WSPA Pharmacy Podcast: Recent Episodes
WA State Pharmacy Assoc
This podcast is to inform pharmacy professionals on topics applicable to their practices. The Washington State Pharmacy Association is a member organization, please be a WSPA member or a member of your state pharmacy association.
Agenda:
Pharmacy Technician Schooling Program Update - We will be having Stephanie O'Brine from Yakima Valley Community College to provide some updates on the Yakima and Wenatchee programs.
* GLP-1 Updated Tools - Now that we are a few weeks into the GLP-1 Bridge Program, we've seen some confusion surrounding communication with providers. A quick update to our news page has a new email template that can be used.
* PQAC Update - A quick recap of PQAC's 7/23/26 meeting will be provided.
* WSPA Elections - This is a reminder that the Meet the Candidates Town Hall will be on August 12th, 2026 for new WSPA Board Members.
* SIG Highlight -* Compounding SIG
Upcoming Events:
The next Town Hall will be August 12th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar.
* Industry SIG Meeting August 6th 12-1PM - virtual
* OIC and Pharmacy Community Meeting Regarding PBMs* August 18th 9-11 am - virtual and in person
* Pharmacy Technician CE and Networking Day September 25th - Virtual and in Renton, WA
* Ambulatory Care Academy Fall Meeting October 2nd
* LTC Academy Quarterly Call October 6th 1 pm - Virtual
* NABP and AACP District 6, 7 & 8 meeting October 18-20, Spokane, WA
* WSPA Annual Meeting November 13-14th, Suncadia Resort, Cle Elum, WA
Agenda:
* Pharmacy Schools Update Dean Julie Akers from Washington State University College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Dr. Ryan Hanson, Chair of the Pharmacy Department at the University of Washington School of Pharmacy will provide program updates and priorities.
* Invasive HIB Outbreak - Alaska, Oregon and Washington have seen cases of invasive HIB in adults experiencing homelessness, drug use or smoking. MMWR and EpiTrends. WSPA Staff are members of the state workgroup to evaluate vaccination and outreach options.
* Cyclosporiasis Outbreak - This parasite is best treated with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, and is not (yet?) a cause for concern in Washington.
* Medicaid increases morphine equivalent threshold to 200 MME for certain diagnoses including hospice, palliative care and end of life starting 8//1. Pharmacies may still need to call managed Medicaid programs for expedited authorizations as they update their systems.
Upcoming Events:
The next Town Hall will be June 17th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar.
* OIC and Pharmacy Community Meeting Regarding PBMs* August 18th 9-11 am - virtual and in person
* Pharmacy Technician CE and Networking Day September 25th - Virtual and in Renton, WA
* Ambulatory Care Academy October 2nd
* LTC Quarterly Call October 6th 1 pm - Virtual
* NABP and AACP District 6, 7 & 8 meeting October 18-20, Spokane, WA
* WSPA Annual Meeting November 13-14th, Suncadia Resort, Cle Elum, WA
NEW: Text messaging now available!We’ll only send the good stuff: events, calls to action, and important updates. No spam ever. And as always, your information stays private.To opt in, text “1” to 1-855-768-7204.
Agenda:
* CPESN Washington Highlight Washington's Community Pharmacy Enhanced Services Network (CPESNWA) is a partner of WSPA. On today's call the Managing Network facilitator, and WSPA staff member Sirena Kalinski will discuss the Network.
* Annual Awards of Distinction Nominations Now Open (Due July 10, 2026)
* Board of Director Positions Now Open (Application due July 10, 2026)
Upcoming Events:
* The next Town Hall will be June 17th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar.
* WSPA Annual Meeting November 13-14th, Suncadia Resort, Cle Elum, WA
NEW: Text messaging now available!We’ll only send the good stuff: events, calls to action, and important updates. No spam ever. And as always, your information stays private.To opt in, text “1” to 1-855-768-7204.
Agenda:* CMS GLP-1 Bridge Program WSPA staff will highlight nuances to this important program. Pharmacy professionals in the community and ambulatory space should take time to understand the program and it's intricacies (of which there are quite a few!) * Seeking Student and Resident Representatives for SIGs and Academies These leadership opportunities are outstanding connection points for students and residents wanting to have a significant contribution to the profession. * Annual Awards of Distinction Nominations Now Open (Due July 10, 2026) * Board of Director Positions Now Open (Application due July 10, 2026)
Upcoming Events:
* The next Town Hall will be in 2 weeks. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar.
* Office of the Insurance Commissioner Pharmacy Meeting August 18th 9-11 am, virtual and in Olympia, WA
* NABP and AACP District 6, 7, and 8 Annual Meeting October 18th to 20th, Spokane, WA
* WSPA Annual Meeting November 13-14th, Suncadia Resort, Cle Elum, WA
NEW: Text messaging now available!We’ll only send the good stuff: events, calls to action, and important updates. No spam ever. And as always, your information stays private.To opt in, text “1” to 1-855-768-7204.
Agenda:* PQAC Meeting Recap The Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission had a busy meeting with extensive rulemaking.
