State law requires all hospitals provide charity care to help families that struggle with large hospital bills as a result of significant injuries and illnesses. In the past, each hospital developed its own, slightly different process to inform patients and determine if a patient qualified. The variation in notice and forms made it harder for patients to know about and receive financial assistance.... Read More >>

In comments submitted February 2, WSHA asked for additional information on the state’s plans to create new reports from its all payer claims database. The contractor for the database has proposed creation of six reports for the upcoming year. The reports include a facility-based price and quality comparison on “shoppable” inpatient and outpatient procedures, such as vaginal delivery and knee arthroscopy. WSHA expressed its support for the database but asked for additional information on factors used to ensure fair comparisons.... Read More >>

WSHA staff will be heading to Washington, D.C., for the American Hospital Association (AHA) Annual Meeting May 7-10, and you’re invited to join us! The Senate will be in town (though the House will not), and we will also use the trip to schedule meetings with congressional staff members as well as senators, if possible.... Read More >>

In a February 2 letter to the Health Care Authority, WSHA thanked the agency for its work on a proposed project toolkit. WSHA expressed its appreciation that the toolkit defines and narrows the focus of projects for the nine Accountable Communities of Health (ACH). Each of the ACHs will be asked to submit specific proposals using the toolkit in the near future. These proposals will be funded using the additional $1.2 billion in federal funds approved under the state’s waiver.... Read More >>

Seven members of the Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission (NCQAC) will complete their terms at the end of June. The commission is now seeking applicants to fill the vacant positions, and Governor Inslee will appoint members to serve four-year terms.... Read More >>

Membership update from the February 9, 2017 Weekly Report.... Read More >>

Recent member news from the February 9, 2017 Weekly Report.... Read More >>

With all the uncertainty around health care today, many organizations are exploring ways to add revenue and reduce costs with minimal disruption. WHS Industry Partner Commerce Bank offers a proven solution that turns accounts payable into a source of revenue.... Read More >>

Explaining the challenges and expense of physician recruitment to those who do not deal with it on a regular basis can be quite daunting. WHS Industry Partner Merritt Hawkins is here to help with their new white paper on the true cost of a physician vacancy.... Read More >>

While our country seeks to find a path forward on immigration, Washington State’s hospitals and health systems are focused on the people who are right in front of us, needing our care. We stand united to serve patients and communities.... Read More >>