| washington-physician-groups-urge-preventive-measures-as-ers-see-influx-of-rsv-patients | Washington Physician Groups Urge Preventive Measures as ERs See Influx of RSV Patients | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2022/washington-physician-groups-urge-preventive-measures-as-ers-see-influx-of-rsv-patients | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>Nov. 22, 2022</h5>
<h2>Washington Physician Groups Urge Preventive Measures as ERs See Influx of RSV Patients</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE (Updated Nov. 23, 2022) - Physicians across Washington are seeing an unusually steep rise in the number of cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), particularly in children, as well as an <a href="https://doh.wa.gov/sites/default/files/filefield_paths/420-100-FluUpdate.pdf">escalating number of pediatric flu cases</a> - including the state's first pediatric flu-related death. Washington children are already experiencing significant delays in access to pediatric hospital beds and are boarding in emergency rooms. We need your help to lower virus transmission to preserve these limited life-saving pediatric resources.
</p>
<p>
As we head into the holiday season, we are joining together today to urge all Washingtonians to take preventive health measures to avoid the spread of these respiratory illnesses. By following these simple preventive steps, we can reduce transmission of these viruses, help prevent further disruptions to our children's education and development, and help keep our critical care services available for everyone.
</p>
<ul>
<li>Everyone 6 months and older who is able should be vaccinated for influenza and COVID-19. People ages 5 years and older who had their last COVID-19 shot at least two months ago can get the updated booster. Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines can be safely given at the same time.</li>
<li>Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, and be careful not to touch your eyes, nose, and mouth. RSV is highly transmittable through touching infected surfaces. Disinfect high-touch surfaces in your home frequently. Cover your mouth and nose when sneezing, preferably with a tissue or the inside of your elbow.</li>
<li>Please wear a mask in crowded indoor settings to protect children and vulnerable adults from these respiratory infections. Kids and adults with mild symptoms like occasional cough and nasal congestion should first test for COVID-19. If they are COVID-19 negative, they should wear a mask in public places until their symptoms resolve. Remember that masking is still required in all health care settings.</li>
<li>If your child is showing moderate symptoms of illness, such as fever, cough, difficulty breathing, congestion, runny nose, or sore throat, do not send them to school or group activities. Have them stay home and treat the symptoms as needed. If you have questions or concerns, call your family physician or pediatrician for advice or to make an appointment. Adults experiencing symptoms should also stay home and contact their physician for advice.</li>
<li>If you think you or your child may need medical attention, contact your family physician or pediatrician first before going to the emergency department. Your primary care office can advise whether your child should be seen and which health care setting would best be able to care for the sick child. If you are unable to reach your primary care office, consider going to an urgent care center or check if telehealth is an option. A nurse triage line through your primary care clinic or insurance provider can help you determine the most appropriate setting for care.</li>
</ul>
<p>
Remember, you should only use a hospital emergency room for very serious or life-threatening problems. Hospital emergency rooms are not the place to go for common illnesses or minor injuries. If you are experiencing any serious or life-threatening symptoms, call 911 or get to your nearest hospital emergency room.
</p>
<p>
<strong>Katina Rue, DO, FAAFP, FACOFP, President, Washington State Medical Association
</strong></p>
<p><strong>
Michael Barsotti, MD, FAAP, President, Washington Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics
</strong></p>
<p><strong>
Mark Johnson, MD, President, Washington Academy of Family Physicians</strong></p>
<p><strong>Carl Heine, MD, FACEP, President, Washington Chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians</strong></p>
<p><strong>
For more information, contact:</strong>
</p>
<p>
Cindy Sharpe<br />
Communications, Washington State Medical Association<br />
<a href="mailto:cindy@wsma.org">cindy@wsma.org</a> / 813.244.2883
</p>
<p>
Jennifer Donahue<br />
Communications Manager, Washington Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics<br />
<a href="mailto:jdonahue@wcaap.org">jdonahue@wcaap.org</a> / 206.713.1087
</p>
<p>
Brian Hunsicker<br />
Director of External Affairs, Washington Academy of Family Physicians<br />
<a href="mailto:brian@wafp.ne">brian@wafp.ne</a>t / 425.747.3100, ext. 102
</p>
<p>
<strong>About the Washington State Medical Association </strong><br />
The WSMA represents more than 12,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians, and medical students across all specialties and practice types in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine for more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
<p>
<strong>About the Washington Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics</strong><br />
The WCAAP represents over 1,200 pediatric health care professionals from across Washington state. Our mission is to optimize the health and well-being of children and their families while advancing pediatric care. WCAAP frames and leads the public discussion on child health issues, advances public policy to benefit children, and empowers pediatric clinicians to provide quality medical care.
</p>
<p>
<strong>About the Washington Academy of Family Physicians</strong><br />
With more than 3,900 members, the WAFP is the largest medical specialty professional organization in Washington. Its members include physicians, residents, and medical students who specialize in family medicine. The organization works to influence the development of policy that will provide optimal health for all people of Washington state.
</p>
<p>
<strong>About the Washington Chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians</strong><br />
WA/ACEP is your state advocate for emergency medicine, with over 700 physician members representing practice settings of all types and a full range of emergency medicine experience. The organization is widely recognized as the voice of emergency medicine and engages in frequent communications with the general public, key interest groups, and the media about the role and value of emergency medicine in the health care delivery system.
</p>
</div> | 11/23/2022 5:48:43 PM | 11/22/2022 9:53:05 AM | 11/22/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma-2022-apple-awards-recognize-member-physicians-others-for-exemplary-service | Washington State Medical Association's 2022 Apple Awards Recognize Member Physicians, Others f | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2022/wsma-2022-apple-awards-recognize-member-physicians-others-for-exemplary-service | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>October 3, 2022</h5>
<h2>
Washington State Medical Association's 2022 Apple Awards Recognize Member Physicians, Others for Exemplary Service</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE (Oct. 3, 2022) - Six physicians, two health care organizations, and one health care executive and have been recognized by the Washington State Medical Association for extraordinary leadership, service, and contributions to medicine and patient safety. These recognitions were part of the WSMA Apple Awards program presented during the 2022 Annual Meeting of the WSMA House of Delegates, held Saturday, Oct. 1 in Spokane at the Historic Davenport.
</p>
<p>
In a first for the Apple Awards program and a sign of the general excellence of potential candidates, not one but two WSMA members received the President's Unsung Hero Award, which recognizes the WSMA member who offers extraordinary service to the profession to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care. Receiving the award was Bindu Nayak, MD, co-founder and co-chair of the Health Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Council at Confluence Health in Wenatchee, who was honored for work identifying and removing health inequities in the North Central Washington region. Also receiving the award was Patricia Wooden, MD, a Vancouver family medicine physician, who was honored for her efforts at PeaceHealth to support physician wellness.
</p>
<p>
Rebecca Carlson, executive director of the Kitsap County Medical Society, received the Community Advocate Award, which recognizes a member of the community who provides extraordinary support to, and advocacy for, the house of medicine. Rebecca's contributions to her community include the establishment of a COVID-19 task force, a community vaccine center in Kitsap County, a burn prevention and burn victim program that was active for 10 years, a countywide drowning prevention program, and a holiday gift program for foster children.
</p>
<p>
Bridget Bush, MD, Anacortes anesthesiologist with Island Health, received the Early Career Member of the Year Award, which recognizes a WSMA member for their service to the association's early career members (physicians in their first 10 years of practice, resident and fellow physicians, and medical students). Her efforts within WSMA's early career sections are hallmarked by her deep passion for supporting and mentoring early career physicians, as well as her leadership of the Young Physician Section Governing Council.
</p>
<p>
MultiCare Health System received the Wellness Award, which recognizes an organization that has worked to put the joy back in medicine for Washington physicians by supporting a culture of wellness, efficiency of practice, or personal resilience. MultiCare Health System was honored for its implementation of a systemwide wellness program inspired by the Stanford Model for Professional Fulfillment, and a demonstration of its commitment through the creation of a medical director role for clinician wellness. Serving in that role is WSMA member Tammie Chang, MD, who accepted the award on behalf of the health system.
</p>
<p>
Three WSMA members received the Grassroots Advocate Award, which recognizes advocacy efforts and activities that support WSMA legislative priorities. They include: Reilly Bealer, fourth-year student at Washington State University's Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine in Spokane, for her direct advocacy during the state legislative session and within the WSMA House of Delegates; Christopher Herndon, MD, Seattle OB-GYN with UW Medicine, for his advocacy supporting access to fertility care and his commitment to reproductive health; and Erik Penner, MD, emergency medicine physician with Olympia Emergency Services, for his leadership on state and federal balance billing legislation.
