data sets on the Resolve website, where the information is verified and from physicians." </p>
<h3>Fourth: Negotiate! </h3>
<p>"Every single employer is going to tell you this is their standard contract, and every single physician has signed it," Claussen says. "I can tell you that 85% of the contracts we review get changes made." Employers use information to determine what they say is fair value, but physicians don't have access to the data being used. "That first number we talked about? The $2.9 million? That's what you leave on the table if you're underpaid by 10% for 25 years on an average salary," explains Claussen. "It's not really about the compensation-it's about being treated fairly for the work you're doing. It's about capturing the value that you create." </p>
<p><em>Kyle Claussen is the president of Resolve, a tech platform that helps physicians review contracts and provides salary data, along with contract reviews. Email Kyle at </em><a href="mailto:kyle@resolve.com"><em>kyle@resolve.com</em></a><em> or call 877.758.3318 to speak with a Resolve representative</em>. </p>
<p><em>Resolve offers an </em><a href="https://www.resolve.com/contract-review/instant-contract-review?utm_campaign=Washington%20State%20Medical%20Association&amp;utm_source=website&amp;utm_content=conference%20follow%20up%20post"><em>Instant contract review</em></a><em> to WSMA members, providing access to comprehensive compensation data for your specialty, as well as an instant review of one employment contract, powered by an attorney-trained AI model. You may also talk to Resolve's health law attorneys. WSMA members receive a 10% discount on any Resolve service by using the code </em><a href="https://go.resolve.com/wsma?utm_campaign=Washington%20State%20Medical%20Association&amp;utm_source=website&amp;utm_content=conference%20follow%20up%20post"><em>WSMA10</em></a><em>. </em> </p>
</div> | 7/10/2025 4:28:19 PM | 7/10/2025 3:15:18 PM | 7/11/2025 12:00:00 AM |
| congress-passes-gop-tax-bill-and-massive-cuts-to-medicaid | Congress Passes GOP Tax Bill and Massive Cuts to Medicaid | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2025/July-11/congress-passes-gop-tax-bill-and-massive-cuts-to-medicaid | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2025/july/budget-statement-graphic-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="Bramhall budget statement graphic" /></div>
<h5>July 11, 2025</h5>
<h2>Congress Passes GOP Tax Bill and Massive Cuts to Medicaid </h2>
<p>On July 3, with a 218-214 final vote, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Republicans' budget reconciliation bill, sending the package to the president's desk for signing and ending a months-long battle between federal elected officials and health care advocacy groups. Responding to Congress' passage of the GOP megabill, WSMA President John Bramhall, MD, PhD, largely echoed other health care leaders across the country, saying "<a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2025/wsma_president_john_bramhall__md__reacts_to_passage_of_gop_tax_bill_and_its_massive_cuts_to_medicaid">The 'Big, Beautiful Bill' passed by congressional Republicans today is a travesty for patients and the physician community in our state and across the country</a>." </p>
<p>The house of medicine was largely united against the bill, which targeted federal health care spending to achieve the bill's goal of extending the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. For a summary of the bill's provisions relating to Medicaid, the Affordable Care Act, Medicare, and Health Savings Accounts, see KFF's <a href="https://www.kff.org/tracking-the-medicaid-provisions-in-the-2025-budget-bill/">Health Provisions in the 2025 Federal Budget Reconciliation Bill</a>. </p>
<p>For Medicare, the final bill as signed by President Trump includes a one-year, 2.5% increase to the physician fee schedule conversion factor for services furnished between Jan. 1, 2026 and Jan. 1, 2027. <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/press-center/ama-press-releases/ama-statement-senate-passing-reconciliation-bill#:~:text=While%20we%20appreciate%20that%20the%20bill%20provides%20a%20temporary%20lift%20for%20Medicare%20payments%20in%202026%2C%20it%20falls%20short%20of%20the%20House%2Dpassed%20language%20tying%20Medicare%20updates%20to%20the%20Medicare%20Economic%20Index%20and%20far%20short%20of%20what%20is%20needed%20to%20preserve%20access%20to%20care%20for%20America%E2%80%99s%20seniors">In a statement</a>, American Medical Association President Bobby Mukkamala, MD, said, "While we appreciate that the bill provides a temporary lift for Medicare payments in 2026, it falls short of the earlier House-passed language tying Medicare updates to the Medicare Economic Index and far short of what is needed to preserve access to care for America's seniors." </p>
<p>Due to its disastrous effects on access to health care, the WSMA actively opposed the budget bill throughout its journey, eliciting thousands of member messages to legislators through calls to action, working closely with members of Washington's congressional delegation opposed to the bill to coordinate our advocacy, meeting with members of Congress supportive of the bill to raise concerns, joining in a multistate stakeholder coalition, participating in a peer-to-peer public awareness text campaign, and leading a public awareness campaign through social and traditional media. Republican supporters of the bill largely bypassed the concerns raised by health care stakeholders in passing the bill. </p>
<p>The WSMA would like to thank our members who actively engaged with our advocacy and with the advocacy of others in the health care space. We will keep you apprised in the months ahead as all of health care prepares for the eventual implementation of the bill's provisions, many of which won't kick in until after the midterm elections. </p>
<p>To read the full statement from the WSMA president in response to the bill's passage, <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2025/wsma_president_john_bramhall__md__reacts_to_passage_of_gop_tax_bill_and_its_massive_cuts_to_medicaid">click here</a>. </p>
</div> | 7/10/2025 3:18:22 PM | 7/10/2025 3:09:07 PM | 7/11/2025 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma-reports-charting-the-future-of-ai | WSMA Reports: Charting the Future of AI | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2025/July-11/wsma-reports-charting-the-future-of-ai | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2025/july/reports-julaug-2025-cover-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA Reports cover for July-August 2025" /></div>
<h5>July 11, 2025</h5>
<h2>WSMA Reports: Charting the Future of AI </h2>
<p>
<em>Inside the July/August issue of WSMA's member magazine</em>
</p>
<p>In medicine, the promise of artificial intelligence is rapidly unfolding, including offering greater efficiency in workflow and clinical documentation within electronic medical records and returning more time to physicians for their patients. In the July/August 2025 issue of <em>WSMA Reports</em>, feature writer John Gallagher talks with physician leaders who are at the forefront of system adoption of new AI ambient scribe tools to explore what they're seeing in their settings, and shares the perspectives of practicing physicians who've already incorporated-or have considered incorporating-the tools into their daily practice. </p>
<p>Elsewhere, feature writer Rita Colorito honors the passing of University of Washington professor emeritus King Holmes, MD, recognized worldwide as the "father of STI research," by conducting a routine checkup on Washington state's battle against sexually transmitted infections. Featuring conversations with WSMA members and experts in the field of sexual health, public health, and immunology, Rita's story will bring you up to date on current best practices for screening-and advocating-for sexual and community health. </p>
<p>From our trusted partners at Physicians Insurance, clinical risk consultant Heather Edwards reflects on the repercussions of the Change Healthcare ransomware attack in 2024 and offers guidance for practices and systems on responding to cybersecurity events-increasingly a feature of our modern era rather than a bug. </p>
<p><a href="https://wsma-my.sharepoint.com/:b:/g/personal/gfs_wsma_org/EU_F-YHT8IJGksJTjsrECkYBV3miSxNRMcGyt5JFpjNKfg?e=VXCteh"> Download the issue</a>. </p>
<p>
Also in the issue:
</p>
<ul>
<li>Member spotlight on Kim Emery, PA-C. </li>
<li>2025 Leadership Development Conference: A story in pictures. </li>
<li>By the numbers: Virtual triage AI and care referrals. </li>
<li>An open letter and call to action from John Vassall, MD. </li>
<li>And much more. </li>
</ul>
</div> | 7/10/2025 3:38:08 PM | 7/10/2025 3:14:06 PM | 7/11/2025 12:00:00 AM |
