The Washington State Department of Health Certificate of Need program has issued a notice of rulemaking to require a certificate of need for the addition of operating rooms at an existing ambulatory surgical facility (ASF). The proposed change classifies the expansion of the number of operating rooms at an ASF as “the construction, development, or other establishment of a new health care facility.” We encourage hospitals interested in this topic to engage in this rulemaking process. ... Read More >>

The 2016 WHPAC campaign continues! We are more than half way to our $220,000 goal, having raised $130,000 to date. Members who have met their PAC goal will be recognized during the annual meeting. Please get your contributions in by Oct. 4 to meet the print deadline.... Read More >>

WSHA’s 84th Annual Member Meeting is just a few weeks away, and our room blocks at the Seattle Marriott Waterfront and the Edgewater Hotel have sold out. However, you can still book your room at one of WSHA’s preferred hotels. ... Read More >>

While the 16-hour procedure represents a new beginning for Savana, it reflects a milestone for the UW’s intestinal rehabilitation program, which Dr. Jorge Reyes — who performed Savana’s surgery — formed four years ago to help those suffering from intestinal failure.... Read More >>

I recently had the opportunity to join a Washington State delegation to Cuba on a health care fact-finding and exchange mission. Led by the lieutenant governor and several members of the Senate Health Care Committee, it was a fascinating trip. The Cubans are excited about the opportunity to renew ties and friendships with the United States, and we were warmly welcomed wherever we went.... Read More >>

The Community Health Leadership Award is given annually to a health care organization that is serving its community’s broader health needs in innovative and lasting ways. We are looking to recognize organizations that are not just serving patients, but are investing in solutions that improve the health of their entire community.... Read More >>

In March 2016, the Legislature passed Senate Bill 6534, which created the Maternal Mortality Review Panel and directed it to conduct comprehensive, multidisciplinary reviews of maternal deaths in Washington. Its purpose is to identify factors associated with maternal deaths and make recommendations for system changes that can improve health care for women in the state.... Read More >>

It is estimated that 10 percent of all children are sexually abused before they turn 18. This abuse is associated with devastating consequences to the children, their families and their communities. Each year, the Sexual Assault Clinic of Providence St. Peter Hospital in Olympia serves more than 350 patients from Thurston and seven other southwest counties, including the local tribal communities. Most of the patients seen at the clinic are children.... Read More >>

The deadline to nominate individuals and organizations for WSHA’s awards is next Friday, Sept. 23.... Read More >>

Have you booked your room for the Annual Meeting Oct. 13-14 in Seattle? The meeting has moved and will be at the Seattle Waterfront Marriott, and we have room blocks available at the Marriott as well as the Edgewater Hotel. The hotel block expires next Thursday, Sept. 22, so be sure to book your room now!... Read More >>