</p>
<p>
Washington Permanente Medical Group received the William O. Robertson, MD, Patient Safety Award. Named after WSMA past-president and patient safety champion William O. Robertson, MD, the award celebrates innovative patient safety initiatives in the ambulatory care setting. Washington Permanente Medical Group was honored for its efforts on improving the processes surrounding incidental imaging findings, which can pose serious safety risks and delays in care when not communicated to patients or followed up on appropriately. Their efforts have reduced delayed diagnoses, thus enabling earlier interventions when care is more effective and less invasive or toxic.
</p>
<p>
"These individuals and organizations have distinguished themselves by these extraordinary displays of passion, engagement, and commitment that are the hallmarks of good medicine and public service," said WSMA's outgoing 2021 president, Mika Sinanan, MD, PhD, who presented the awards during the association's meeting. "We are grateful for the gifts of their time, their leadership, and their dedication to the health and welfare of Washingtonians."
</p>
<p>
For more information, contact:
</p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
WSMA Director of Communications<br />
206.329.6851 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<h3>About the WSMA</h3>
<p>
The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 12,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians, and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
</div> | 10/3/2022 11:54:56 AM | 10/3/2022 11:51:31 AM | 10/3/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| yakima-osteopathic-family-physician-named-president-of-washington-state-medical-association | Yakima Osteopathic Family Physician Named President of Washington State Medical Association | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2022/yakima-osteopathic-family-physician-named-president-of-washington-state-medical-association | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>October 3, 2022</h5>
<h2>Yakima Osteopathic Family Physician Named President of Washington State Medical Association</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE (Oct. 3, 2022) -Yakima osteopathic family physician, Katina Rue, DO, was named president of the Washington State Medical Association at its annual House of Delegates meeting on Sunday, Oct. 2. The WSMA represents more than 12,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians, and medical students throughout Washington state.
</p>
<p>
Dr. Rue is the program director of the Trios Health Family Medicine Residency Program in Kennewick. She is the first Latina and the first osteopathic physician to hold the top office at the WSMA. Like physicians with a doctor of medicine (MD) degree, physicians with a doctor of osteopathy (DO) degree are qualified to perform medical examinations and procedures and are required to undergo similar amounts of education and training. Osteopathic medicine differs from traditional (allopathic) medicine by its integration of some musculoskeletal therapies to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury. Their holistic approach to medical care also involves integration of the mind, body, and spirit.
</p>
<p>
Dr. Rue received her undergraduate degree in 1999 at Montana State University in Bozeman, Montana, followed by a doctor of osteopathy in 2004 from University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine, now called Kansas City University, in Kansas City, Missouri. She completed an osteopathic family medicine residency in 2007 at the Medical Center of Independence, which was affiliated with Kansas City University, in Independence, Missouri.
</p>
<p>
Dr. Rue returned to her home state of Washington after residency, serving the Yakima and Central Valley communities as a practicing family physician for nearly a decade and pursing executive and clinical leadership roles in academia and residency training programs. Academic appointments include clinical instructor positions with the Pacific Northwest University College of Osteopathic Medicine, the University of Washington School of Medicine, and the Washington State University Elson S. Floyd School of Medicine, amongst others. Dr. Rue served as faculty and associate program director at the Central Washington Family Medicine Residency in Yakima prior to her role as program director at Trios Health.
</p>
<p>
Dr. Rue's involvement in organized medicine is extensive, including membership in the Washington Academy of Family Physicians, Washington Osteopathic Medical Association, Yakima County Medical Society, American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians, and American Academy of Family Physicians. In addition to her leadership service at the WSMA, which includes six years on the executive committee and service on various other association committees, Dr. Rue served as the president of the Yakima County Medical Society from 2014-2016 and 2020-2022, serves on several Washington Osteopathic Medical Association committees, serves on the nominating and bylaws committees of the Washington Academy of Family Physicians and is an alternate delegate to the American Academy of Family Physicians, and is past-president of the Northwest Osteopathic Medical Foundation, among other roles.
</p>
<p>
The following physicians were also elected as officers at the meeting: Nariman Heshmati, MD, Mukilteo OB-GYN, president-elect; John Bramhall, MD, PhD, Seattle anesthesiologist, vice president; and Bridget Bush, MD, Anacortes anesthesiologist, secretary-treasurer. The fifth officer of WSMA's executive committee is Past-President Mika Sinanan, MD, PhD, Hoodsport surgeon, who will serve as committee chair.
</p>
<p>
WSMA members newly elected to the association's board of trustees include Naomi Busch, MD, Seattle family physician; Ingrid Gerbino, MD, Lynnwood internal medicine physician; Bindu Nayak, MD, Wenatchee endocrinologist; Christine Pizzute, MD, Bellevue gastroenterologist; Camille Puronen, MD, Seattle oncologist; and Yasmin Shayesteh, MD, Everett ophthalmologist. WSMA member Rachel Clement, MD, Wenatchee anesthesiologist, was elected to serve on the board as an AMA alternate delegate. Teresa Girolami, MD, Redmond internal medicine physician, who had been serving on the board as a trustee, was newly elected as an AMA alternate delegate. Visit the WSMA website for a <a href="[@]wsma/about_us/leadership/board_of_trustees/wsma/about/leadership/board_of_trustees/board_of_trustees.aspx?hkey=0abc484b-c165-4fb1-90b5-1f72370b18d2">full roster of WSMA board of trustees members</a>.
</p>
<p>
Download a high-resolution portrait of <a href="javascript://[Uploaded files/News and Publications/Press Room/rue-katina.jpg]">WSMA President Katina Rue, DO</a>.</p>
<p>
For more information, contact:
</p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
WSMA Director of Communications<br />
206.329.6851 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<h3>About the WSMA</h3>
<p>
The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 12,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians, and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
</div> | 10/15/2022 12:59:51 PM | 10/3/2022 11:09:04 AM | 10/3/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| WSMA_Joins_the_AMA_and_Medical_Society_of_New_Jersey_in_Class-Action_Suit_Against_Cigna | WSMA Joins the AMA and Medical Society of New Jersey in Class-Action Suit Against Cigna | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2022/WSMA_Joins_the_AMA_and_Medical_Society_of_New_Jersey_in_Class-Action_Suit_Against_Cigna | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>Sept. 16, 2022</h5>
<h2>WSMA Joins the AMA and Medical Society of New Jersey in Class-Action Suit Against Cigna</h2>
<p>
Seattle, Wash. (Sept. 16, 2022) - Washington State Medical Association President Mika Sinanan, MD, PhD, today issued the following statement:
</p>
<p>"This week, the WSMA partnered with the American Medical Association and the Medical Society of New Jersey to join a class-action lawsuit against Cigna, one of the country's largest health insurers, for its failure to reimburse physicians at contractually agreed-upon rates and for misrepresenting to patients and to physicians the money patients owed for medical services. At the heart of this case is insurer accountability and the rights of physicians and insureds to have their contracts and arrangements honored. The WSMA stands firmly with the AMA, the Medical Society of New Jersey, and the patient plaintiffs in this effort, which has broad implications for physicians and patients in Washington state and elsewhere in the country as we advocate for transparency about medical service payment pricing and push back against insurer misconduct that interferes with the patient-physician relationship."</p>
<p>
For more information, contact:
</p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
WSMA Director of Communications<br />
206.329.6851 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<h3>About the WSMA</h3>
<p>
The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 12,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians, and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
</div> | 9/16/2022 12:33:26 PM | 9/16/2022 12:26:27 PM | 9/16/2022 12:33:25 PM |
| wsmas_covid_19_vaccination_confidence_campaign_receives_national_recognition | WSMA’s COVID-19 Vaccination Confidence Campaign Receives National Recognition | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2022/wsmas_covid_19_vaccination_confidence_campaign_receives_national_recognition | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>July 6, 2022</h5>
<h2>WSMA's COVID-19 Vaccination Confidence Campaign Receives National Recognition</h2>
<p>
Seattle, Wash. (June 28, 2022) - The Washington State Medical Association's "Talk to Your Doctor" COVID-19 vaccine confidence campaign has received the Association Media and Publishing (AM&amp;P) Network's 2022 Silver EXCEL Award in the "Pandemic Response Campaign" category. The EXCEL Awards are the largest and most prestigious program in the U.S. recognizing excellence and leadership in association media, publishing, marketing, and communication.
</p>
<p>
Produced in partnership with the Washington State Department of Health, the WSMA introduced the "Talk to Your Doctor" COVID-19 vaccine confidence campaign in the fall of 2021 to reach vaccine-hesitant people and encourage vaccine uptake in rural and disadvantaged communities in Washington state. The campaign targeted the Northeast Tri County Health District, which includes Pend Oreille, Ferry, and Stevens counties, where COVID-19 vaccine use was significantly lower compared to the state average, based on data from the Department of Health's COVID-19 data dashboard.