* Washington State Community Information Exchange (WA CIE) Comagine Health presents on this vital data connection and resource
* CMS Informational Pharmacy Webinar on the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge :
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is holding an upcoming informational pharmacy webinar on the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge. The webinar will be held on Thursday, June 11th, 2026, from 12:00-1:00 p.m. ET. Please note: This event will be closed to the public and press.
* Northwest Pharmacy Convention Reflection
* Annual Awards of Distinction Nominations Now Open (Due July 10, 2026)
* Board of Director Positions Now Open (Application due July 10, 2026)
Upcoming Events:
* The next Town Hall will be June 17th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar.
* WSPA Annual Meeting November 13-14th, Suncadia Resort, Cle Elum, WA
NEW: Text messaging now available!We’ll only send the good stuff: events, calls to action, and important updates. No spam ever. And as always, your information stays private.To opt in, text “1” to 1-855-768-7204.
Agenda: ECAPS Bill Scheduled for Markup tomorrow! HR 3164 - Ensuring Community Access to Pharmacist Services Act would permit pharmacists to bill Medicare as Qualified Health Providers for flu, COVID and Strep Testing. Having a markup is a necessary step to final bill passage. Congresswoman DelBene sits on the committee. Please send her office a note or call of support! * EthnoMed This non-profit connects providers and patients who come from refugee, immigrant and migrant backgrounds. EthnoMed will join the Town Hall call to provide resources for pharmacy practitioners. * Mifepristone Mail order and community pharmacy access maintained by the Supreme Court last week. * UMPJE Coming to Washington -* The Universal Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam is coming to Washington State. We will discuss what the UMPJE is, and highlight the PQAC Adoption Dates. * Annual Awards of Distinction Nominations Now Open (Due July 10, 2026) * Board of Director Positions Now Open (Application due July 10, 2026)
Upcoming Events:
* The next Town Hall will be May 29th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar.
* Integrating Food Security into Reimbursable Value-Based Models - DOH Webinar, May 21st 12 PM
* Northwest Pharmacy Convention May 28th-31st, Coeur d'Alene, ID
* WSPA Annual Meeting November 13-14th, Suncadia Resort, Cle Elum, WA
NEW: Text messaging now available!We’ll only send the good stuff: events, calls to action, and important updates. No spam ever. And as always, your information stays private.To opt in, text “1” to 1-855-768-7204.
Agenda: Drug Take-Back Program Sunset Review* The Drug Take-Back Program was created in the legislature to go through January 1st, 2029, and is undergoing a review. This review will make a recommendation to change, continue or terminate the program. We intend for the pharmacy community to be involved in their research and fact finding. * Mifepristone access may be limited following action by the 5th Circuit Court, but is stayed until May 11th. * Ambulatory Care Academy Spring Meeting Recap * Technician Spring Fling Meeting Recap * Annual Awards of Distinction Nominations Now Open (Due July 10, 2026) * Board of Director Positions Now Open (Application due July 10, 2026)
Upcoming Events:
* The next Town Hall will be May 29th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar.
* Health System Leadership Meeting, Puyallup, May 8th
* Northwest Pharmacy Convention May 28th-31st, Coeur d'Alene, ID
* WSPA Annual Meeting November 13-14th, Suncadia Resort, Cle Elum, WA
NEW: Text messaging now available!We’ll only send the good stuff: events, calls to action, and important updates. No spam ever. And as always, your information stays private.To opt in, text “1” to 1-855-768-7204.
Agenda: Rural Health Transformation Project* WSPA's project and Workgroup * Mobile Health Outreach Grant Many pharmacies have been providing care and outreach to communities across Washington this year. Project description and Event Map. * DOH Equitable Licensing Fees Sessions WSPA will attend these sessions to express concerns about our high license fees, and need to maintain PQAC funding - we don't want to see further increases. * 2026 WSPA Salary Survey We aren't at our goal responses yet!!! Please share with your peers! Respondents have a chance to win a $100 Amazon card. You do not have to be a member to participate. * Annual Awards of Distinction Nominations Now Open (Due July 10, 2026) * Board of Director Positions Now Open (Application due July 10, 2026)
Upcoming Events:
* The next Town Hall will be April 22nd. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar.
* Amb Care Academy Spring Meeting, April 24, 2026; Hybrid - Online and in Renton
* Pharmacy Technician Spring Fling, May 1; 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM - Online and in Renton
* Health System Leadership Meeting, Puyallup, May 8th
* Northwest Pharmacy Convention May 28th-31st, Coeur d'Alene, ID
* WSPA Annual Meeting November 13-14th, Suncadia Resort, Cle Elum, WA
NEW: Text messaging now available!We’ll only send the good stuff: events, calls to action, and important updates. No spam ever. And as always, your information stays private. To opt in, text “1” to 1-855-768-7204.