| antibiotic-stewardship-resources-for-outpatient-clinics | Antibiotic Stewardship Resources for Outpatient Clinics | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2025/June-13/antibiotic-stewardship-resources-for-outpatient-clinics | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2025/june/pill-bottle-illustration-shutterstock-645x425.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Pill bottle illustration" /></div>
<h5>June 13, 2025</h5>
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<h2>Antibiotic Stewardship Resources for Outpatient Clinics </h2>
<p>The antimicrobial stewardship team at the Washington State Department of Health has new resources to share with the physician community. In addition to enhancing safety for patients, implementation of antibiotic stewardship principles can provide further benefits by improving scores for specific Health Effectiveness Data and Information Set measures and fulfilling select Merit-based Incentive Payment System measures.</p>
<p><strong>Why antibiotic stewardship is critical for patient care</strong> </p>
<p>Optimizing the use of antibiotics through stewardship is critical to effectively treat infections, protect patients from harms caused by unnecessary antibiotic use, and combat antibiotic resistance. Side effects can include rash, dizziness, nausea, diarrhea, and yeast infections, but also more serious conditions like C. difficile infection and severe allergic reactions. Infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria often require extended hospital stays, additional visits to physicians and health care professionals, and treatments that may be more costly and potentially more toxic.</p>
<p><strong>Resources for medical groups and outpatient practices</strong> </p>
<p>Be sure you and your teams are up to speed on these updated resources.</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.train.org/cdctrain/training_plan/3697">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention training on antibiotic stewardship</a>, completion of which fulfills MIPs improvement activities PSPA_23 and PSPA_24. </li>
<li>University of Washington Centers for Stewardship in Medicine's <a href="https://www.uwcsim.org/sites/default/files/A3972.TASP%20booklet%20v7.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Pacific Northwest Antibiotic Guide</a>.</li>
<li>An <a href="https://doh.wa.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/420-204-ProviderCommitmentToStewardshipPoster.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">educational poster for display in the patient waiting area</a>.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/communication-resources/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/print-materials.html">Educational handouts for patients</a>.</li>
</ul>
<p>Be sure to visit the Department of Health's dedicated <a href="https://doh.wa.gov/public-health-provider-resources/healthcare-professions-and-facilities/healthcare-associated-infections/antimicrobial-resistance-and-antimicrobial-stewardship/antibiotic-stewardship/outpatient-clinics">antibiotic stewardship webpages for outpatient clinics</a> for more resources.</p>
</div> | 6/12/2025 12:58:12 PM | 6/9/2025 11:30:08 AM | 6/12/2025 12:00:00 AM |
| deadlines-and-delegate-opportunities-for-the-2025-annual-meeting-of-the-wsma-house-of-delegates | Deadlines and Delegate Opportunities for the 2025 Annual Meeting of the WSMA House of Delegates | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2025/June-13/deadlines-and-delegate-opportunities-for-the-2025-annual-meeting-of-the-wsma-house-of-delegates | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2025/june/se-01-venticinque-240928-0460-2024-annual-meeting-645x425px.jpg" class="pull-right" alt="Annual Meeting session" /></div>
<h5>June 13, 2025</h5>
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<h2>Deadlines and Delegate Opportunities for the 2025 Annual Meeting of the WSMA House of Delegates </h2>
<p>Mark your calendars and plan to attend the 2025 Annual Meeting of the WSMA House of Delegates at The Westin Bellevue, Sept. 20-21. The WSMA Annual Meeting is the association's yearly policymaking event, where the voting members of the association gather to debate and determine policy, elect officers, enjoy educational offerings, and connect in person. The meeting isn't just for delegates; all are welcome to attend and take advantage of the educational offerings, social events, and networking opportunities. It's also a great way to witness firsthand how policy is made at the WSMA.</p>
<h3><strong>What you need to know in advance of the WSMA Annual Meeting </strong></h3>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>How to serve as a delegate</strong> <br />
If you would like to serve as a delegate at the 2025 Annual Meeting, please contact your local county society or state specialty society. If you are unsure who to contact, email WSMA staff at <a href="mailto:hod@wsma.org">hod@wsma.org</a>. Be sure to review the <a href="[@]wsma/about_us/who_we_are/house-of-delegates/wsma/about/who_we_are/house-of-delegates.aspx?hkey=8c843bfe-b865-4199-9765-4ac24e2de108">duties and expectations of service as a delegate</a>.</p>
<p><strong>How to propose policy<br />
</strong>As a WSMA member, you can help guide the direction of the association and raise awareness of issues of importance to the practice of medicine in Washington by authoring a resolution: a proposal asking the WSMA to take a position or act on an issue. Resolutions must be sponsored by at least two WSMA delegates. If you are interested in authoring a resolution but are not a delegate or board member, the WSMA will work with you to develop your resolution idea and find a sponsor. Contact us at <a href="mailto:hod@wsma.org">hod@wsma.org</a> for assistance. Visit the <a href="https://wsma.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTU3ODYxMyZwPTEmdT0xMDc4MTA4MzYwJmxpPTEwOTc4Mjk2NA/index.html">How to Write a Resolution page</a> for everything you need to know about proposing policy at the WSMA Annual Meeting.</p>
<p><strong>How to review, discuss, and inform proposed policy in advance of the meeting</strong><br />
To help hone your resolution idea or to engage with other highly engaged and policy-focused WSMA members, including delegates, join our secure Virtual Reference Committees and Policy Community. Accessible using email, website, or mobile app, you may post and share resources, connect via private chat, see member profiles, and receive updates tailored to your specifications. <a href="https://wsma.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0xMTU3ODYxMyZwPTEmdT0xMDc4MTA4MzYwJmxpPTEwOTc4Mjk2NQ/index.html">Request to join the WSMA Virtual Reference Committees and Policy Community</a>.</p>
<p><strong>Important meeting deadlines</strong> </p>
<ul>
<li>Aug. 9: Reports and resolutions due for inclusion in delegate handbook.</li>
<li>Aug. 20: Final deadline for reports and resolutions. Resolutions received after this date must have the consent of two-thirds of the House at the opening session to be considered.</li>
<li>Aug. 28: Deadline to make room reservations at The Westin Bellevue.</li>
<li>Aug. 29: Delegate handbook will be available for download.</li>
<li>Sept. 20-21: 2025 WSMA Annual Meeting.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Thank you to our corporate partners</strong> </p>
<p>Thank you to our corporate partners for their generous support: Physicians Insurance, Northern Capital Management, Gohagan &amp; Company, and Resolve.</p>
</div> | 6/12/2025 12:58:16 PM | 6/9/2025 11:31:22 AM | 6/12/2025 12:00:00 AM |
| immersive-leadership-training-with-the-physician-leadership-course-two-options-this-fall | Immersive Leadership Training with the Physician Leadership Course: Two Options This Fall | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2025/June-13/immersive-leadership-training-with-the-physician-leadership-course-two-options-this-fall | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2025/june/2025-plc-fall-dates-social.png" class="pull-right" alt="Fall 2025 Dates of the WSMA PLC classes" /></div>
<h5>June 13, 2025</h5>
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<h2>Immersive Leadership Training with the Physician Leadership Course: Two Options This Fall </h2>
<p>Led by instructor Ed Walker, MD, MHA, the WSMA Physician Leadership Course is a 40+ hour leadership skills-development course for physicians and physician assistants who want to know more about health care leadership. With two formats available, hybrid-distance or all virtual, the course delivers 10 weeks of solid curriculum, minimizing your time away from patients, while maximizing your knowledge-building time.</p>
<p><strong><em>Note:</em></strong><em> Did you attend the Leadership Development Conference? Your LDC event registration receipt included a special promotion code to get 5% off registration to WSMA's leadership courses.</em> </p>