</p>
<p>
With grant monies from the DOH and using the social marketing services of the Cox Media Group, the WSMA communications team designed and implemented a three-month, multiplatform, data-driven marketing campaign featuring 15- and 30-second videos targeting adults in the Tri County area across all devices on Facebook/Instagram, YouTube, and Google-approved websites. (See the videos here: <a href="https://vimeo.com/user/6809798/folder/5498609">vimeo.com/user/6809798/folder/5498609</a>)
</p>
<p>
The videos featured community physicians in familiar local environments delivering key messages to encourage vaccination and to encourage residents to start a dialogue with their clinicians to air their health care concerns or to ask questions. The videos were supplemented with traditional media outreach and print resources.
</p>
<p>
Participating Northeast Tri County physicians included: Curtis Gill, DO, Newport; Geoff Jones, MD, Newport; Lisa Matelich, MD, Newport; Shannon Radke, MD, Newport; Kal Kelley, MD, Republic; Ramon Canto, MD, Colville; Caleb Holtzer, MD, Chewelah; and Edward Johnson, MD, Kettle Falls. Strategic planning for the initiative was conducted with input from the Department of Health and with the assistance of Sam Artzis, MD, health officer for the Northeast Tri County Health District.
</p>
<p>
According to Department of Health data covering the period of the three-month campaign (October-December 2021), of those 16 years or older, the percentage increase of those initiating a COVID-19 vaccination compared favorably to the state's average increase over the same period. Vaccine doses given by date also show a cumulative uptick in each county over those three months when compared to the three months preceding the campaign. Additionally, the social marketing campaign performed well above industry benchmarks for reaching target audiences on Facebook/Instagram, YouTube and on Google-approved websites.
</p>
<p>
"Our patients are bombarded with information every day, much of it confusing or conflicting, and unfortunately, some of it misleading," says Mika Sinanan, MD, PhD, WSMA president. "This campaign sought to encourage patients to take action toward understanding their own health care needs by talking with their hometown doctors about the COVID-19 vaccine. Encouraging that connection and talking to a trusted source for health care information were at the heart of this vaccine confidence campaign."
</p>
<p>
"We were privileged to partner with WSMA on this important COVID-19 vaccination outreach campaign," said Umair A. Shah, MD, MPH, Washington state secretary of health. "Vaccination is the best way to prevent serious infection and death from COVID-19 and it is imperative we reach all communities with accurate information so they can make informed choices."
</p>
<p>
The Software &amp; Information Industry Association (SIIA) announced winners of the 42nd Annual AM&amp;P Network EXCEL Awards at the 2022 AM&amp;P Content &amp; Marketing Summit in Washington, D.C., June 22-23.
</p>
<p>
For more information, contact:
</p>
<p>
Cindy Sharpe<br />
WSMA Communications<br />
813.244.2883 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:cindy@wsma.org">cindy@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<h3>About the WSMA</h3>
<p>
The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 12,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians, and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
<h3>About the Washington State Department of Health</h3>
<p>The Washington State Department of Health is proud to serve all people in the great state of Washington. DOH provides comprehensive public health services and programs to the community through a workforce of approximately 2,000 public health professionals, researchers, scientists, doctors, nurses, and other staff – all dedicated to improving the health and well-being of Washingtonians and the communities in which they live, learn, work, worship, and play. DOH will continue to evolve and transform public health activities, taking it to the next level through our cornerstone values of equity, innovation, and engagement. Public health works together and across the health ecosystem for a brighter tomorrow.</p>
</div> | 7/7/2022 12:25:19 PM | 7/7/2022 12:24:41 PM | 7/6/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_affirms_gun_violence_is_a_public_health_crisis_and_calls_for_action | WSMA Affirms Gun Violence is a Public Health Crisis and Calls for Action | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2022/wsma_affirms_gun_violence_is_a_public_health_crisis_and_calls_for_action | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>June 3, 2022</h5>
<h2>WSMA Affirms Gun Violence is a Public Health Crisis and Calls for Action</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE (June 3, 2022) After a tragic week of lives lost to gun violence, the Washington State Medical Association again affirms that gun violence is a public health crisis affecting our children, communities, families, friends, and patients. We urge lawmakers to act.
</p>
<p>
With the news of the shooting at St. Francis Medical Center in Tulsa-where former Seattle physician and WSMA member, Preston Phillips, MD, was among four individuals fatally targeted in yet another mass shooting-the WSMA calls on elected officials to move beyond rhetoric and take tangible action to solve this crisis. At the same time, the officers, board and members of the WSMA mourn the loss of our colleague and offer our sincerest condolences to Dr. Phillip's family, friends and colleagues as well as the loved ones of all victims of gun violence.
</p>
<p>
The WSMA calls for state and national commonsense policies that would reduce injuries and deaths stemming from firearms. Our schools, hospitals, grocery stores and churches should be safe, rather than places where we fear for our lives. More must be done, immediately, to address this crisis, including passage of legislation on waiting periods, background checks and other policies, such as restrictions on assault weapons.
</p>
<p>
The WSMA has longstanding policy in favor of legislation that "…would restrict the sale and private ownership of large clip, high-rate-of-fire automatic and semi-automatic firearms, or any weapon that is modified or redesigned to operate as a large clip, high-rate-of-fire automatic or semi-automatic weapon."
</p>
<p>
After several years of the WSMA supporting legislation aligned with this policy, this year Washington's legislature passed SB 5078, which prohibits the manufacture and sale of large-capacity magazines as well as HB 1705, which prohibits untraceable "ghost guns."
</p>
<p>
These are good advances in addressing the crisis, but more must be done, and quickly.
</p>
<p>
The Washington State Medical Association and our member physicians are at the forefront of public health and patient care. Every day we treat the victims of gun violence. We are the ones whose hands probe the wounds, who seek to heal the bodies and who help mend the minds of those impacted by senseless gun tragedy.
</p>
<p>
The WSMA will continue to actively advocate for and support policies aimed at encouraging firearm safety and preventing firearm-related injuries and death. We believe firearm injuries and death are preventable. Enough is enough.
</p>
<p>
For more information, contact:
</p>
<p>
Cindy Sharpe<br />
WSMA Communications<br />
813.244.2883 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:cindy@wsma.org">cindy@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<h3>About the WSMA</h3>
<p>
The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 12,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians, and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
</div> | 6/3/2022 9:52:50 AM | 6/3/2022 9:49:15 AM | 6/3/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_calls_on_state_leaders_to_declare_crisis_take_action | WSMA Calls on State Leaders to Declare Crisis, Take Action | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2022/wsma_calls_on_state_leaders_to_declare_crisis_take_action | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>January 6, 2022</h5>
<h2>WSMA Calls on State Leaders to Declare Crisis, Take Action</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE – The Washington State Medical Association, representing more than 12,000 physicians, resident physicians, medical students, and physician assistants, is urging Gov. Jay Inslee and Secretary of Health Umair Shah, MD, to officially declare Washington state in crisis and immediately take action to aid overwhelmed emergency departments and hospitals across the state.
</p>
<p>
<a href="https://wsma.org/doc_library/news/letter-to-inslee-shah-crises-resources.pdf" target="_blank">Read the letter</a>, co-authored with the Washington Chapter of American College of Emergency Physicians and delivered to state officials this morning.
</p>
<p>
The following WSMA and WA-ACEP spokespersons are available for interviews:
</p>
<p>
WSMA Immediate Past President:<br />
Nathan Schlicher, MD, PhD<br />
Regional Director of Quality Assurance for Franciscan Health System <br />
Emergency Departments
</p>
<p>
WA-CEP President:<br />
C. Ryan Keay, MD, FACEP<br />
Division Chief, Outpatient and Community Medicine<br />
North Sound Emergency Medicine<br />
Providence Regional Medical Center Everett
</p>
<p>
Contact Graham Short at <a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a> or 206.329.6851 (cell) to coordinate.
</p>
<h3>About the WSMA</h3>
<p>
The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 12,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians, and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
</div> | 1/6/2022 11:32:04 AM | 1/6/2022 9:53:36 AM | 1/6/2022 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_names_representative_marcus_riccelli_its_2021_legislator_of_the_year | WSMA Names Representative Marcus Riccelli Its 2021 Legislator of the Year | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2021/wsma_names_representative_marcus_riccelli_its_2021_legislator_of_the_year | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>December 15, 2021</h5>
<h2>WSMA Names Representative Marcus Riccelli Its 2021 Legislator of the Year</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE (Dec. 15, 2021) - Representative Marcus Riccelli, D-Spokane, has been named 2021 Legislator of the Year by the Washington State Medical Association for his continued partnership with the physician community and his efforts to expand access to care.