Agenda: PQAC Business Meeting Recap * APhA Annual Meeting Highlights * NCPA Fly In: WSPA members prepare to speak to our legislators in DC. * Rural Health Transformation RFP Call * Washington's Prescription Monitoring Program A reminder that three distinct dates must be reported to the PMP. Also note that while testosterone fills are being collected, they are not being displayed. * 2026 WSPA Salary Survey* We are still gathering responses. Please share with your peers! Respondents have a chance to win a $100 Amazon card. You do not have to be a member to participate. * Annual Awards of Distinction Nominations Now Open (Due July 10, 2026) * Board of Director Positions Now Open (Application due July 10, 2026)
Upcoming Events:
* The next Town Hall will be April 22nd. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar.
* WSPA Industry SIG Meeting, April 14, 2026; 12:00 PM, Virtual
* WA State Technician Association Meeting, April 15, 2026; 8:00 AM, Virtual
* Amb Care Academy Spring Meeting, April 24, 2026; Hybrid - Online and in Renton
* Pharmacy Technician Spring Fling, May 1; 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM - Online and in Renton
* Northwest Pharmacy Convention May 28th-31st, Coeur d'Alene, ID
* WSPA Annual Meeting November 13-14th, Suncadia Resort, Cle Elum, WA
NEW: Text messaging now available!We’ll only send the good stuff: events, calls to action, and important updates. No spam ever. And as always, your information stays private.To opt in, text “1” to 1-855-768-7204.
Agenda: 2026 WSPA Salary Survey* Your help is needed! Please respond, and share with your peers! The more participation, the better the results! Also, respondents have a chance to win a $100 Amazon card. You do not have to be a member to participate. * WSPA Special Interest Groups (SIGs) We host SIGs to bring together members to share resources, or work on issues. Our current SIGs include Behavioral Health, Compounding, Technician Academia, Diabetes, New Practitioners, All Voices Alliance, Industry.
Upcoming Events:
* The next Town Hall will be April 8th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar.
* Long Term Care Academy Meeting, April 7, 2026; 12:00 PM, Virtual
* WSPA Industry SIG Meeting, April 14, 2026; 12:00 PM, Virtual
* WA State Technician Association Meeting, April 15, 2026; 8:00 AM, Virtual
* Amb Care Academy Spring Meeting, April 24, 2026; Hybrid - Online and in Renton
* Pharmacy Technician Spring Fling, May 1; 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM - Online and in Renton
* Northwest Pharmacy Convention May 28th-31st, Coeur d'Alene, ID
* WSPA Annual Meeting November 13-14th, Suncadia Resort, Cle Elum, WA
NEW: Text messaging now available!
We’ll only send the good stuff: events, calls to action, and important updates. No spam ever. And as always, your information stays private.To opt in, text “1” to 1-855-768-7204.
Agenda:
Legislative Update - Last week of 2026 Session
* Pharmacist vaccinators and prescribers must enroll in ProviderOne for the Managed Medicaid plans to pay for vaccines and medications starting April 2026.
* WRAPP Advisory Board Seeking New Members The Washington Recovery Assistance Program for Pharmacy is seeking SUDP, tech and pharmacists with community chain pharmacy experience to join their Advisory Board.
* HELMS Licensing System Unavailable March 18-24th Be sure to renew early.
* WSPA Text Message Alerts Now Available* We promise to not blow you up, but to provide occasional urgent alerts and news. Please go into your WSPA profile to opt in.
Upcoming Events:
* The next Town Hall will be March 25th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar.
* Residency Leaders Roundtable March 16th; 9:30 AM, Hybrid in Renton or Virtual
* WA State Technician Association Meeting, March 18; 8:00 AM, Hybrid in Renton and Virtual
* Long Term Care Academy Meeting, April 7; 12:00 PM, Virtual
* WSPA Industry SIG Meeting, April 14, 2026; 12:00 PM, Online
* Amb Care Academy Spring Meeting, April 24; Hybrid,
* Pharmacy Technician Spring Fling, May 1; 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM
* Northwest Pharmacy Convention May 28th-31st, Coeur d'Alene, ID
* WSPA Annual Meeting November 13-14th, Suncadia Resort, Cle Elum, WA
NEW: Text messaging now available!We’ll only send the good stuff: events, calls to action, and important updates. No spam ever. And as always, your information stays private.To opt in, text “1” to 1-855-768-7204.
Agenda: Legislative Update* Thank you to everyone's efforts, but SSB 5924 to allow independent prescribing by pharmacists is not advancing this session. On the call today we will discuss next steps for a bill next year, provide other bill updates, and recap the second Legislative Day. 2026 Legislation Page * Measles Cases - 4 counties are affected, and more cases are expected
+ Please offer MMR Vaccines and increase your stock of immunoglobulin
+ Info for patients - available in many languages, Graphics and videos
+ Measles Post Exposure Guidance
- WSPA Awards of Distinction Nominations Now Open (Due July 10, 2026)
- WSPA Board of Director Positions Now Open (Application due July 10, 2026)
- Updated SIG Page Our WSPA Special Interest Groups or SIGs are ways that WSPA members from across practice settings connect to share and make practice changes.
-
Academy News
- Seeking Leaders: For the WA State Pharmacy Technician Association and WSPA Community Practice Academy
- Health Systems Academy Podcast
- Community Practice Academy Podcast
- Ambulatory Care Academy Podcast
Upcoming Events:
* The next Town Hall will be March 11th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar.