<p>To make sure we're reaching as many physicians and physician assistants as possible with our cornerstone leadership development education, this fall we're offering two options for our Physician Leadership Course, a hybrid-format course and an all-virtual course.</p>
<ul>
<li>Physician Leadership Course (hybrid-distance) <br />
Sept. 12-Nov. 21, 2025. Only two in-person days required.</li>
<li>Physician Leadership Course (all virtual) <br />
Oct. 3-Dec. 12, 2025 </li>
</ul>
<p>Learn more about the course from Dr. Walker and hear what Physician Leadership Course graduates have to say about growing their leadership skills to drive positive change in health care in this <a href="https://player.vimeo.com/video/837228441?h=a7645ccf29">brief five-minute video</a>.</p>
<p>For a full course curriculum, information on CME and MOC credits, visit the <a href="[@]wsma/education/physician_leadership/physician_leadership_course/wsma/physician_leadership/physician_leadership_course/physician_leadership_course.aspx?hkey=efdc4ad1-ff20-4089-ab51-caafbe73572b&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">course webpage</a>. Get started on your leadership journey and enroll today for the schedule and format that fits your needs. These activities have been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em>â„¢.</p>
</div> | 6/12/2025 12:58:20 PM | 6/9/2025 11:31:19 AM | 6/12/2025 12:00:00 AM |
| new-cme-podcast-episodes-available-on-wellness-safe-prescribing-and-oud-treatment | New CME Podcast Episodes Available on Wellness, Safe Prescribing, and OUD Treatment | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2025/June-13/new-cme-podcast-episodes-available-on-wellness-safe-prescribing-and-oud-treatment | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2025/june/wsma-podcasts-icon-645x425px.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA Podcasts logo" /></div>
<h5>June 13, 2025</h5>
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<h2>New CME Podcast Episodes Available on Wellness, Safe Prescribing, and OUD Treatment </h2>
<p>New episodes from our Physician and Practitioner Wellness Podcast and our Better Prescribing Better Treatment Podcast featuring CME are now available.</p>
<p><strong>Wellness episodes: The power of perspective, coaching programs, tools for compassion and well-being</strong> </p>
<p>The Physician and Practitioner Wellness Podcast is free and open to all practitioner types. Episodes are available at the links below or on our podcast channel, WSMA Podcasts, available through <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wsma-podcasts/id1702920307">Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/0PBMBLgHr6e0X3OaMjyJON?si=af140842c00c430c">Spotify</a>. Each podcast is approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Creditâ„¢</em>.</p>
<ul>
<li>Episode 7: <a href="http://www.wsma.org/wsma/foundation/physician-and-practitioner-wellness/wellness-podcast-episodes/episode-7-the-power-of-our-mindset-and-perspectives.aspx">The Power of Our Mindset and Perspectives</a> - Tamara Chang, MD, pediatric oncologist, leadership coach, and co-founder of Pink Coat, MD, explores the power of perspective and mindset in the work and lives of physicians and practitioners.</li>
<li>Episode 8: <a href="http://www.wsma.org/wsma/foundation/physician-and-practitioner-wellness/wellness-podcast-episodes/episode-8-coaching-programs-to-improve-wellness.aspx">Coaching Programs to Improve Wellness</a> -Gregg Miller MD, chief medical officer at Vituity, looks at medical group best practices around wellness and tailored coaching programs.</li>
<li>Episode 9: <a href="http://www.wsma.org/wsma/foundation/physician-and-practitioner-wellness/wellness-podcast-episodes/episode-9-stress-less-tools-for-clinician-well-being-and-compassion.aspx">Stress Less: Tools for Clinician Well-Being and Compassion</a> - Astrid Pujari, MD, medical director of the Center for Integrative Medicine at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, discusses practical tools to support personal well-being and proven communication techniques that enhance relationships.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Rx best-practice episodes: OUD treatment in tribal clinics, sedative safe prescribing, novel drug variants </strong> </p>
<p>Better Prescribing, Better Treatment is WSMA's peer-to-peer safe prescribing initiative. Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD, is your host. Episodes are available at the links below or on our podcast channel, WSMA Podcasts, available through <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wsma-podcasts/id1702920307">Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/0PBMBLgHr6e0X3OaMjyJON?si=af140842c00c430c">Spotify</a>. Each podcast is approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Creditâ„¢</em>.</p>
<ul>
<li>Episode 23: <a href="http://www.wsma.org/wsma/resources/better-prescribing-better-treatment/podcast-episodes/bpbt-episode-23-oud-treatment-in-tribal-clinics.aspx">OUD Treatment in Tribal Clinics</a> - A conversation with Zoe Taylor, MD, director of operations and informatics at Lummi Tribal Health Center, about the opioid crisis and supporting American Indian/Alaska Native communities.</li>
<li>Episode 24: <a href="http://www.wsma.org/wsma/resources/better-prescribing-better-treatment/podcast-episodes/bpbt-episode-24-benzodiazepines-and-sedative-safe-prescribing-guidelines.aspx">Benzodiazepines and Sedative Safe Prescribing Guidelines</a> - A conversation with Joshua Jones, MD, general and forensic psychologist at Providence St. Joseph Health, on the importance of benzodiazepines and sedative prescribing.</li>
<li>Episode 25: <a href="http://www.wsma.org/wsma/resources/better-prescribing-better-treatment/podcast-episodes/bpbt-episode-25-variants-and-novel-drugs.aspx">Variants and Novel Drugs</a> - A conversation with Sasha Kaiser, MD, associate medical director of Washington Poison Center, on current trends in drug overdose deaths and how to support harm-reduction efforts.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Now available! Coaching services on improving opioid prescribing and treatment protocols in clinics</strong> </p>
<p>As part of WSMA's current grant funding for the Better Prescribing, Better Treatment program, we are excited to offer a stipend for clinics that engage with us. You will also get consulting time with the program's chief clinical officer, Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD. Contact Monica Salgaonkar at <a href="mailto:monica@wsma.org">monica@wsma.org</a> for more information.</p>
</div> | 6/12/2025 12:58:27 PM | 6/9/2025 11:31:27 AM | 6/12/2025 12:00:00 AM |
| register-for-the-ai-in-clinical-medicine-conference-sept-19-in-bellevue- | Register for The AI in Clinical Medicine Conference, Sept. 19 in Bellevue | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2025/June-13/register-for-the-ai-in-clinical-medicine-conference-sept-19-in-bellevue- | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right" style="text-align: center;"><img src="/images/Newsletters/MembershipMemo/2025/june/ai-conf-graphic.png" class="pull-right" alt="AI Clinical Medicine Conference graphic" /></div>
<h5>June 13, 2025</h5>
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<h2>Register for The AI in Clinical Medicine Conference, Sept. 19 in Bellevue </h2>
<p>WSMA's Artificial Intelligence Work Group is pleased to announce the AI in Clinical Medicine Conference, a full day of learning and engagement with a keynote presentation from the president of Microsoft Research and global leader in AI Peter Lee, named by Time magazine as one of the 100 most influential people in health and life sciences in 2024. The conference will explore what physicians, practitioners, and others in health care need to know about the legal, regulatory, and policy implications of AI in medicine, and what real, useful tools are available for you to use in your practice now.</p>
<h3><strong>Keynote presentation from Peter Lee: "The AI Revolution in Medicine, Revisited" </strong></h3>
<p> </p>
<p>While ChatGPT and the GPT-4 AI models were still in secret development at OpenAI, Lee led a group of researchers at Microsoft Research in an investigation of the potential impact of this new technology on health care delivery and medical research. Their findings were published in 2023 in the seminal book, "The AI Revolution in Medicine: GPT-4 and Beyond." Now, with more real-world observation and experience, what is actually happening and what is likely to happen next in the world of health care? Lee's presentation will go into what he and his co-authors had predicted, what they got right, and what they missed as a way to help us all see a bit into the future.</p>