</p>
<p>
First awarded WSMA's Legislator of the Year in 2016, Rep. Riccelli has spent the past five legislative sessions fortifying his commitment to increasing access to care for patients and supporting our state's physician community. Highlights include:
</p>
<p>
<strong>Audio-only telemedicine</strong> (HB 1196 from 2021) - Rep. Riccelli witnessed the need and effectiveness of audio-only telemedicine in his Eastern Washington district, where access to health care can be limited by the ability to travel and broadband capabilities. He not only brought forward this WSMA priority bill, he was also a staunch advocate for our position during several rounds of negotiations with insurance carriers and other stakeholders. He is a long-time member of the Telehealth Collaborative and has sponsored several other important telemedicine bills in previous sessions.
</p>
<p>
<strong>Prioritizing public health</strong> - Rep. Riccelli crafted legislation to help insulate local public health boards from political pressures and ensure increased representation from health care professionals. He worked extensively with a broad coalition to ensure a generational investment in foundational public health of $147 million in the 2021-23 budget and an additional $296 million in the 2023-35 budget.
</p>
<p>
<strong>Modernizing the physician assistant profession</strong> (HB 2378 from 2020) - Following the extensive work and partnership between the WSMA and the Washington Academy of Physician Assistants, Rep. Riccelli sponsored this bill to make important changes to the state's physician assistant practice act by reducing administrative burdens and helping facilitate employment.
</p>
<p>
<strong>Licensure fee setting (HB 1753 from 2019)</strong> - Rep. Riccelli partnered with the WSMA to establish policy requiring a preliminary notice period for any proposed fee increases from the Washington Medical Commission to provide additional and fair protections for physicians and other health care professionals.
</p>
<p>
<strong>Interstate Medical Licensure Compact</strong> (HB 1337 from 2017) - Rep. Riccelli led a multi-year effort to authorize the Washington Medical Commission to participate in the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact, replacing a fragmented, administratively burdensome process to practice medicine across state borders.
</p>
<p>
Over the years, Rep. Riccelli has had a sustained interest in supporting the existing physician workforce, consistently advocating for increasing Medicaid reimbursement rates, and also keeping the physician pipeline strong by working to help create the Washington State University medical school.
</p>
<p>
"Rep. Riccelli's willingness to go to bat for the physician community during the 2021 legislative session served as a reminder that the WSMA could not ask for a better ally," said Elizabeth Peterson, MD, chair of WSMA's political action committee, WAMPAC, and a Spokane resident.
</p>
<p>
"The physician community is grateful for Rep. Ricelli's ongoing commitment to helping us make Washington the best place to practice medicine and receive care," said Mika Sinanan, MD, PhD, WSMA president. "Congratulations to Rep. Riccelli on being named WSMA's 2021 Legislator of the Year!"
</p>
<p>
For more information, contact:
</p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
Associate Director of Communications <br />
Office: 206.956.3633<br />
Cell: 206.329.6851<br />
Email: <a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<h3>About the WSMA </h3>
<p>
The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 12,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians, and medical students across all specialties and practice types in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine for more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
</div> | 12/15/2021 9:37:32 AM | 12/15/2021 9:28:47 AM | 12/15/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| physicians_ready_to_vaccinate_children_ages_5_11_against_covid_19 | Physicians Ready to Vaccinate Children Ages 5-11 Against COVID-19 | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2021/physicians_ready_to_vaccinate_children_ages_5_11_against_covid_19 | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>November 2, 2021</h5>
<h2>Physicians Ready to Vaccinate Children Ages 5-11 Against COVID-19</h2>
<p>
Seattle, Wash. - To keep children safe from COVID-19 and to reduce community spread, it is essential that children are vaccinated, and Washington's health care community stands ready to help in this effort. The Washington State Medical Association (WSMA), Washington Academy of Family Physicians (WAFP) and Washington Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (WCAAP) support the Washington State Department of Health's plan to distribute and administer a Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5-11 years old, following the emergency use authorization granted by the Food and Drug Administration in October and recommendation by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, expected later this week.
</p>
<p>
"This is a moment that many of us, as physicians and as parents, have been waiting for," says WSMA President Mika Sinanan, MD, PhD. "Nearly 100% of Washington's physicians have received the COVID-19 vaccine because we know that it's safe and effective. My colleagues who are parents of school-aged children will not hesitate to vaccinate their kids. We urge you to do the same. You may have questions, and that's okay. We encourage parents to talk to their trusted physicians-pediatricians, family doctors, specialty physicians-and ask about the vaccine. We want all of our patients protected from the COVID-19 virus, to move us closer to a day when our children and communities will be free from the threat of serious COVID-19 disease."
</p>
<ul>
<li>Nearly <strong>6.3 million</strong> <a href="https://www.aap.org/link/8c0102e9ed714fc2accacabf8ae82313.aspx">children</a> have been infected with COVID-19 since the pandemic's onset.</li>
<li>More than <strong>22,400</strong> children have been <a href="https://www.aap.org/link/8c0102e9ed714fc2accacabf8ae82313.aspx8c0102e9ed714fc2accacabf8ae82313.aspx8c0102e9ed714fc2accacabf8ae82313.aspx">hospitalized</a> and at least <strong>605</strong> children aged 18 and younger have <a href="https://data.cdc.gov/NCHS/Provisional-COVID-19-Deaths-Focus-on-Ages-0-18-Yea/nr4s-juj3">died</a>.</li>
<li>Patients with COVID-19 had <strong>16-18 times</strong> higher risk for <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/70/wr/mm7035e5.htm">myocarditis</a> compared with patients without the virus. Myocarditis associated with the vaccine is less frequent and of less severity that myocarditis associated with cases of COVID-19. </li>
<li>Recent studies show that around <strong>2% of children</strong> experience <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanchi/article/PIIS2352-4642(21)00198-X/fulltext">post-acute sequelae</a> of COVID-19 and symptoms that persist beyond 56 days.</li>
<li>Compared with 2019, the proportion of <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/wr/mm6945a3.htm">mental health-related visits</a> to the emergency room for children aged 5-11 and 12-17 years increased approximately <strong>24%</strong> and <strong>31%</strong>, respectively.</li>
</ul>
<p>
"Vaccinations against COVID-19 are the best strategy to protect our kids now and well into the future," says WAFP President Angela Sparks, MD, FAAFP. "The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is incredibly effective at preventing infections, which will make our kids, as well as other vulnerable populations, safer. Side effects are almost always mild, and the risk of adverse reactions far outweighs the risk posed by COVID-19."
</p>
<p>
"Health care providers understand that parents may have questions, and it is natural to be concerned about a new vaccine, but the data supports this vaccine is safe and is the best way to keep your child healthy," says WCAAP President Michael Barsotti, MD, FAAP. "Vaccination for COVID-19 will also help keep our children in school, an important part of their social and academic health. The best source of information about your child's health and well-being is your child's primary care medical provider; we, together with you, place your child's safety and well-being above all else."
</p>
<p>
For more information, contact:
</p>
<p>
WCAAP Communications<br />
206.713.1087<br />
<a href="mailto:jdonahue@wcaap.org">jdonahue@wcaap.org</a>
</p>
<p>
Cindy Sharpe<br />
WSMA Communications<br />
813.244.2883<br />
<a href="mailto:cindy@wsma.org">cindy@wsma.org </a>
</p>
<p>
Brian Hunsicker<br />
WAFP Communications<br />
703.851.7706<br />
<a href="mailto:Brian@wafp.net">Brian@wafp.net</a>
</p>
<h3>About the WSMA</h3>
<p>
The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 12,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians, and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
<h3>About the WCAAP</h3>
<p>
The Washington Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics has advocated for the health and well-being of Washington's children and their families since 1934. The WCAAP represents over 1,100 pediatric health care providers from across Washington state. WCAAP frames and leads the public discussion on child health issues, advances public policy to benefit children, and empowers pediatricians to provide quality medical care.
</p>
<h3>About the WAFP</h3>
<p>
With nearly 4,000 members, the Washington Academy of Family Physicians is the largest medical specialty professional organization in Washington. It is comprised of physicians, residents, and medical students who specialize in family medicine. The organization works to influence the development of policy that will provide optimal health for all citizens of Washington state.