* New Drugs New Laws - All Virtual March 8th 8-5 pm
* Residency Leaders Roundtable, March 16, 2026; 9:30 AM, Renton and Virtual
* Long Term Care Academy Meeting, April 7, 2026; 12:00 PM, Online
* WSPA Industry SIG Meeting, April 14, 2026; 12:00 PM, Online
* Amb Care Academy Spring Meeting, April 24, 2026; Hybrid, Calendar event coming soon
* Pharmacy Technician Spring Fling, May 1; 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM
* Northwest Pharmacy Convention May 28th-31st, Coeur d'Alene, ID
* WSPA Annual Meeting November 13-14th, Suncadia Resort, Cle Elum, WA
Agenda: Legislative Session Update - Bill Tracker * PQAC Business Meeting Recap - Feb 5th * Seeking WA State Pharmacy Technician Association incoming chair, application at bottom of WSPTA pageand reach out to Sirena (Sirena@wsparx.org) for more information. * Seeking new chair for Community Practice Academy, for more information reach out to Boris Zhang, (Boris@wsparx.org) * New Health System Academy Podcast -* Fit Factors that Impact Choosing a Residency Program * Community Practice Academy Podcast - Tips and Tricks for the Holidays - from a Community Pharmacy Perspective * Updated SIG Page - check here for the details for WSPA SIGs
Upcoming Events:
* The next Town Hall will be Feb 25th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar.
* WSPA Legislative Day #2, February 23, 2026; 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, WA State Capitol
* Diabetes General SIG Meeting, February 24, 2026; 5:30 PM, Online
* New Drugs New Laws - All Virtual March 8th 8-5 pm
* Residency Directors Roundtable, March 16, 2026; 9:30 AM, Online
* Northwest Pharmacy Convention May 28th-31st, Coeur d'Alene, ID
* WSPA Annual Meeting November 13-14th, Suncadia Resort, Cle Elum, WA
Agenda:* Scope Bill Hearing: SB 5924 has a hearing scheduled for Friday at 8 am! Please register your support for the bill! We want over 200 registered in support before the hearing! * Legislative Session: Bills on compounding, BCPP Psych pharmacists, and Compounding are also top priorities. * Measles in WA: The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) has updated its Interim Measles Outbreak Vaccination Recommendations (PDF) in response to a measles outbreak declared by Snohomish County on January 16. * Pediatric Vaccine Schedule: The APhA’s Vaccine Confident website has shareable patient resources to help. Also, the 2026 AAP recommended Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule has been issued and the West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA) endorses it.
Upcoming Events:
* The next Town Hall will be Feb 11th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar.
* New Drugs New Laws - All Virtual March 8th 8-5 pm
* Northwest Pharmacy Convention May 28th-31st, Coeur d'Alene, ID
* WSPA Annual Meeting November 13-14th, Suncadia Resort, Cle Elum, WA
Agenda: Our Scope Expansion Bill needs your support!* Please contact the Senate Health and LTC Committee to ask for a hearing. We have created resources to help with outreach on the Scope Bill Page. * Legislative Session is underway We will summarize our session priorities, and share the bill tracker. * Legislative Days in Olympia - Join us in Olympia to meet with legislators and advocate for our priorities. Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians are encouraged to participate. * PBM Laws are fully implemented! Use our PBM Law Summary to make the laws work for you and your patients. * Shared Decision Making and Immunizations Under CDTAs pharmacists may participate in shared decision making with patients. This allows pharmacies to maintain access to pediatric vaccines in WA.
Upcoming Events:
* The next Town Hall will be Wednesday January 28th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar.
* Legislative Days in Olympia January 28th and February 23rd
* New Drugs New Laws - All Virtual, March 8th 8-5 pm
* Northwest Pharmacy Convention May 28th-31st, Coeur d'Alene, ID
* WSPA Annual Meeting November 13-14th, Suncadia Resort, Cle Elum, WA
Agenda: Flood Response: WSPA Board and Staff members share our heartfelt concern for the pharmacies, communities and members impacted by the storms. State law permits pharmacists can provide emergency refills during the emergency, and help is available to impacted pharmacies. News Item. * Legislative Update Part 2: Pharmacy Scope Expansion Bill* We eagerly await the bill numbers for our scope bill! This is the 3rd year of introducing our scope expansion bill, and we expect release of the sunrise review any day. We will put our full effort behind the bill this session, and we need member's support! We seek independent prescribing and diagnosis based on an individual's training, experience and education. * Washington State Pharmacy Technician Association: We seek new co-chairs for the WSPTA to help shape the future of pharmacy technicians across Washington State. * No December 31st Town Hall Call - canceled for the holidays.
Upcoming Events:
* The next Town Hall will be January 14th (No December 31st call). You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar.
* New Drugs New Laws - All Virtual March 8th 8-5 pm
* Northwest Pharmacy Convention May 28th-31st, Coeur d'Alene, ID
* WSPA Annual Meeting November 13-14th, Suncadia Resort, Cle Elum, WA
Agenda: Part 1: Legislative Session Preview* Discuss legislator work this week, our coalitions and partners and 340B and concerning Psych Pharmacists bills we are supporting next session. * Join us for Part 2 on December 17th for a discussion of our scope expansion bill efforts. We are eagerly awaiting release of our Sunrise Review sometime this month.
