The WMC is Asking for New Topic Ideas!

The WMC is asking for your thoughts on what issues matter most to you in 2025. We would love to hear your ideas for:

• Educational webinars: What topics would you like covered in a webinar format?
• Informal coffee chats: What would you like to discuss with the commission in a more casual setting?
• WMC priorities: Are there specific policies, trends, or topics you'd like the WMC to focus on?

Let the WMC know how we can best serve you in the coming year.

Information for Providers Regarding Female Genital Mutilation and Cutting

On February 20, 2023, Governor Jay Inslee signed Senate Bill 5453 creating a new path for victims of Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) to bring a civil cause of action against the person who committed FGM/C. Providers who practice genital mutilation in violation of SB 5453 may be subject to disciplinary action by the WMC. The legislation further intends to establish education and outreach initiatives to prevent female genital mutilation and provide care for victims. Continue reading this article or any of our other quarterly newsletter articles.

AMDG Implements Updated Opioid Dose Calculator to Align with Best Practices and Evidence-Based Guidelines

On February 1, 2024, the AMDG (Agency Medical Directors' Group) updated the Opioid Dose Calculator to reflect evolving best practices and evidence-based guidelines for opioid prescribing. The following changes were made:

• Updated hydromorphone conversion factor to 5
• Updated tramadol conversion factor to 0.2
• Added buprenorphine transdermal product with a conversion factor of 2.2

The WMC has received concerns about these changes, which increased the MED conversion rates for Tramadol, Hydromorphone, and Methadone. The primary worry is that stable patients might be unnecessarily tapered off their medications because prescribers may not be aware of the change in conversion calculations. This lack of awareness could lead to misunderstandings about the actual dosage patients are receiving, potentially resulting in inappropriate dose reductions and destabilization of patients who have been effectively managing their pain with their current medication regimen. More Information

New program helps overdose patients take next steps

A new state program will make it easier for physicians to prescribe substance use disorder-treating medications like methadone and buprenorphine to help people recover from an overdose and begin to work towards a durable recovery from addiction. Over 3,400 Washingtonians died from overdoses in 2023. Broader use of SUD medications might cut that figure dramatically; currently, only one in 12 overdose patients is prescribed these medications.