</p>
</div> | 11/2/2021 12:02:43 PM | 11/2/2021 10:02:05 AM | 11/2/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| washington_state_medical_association_calls_on_health_professions_to_condemn_covid_19_misinformation | Washington State Medical Association Calls on Health Professions to Condemn COVID-19 Misinformation | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2021/washington_state_medical_association_calls_on_health_professions_to_condemn_covid_19_misinformation | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>September 28, 2021</h5>
<h2>Washington State Medical Association Calls on Health Professions to Condemn COVID-19 Misinformation</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE (Sept. 27, 2021) - The Washington State Medical Association (WSMA) is endorsing the Washington Medical Commission's recently adopted COVID-19 misinformation position statement and calls on all health care professions to condemn the spread of COVID-19 misinformation and disinformation that erode public trust in the medical profession and endanger patients.
</p>
<p>
"Any health care provider, whether a physician, dentist, naturopath, or nurse, whose treatment for their patients, whether for COVID-19 or another condition, is based on misinformation or disinformation are putting the public at risk," said Mika Sinanan, MD, PhD, president-elect of the WSMA. "It is unethical, unprofessional, and dangerous.
</p>
<p>
"The public puts its trust in our opinions as health care professionals. As physicians, our patients put their lives in our hands. We cannot compromise this trust by touting treatment options that are scientifically unproven or shown to be ineffective and dangerous.
</p>
<p>
"The WSMA supports the stance on COVID-19 misinformation taken by the Washington Medical Commission, which oversees the licenses of MDs and physician assistants. Specifically, as the statement reads, 'treatment and recommendations regarding this disease that fall below the standard of care as established by medical experts, federal authorities, and legitimate medical research are potentially subject to disciplinary action.'
</p>
<p>
"We know that not all patients seek their care from a physician and that we are not their sole source of care or medical information. Therefore, we urge all health professions in Washington state and their licensing boards to adopt a similar statement and commit to disciplining their members who spread inaccurate information about the COVID-19 vaccine, or any vaccine, that has been scientifically proven to protect our patients and our communities from the spread of deadly disease.
</p>
<p>
"The WSMA supports evidence-based medicine, and we have strong policy around principles of medical ethics. Physicians and physician assistants are combatting COVID-19 misinformation every day. They are urging their patients to take appropriate measures to protect themselves and loved ones from illness by getting vaccinated and masking in public, and they strongly recommend against taking treatments for which there is no evidence or that could be harmful if used inappropriately."
</p>
<p>
For more information, contact:
</p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
WSMA Communications<br />
206.329.6851 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<h3>About the WSMA </h3>
<p>
The Washington State Medical Association represents nearly 12,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians, and medical students across all specialties and practice types in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
</div> | 9/28/2021 9:21:01 AM | 9/28/2021 9:18:54 AM | 9/28/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| hoodsport_surgeon_named_president_of_wsma | Hoodsport Surgeon Named President of WSMA | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2021/hoodsport_surgeon_named_president_of_wsma | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>September 27, 2021</h5>
<h2>Hoodsport Surgeon Named President of WSMA</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE (Sept. 27, 2021) - Hoodsport physician Mika Sinanan, MD, PhD, was named president of the Washington State Medical Association at its annual House of Delegates meeting on Sunday, Sept. 26. The WSMA represents physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians, and medical students throughout Washington state.
</p>
<p>
Dr. Sinanan is a general surgeon at University of Washington Medical Center - Montlake in Seattle, the medical director for contracting and value-based specialty care at UW Medical Center, and a professor of surgery at the UW School of Medicine.
</p>
<p>
He received his undergraduate degree (1977) and his medical doctorate (1980) from Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland, followed by a doctorate in gastrointestinal physiology from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, B.C. Dr. Sinanan completed an initial residency in surgery (1983) at the University of Washington in Seattle followed by more post-graduate studies in the department of physiology at the University of British Columbia. After completing a chief residency at the University of Washington in 1988, Dr. Sinanan was appointed attending surgeon at the University of Washington Medical Center in Seattle.
</p>
<p>
Dr. Sinanan continued teaching within the University of Washington with a series of faculty appointments, beginning in 1988 as acting assistant professor in the department of surgery. Today, he is a graduate faculty member at the UW, as well as an adjunct professor in the university's department of electrical engineering.
</p>
<p>
He has received numerous awards and recognition for his academic achievements, his clinical expertise, and his executive management. Recent honors include Seattle Business Magazine's Leaders in Health Care Awards, silver award, outstanding medical group executive (2015), Newsweek Health's top cancer doctors (2015), and top doctor, Seattle Met Magazine, (2013-2019).
</p>
<p>
Dr. Sinanan's involvement in organized medicine is extensive, including with the American Medical Association, American College of Surgeons, American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, National Cancer Committee Network, North Pacific Surgical Association, Pacific Northwest Gastroenterology Society, Seattle Surgical Society, and Society of American Gastroenterologists and Endoscopic Surgeons, among others.
</p>
<p>
The following physicians were also elected as officers at the meeting: Katina Rue, DO, Yakima family physician, president-elect; Nariman Heshmati, MD, Mukilteo OB-GYN, vice president; and John Bramhall, MD, PhD, Seattle anesthesiologist, for a second term as secretary-treasurer. The fifth officer of WSMA's executive committee is past-president Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD, MBA, Tacoma emergency physician, who will serve as committee chair.
</p>
<p>
WSMA members newly elected to the association's board of trustees include Alan Urbina-Alvarez, MD, Lakewood gastroenterologist; and Reilly Bealer, Spokane medical student. WSMA members elected to new board positions include Alexander Hamling, MD, MBA, Seattle pediatrician, trustee-at-large and Amish Dave, MD, MPH, Seattle rheumatologist, young physician trustee.
</p>
<p><a href="https://wsma.org/doc_library/news/sinanan-mika-2021-septoct.jpg" target="_blank">Download a hi-resolution portrait of WSMA President Mika Sinanan, MD, PhD</a></p>
<p>
For more information, contact:
</p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
WSMA Communications<br />
206.329.6851 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<h3>About the WSMA </h3>
<p>
The Washington State Medical Association represents nearly 12,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians, and medical students across all specialties and practice types in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine for more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
</div> | 9/28/2021 10:04:53 AM | 9/27/2021 2:00:55 PM | 9/27/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| washington_state_medical_association_recognizes_member_physicians_others_for_exemplary_servi | Washington State Medical Association Recognizes Member Physicians, Others for Exemplary Serv | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2021/washington_state_medical_association_recognizes_member_physicians_others_for_exemplary_servi | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>September 27, 2021</h5>
<h2>Washington State Medical Association Recognizes Member Physicians, Others for Exemplary Service</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE (Sept. 27, 2021) - Seven physician members and two health care organizations have been recognized by the Washington State Medical Association for extraordinary leadership, service, and contributions to medicine and patient safety. These recognitions were part of the medical association's Apple Awards program presented during the 2021 WSMA Annual Meeting, held virtually on Saturday, Sept. 25.
</p>
<p>
Chris Bundy, MD, the executive medical director of the Washington Physicians Health Program, received the President's Unsung Hero Award, which recognizes the WSMA member who offers extraordinary service to the profession to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care. Dr. Bundy is a national leader in physician health and is the president of the Federation of State Physician Health Programs-a testament to his service, commitment, and the reputation of the WPHP, a program that all members of Washington's physician community can be proud of.
</p>
<p>
Yuan-Po Tu, MD, an internist at The Everett Clinic, received the Community Advocate Award, which recognizes a member of the community who provides extraordinary support to, and advocacy for, the house of medicine. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Tu has played a pivotal role in helping keep his community and health care teams safe and has provided critical and influential contributions in the development of COVID-19 testing.
</p>
<p>
Amish Dave, MD, a rheumatologist with Virginia Mason Medical Center in Seattle, received the Early Career Member of the Year Award, which recognizes a WSMA member for their service to the association's early career members (physicians in their first 10 years of practice, resident physicians, and medical students). His efforts within the WSMA's early career sections are hallmarked by his tireless championing of public health, health equity, and access to care.
</p>
<p>
UW Medicine-Valley Medical Center's Professional Satisfaction and Wellness Committee received the Wellness Award, which recognizes an organization that has worked to put the joy back in medicine for Washington physicians. The committee was honored for its efforts since 2016 to integrate clinician wellness activities across the organization.