Upcoming Events:
* The next Town Hall will be Dec 17th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar.
* The December 31st call is cancelled. Happy New Year!
* Check the WSPA Calendar for Academy and SIG Events
* Northwest Reception at ASHP Mid Year December 7th 5:30-7:30PM at Mandalay Bay N Conv Center
* Pharmacy Legislative Days in Olympia - Jan 28th and Feb 23rd
* New Drugs New Laws - All Virtual March 8th 8-5 pm
* Northwest Pharmacy Convention May 28th-31st, Coeur d'Alene, ID
* WSPA Annual Meeting November 13-14th, Suncadia Resort, Cle Elum, WA
Agenda: Array RX Discount Card - This is a State supported discount that is available to all residents, and does not charge the pharmacy fees. It extends the state employee benefits price to uninsured patients. This is a discount card designed to be fair to pharmacies and support un and under insured patients. Help Patients Pay for Prescriptions and ArrayRx Card Resources. Leta Evaskus, Pharmacy Strategy and Innovation Manader for Health Care Authority will present and answer questions. Slides * Annual Meeting Recap -* and save the date for 2026 Annual Meeting: November 13-14, 2026 at the Suncadia Resort in Cle Elum, WA
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be December 3rd. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * Northwest Reception at ASHP Mid Year December 7th 5:30-7:30PM at Mandalay Bay N Conv Center * New Drugs New Laws - All Virtual March 8th 8-5 pm * Northwest Pharmacy Convention May 28th-31st, Coeur d'Alene, ID * WSPA Annual Meeting November 13-14th, Suncadia Resort, Cle Elum, WA
Agenda: Seeking New Academy Leaders* applications are open until November 15th. * Alliance for Medication Safety Tara Modisett will share their solution for tracking errors in pharmacy. This non-profit has been developing and evolving PQC+ as an affordable tool for improving practice safety and culture. * WSPA Annual Meeting - it's not too late to come join us! Onsight registration is available, and one day attendance is an option!
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be Nov 19th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * HIV and PrEP Update Nov 18th 5:00-6:30 PM WSPA Office, Renton, WA * Northwest Reception at ASHP Midyear Dec 7th, 5:30-7:30 PM, Mandalay Bay North Convention Center * New Drugs New Laws March 8th, 2026 - virtual
Agenda: PQAC* Recap the last business meeting * NCPA Highlights from the NCPA Annual Meeting * WSPA Academy Leaders Seeking leaders for our WSPA Academies - Deadline Oct 31st
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be November 5th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * WSPA Amb Care Academy Lunch Bunch (CVD Health and Lipid Profiles), October 27, 2025, 12:00 - 1:00 PM * WSPA Annual Meeting, November 7-8th, 2025; Great Wolf Lodge, Centralia, WA * HIV and PrEP Update, November 18, 2025; 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM PT, WSPA Office, Renton, WA * Health in Action Summit 2025; Wednesday November 5th- 8:30AM - 12PM PT - Free to register and attend
Agenda: WSPA Moves Town Hall start time to 11:05 AM * WSPA Annual Meeting* Reserve your discounted room today! Seeking dessert donation for PAC Dessert Dash at Awards Soiree. PQAC seeking questions for Annual Meeting CE. * Rural Health Transformation Project WSPA Submits a comment letter * WSPA Ambulatory Care Academy and Technician CE and Taco Social Recap
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be October 22nd. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * WSPA Health System Leadership Meeting, October 10th 10:00 AM - 3:30 PM Ellensburg, WA * WSPA Industry SIG Meeting, October 21, 2025; 12:00 PM – 1:00. Virtual * Independent Academy - Virtual Meeting the second Tuesday of each month at 2:00 PM * WSPA Annual Meeting November 7-8th Great Wolf Lodge
Agenda: By popular demand... the Town Hall Call will start at 11:05 am! * Questions for PQAC The PQAC staff want to know what questions you have for them. They will include these questions in their upcoming presentation at Annual Meeting. Submit your questions! * Seeking Leaders for WSPA Academies This is an excellent way to contribute to your profession, connect with others in your practice area and support WSPA. Join Academy Leadership! * State Delays - WSPA is hearing of significant licensing delays and will advocate for resolution. But meanwhile get your license renewals in ASAP! Also, FFS Medicaid is experiencing significant delays with processing PAs. Members have told us they are seeing a one month approved fill for renewal PAs to decrease delays in patient care. * Annual Meeting Limited Time Pricing ends after October 2nd Register today and book your room! * ACIP September Meeting Recap* Slides, ACIP Meeting Information WSPA Staff listened to both days of the recent meeting and will recap the findings.