<p>In addition to the keynote presentation, the AI in Clinical Medicine Conference features a dynamic lineup of speakers. See the full agenda on the <a href="[@]wsma/events/ai-in-clinical-medicine-conference/ai-in-clinical-medicine-conference.aspx?WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927&amp;_zs=lfaFd1&amp;_zl=IdtEA">conference</a> webpage.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>AI in Practice - AI Literacy for Physicians</strong> - Nadia Smati, MD, Ainsley Advisory Group </li>
<li><strong>AI in Practice - Clinical AI Tools Today: Useful, Real Tools, Right Now</strong> - Jessica Schlicher MD, MBA, CMO for Virtual Care and Digital Health at Providence </li>
<li><strong>Representation in Model Evaluation</strong> - Lucy Orr-Ewing, chief of staff for the Coalition for Health AI </li>
<li><strong>What Clinicians Need to Know: Regulatory, Legal, and Policy Implications</strong> - Tony S. Quang, MD, JD, FASTRO, FCLM, president of the AVAHO Foundation, and Clara De Abreu E Souza, JD </li>
<li><strong>Panel Discussion: The Next 5 Years of AI in Medicine</strong> - Moderated by Colin Fields, MD, with panelists Tony S. Quang, MD, JD; Jessica Schlicher, MD, MBA; Vanessa Saavedra of Northwest Health Law Advocates; Lucy Orr-Ewing; and Nadia Smati, MD.</li>
</ul>
<p>We hope to see you in Bellevue this September for this exciting event. Visit the <a href="[@]wsma/events/ai-in-clinical-medicine-conference/ai-in-clinical-medicine-conference.aspx?WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">event webpage</a> for more event details, information on accommodations, and to register.</p>
<p>This activity has been approved for A<em>MA PRA Category 1 Credit</em><sup>TM</sup>.</p>
</div> | 6/12/2025 12:58:33 PM | 6/9/2025 11:31:16 AM | 6/12/2025 12:00:00 AM |
| screening-for-unhealthy-social-media-use-by-adolescents | Screening for Unhealthy Social Media Use by Adolescents | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2025/June-13/screening-for-unhealthy-social-media-use-by-adolescents | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>June 13, 2025</h5>
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<h2>Screening for Unhealthy Social Media Use by Adolescents </h2>
<p>Recognizing the responsibilities of physicians and health professionals to the health and well-being of adolescents, the 2024 House of Delegates passed policy directing the WSMA to encourage physicians to use social media guidelines and resources as a part of routine health screenings and patient care. Use the following guidelines to inform your practice.</p>
<h3><strong>Background</strong></h3>
<p> </p>
<p>Social media use starts during childhood and can play a significant role in the relationships and experiences that impact children and teens' growth, development, and mental health. Today, social media use is pervasive among adolescents, with 95% of teens having access to a smart phone and 46% of teens reporting that they are online "almost constantly," prompting significant concerns about the impact of social media use on adolescent mental and physical health.</p>
<p>Current guidelines stress the need for ongoing parental involvement and monitoring of adolescent social media use to mitigate potential mental health risks, with specific recommendations to avoid social media use during key developmental periods and before bedtime to prevent sleep disruption and other health issues. Further, experts highlight the lack of comprehensive, longitudinal studies on the long-term effects of social media on youth, urging for more research to understand how extended use impacts adolescent development and well-being over time.</p>
<h3><strong>Social media use in adolescence: Guidelines for health professionals</strong></h3>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>American Academy of Pediatrics' Center of Excellence on Social Media and Youth Mental Health </strong>- The Center provides a variety of educational and technical assistance opportunities to support clinicians, educators, parents, youth, and others in encouraging healthy social media use: </p>
<ul>
<li>Virtual interactive learning communities leveraging Project ECHO (Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes), an online learning community modality that uses didactic presentations from multidisciplinary faculty experts, case-based peer learning discussions, and quality improvement methodologies to improve health outcomes.</li>
<li>Regularly scheduled webinars and follow-up office hours with expert clinicians.</li>
<li>Expert speakers and presentations delivered by the center's co-medical directors, staff, and ambassadors.</li>
<li>A variety of tipsheets, educational case studies, and brief topical educational videos.</li>
<li>A question and answer portal: A two-way communication channel for questions about social media and mental well-being. Each submitted question has an evidence-based response from the center's expert team, and users can search our library of previously submitted questions and responses.</li>
</ul>
<p>To learn more, visit the center's website at <a href="https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/media-and-children/center-of-excellence-on-social-media-and-youth-mental-health/">aap.org/socialmedia</a>. Download a <a href="https://downloads.aap.org/AAP/PDF/About_the_CoE.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">PDF flyer</a> to help spread the word.</p>
<h3><strong>American Psychological Association's 2023 Health Advisory and 2024 Report on Social Media Use in Adolescence</strong></h3>
<p> </p>
<p>In 2023, a presidential panel of the American Psychological Association issued a <a href="https://www.apa.org/topics/social-media-internet/health-advisory-adolescent-social-media-use">health advisory on social media use in adolescence</a>, noting that while these platforms can promote healthy socialization, their use should be preceded by training in social media literacy to ensure that youth have skills that will maximize the chances for balanced, safe, and meaningful experiences.</p>
<p>The advisory included 10 recommendations for the use of social media by adolescents, including: </p>
<ul>
<li>Tailor social media use, functionality, and permissions to youths' developmental capabilities; designs created for adults may not be appropriate for children.</li>
<li>For younger kids, adults should monitor social media use, including discussing and coaching around social media content. This should be balanced with youths' appropriate needs for privacy. Autonomy may increase gradually as kids age and gain more digital literacy skills.</li>
<li>Minimize adolescents' exposure to social media content that depicts illegal or psychologically maladaptive behavior, including content that instructs or encourages youth to engage in self-harm or high-risk behaviors or those that encourage eating-disordered behavior (such as restrictive eating, purging, or excessive exercise).</li>
<li>Minimize adolescents' exposure to online content that promotes discrimination, prejudice, hate, or cyberbullying, especially directed toward groups targeted because of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or disability status.</li>
<li>Monitor adolescents for signs of problematic social media use that can impair their ability to engage in daily roles and routines and may present risk for more serious psychological harms over time.</li>
<li>Limit social media use so as not to interfere with adolescents' sleep or physical activity, as each is required for healthy brain and psychological development.</li>
<li>Limit adolescents' use of social media for primarily beauty- or appearance-related content.</li>
</ul>
<p>In 2024, the American Psychological Association followed its health advisory with a new report that looked at the science on the risks and opportunities social media present to young social media users: "<a href="https://www.apa.org/topics/social-media-internet/youth-social-media-2024">Potential risks of content, features, and functions: The science of how social media affects youth</a>." </p>
<h3><strong>U.S. Surgeon General's 2021 Advisory: Protecting Youth Mental Health</strong></h3>
<p> </p>
<p>This 2021 advisory from the U.S. surgeon general offers recommendations for supporting the mental health of children, adolescents, and young adults. The advisory includes essential recommendations for the institutions that surround young people and shape their day-to-day lives-schools, community organizations, health care systems, technology companies, media, funders and foundations, employers, and government. For health care professionals, the surgeon general advises: </p>
<ol>
<li>Recognize that the best treatment is prevention of mental health challenges. Implement trauma-informed care principles and other prevention strategies to improve care for all youth, especially those with a history of adversity.</li>
<li>Routinely screen children for mental health challenges and risk factors, including adverse childhood experiences.</li>
<li>Identify and address the mental health needs of parents, caregivers, and other family members.</li>
