The Washington Medical Commission released a statement today clarifying its regulatory approach during the COVID-19 pandemic: “When assessing complaints related to practitioner’s work we will consider the difficult circumstances and choices they are facing. The WMC wants you to focus on treating the patient in front of you to the best of your ability.” We applaud the Commission for this statement and clarity to providers and will be urging other relevant boards and commissions to make similar statements so that health care workers are supported in responding to patient needs.
The Medical Commission also adopted emergency rules to enable retired providers, including physicians and physician assistants, to provide care during the pandemic. The emergency rules waive the requirement that retirees complete a certain number of hours in continuing education, and that they only provide services on a voluntary basis.