</p>
<p>
Four WSMA members received the Grassroots Advocate Award, which recognizes their advocacy efforts and activities supporting WSMA legislative priorities. They include: Beth Harvey, MD, Olympia pediatrician and past president of the Washington Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, for her advocacy on behalf of children with the Cascade Pacific Action Alliance and her instrumental support during the pandemic for the reopening of Thurston County schools; Anthony L-T Chen, MD, Tacoma family physician and the director of health for the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department, for his public health advocacy in Pierce County and support of WSMA's legislative priorities; Katina Rue, DO, Yakima family physician and WSMA executive committee member, for her tireless advocacy in the Legislature in 2021 on behalf of WSMA priorities; and Leo Morales, MD, professor of medicine and assistant dean with the Office of Healthcare Equity at the University of Washington and co-director of the UW Latino Center for Health, for his efforts toward increasing the Latinx physician workforce and his advocacy on behalf of Latinx physicians and physician assistants at the WSMA.
</p>
<p>
This year, the William O. Robertson, MD, Patient Safety Award goes to the MultiCare Regional Cancer Center in Auburn in recognition of its efforts to increase advance care planning (goals-of-care conversations) for patients receiving chemotherapy or radiation and to have POLST (Portable Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) documented in the electronic medical record for patients on palliative therapy.
</p>
<p>
"These individuals and organizations represent exemplary efforts to protect and preserve the health of Washingtonians," said WSMA's outgoing 2021 president, Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD, who presented the awards during the association's virtual meeting. "In difficult times, we can all be grateful that so many in our profession continue to model the best that medicine has to offer."
</p>
<p>
For more information, contact:
</p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
WSMA Communications<br />
206.329.6851 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<h3>About the WSMA </h3>
<p>
The Washington State Medical Association represents nearly 12,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians, and medical students across all specialties and practice types in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine for more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
</div> | 10/25/2021 12:04:48 PM | 9/27/2021 2:26:31 PM | 9/27/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_praises_governor_for_covid_19_vaccination_mandate | WSMA Praises Governor for COVID-19 Vaccination Mandate | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2021/wsma_praises_governor_for_covid_19_vaccination_mandate | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>August 9, 2021</h5>
<h2>WSMA Praises Governor for COVID-19 Vaccination Mandate</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE (Aug. 9, 2021) - Washington State Medical Association President Nathan Schlicher, MD, today reacted to Gov. Jay Inslee's announcement of a statewide COVID-19 vaccination mandate that includes health care workers:
</p>
<p>
"Today, the governor took a strong and necessary step toward protecting the health and well-being of Washington patients and reducing the spread and severity of this terrible disease by ensuring health care workers are vaccinated. As <a href="https://wsma.org/Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2021/wsma_announces_support_for_vaccination_requirements_for_health_care_workers">we announced recently</a>, the Washington State Medical Association supports mandating that Washington's health care workers receive the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible, in line with the governor's announcement. The WSMA applauds the governor for his courage by putting such a mandate in place statewide.
</p>
<p>
"Mandating vaccines during a time of disease outbreak is a proven strategy to eliminate and even eradicate deadly viruses. Time and time again history confirms this, with mandated vaccines helping to make such diseases as polio, measles, and mumps largely things of the past for Americans. It's time we add COVID-19 to that list.
</p>
<p>
"Too many lives have been lost or forever altered from the COVID-19 virus. Washingtonians have done a tremendous job at rolling up their sleeves, but more must be done and must be done now. If you have yet to get the COVID-19 vaccine, don't wait-please vaccinate now. Do it for your safety and the safety of your family and your community. If you have questions about the vaccine, visit <a href="[@]covid-19">wsma.org/covid-19</a> or talk with your doctor."
</p>
<p>
For more information, contact:
</p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
WSMA Communications<br />
206.329.6851 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<h3>About the WSMA </h3>
<p>
The Washington State Medical Association represents nearly 12,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians, and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
</div> | 8/9/2021 1:45:06 PM | 8/9/2021 1:43:15 PM | 8/9/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_announces_support_for_vaccination_requirements_for_health_care_workers | WSMA Announces Support for Vaccination Requirements for Health Care Workers | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2021/wsma_announces_support_for_vaccination_requirements_for_health_care_workers | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>July 29, 2021</h5>
<h2>
Washington State Medical Association Announces Support for Vaccination Requirements for Health Care Workers</h2>
<p>(SEATTLE, WA, July 29, 2021) - The Washington State Medical Association (WSMA) today issued the following statement in support of vaccination requirements for health care workers:
</p>
<p>
The physician community believes that the health of our patients and communities is paramount. To ensure we are not a contributor to the spread of COVID-19 or its variants, the Washington State Medical Association supports mandating that Washington health care workers receive the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible with two exceptions-an adverse medical condition that prevents safe vaccination or a conflicting religious belief.
</p>
<p>
"Our patients need to feel safe when they visit their physician, go to the hospital or ambulatory surgery center for surgery, or seek respite in a skilled nursing, assisted living, or long-term care facility," said Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD, president of the WSMA. "We can no longer hope and urge. Today we need to act.
</p>
<p>
"We know the vaccines are safe and highly effective at preventing severe illness and death from COVID-19. Increased vaccinations among health care personnel will reduce the spread of COVID-19 and will protect our health care workforce.
</p>
<p>
"A vaccine mandate in the health care setting is not unique. In order to protect patients from highly contagious viruses, many health care and long-term care organizations already require vaccinations for influenza, hepatitis B, and pertussis. This tracks with WSMA's long-standing policy in support of vaccine mandates for physicians and other health care workers.
</p>
<p>
"On behalf of the nearly 12,000 physicians and physician assistants who make up the WSMA, we encourage everyone who is able to get the vaccine as soon as possible, and to speak with your physician if you have questions about it or need more information."
</p>
<p>
For more information, contact:
</p>
<p>
Milana McLead<br />
WSMA Communications<br />
253.670.7960(cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:milana@wsma.org">milana@wsma.org</a></p>
<h3>About the WSMA </h3>
<p>
The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians, and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine for more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
</div> | 8/5/2021 3:14:05 PM | 2/1/2021 11:59:35 AM | 7/29/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| a_statement_from_the_wsma_praising_lawmakers_for_health_care_investments_in_final_budget | A Statement From the WSMA Praising Lawmakers for Health Care Investments in Final Budget | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2021/a_statement_from_the_wsma_praising_lawmakers_for_health_care_investments_in_final_budget | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>April 27, 2021</h5>
<h2>A Statement From the Washington State Medical Association Praising Lawmakers for Health Care Investments in Final Budget</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE - The Washington State Medical Association is praising the Washington State Legislature for including significant investments in Medicaid and public health in the final $59.2 billion state operating budget adopted on Sunday. The budget, which will cover the state's operations for the two-year period that begins on July 1, now awaits Gov. Jay Inslee's signature.
</p>
<p>
"The WSMA applauds Washington's lawmakers for doing the right thing and supporting our state's basic health services with these investments," said WSMA President Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD, MBA. "Foundational public health services and Medicaid are really the floor that Washingtonians stand on. Funding these programs will go a long way to keeping people from falling through cracks in our health care system."
</p>
<p>
The final budget adopted by legislators includes $124 million for Medicaid reimbursement increases for primary care services provided by physicians participating in the program. Effective Oct. 1, those include 15% increases for primary care and behavioral health services and 21% for pediatric services. These rate adjustments are similar to those that were passed by the Legislature in 2020 but vetoed by Gov. Inslee due to state budget concerns arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. Restoring the Medicaid rate adjustments will improve access to care for Washingtonians by expanding physician participation in Medicaid networks at a time when it is desperately needed and long overdue.
</p>
<p>
Washington's foundational public health services also receive a significant infusion of funds, with the final budget providing $147 million in the 2021-23 budget and earmarking an additional $296 million to be included in the 2023-25 budget. Foundational public health services are core population-based (rather than patient-based) health programs such as communicable disease prevention and control; chronic disease, injury, and violence prevention; linkage and access to medical, dental, and behavioral health care services; maternal, child, and family health; and more.
</p>
<p>
Taken together, these Medicaid and public health funding provisions are the culmination of years of advocacy by the physician members of the WSMA and other health care partners and represent hundreds of millions of dollars that will benefit patients across the state.
</p>
<p>
"While COVID-19 has upended all our lives, it has fallen hardest on the most vulnerable—not just older Washingtonians and those with chronic conditions, but also communities that face daily hurdles to access basic health care services, whether due to poverty or racial disparities," said Dr. Schlicher. "This pandemic has made painfully and sometimes tragically clear the need for access to basic health services for all—not just for some, but all—Washingtonians.
</p>
<p>
"Sometimes it takes a crisis to spur action and we thank budget writers for responding. These are investments to celebrate and recognize as the most significant support for these basic health programs in decades. Washingtonians need a health care system that is itself healthy and able to tend to health care needs before they become crises, and these funds help put us on that path."