<li>Combine the efforts of clinical staff with those of trusted community partners and child-serving systems (e.g., child welfare, juvenile justice).</li>
<li>Build multidisciplinary teams to implement services that are tailored to the needs of children and their families.</li>
</ol>
<p>Read the full advisory, "<a href="https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-youth-mental-health-advisory.pdf?null">Protecting Youth Mental Health: The U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory, 2021</a>." </p>
<p>For more information on these guidelines and for further reading, visit the WSMA's new <a href="[@]wsma/resources/practice-management/social-media-screening/wsma/resources/practice-management/social-media-adolescent-screening.aspx?hkey=ae8a00b6-45cf-468a-bf68-ecac0eb60b0c">Social Media Adolescent Screening</a> page on our website, under Resources then Practice Management.</p>
</div> | 6/12/2025 12:58:37 PM | 6/9/2025 11:31:24 AM | 6/12/2025 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_physician_leader_elected_to_leadership_at_the_american_medical_association | WSMA Physician Leader Elected to Leadership at the American Medical Association | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2025/June-13/wsma_physician_leader_elected_to_leadership_at_the_american_medical_association | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>June 13, 2025</h5>
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<h2>WSMA Physician Leader Elected to Leadership at the American Medical Association </h2>
<p>The WSMA offers a hearty congratulations to Sheila Rege, MD, a radiation oncologist in private practice serving the Kennewick community, who this week was elected to the 21-member AMA board of trustees.</p>
<p>The election was held Tuesday, June 10, during the Annual Meeting of the AMA House of Delegates in Chicago. Dr. Rege is a longtime WSMA member and trustee, currently serving on the WSMA board as an AMA delegate representing the interests and needs of Washington state physicians and their patients in the creation of policies and programs at the AMA.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In her new position on the AMA board, Dr. Rege will have a further strengthened opportunity to inform AMA policy on the many shared interests of the two associations, from reforming onerous prior authorization processes and a broken Medicare physician payment system to providing leadership in the development of artificial intelligence in health care and cultivating the next generation of physician leaders.</p>
<p>“I am deeply honored to be elected to the AMA board of trustees,†said Dr. Rege in a <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2025/wsma_physician_leader_elected_to_leadership_at_the_american_medical_association"><span data-contrast="none">press release</span></a>. “At a time when physicians are navigating unprecedented pressures—from misinformation to mounting administrative burdens—I’m committed to bringing practical, ethical leadership. I will advocate to protect physician autonomy, and ensure patients—regardless of ZIP code, race, or income—receive high-quality, compassionate care.â€</p>
<p>Dr. Rege has been a member of the WSMA for more than 20 years, serving on its board of trustees for 20 years. As she assumes her new leadership position with the AMA, she will continue to remain active at the state medical association to share insights into her work at the AMA.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Other newsmakers at the AMA meeting&nbsp;</h3>
<p>WSMA Foundation vice president and WSMA board member, Carrie Horwitch, MD was recognized by the AMA Foundation as one of their <a href="https://amafoundation.org/news/meet-the-2025-ama-foundation-excellence-in-medicine-honorees/"><span data-contrast="none">Excellence in Medicine Award winners</span></a>. Dr. Horwitch received the Jack B. McConnell, MD Award in Excellence for Volunteerism. In honor of Dr. Horwitch, a grant was awarded to the MAVEN Project.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The WSMA would like to also acknowledge WSMA board member Teresa Girolami, MD, for being nominated for an AMPAC award.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>Picture courtesy of Ted Grudzinski, MMX</em></p>
</div> | 6/12/2025 12:58:45 PM | 6/11/2025 1:49:26 PM | 6/12/2025 12:00:00 AM |
| 2025-national-health-service-corps-site-application-cycle-open-through-june-17 | 2025 National Health Service Corps Site Application Cycle Open Through June 17 | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2025/may-9/2025-national-health-service-corps-site-application-cycle-open-through-june-17 | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>May 9, 2025</h5>
<h2>2025 National Health Service Corps Site Application Cycle Open Through June 17 </h2>
<p>Rural health clinics, outpatient facilities, substance-use-disorder treatment facilities, and others committed to providing care in rural and underserved communities may now apply to become a National Health Service Corps-approved site. There are benefits to being an NHSC-approved site: you can use your status to <a href="https://nhsc.hrsa.gov/sites/current-sites/recruit-retain-hire">recruit, hire, and retain clinicians</a>.</p>
<p>The <a href="https://nhsc.hrsa.gov/sites/how-to-apply">2025 NHSC Site Application</a> is open from May 6-June 17, 2025. To help prepare your facility, the following support is offered by the state's Primary Care Office and the Health Resources and Service Administration: </p>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://hrsa-gov.zoomgov.com/j/1608824921?pwd=rQKX26Xt2oWJubtqG4zmYUwLCdzMHd.1">New Site Application Training Webinar</a> - May 13 from 10:30-11:30 a.m.</li>
<li><a href="https://hrsa-gov.zoomgov.com/j/1609967052?pwd=ef1DIwejhbnqV0EdHVgnyog1VFog4F.1">New Site Application Q&amp;A Session</a> - May 21 from 9-10:30 a.m.</li>
</ul>
<p>The <a href="https://doh.wa.gov/public-health-provider-resources/rural-health/primary-care-office">Primary Care Office</a> is hosting open office hours every Monday at 1 p.m., starting May 5. Get assistance with any questions or concerns related to your new NHSC site application. Reach out with any questions to <a href="mailto:PCO@doh.wa.gov">PCO@doh.wa.gov</a>.</p>
</div> | 5/8/2025 3:56:23 PM | 5/6/2025 2:41:10 PM | 5/9/2025 12:00:00 AM |
| cme-on-demand-immigration-law-enforcement-clinic-and-patient-rights | CME on Demand: Immigration Law Enforcement, Clinic and Patient Rights | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2025/may-9/cme-on-demand-immigration-law-enforcement-clinic-and-patient-rights | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>May 9, 2025</h5>
<h2>CME on Demand: Immigration Law Enforcement, Clinic and Patient Rights </h2>
<p>With recent federal actions targeting immigrant communities, there is an urgent need for greater understanding of how community clinics, outpatient practices, and other health settings can prepare for immigration enforcement consistent with federal and state laws to ensure they remain safe and accessible to all Washington residents, regardless of immigration or citizenship status. On April 9, the WSMA covered these topics during a lunchtime webinar discussion, which featured Community Health Plan of Washington and the Washington State Health Care Authority discussing how they responded to the federal administration's executive orders regarding immigration. The webinar is <a href="[@]wsma/education/on_demand_webinars/immigration-law-enforcement-clinic-rights-and-patient-rights.aspx">now available to view on demand or to download as a podcast</a>. This activity is approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Creditâ„¢</em>.</p>
<p>The on-demand webinar and podcast are also available on our <a href="[@]wsma/resources/practice-management/immigrant-welfare/wsma/resources/practice-management/immigrant-welfare.aspx?hkey=f8b57929-686d-46ba-ab7d-c5d583bba7db">Immigrant Welfare</a> webpage, where you'll also find: </p>
<ul>
<li>Model policies and guidance for physician organizations wishing to protect against potential immigration enforcement activity.</li>
<li>"Red Cards" to help individuals assert their rights and defend themselves in many situations, such as when ICE agents go to a home. The cards are available in multiple languages and may be given to patients during appointments or kept in waiting rooms.</li>
<li>"Keep Washington Working" flyer-an information sheet about individuals' rights under the Keep Washington Working law.</li>
</ul>
<p>Visit the <a href="[@]wsma/resources/practice-management/immigrant-welfare/wsma/resources/practice-management/immigrant-welfare.aspx?hkey=f8b57929-686d-46ba-ab7d-c5d583bba7db">Immigrant Welfare</a> webpage for these resources and more.</p>
</div> | 5/8/2025 4:14:52 PM | 5/6/2025 2:41:20 PM | 5/9/2025 12:00:00 AM |