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be October 8th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * Technician Taco Social, September 26, 2025; 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM. Renton, WA or virtual * Amb Care Academy Fall Meeting, October 3, 2025; 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM Renton, WA or virtual * Pharmacy Appreciation Night at the Sounders October 4, 2025; 7:30 PM; Lumen Stadium, Seattle, WA * WSPA LTC Academy Meeting, October 7, 2025; 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM. Virtual - email boris@wsparx.org for meeting details. * WSPA Health System Leadership Meeting, October 10th 10:00 AM - 3:30 PM Ellensburg, WA * WSPA Industry SIG Meeting, October 21, 2025; 12:00 PM – 1:00. Virtual * Independent Academy - Virtual Meeting the second Tuesday of each month at 2:00 PM * WSPA Annual Meeting November 7-8th Great Wolf Lodge * Place Holder place holder
Agenda: COVID-19 Vaccine WA DOH Standing Order * + COVID-19 Vaccine Standing Order FAQ for Health Care Providers (PDF) + COVID-19 Vaccine Standing Order FAQ for the Public (PDF) + COVID- 19 Vaccine Schedule for Health Care Providers (PDF) * COVID-19 Coverage Update * Keynote Presentation at WSPA Annual Meeting* Dr. Skye McKennon will present From Surviving to Thriving: The Compassionate Path to Fulfillment and Success in Pharmacy
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be October 24th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * Southwest Pharmacy Association - Risk of RSV: Disease Burden and Vaccination. Sept 16th 6:30 pm at Salty's in Portalnd, OR. RSVP via email. * Diabetes General SIG Meeting, September 16, 2025, 5:30 PM. Virtual * Behavioral Health SIG Meeting, September 17, 2025, 12:00 PM. Virtual * Technician Taco Social, September 26, 2025; 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM. Renton, WA or virtual * Amb Care Academy Fall Meeting, October 3, 2025; 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM Renton, WA or virtual * Pharmacy Appreciation Night at the Sounders October 4, 2025; 7:30 PM; Lumen Stadium, Seattle, WA * WSPA LTC Academy Meeting, October 7, 2025; 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM. Virtual - email boris@wsparx.org for meeting details. * WSPA Health System Leadership Meeting, October 10th 10:00 AM - 3:30 PM Ellensburg, WA * WSPA Industry SIG Meeting, October 21, 2025; 12:00 PM – 1:00. Virtual * Independent Academy - Virtual Meeting the second Tuesday of each month at 2:00 PM * WSPA Annual Meeting November 7-8th; Great Wolf Lodge, Centralia, WA
Agenda: WSPA Board of Directors Election Results * PQAC Business Meeting Recap* Review key takeaways of the August 14th Business Meeting * PQAC Licensing Delays PQAC was forced to layoff licensing staff, and we are hearing of delays in licensing. WSPA will advocate for these positions to be re-instated. * CDTAs and ACIP Changes WSPA strongly suggests pharmacies update their CDTAs to include more dynamic language for vaccine administration.
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be September 10th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * Taco Tuesday with Spokane Pharmacy Association and WSPA, September 9, 2025; 5:30 PM; De Leon's Taco & Bar - 1801 N Hamilton St, Spokane, WA, 99207 * Technician CE & Taco Social, September 26, 2025; 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM * Ambulatory Care Academy Fall Meeting, October 3, 2025; 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM * WSPA LTC Academy Meeting, October 7, 2025; 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM (Contact Boris@wsparx.org if interested) * WSPA Health System Leadership Meeting; October 10th; Ellensburg, WA * WSPA Industry SIG Meeting, October 21, 2025; 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM * WSPA Annual Meeting; November 7-8th; Great Wolf Lodge, Centralia, WA
Agenda:
Meet the WSPA Board of Directors Candidates - Then vote! Each candidate will have a chance on this call to speak to the members.
* Interested in contributing more to WSPA? Engage with the academies. Leadership elections will be this fall.
* PQAC Business Meeting* - Upcoming on August 14th. Agenda
* Pharmacy Appreciation Night at the Seattle Sounders - October 4th at 7:30 PM
Upcoming Events
* The next Town Hall Call will be August 27th
* Behavioral Health SIG Meeting, August 20th 12-1 PM, Virtual
* Ambulatory Care Academy Lunch Bunch (Alzheimer's Disease), August 26, 2025; 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM; Virtual
* Diabetes SIG Meeting; September 16th, 5:30 PM
* Technician Taco Social and CE; September 26th; WSPA Office
* Ambulatory Care Academy Fall Meeting; October 3rd; WSPA Office and Virtual
* Long Term Care Academy Meeting, October 7th 1-2 PM; Virtual
* WSPA Health System Leadership Meeting; October 10th; Ellensburg, WA
* Industry SIG Meeting, October 21st, 12-1 pm, Virtual
* WSPA Annual Meeting; November 7-8th; Great Wolf Lodge, Centralia, WA
Agenda:* PBM Rule MakingThe Office of the Insurance Commissioner has been updating rules for PBM enforcement. Next week WSPA will release a summary of PBM laws and rules for members. We encourage members to be engaged in the upcoming rule making. lace Holder place holder * WSPA Elections WSPA will send out the Board of Directors Ballot on August 6th. Please join the Town Hall Call on August 13th to meet the candidates.
