News

Washington’s hospitals are committed to ensuring patients get the hospital care they need regardless of their ability to pay for that care. Providing health care to those that cannot afford to pay is part of the mission of Washington’s hospitals, and state law requires hospitals to provide free and discounted inpatient and outpatient care. To assist patients, WSHA has developed a standard financial assistance application form and a standard plan for communicating about financial assistance (charity care).... Read More >>

Safe staffing is a crucial component of patient safety, but mandating inflexible nurse staffing ratios or stringent meal and rest break requirements does not improve patient care or outcomes. Staffing ratios, also called patient assignment limits or minimum staffing standards, are mandated only in California and data does not demonstrate improved patient care. ... Read More >>

It can take more than a year to complete the provider enrollment process with a payer.... Read More >>

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services recently finalized a rule establishing new Medicare episode payment models for acute myocardial infarction, coronary artery bypass graft and surgical hip/femur fracture treatment cases that do not involve joint replacement... Read More >>

WSHA reviewed a recent Final Rule from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services which could significantly impact payments Washington and others states receive through the Medicaid program.... Read More >>

As the legislature works this year to develop its four- year budget, the discussions in DC have large ramifications for Washington State’s budget... Read More >>

The Health Care Authority recently provided us with details on the proposed Governor’s budget cuts to hospital based clinics.... Read More >>

Since President Trump’s inauguration Friday, the stage has been set for the future of health care: an executive order that directs congress to take every action it can to dismantle the Affordable Care Act (ACA). This order mostly serves a rhetorical purpose, but it’s a precursor to future congressional and executive branch action.... Read More >>

Washington State has embarked on an ambitious plan, called Healthier Washington, to redesign the health care system in our state so that people are healthier and the cost of health care is more under control. Taking part in this plan requires making some changes to the way care is given and the way providers are reimbursed for treating Medicaid patients. Summit Pacific Medical Center in Elma is testing a demonstration of a new integrated care model that could reach better health outcomes at a lower cost. ... Read More >>

The Senate Health Care Committee and House Health Care & Wellness Committee had hearings this week on legislation to create an interstate physician licensure compact (HB 1337 and SB 5221). The compact would allow physicians to more efficiently become licensed to practice in multiple states. It would also allow Washington State to maintain local control and accountability of physicians’ licensure and disciplinary actions.... Read More >>