| help-protect-medicaid-join-our-national-texting-campaign | Help Protect Medicaid. Join Our National Texting Campaign. | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2025/may-9/help-protect-medicaid-join-our-national-texting-campaign | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>May 9, 2025</h5>
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<h2>Help Protect Medicaid. Join Our National Texting Campaign.</h2>
<p>The WSMA has joined the Protect Our Healthcare Coalition in launching a nationwide peer-to-peer texting campaign to oppose federal Medicaid cuts-and we need volunteers.</p>
<p>Using a secure platform called RumbleUp, you'll be able to send prewritten, personalized messages directly to voters in key congressional districts. These messages will go out on behalf of local doctors and health care professionals urging recipients to call their members of Congress and demand they oppose Medicaid cuts. All texts are sent through RumbleUp's secure platform. Your personal phone number or messaging service is never used to contact voters.</p>
<p>How to volunteer for the texting campaign: Watch this <a href="http://protectourhealthcare.org/welcome">90-second welcome video</a>, then review <a href="http://www.protectourhealthcare.org/texting-program">full instructions on how to join the text program as a volunteer</a>. Contact the volunteer coordinators directly at <a href="mailto:info@protectourhealthcare.org">info@protectourhealthcare.org</a> with any questions or concerns. Thank you for volunteering.</p>
<h3>Also: Keep sharing your patient stories with congressional representatives </h3>
<p>While the WSMA works with our coalition partners to stand up our patient texting campaign, we need physicians, practitioners, and practice staff to keep sending messages to their federal lawmakers. The WSMA is sharing compelling data around the impact of such cuts, but it's often human-centered stories that move lawmakers-and that's where you come in. Please continue sending your members of Congress stories of how patients in your practice and community would be impacted by federal Medicaid funding cuts. <a href="https://takeaction.wsma.org/oppose-federal-medicaid-cuts/">Use our grassroots advocacy platform to send your stories</a>.</p>
</div> | 5/8/2025 3:56:23 PM | 5/6/2025 2:41:14 PM | 5/9/2025 12:00:00 AM |
| immersive-leadership-training-with-the-physician-leadership-course-two-options-this-fall | Immersive Leadership Training with the Physician Leadership Course: Two Options This Fall | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2025/may-9/immersive-leadership-training-with-the-physician-leadership-course-two-options-this-fall | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>May 9, 2025</h5>
<h2>Immersive Leadership Training with the Physician Leadership Course: Two Options This Fall </h2>
<p>Led by instructor Ed Walker, MD, MHA, the WSMA Physician Leadership Course is a 40+ hour leadership skills-development course for physicians and physician assistants who want to know more about health care leadership. With two formats available, hybrid-distance or all virtual, the course delivers 10 weeks of solid curriculum, minimizing your time away from patients, while maximizing your knowledge-building time.</p>
<p><strong><em>Note:</em></strong><em> Are you attending the Leadership Development Conference? Your LDC event registration receipt will include a special promotion code to get 5% off registration to WSMA's leadership courses.</em> </p>
<p>To make sure we're reaching as many physicians and physician assistants as possible with our cornerstone leadership development education, this fall we're offering two options for our Physician Leadership Course, a hybrid-format course and an all-virtual course.</p>
<ul>
<li>Physician Leadership Course (hybrid-distance) </li>
</ul>
<p>Sept. 12-Nov. 21, 2025. Only two in-person days required.</p>
<ul>
<li>Physician Leadership Course (all virtual) </li>
</ul>
<p>Oct. 3-Dec. 12, 2025 </p>
<p>Learn more about the course from Dr. Walker and hear what Physician Leadership Course graduates have to say about growing their leadership skills to drive positive change in health care in this <a href="https://player.vimeo.com/video/837228441?h=a7645ccf29">brief five-minute video</a>.</p>
<p>For a full course curriculum, information on CME and MOC credits, visit the <a href="[@]wsma/education/physician_leadership/physician_leadership_course/wsma/physician_leadership/physician_leadership_course/physician_leadership_course.aspx?hkey=efdc4ad1-ff20-4089-ab51-caafbe73572b&amp;WebsiteKey=c182ff6d-1438-4899-abc5-614681b54927">course webpage</a>. Get started on your leadership journey and enroll today for the schedule and format that fits your needs. These activities have been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Credit</em>â„¢.</p>
</div> | 5/8/2025 3:56:24 PM | 5/6/2025 2:41:22 PM | 5/9/2025 12:00:00 AM |
| july-29-deadline-for-physician-groups-to-file-claims-in-the-28-billion-bcbs-antitrust-settlement | July 29 Deadline for Physician Groups to File Claims in the $28 Billion BCBS Antitrust Settlement | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2025/may-9/july-29-deadline-for-physician-groups-to-file-claims-in-the-28-billion-bcbs-antitrust-settlement | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>May 9, 2025</h5>
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<h2>July 29 Deadline for Physician Groups to File Claims in the $28 Billion BCBS Antitrust Settlement </h2>
<p><em>Plan now to attend webinars on how to successfully submit claims on May 16 or 30</em> </p>
<p>Physician practices or organizations that provided health care services, equipment, or supplies to Blue Plan patients at any time from July 24, 2008, to Oct. 4, 2024, may be eligible to submit a claim for a share of a <a href="[@]Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2025/january-10/multibillion-dollar-antitrust-settlement-in-blue-cross-blue-shield-case-granted-preliminary-approval">$2.8 billion settlement reached with the Blue Cross and Blue Shield system</a>. Physicians and physician groups are advised to review the <a href="https://www.bcbsprovidersettlement.com/">eligibility criteria</a> before submitting a claim. Claims must be submitted <a href="https://www.bcbsprovidersettlement.com/Home">online</a> or mailed and postmarked by July 29, 2025.</p>
<p>Whatley Kallas, who represented the health care plaintiffs in the class-action suit, is holding the following webinars for physicians, health professionals, and facilities on how to submit claims: </p>
<p>For medical professionals/groups: </p>
<ul>
<li>Friday, May 16, 9-10 a.m. Register <a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_HEuyvF2NQ8GKtrORTfNLaA">here</a>.</li>
<li>Friday, May 30, 9-10 a.m. Register <a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_L4xXsIlUSF6Kkl-sLqMv0g">here</a>.</li>
</ul>
<p>For health care facilities: </p>
<ul>
<li>Friday, May 23, 9-10 a.m. Register <a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_nUBaSKQ6T5C19y08YpeqoQ">here</a>.</li>
</ul>
<p>For more information, visit the <a href="https://whatleykallas.com/bcbs-settlement/">Watley Kallas dedicated page for the settlement</a>. If you have any questions, email <a href="mailto:BCBSProviderSettlement@WhatleyKallas.com">BCBSProviderSettlement@WhatleyKallas.com</a> or call 800.745.8153.</p>
</div> | 5/8/2025 3:56:24 PM | 5/8/2025 12:29:05 PM | 5/9/2025 12:00:00 AM |
| may-is-mental-health-awareness-month-3-concrete-actions-to-take | May Is Mental Health Awareness Month: 3 Concrete Actions to Take | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2025/may-9/may-is-mental-health-awareness-month-3-concrete-actions-to-take | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>May 9, 2025</h5>
<h2>May Is Mental Health Awareness Month: 3 Concrete Actions to Take </h2>
<p>While physician suicide was a crisis long before COVID-19, the demands of the pandemic and from the ongoing "long tail" of the pandemic have created an even greater sense of urgency to better support physicians' mental health and well-being. This May, let <a href="https://www.nami.org/Get-Involved/Awareness-Events/Mental-Health-Awareness-Month/">National Mental Health Month</a> be a reminder to take action, raise your voice, and help change the conversation around mental health. Use the following news updates, resources, and action items to help us spread the word.</p>
<h3>Advocating at the system level so that we're all "Thriving in Medicine" </h3>
<p>Acting on results from a 2024 survey revealing a need for more adaptable wellness programs, the WSMA Foundation's wellness committee published "<a href="[@]wsma/foundation/physician-and-practitioner-wellness/thriving-in-medicine-wellness-report/wsma/foundation/physician-and-practitioner-wellness/thriving-in-medicine-cultivating-choice-competence-and-community.aspx?hkey=3ee3843c-a851-4a23-b464-c53890175d12">Thriving in Medicine: Cultivating Choice, Competence, and Community</a>," a set of criteria for medical organizations, leaders, physicians, and practitioners to assess and implement positive changes within their systems or settings. The report is a guide to start, or to reevaluate and renew, processes to allow physicians and practitioners to thrive, based on three takeaways: </p>