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall Call will be August 13th * Ambulatory Care Academy Lunch Bunch (Alzheimer's Disease), August 26, 2025; 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM; Virtual * Technician Taco Social and CE; September 26th; WSPA Office * Ambulatory Care Academy Fall Meeting; October 3rd; WSPA Office and Virtual * WSPA Health System Leadership Meeting; October 10th; Ellensburg, WA * WSPA Annual Meeting; November 7-8th; Great Wolf Lodge, Centralia, WA
Agenda: Legislative Committee Meeting July 17th at WSPA Office to prepare for upcoming session in 2026. All WSPA members are invited to join the Legislative Committee. * Profile Update* Please login to your WSPA Account and check your personal and contact information. We have lots of old emails and contact info, and that makes it hard to connect with you! While you are there, make sure you are in the correct Academy for you! * Academy Updates Our Academies have updated websites! Go checkout the new websites sites! All the Academies now have a members only section with resources for WSPA members. Call (425-228-7171 ext 0) or email askwspa@wsparx.org if you have problems logging in. * Immunization Update We will discuss CDTA considerations during these times of conflicting information.
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be July 30th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * Industry SIG Meeting, July 22, 2025; 11 AM - 12 PM; Virtual * Long Term Care Academy, July 22, 2025; 1- 2:00 PM; Virtual * Ambulatory Care Academy Lunch Bunch (Alzheimer's Disease), August 26, 2025; 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM; Virtual * Technician Taco Social and CE; September 26th; WSPA Office * Ambulatory Care Academy Fall Meeting; October 3rd; WSPA Office and Virtual * WSPA Health System Leadership Meeting; October 10th; Ellensburg, WA
Agenda: ACIP and DOH Immunization Update* The Washington DOH Vaccine Advisory Committee met and voted to recommend the COVID Vaccine for pregnant women and all patients 6 months and older on Friday June 13th. Pharmacists may need to update their CDTAs to allow for more shared decision making and siting state recommendations. * Resident and Student Positions - Seeking leaders for Amb Care Academy, Health Systems Academy, Community Practice Academy, Behavioral Health SIG, etc. Please contact Boris Zhang if you are interested * Academies want your ideas! Ambulatory Care Survey and Health System Pharmacy Survey
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be June 17th (We will cancel the first week in July meeting.)You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar * Behavioral Health SIG Meeting, June 18, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM, Zoom * MPJE Refresher (for students and residents), June 26, 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM, Zoom * WSPA Industry SIG Meeting, July 22nd, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Zoom * Long Term Care Academy, July 22nd, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM, Teams
Agenda: WSPA Award Nominations Open Now! Nominate a pharmacy professional today! Nominations close July 9th. * Seeking Members for WSPA Board of Directors We are seeking candidates for pharmacist and technician members at large, and an Incoming President. Apply by July 10th. The applications, information about the positions and expectations on the WSPA BOD Page. * NW Pharmacy Convention Recap We had an outstanding time at the Convention this year! * PQAC Recap Review actions and discussion from the recent PQAC Business Meeting. They discussed Rite Aid closures, transfers and allowing alternative means for transfers given the emergent situation. * Seeking CE topics and speakers for Annual Meeting* Contact Mylinh with your ideas mylinh@wsparx.org. Save the date for WSPA Annual Meeting on November 6-8th at Great Wolf Lodge in Ground Mound, WA.
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be June 18th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * MPJE Refresher June 26th, Virtual
Agenda: Rite Aid Bankruptcy WSPA seeks regulatory flexibility from the Governor's office to support pharmacy professionals as they support patients. * Seeking Student and Resident Leaders for WSPA Academies Please share this opportunity with students and incoming residents. * Expansion of Pharmacy Prescribing Advocacy Recap the Sunrise review hearing, standard of care, and next legislative session. * WSPA ACIP CE Join us for this comprehensive Immunization CE tomorrow. Grant funding has allowed us to make it free for all attendees! * MPJE Review Session This valuable session is open to all new graduates including incoming residents. * Upcoming PQAC Business Meeting* Tomorrow's agenda.
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be June 4th, 11:00 AM PT. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * Spring ACIP 2025 Update - May 22nd; 11:00-12:00 PM PT (First 75 members can register for free!) * Building Immunity, Strengthening Community - A Virtual Training Series on Immunizations for Health Professionals - June 2-5; 12:00-2:00 PM PT * Northwest Pharmacy Convention - May 29th - June 1st
Surveys1. Ambulatory Care Academy Survey 2025 – The purpose of this survey is to collect information on current and trending practices in the ambulatory care space in the state of Washington and to create a directory. This information will be accessible to the WSPA Ambulatory Care Academy members and will create opportunity to learn about what other institutions are doing. 2. 2025 Health-Systems Academy Engagement Survey – We use important feedback from our members to plan activities and events for 2025.Our goal is to provide you with tools, resources, and networking opportunities to share knowledge, ideas, and best practices to improve patient safety, patient care, and resource accessibility.
