Three Things You Need to Know:
1) The WMC Practitioner Support Program is an innovative approach toward protecting patient safety. We will be hosting a webinar to discuss the program on November 22nd. More Information
2) Daylight saving ends on Nov. 3, when clocks get turned back one hour.
3) WSDOT warns of toll scam -scammers are using fake websites and text messages about unpaid tolls to phish personal information from Washingtonians.
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QUICK FACT
The Washington Medical Commission (WMC) has been recognized as a WellBeing First Champion for the second time. As a 2024 champion, WMC was honored among 29 other U.S. states for having licensing applications that do not include intrusive mental health questions. More Information
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Resources Following a Practitioner Restriction
The recent restriction of Dr. Sjardo Steneker may limit or curtail patients’ access to care. As a result, the WMC anticipates a potential increase in patients seeking medications, including those used to treat chronic pain, and new healthcare providers.
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For Chronic Pain Patients
There are no absolute limits on Morphine Equivalent Dose (MED) for pain management. Your prescriber, whether an MD or physician assistant, has the flexibility to prescribe above the suggested MED guidelines if they believe it is necessary for your treatment. If they do prescribe above these guidelines, they must document the reasons in your medical record to ensure the decision is well-supported and meets your specific needs.
If an MD or PA prescribes a daily dosage of 120 mg MED or more, they are required to consult with a pain management specialist unless exempted by certain provisions. This consultation may involve an office visit, a remote or in-person discussion between the specialist and the MD or PA, an audio-visual evaluation with the patient present, or other approved chronic pain evaluation services. Each consultation must be documented in the patient's medical record by the MD or PA.
Additionally, there are no tapering requirements in rule for MDs or PAs, allowing your provider to make individualized treatment decisions based on your specific circumstances.
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Anesthesiologist
Assistants
The WMC filed Preproposal Statement of Inquiry, to establish licensing regulations for anesthesiologist assistants in response to Senate Bill (SB) 5184 (Chapter 362, Laws of 2024) codified in chapter 18.71D RCW. In response to the filing, the WMC will hold a rules workshop on Monday, November 4, 2024, at 2:30 pm. The materials for the upcoming workshop are now available. To attend this virtual workshop, please register. Commissioners and staff will attend this meeting virtually, but there is an in-person option available.
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From The FAQ Page
Q: How can I view my provider’s complaint record?
A: There are two ways to get the complaint record of your provider. The first option is requesting thru the public disclosure by going to this website . You can also a request a record via mail by submitting a written request to Department of Health, Public Disclosure Unit, PO Box 47865, Olympia, Washington 98504-7865. The second option is searching the portal for disciplinary documents. Read More on the FAQ Page
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