<ul>
<li>Productive and positive change requires listening to, involving, and empowering physicians and practitioners.</li>
<li>Productive and positive change takes dedicated resources and support.</li>
<li>Wellness programs that are supported with time and financial support are viewed most positively, have better outcomes, and foster a greater sense that leadership supports joy in medicine.</li>
</ul>
<p style="margin-left: 40px;"><strong>Action alert #1:</strong> Download and review "<a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/foundation/physician-and-practitioner-wellness/thriving-in-medicine/wsma-thriving-in-medicine-report.pdf]">Thriving in Medicine: Cultivating Choice, Competence, and Community.</a>" Use it as a resource, regardless of your leadership position. Physicians and physician assistants not in leadership roles can introduce the report to their leadership team.</p>
<h3>House Bill 1718: Making wellness programs safer and more accessible </h3>
<p>Starting this summer, wellness programs will be more accessible for Washington physicians and physician assistants, due to the passage of WSMA priority legislation <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary/?BillNumber=1718&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false">House Bill 1718</a>. The result of a multiyear campaign in partnership with the Washington Chapter of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, HB 1718 establishes confidentiality protections for physician and physician assistant well-being programs-the lack of which has been frequently cited by physicians and practitioners as a barrier to access. Championed by bill sponsor Rep. My-Linh Thai (D-Bellevue), HB 1718 passed both the House and Senate unanimously this year and goes into effect July 26, 2025.</p>
<p style="margin-left: 40px;"><strong>Action alert #2:</strong> <a href="[@]wsma/education/upcoming_webinars/wsma/education/upcoming_webinars/Upcoming_Webinars.aspx?hkey=b760d6bd-1833-412d-b681-babf251792a8">Register for a free lunchtime wellness webinar</a> this Monday, May 12, where you'll hear from physician wellness experts on why confidentiality protections for wellness programs are important, along with credentialing reform and other wellness advocacy initiatives. Washington Physicians Health Program Executive Medical Director Chris Bundy, MD, MPH, and Stef Simmons, MD, an emergency department physician and vice president of clinician engagement for Envision Healthcare's national medical group, will lead the robust discussion. This activity has been approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Creditâ„¢</em>.</p>
<h3>Catch up on episodes from our wellness podcast and earn CME </h3>
<p>The WSMA Foundation Physician and Practitioner Wellness Podcast features discussions on clinician wellness from a variety of perspectives drawing on evidence-based work on the topic. Each episode is moderated by a member of the WSMA Foundation's <a href="[@]wsma/foundation/physician-and-practitioner-wellness/thriving-in-medicine-wellness-report/wsma/foundation/physician-and-practitioner-wellness/thriving-in-medicine-cultivating-choice-competence-and-community.aspx?hkey=3ee3843c-a851-4a23-b464-c53890175d12">wellness committee</a>. These episodes are newly available: </p>
<p><a href="http://www.wsma.org/wsma/foundation/physician-and-practitioner-wellness/wellness-podcast-episodes/episode-7-the-power-of-our-mindset-and-perspectives.aspx">Episode 7: The Power of Our Mindset and Perspectives</a> - An enlightening conversation with Tamara Chang, MD, award-winning author, leadership coach, and co-founder of Pink Coat, MD, about defining perspective and mindset, exploring different types of perspectives and mindsets, understanding their impact on outcomes, and integrating the power of these concepts into your work and life as a physician or practitioner.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.wsma.org/wsma/foundation/physician-and-practitioner-wellness/wellness-podcast-episodes/episode-8-coaching-programs-to-improve-wellness.aspx">Episode 8: Coaching Programs to Improve Wellness</a> - A discussion with Gregg Miller MD, chief medical officer at Vituity, on how to apply a medical group's best practices around wellness to your organization and develop tailored coaching programs for physicians and practitioners.</p>
<p style="margin-left: 40px;"><strong>Action alert #3:</strong> This month, commit to listening or watching at least one wellness podcast episode to find out what you're missing. The podcast is free, open to all practitioner types, and offers CME. Access the episodes at the links provided or from our podcast channel, WSMA Podcasts, available through <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wsma-podcasts/id1702920307">Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/0PBMBLgHr6e0X3OaMjyJON?si=af140842c00c430c">Spotify</a>. Each podcast is approved for <em>AMA PRA Category 1 Creditâ„¢</em>.</p>
<p>Thank you for taking three actions this month in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month. For all of our wellness resources, visit the WSMA Foundation's <a href="[@]wsma/foundation/physician-and-practitioner-wellness/wsma/foundation/physician-and-practitioner-wellness/physician-and-practitioner-wellness.aspx?hkey=3d237805-2558-404b-99b9-1108bb8a0292">Physician and Practitioner Wellness</a> webpages.</p>
</div> | 5/8/2025 3:56:24 PM | 5/6/2025 2:41:17 PM | 5/9/2025 12:00:00 AM |
| may-june-wsma-reports-climate-change-checkup-for-health-care | May/June WSMA Reports: Climate Change Checkup for Health Care | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2025/may-9/may-june-wsma-reports-climate-change-checkup-for-health-care | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>May 9, 2025</h5>
<h2>May/June WSMA Reports: Climate Change Checkup for Health Care </h2>
<p>As a benefit of your membership with the WSMA, you'll receive <em>WSMA Reports</em>, our member magazine, in the mail every other month. The magazine features news and perspectives from a physician's point of view, from the voices of WSMA members themselves.</p>
<h3>A preview of the May/June issue </h3>
<p>Increasingly, concerned members of the medical community, including the WSMA, are taking an active role in the climate equivalent of "physician, heal thyself," asking what health care can and should do to reduce its carbon footprint. In this issue of <em>WSMA Reports</em>, feature writer Rita Colorito talks with physician leaders in Washington who are helping to spearhead efforts to reduce the use of anesthetic gases-widely considered the foremost priority for cleaning ("greening") up health care's act.</p>
<p>Elsewhere, feature writer John Gallagher speaks with young physician leaders at the WSMA who, like many young physicians across the country, are increasingly turning to public policy advocacy to tackle climate change and other social issues of our time.</p>
<p>Another issue of our time: health care shortages. Medication and specialty shortages and equipment recalls are on the rise-as is your malpractice exposure. Get the latest risk management guidance from our trusted partners Physicians Insurance.</p>
<p>Elsewhere in the magazine: </p>
<ul>
<li>"Kids' Health Is Not a Partisan Issue" and opinion piece by Amrita Stark, MD </li>
<li>Member Spotlight on Ken Foerster, MD </li>
<li>By the Numbers: Match Day Class of 2025 </li>
<li>And more.</li>
</ul>
<p>This issue's striking cover illustration is by Emma Cheng. We hope you enjoy this benefit of your membership-thank you for your member support. <a href="[@]wsma/about/wsma-reports/issues/2025/may-june.aspx">Log in to download the issue</a>.</p>
<p>Have feedback you'd like to share? Topics you'd like to see discussed in the magazine-or voices you'd like to hear from? The magazine's editorial team would love to hear from you. Write them at <a href="mailto:editors@wsma.org">editors@wsma.org</a>. Opinion columns are welcome, too-please keep to 500 words.</p>
</div> | 5/8/2025 3:56:24 PM | 5/6/2025 2:39:34 PM | 5/9/2025 12:00:00 AM |
| save-the-date-ai-in-health-care-with-peter-lee-sept-19 | Save the Date! AI in Health Care with Peter Lee: Sept. 19 | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2025/may-9/save-the-date-ai-in-health-care-with-peter-lee-sept-19 | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>May 9, 2025</h5>
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<h2>Save the Date! AI in Health Care with Peter Lee: Sept. 19 </h2>
<p><em>8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. at the Westin Bellevue. Featuring Peter Lee, president of Microsoft Research</em> </p>