</p>
<p>
For more information, contact: <br />
Cindy Sharpe, WSMA Communications<br />
813.244.2883 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:cindy@wsma.org">cindy@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<h3>About the WSMA</h3>
<p>
The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians, and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine for more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
</div> | 6/3/2021 4:41:54 PM | 4/27/2021 9:42:19 AM | 4/27/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| governor_inslee_proclaims_april_16_healthcare_decisions_day-19_Vaccines_to_R | Governor Inslee Proclaims April 16 Healthcare Decisions Day | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2021/governor_inslee_proclaims_april_16_healthcare_decisions_day-19_Vaccines_to_R | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>April 16, 2021</h5>
<h2>Governor Inslee Proclaims April 16 Healthcare Decisions Day</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE - Gov. Jay Inslee has proclaimed April 16, 2021, as Healthcare Decisions Day in Washington - a day to recognize the importance of advance care planning and encourage individuals to discuss and record choices about future healthcare decisions.
</p>
<p>
<a href="https://www.honoringchoicespnw.org/">Honoring Choices Pacific Northwest</a> (HCPNW), a joint initiative between the Washington State Hospital Association and the Washington State Medical Association Foundation for Health Care Improvement, is part of this national effort to highlight National Healthcare Decisions Day. In honor of Healthcare Decisions Day HCPNW is hosting <em>Whaddya Know</em>, an original game show, where the points don't matter - but the answers do!
</p>
<p>
<em>Whaddya Know</em> challenges players to match guesses to answers to irreverent and fun questions about future healthcare planning, death, and dying. Played with one partner or teams either together or at different locations, <em>Whaddya Know</em> is a live event, free, and open to the public; registration is required and most appropriate for participants 13 and older.
</p>
<p>
To participate in <em>Whaddya Know The Game Show</em> on April 16:
</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.celebratenhdd.online/the-game-show">Learn more</a></li>
<li><a href="https://bit.ly/31viiQ4">Register to play</a></li>
<li><a href="http://evite.me/T8VPGbW6Kd">Invite others to join with an evite</a></li>
<li><a href="https://bit.ly/39rWbhz">Get the Game Kit, including practice questions</a></li>
</ul>
<p>
Inspiring conversations about the care people want at the end of life, HCPNW helps to inform the public on available treatment options and supports health care organizations and community groups in discussing, recording, and honoring the expressed wishes of individuals on their choices for care should they be unable to speak for themselves. HCPNW's vision is that everyone will receive care that honors personal values and goals at the end of life.
</p>
<p>
HCPNW partners with healthcare and community organizations throughout Washington state, and many have local events to promote National Healthcare Decisions Day. Additional information can be found at HCPNW's website, <a href="https://www.honoringchoicespnw.org">www.honoringchoicespnw.org</a>, which includes a free advance directive to download and videos explaining advance care planning.
</p>
<p>
<strong>For more information, contact:</strong>
</p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
Washington State Medical Association<br />
206.956.3633 <br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<p>
Emily Pate<br />
Washington State Hospital Association<br />
206.216.2894<br />
<a href="mailto:emilyp@wsha.org">emilyp@wsha.org</a>
</p>
<h4>About Honoring Choices Pacific Northwest</h4>
<p>
Honoring Choices Pacific Northwest is a joint initiative of the Washington State Hospital Association and Washington State Medical Association Foundation for Health Care Improvement. We use a variety of approaches to inspire conversations about the care people want at the end of life, including an advance care planning program, community engagement, physician education, and advocacy. We help the public make informed choices about end-of-life care and help health care organizations and community groups discuss, record, and honor end-of-life choices. We are a philanthropic endeavor so all who want to participate can.
</p>
<h4>About the Washington State Medical Association Foundation for Health Care Improvement</h4>
<p>
At the WSMA Foundation, we believe in a future where physicians are healthy and fulfilled; where physicians, the health care team, and patients are partners; and where all Washingtonians experience quality care that aligns with their needs, goals, and values. Fulfilling that quest depends upon transformational change at all levels - individual, organizational, and statewide. We believe that change is possible, and that physicians and patients can thrive in health care settings that support them. The WSMA Foundation is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Visit <a href="[@]foundation">www.wsma.org/foundation</a> for more information.
</p>
<h4>About the Washington State Hospital Association</h4>
<p>
The Washington State Hospital Association advocates for and provides value to members in achieving their missions and improving the health of their communities. WSHA represents more than 100 hospitals and health systems in the state, including those that are non-profit, investor-owned, and county, state, and military hospitals. The Quadruple Aim guides our members and our work as we strive to reduce the cost of health care and improve the patient experience, the clinician experience and the health of our communities. Visit <a href="https://www.wsha.org">www.wsha.org</a> for more information.
</p>
</div> | 6/3/2021 4:46:43 PM | 4/16/2021 11:24:55 AM | 4/16/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_statement_on_state_budget_proposals_offered_by_the_house_and_senate | WSMA Statement on State Budget Proposals Offered by the House and Senate | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2021/wsma_statement_on_state_budget_proposals_offered_by_the_house_and_senate | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>March 29, 2021</h5>
<h2>WSMA Statement on State Budget Proposals Offered by the House and Senate</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE - The Washington State Medical Association is pleased that in the state budget proposals offered by the House of Representatives and in the Senate last week, both include funding that will benefit Washington patients and the state's physician community.
</p>
<p>Our state’s public health system has been pushed to the tipping point, after years of underfunding and the SARS-COV-2 pandemic. The WSMA is very encouraged that the House and Senate budget proposals appropriately prioritize public health by including funding for Foundational Public Health Services (FPHS). Both budgets propose significant investments, with the House dedicating $100 million and the Senate at $150 million over the next two years. The Senate also earmarks a $300 million appropriation in the 2023-25 budget cycle.
</p>
<p>Another important priority being addressed in both budget proposals is increasing Medicaid reimbursement rates for primary care, behavioral health, and certain pediatric services—a positive first step in addressing Medicaid reimbursement more broadly. The rate adjustments are similar to those that were passed by the Legislature in 2020 but vetoed by Governor Inslee due to state budget concerns arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. Restoring the Medicaid rate adjustments will improve access to care for Washingtonians by expanding physician participation in Medicaid networks at a time when it is desperately needed and long overdue.
</p>
<p>These proposed investments in Medicaid and public health are critical and will begin to shore up an ailing health care environment for patients and physicians. To put them in perspective: A 2018 assessment by the state Department of Health, state Board of Health, local health jurisdictions, sovereign tribal nations, and Indian health programs estimated that fully funding foundational public health services would cost $450 million per biennium budget. And, particularly with many of our state’s rural and disadvantaged communities facing shortages of physician specialists, the WSMA supports investments in Medicaid reimbursement for all physician specialties, to help ensure practices can remain economically viable and available to provide care for program enrollees.
</p>
<p>Taken together, Medicaid reimbursement and FPHS represent years of advocacy and potentially hundreds of millions of dollars that will benefit patients and the physician community across the state. And it comes on top of the more than $1 billion in pandemic response, funding for behavioral health investments, improvements to the social safety net, and numerous other positive provisions.
</p>
<p>The WSMA urges lawmakers and the governor to prioritize these investments in Medicaid and public health as they work to reconcile the two chambers’ proposals and finalize the budget in the weeks ahead. Washington’s patients and physicians need a health care system that is itself healthy and able to tend to health care needs before they become crises, and these investments are steps in the right direction.
</p>
<p>
For more information, contact:
</p>
<p>
Graham Short<br />
WSMA Communications<br />
206.329.6851 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:gfs@wsma.org">gfs@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<h3>About the WSMA </h3>
<p>
The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians, and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine for more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
</div> | 6/3/2021 4:42:38 PM | 3/29/2021 10:10:27 AM | 3/29/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_president_urges_patience_as_state_begins_to_vaccinate_the_public | WSMA President Urges Patience as State Begins to Vaccinate the Public | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2021/wsma_president_urges_patience_as_state_begins_to_vaccinate_the_public | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-sm-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>January 19, 2021</h5>
<h2>WSMA President Urges Patience as State Begins to Vaccinate the Public</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE - Washington State Medical Association President Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD, issued the following statement in response to Gov. Jay Inslee's announced changes to Washington state's COVID-19 vaccine rollout:
</p>
<p>
"The WSMA is hopeful that the changes announced by the governor will help quicken the pace of our state's COVID-19 vaccine rollout. The state's multipronged approach, increasing eligibility and capacity, organizing mass vaccination clinics, and bringing private partners on board, reflects the "all-hands-on-deck" moment, and Washington's physicians stand at the ready.
</p>
<p>
"I am so proud and grateful for the physicians and other health care providers who have already stepped up to serve as volunteers or as vaccine providers. The governor made it clear that because this is an aggressive effort, we will need as many as possible to offer your time and talents to this effort. I encourage physicians and health care providers to volunteer at <a href="https://WAServ.org">WAServ.org</a>.
</p>
<p>
"And to all Washingtonians: I want to echo the governor's call for patience. Vaccinating everyone in our state is a massive undertaking and many pieces still need to fall in place—including more vaccine supplies. This is an extraordinary effort that will require coordination from federal, state, and local governments, as well as private industry. We ask the public to be patient and understanding during this mammoth undertaking. Making sure you are getting the care and protection you need is our top priority.
</p>
<p>
"To learn more about your eligibility and where you can get vaccinated, visit <a href="http://FindYourPhaseWA.org">FindYourPhaseWA.org</a>. And remember: Eligibility will not automatically mean you'll have your first dose right away—you may need to wait. Be patient, and trust that Washington's public health officials, your physicians, and health care community are doing everything they can to keep you safe from this virus, working to ensure you get your vaccine as soon as possible."
</p>
<p>
For more information, contact:
</p>
<p>
Cindy Sharpe<br />
WSMA Communications<br />
813.244.2883 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:cindy@wsma.org">cindy@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<h3>About the WSMA </h3>
<p>
The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians, and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine for more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
</div> | 6/3/2021 4:42:28 PM | 1/19/2021 9:45:27 AM | 1/19/2021 12:00:00 AM |
| wsma_president_receives_covid_19_vaccine_calls_it_a_triumph_for_science_and_medicine | WSMA President Receives COVID-19 Vaccine, Calls It a Triumph for Science and Medicine | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2020/wsma_president_receives_covid_19_vaccine_calls_it_a_triumph_for_science_and_medicine | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>December 17, 2020</h5>
<h2>WSMA President Receives COVID-19 Vaccine, Calls It a Triumph for Science and Medicine</h2>
<p>
SEATTLE - Washington State Medical Association President and emergency medicine physician Nathan Schlicher, MD, JD, MBA, on Wednesday morning received the first of two doses of the FDA-authorized Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to protect against COVID-19 disease. The WSMA, which represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, residents, and medical and physician assistant students in Washington state, is hailing the vaccine as a triumph for science and medicine and a breakthrough in the fight against COVID-19.
</p>
<p>
"As an emergency department physician, I'm honored to be among the first to receive this vaccine, and I'm beyond grateful for the extraordinary efforts by our public health and scientific communities to ensure its safety and effectiveness," said Dr. Schlicher, who practices at St. Joseph Medical Center in Tacoma and serves as the regional director of quality assurance for the emergency departments of CHI Franciscan. "But like a lot of us on the front lines, I'm exhausted. Right now, I'm thinking about my patients and how this vaccine will help keep me and thousands of other health care workers healthy and able to continue providing needed care. I'll save my celebration for when this pandemic is truly over."
</p>
<p>
COVID-19 vaccines are now on the ground in Washington state, with initial allocations of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine on their way to selected Washington health care facilities. Following the FDA's emergency use authorization on Dec. 12, an independent scientific review committee comprising immunization, public health, academic, and other physician experts from Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Colorado, and California, independently reviewed the safety and efficacy of the Pfizer vaccine. The committee granted its unanimous recommendation of the vaccine on Dec. 12.
</p>
<p>
"I think I can safely speak for so many of us in and outside of medicine, that we are humbled to bear witness to history being made - made all the more bittersweet by the shadow of tragedy we still live under. More than 300,000 Americans are not with us to share in this moment," Dr. Schlicher said. "I can't say this enough, that we all owe a debt of gratitude for our health researchers, our public health servants, and to health workers everywhere. This moment belongs to them and their tireless efforts to serve and protect all of us."
</p>
<p>
The WSMA continues to work closely with state officials to help inform its pandemic response, including providing input on the state's interim COVID-19 Vaccination Plan and coordinating with health care stakeholders to help instill confidence in the safety and efficacy of the vaccines and ensure successful and equitable distribution and administration.
</p>
<p>
"I hope physicians and health care workers everywhere will get the vaccine when their time comes. We must continue to model good, science- and public health-based behavior for our patients," Dr. Schlicher said. "And for our patients, please, when your time comes to be vaccinated, protect yourself, your family, your neighbors and friends, and get the COVID-19 vaccine.
</p>
<p>
"We can now see the end to this pandemic - but we must not let down our guard. Get vaccinated when your time comes and keep following sound public health practices. Celebrate, but remain vigilant."
</p>
<p>
PHOTOS: <a href="https://wsma.org/doc_library/resources/covid_19_response/Dr-Schlicher-COVID-Vaccine1.jpg">Dr. Schlicher receives vaccine</a> and <a href="https://wsma.org/doc_library/resources/covid_19_response/Dr-Schlicher-COVID-Vaccine2.jpg">Dr. Schlicher gives thumbs up</a>. Photo credit: Cindy Sharpe for WSMA
</p>
<p>
VIDEO: Available upon request
</p>
<p>
For more information, contact:
</p>
<p>
Cindy Sharpe<br />
WSMA Communications<br />
813.244.2883 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:cindy@wsma.org">cindy@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<h4>About the WSMA</h4>
<p>
The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.
</p>
</div> | 12/17/2020 11:25:44 AM | 12/17/2020 11:23:16 AM | 12/17/2020 12:00:00 AM |
| WSMA_Response_to_Pierce_County_Council_Proposal_to_Dissolve_Tacoma-Pierce_County_Health_Department | WSMA Response to Pierce County Council Proposal to Dissolve Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department | Press_Release | Shared_Content/News/Press_Release/2020/WSMA_Response_to_Pierce_County_Council_Proposal_to_Dissolve_Tacoma-Pierce_County_Health_Department | <div class="col-md-12">
<div class="col-md-5 pull-right"><img src="/images/Logos/Press-Release-Graphic-2019-Branding.png" class="pull-right" alt="WSMA press release logo" /></div>
<h5>December 3, 2020</h5>
<h2>
WSMA Responds to Pierce County Council Proposal to Dissolve Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department </h2>
<p>
SEATTLE - The Washington State Medical Association (WSMA), representing more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, and medical students across Washington, is severely troubled by a proposal pending before the Pierce County Council to terminate the interlocal agreement between the City of Tacoma and Pierce County that established the joint Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department. The first hearing on the resolution is Dec. 7 with a planned final vote scheduled for Dec. 15.
</p>
<p>
This action, contemplated during a public health state of emergency, is deeply concerning and part of a pattern we’ve seen across the state and the country, where public health professionals are becoming embroiled in differences of political opinion. Such actions distract public health officials from focusing their attention on the most significant health care crisis facing our communities. Public health professionals, physicians, nurses, and other medical professionals have been on the front lines of the worst pandemic in more than a century, with many of them experiencing intense political pressure and personal attacks.
</p>
<p>
The professionals at the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department are public servants seeking to do what their mission states: “to protect and improve the health of all people and places in Pierce County.†They use science and medical expertise to make their decisions. The WSMA commends the TPCHD and other public health professionals around the state for their tireless efforts to keep our communities safe.
</p>
<p>
We are all tired and weary after months of dealing with COVID-19. We are anxious and concerned for the viability of our health care system as we see a frightening surge in cases. We understand that millions of Washingtonians are struggling economically, and that mental health concerns are very real.
</p>
<p>
But if we are to get through this pandemic together, we must be guided by science and rely on the wisdom and leadership of those who have the medical expertise to best protect public health. The Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department has been protecting the health of Pierce County’s citizens since 1972.
</p>
<p>
The ordinance being considered by the Pierce County Council is hasty and poorly timed and could have negative consequences on public health. The WSMA strongly agrees with the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department’s response that “efforts that divide our attention from this critical public health response are an unfortunate distraction.â€
</p>
<p>
In the upcoming state legislative session, we look forward to engaging with lawmakers to ensure that physicians and other health care professionals are adequately represented on boards of health, and that their operations are guided by public health principles and appropriately insulated from political influence.
</p>
<p>
<strong>For more information, contact:</strong>
</p>
<p>
</p>
<p>
Cindy Sharpe, WSMA Communications<br />
813.244.2883 (cell/text)<br />
<a href="mailto:cindy@wsma.org">cindy@wsma.org</a>
</p>
<p><strong>About the WSMA</strong></p>
<p>The Washington State Medical Association represents more than 11,000 physicians, physician assistants, resident physicians and medical students in Washington state. The WSMA has advocated on behalf of the house of medicine more than 125 years. Our vision is to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care.</p>
</div> | 12/10/2020 9:46:41 AM | 12/3/2020 3:03:39 PM | 12/3/2020 12:00:00 AM |