<p>WSMA's Artificial Intelligence Work Group is pleased to announce a day of learning and engagement on Sept. 19 at the Westin Bellevue, one day before the 2025 Annual Meeting of the WSMA House of Delegates. Headlining the event will be Peter Lee, president of Microsoft Research and its incubations in artificial intelligence, computing foundations, health, and life sciences. He will present "The AI Revolution in Medicine, Revisited." </p>
<p>The conference will cover: </p>
<ul>
<li>The regulatory landscape of AI in health care.</li>
<li>The future of AI technologies in clinical use.</li>
<li>What AI tools are being utilized in physician practice today and what's on the horizon.</li>
</ul>
<h3>About the Keynote Presentation </h3>
<p><strong>Peter Lee presents "The AI Revolution in Medicine, Revisited" - </strong>About three years ago, while ChatGPT and, later, the GPT-4 AI models were still in secret development at OpenAI, a group of researchers at Microsoft Research started investigating the potential impact of this new technology on health care delivery and medical research. One result of this investigation was the publication of the book in early 2023, "The AI Revolution in Medicine: GPT-4 and Beyond," coauthored with Carey Goldberg and Isaac Kohane. But since the book was written while GPT-4 was still a secret to the world, it was largely a work of speculation. So now, with a bit more than two years of real-world observation and experience, what is actually happening? And what is likely to happen next in the world of health care? This talk will go into what we had predicted, what we got right, and what we missed, as a way to help us see a bit into the future.</p>
<h3>About the Keynote Presenter </h3>
<p>As president of Microsoft Research, Peter Lee's leadership spans 11 worldwide laboratories to advance human knowledge and incubate research-powered products in artificial intelligence, computer science, health, and life sciences. Coauthor of the book, "The AI Revolution in Medicine: GPT-4 and Beyond," Lee was named by Time magazine as one of the 100 most influential people in health and life sciences in 2024.</p>
<p>Conference registration will be announced this month. For now, save the date and <a href="[@]wsma/events/AI_in_Health_Care/wsma/events/ai-in-health-care/ai-in-health-care.aspx?hkey=b0f6b89a-e575-4fc1-89a1-20e9c0749ae3">bookmark the meeting page</a>! </p>
</div> | 5/8/2025 3:56:24 PM | 5/6/2025 2:41:26 PM | 5/9/2025 12:00:00 AM |
| supporting-womens-health-with-new-doh-patient-materials | Supporting Women's Health with New DOH Patient Materials | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2025/may-9/supporting-womens-health-with-new-doh-patient-materials | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>May 9, 2025</h5>
<h2>Supporting Women's Health with New DOH Patient Materials </h2>
<p>For our primary care members, the Washington State Department of Health now offers newly developed patient and professional materials on underdiscussed, under screened, and undertreated conditions affecting women and girls in our state.</p>
<h3>Preventing congenital cytomegalovirus </h3>
<p>Cytomegalovirus is a common virus that can cause serious birth defects in infants born to women infected during pregnancy. Severe cases of CMV during pregnancy can cause pregnancy loss. The Department of Health now offers educational resources for pregnant women about preventing in-utero exposure to cytomegalovirus. Find a wealth of resources, including a patient flyer in 12 languages for your waiting or exam room, at <a href="https://doh.wa.gov/you-and-your-family/womens-health/pregnancy/cmv-newborns">CMV in Newborns | Washington State Department of Health</a>.</p>
<h3>Preventing and responding to genital mutilation and cutting </h3>
<p>In 2023, Washington became the 41st state to enact <a href="https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5453&amp;Year=2023&amp;Initiative=false">legislation</a> to make <a href="https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/female-genital-mutilation">female genital mutilation or cutting</a> illegal. An estimated 25,000 women and girls in our state are at risk of or have undergone female genital mutilation or cutting. The Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue metro area is reported to be home to the nation's fifth largest impacted community.</p>
<p>Primary care physicians and physician assistants can support the prevention of female genital mutilation or cutting by sharing information about both the range of short- and long-term impacts and the laws prohibiting it. To engage patients and family members using culturally responsive approaches and avoid retraumatizing survivors, it's important to be familiar with the communities and contexts where female genital mutilation or cutting occurs. The following resources provide best practice for practitioners: </p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://iris.who.int/bitstream/handle/10665/272429/9789241513913-eng.pdf?ua=1">Care for Girls &amp; Women Living with Female Genital Mutilation</a> (World Health Organization) </li>
<li><a href="https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241549646">Management of Health Complications from Female Genital Mutilation</a> (World Health Organization) </li>
<li><a href="https://fgmtoolkit.gwu.edu/">FGM/C Educational Toolkit for Providers and Survivors</a> (George Washington University) </li>
</ul>
<p>For more information reach out to <a href="mailto:carolyn.house-higgins@doh.wa.gov">Carolyn House-Higgins</a> in the department's injury and violence prevention section or <a href="mailto:megan.guffey@doh.wa.gov">Dr. Megan Guffey,</a> regional medical officer at the department.</p>
</div> | 5/8/2025 3:56:24 PM | 5/8/2025 12:29:02 PM | 5/9/2025 12:00:00 AM |
| 2025-seattle-king-county-free-clinic-is-apr-24-27 | 2025 Seattle-King County Free Clinic is Apr. 24-27 | memo | Shared_Content/News/Membership_Memo/2025/april-11/2025-seattle-king-county-free-clinic-is-apr-24-27 | <div class="col-md-12">
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<h5>April 11, 2025</h5>
<h2>2025 Seattle-King County Free Clinic is Apr. 24-27 </h2>
<p><em>For our King County members: Help us spread the word!</em> </p>
<p>This year, the WSMA is proud <a href="https://seattlecenter.org/skcclinic/partners/">to join the partners</a> of the Seattle/King County Clinic, the yearly health care event offering free dental, vision, and medical services to those in need. All are welcome to the three-day free clinic, which takes place in the Fisher Pavilion of the Seattle Center starting at 5:30 a.m. on April 24. All services are free, no ID is required, and interpreters are available.</p>
<p><strong>About the clinic</strong> </p>
<p>Of the patients who seek services, approximately 95% are housed, 49% are insured, and only 36% are unemployed. As a recent <a href="https://seattlecenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Big-Seattle-free-clinic-shows-the-gaps-in-our-health-care-system-_-Seattle-Times.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Seattle Times op-ed</a> that featured the clinic shared, there are many reasons people may struggle to access or afford health care.</p>
<p><strong>Patient outreach</strong> </p>
<p>Help spread the word about the free clinic! Printable flyers, social media graphics, and suggested text are available at <a href="http://www.seattlecenter.org/patients">seattlecenter.org/patients</a>. Share the clinic's patient outreach posts from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SKCClinic/posts/pfbid0mLtbvcfF8TKqL6Gz6o41rZgjV4nQey4ba44S8x8RaVwV47456oort4J7EE5YwCXGl">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DHb7VfARDTx/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7308604503279157249">LinkedIn</a>, and <a href="https://x.com/SKCClinic/status/1902839177399656711">X</a>. The clinic's <a href="https://seattlecenter.org/skcclinic/faq/">FAQs</a> may also be a helpful resource. Join the hundreds of community organizations that are sharing the details with their networks. It takes an engaged community to connect with all those who need the services the clinic provides.</p>
<p><strong>Volunteer registration</strong> </p>
<p>Volunteers are still needed. Visit <a href="http://www.seattlecenter.org/volunteers">seattlecenter.org/volunteers</a> to see the list of needs that exist or simply go to the volunteer registration page and see what openings are available. Thursday and Sunday are always good places to start.</p>
<p>Stay connected to clinic updates by following them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SKCClinic/">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/seattlekingcountyclinic/">Instagram</a>, and <a href="https://linkedin.com/company/skcclinic">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
</div> | 4/10/2025 3:20:54 PM | 4/10/2025 12:39:33 PM | 4/10/2025 12:00:00 AM |