Agenda:
* Comagine Health Presentation, Compass
* Student and Resident Positions for Academies and SIGs open - Contact Boris Zhang for more info (boris@wsparx.org)
* Surveys (please see below)
* Technician Career Improvement Project, Spots Still Open - Contact Boris (boris@wsparx.org) or Sirena Kalinski (sirena@wsparx.org)
Upcoming Events
* The next Town Hall will be May 21st, 11:00 AM PT You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar.
* SW Pharmacy Association CE - Medication Errors Your Patients are Making: Tales from the Poison Center - May 8th, 6:30-8:00 PM
* Prep for Pharmacy Scope Sunrise Review - May 9th; 1:00-2:00 PM PT
* Prep for Pharmacy Scope Sunrise Review - May 13th; 9:00-10:00 AM PT
* Spring ACIP 2025 Update - May 22nd; 11:00-12:00 PM PT (First 75 members can register for free!)
* Northwest Pharmacy Convention - May 29th - June 1st (Early bird ends 5/8!)
* Building Immunity, Strengthening Community - A Virtual Training Series on Immunizations for Health Professionals - June 2-5; 12:00-2:00 PM PT
Agenda: Legislative Update: Wins!* HB 1009 adds a 2nd tech member to PQAC, and HB 1186 which allows EDs and HCE to dispensed inhalers and other multi day meds are heading to the Governor's Desk! Also, SB 5794 was amended to uphold the wholesaler's preferential rate. HB 2081 and SB 5815 B&O increases on pharmacy and wholesalers are our focus now. Bill Tracker. * ACIP Updates: Mylinh will provide a comprehensive update of ACIP Guidelines. Slides * WA Apple Health Contraception Coverage flyer * In Case you missed it... MOUD Resource Guide for Community Practice
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be May 7th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * Northwest Pharmacy Convention, May 29th to June 1st, Coeur d'Alene, ID - Early Bird Pricing Ends Today! * Ambulatory Care Academy Spring Meeting, April 25, 2025; 9:00AM-1:00PM * Health System Leadership Roundtable Meeting, May 2nd, Puyallup, WA * Pharmacy Scope Expansion Sunrise Review Stakeholder Session, May 14th 1-3 pm. Prep calls May 9th at 1 pm and May 13th at 9 am. * Spring Immunization Update CE, May 22nd, Virtual
Agenda: Legislative Update Bill Tracker, WSPA's work to oppose taxes that will increase the price of medications. * Measles Clinical Update, Resources and State Response Kim Carlson, Amanda Dodd and Cheryl Ann Barnes from DOH will review surveillance, clinical descriptions and resources for response. Slides, DOH Measles Page, Post Exposure Management, Measles Update CE for Pharmacy at no cost thanks to WSPA and DOH. * 2nd Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine a 2nd dose is indicated for adults 65 years and older and those with moderate to severe immunocompromise. lace holder. WSPA has funding for adult family home and community vaccine clinics held by pharmacies. * Renew Pharmacy Licenses Now! In late April the DOH licensing system will have a freeze and not be available online. Renew now to not have wholesaler delays, especially for ordering controlled substances. lace holder * PQAC Updates* reviewing important updates from the 3/27 Business Meeting
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be April 23rd. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * WSPA Pharmacy Career Exploration Day, April 16th | Everett, WA * Technician Spring Fling, April 18, 2025; 8:00AM-2:30PM * Ambulatory Care Academy Spring Meeting, April 25, 2025; 9:00AM-1:00PM * Health System Leadership Roundtable Meeting, May 2nd, Puyallup, WA * Northwest Pharmacy Convention, May 29th to June 1st, Coeur d'Alene, ID - EARLY BIRD PRICING ENDS APRIL 23rd!l
Agenda: Legislative Session and Budget Update* WSPA Win! The Managed Medicaid Carveout was not included in either draft budget. We continue to advocate over B&O tax changes and pharmacy impact. Our bills continue to advance in the legislature, while we play defense against bills with unintended consequences. Join Pharmacy Day in Olympia on March 31st. * Sunrise Review Stakeholder Input: Please submit a letter of support for the Pharmacy Scope Sunrise Review by April 1st. Letters that outline care pharmacists provide, how that can be expanded and the barrier CDTAs create are needed. We have a template to get you started * Academy Updates: Health System Academy and Ambulatory Care Academy want to know how they can meet your needs! Complete a survey today. * Technician Career Development Opportunity Seeking technicians who want to expand their impact and influence. Complete this survey with your interest.
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be April 9th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * WSPA Legislative Day, March 31, 2025; 9:00 AM-4:00 PM | Olympia, WA * WSPA Pharmacy Career Exploration Day, April 16th | Everett, WA * Technician Spring Fling, April 18, 2025; 8:00AM-2:30PM * Ambulatory Care Academy Spring Meeting, April 25, 2025; 9:00AM-1:00PM * Health System Leadership Roundtable Meeting, May 2nd, Puyallup, WA * Northwest Pharmacy Convention, May 29th to June 1st, Coeur d'Alene, ID - EARLY BIRD PRICING ENDS APRIL 23rd!
Agenda: WSPA Voices Concern Over Potential Pharmacy Carve Out from Managed Medicaid* A letter of concern with solutions was sent to legislators. * WSPA's ASHP Delegates propose a resolution The resolution asks the ASHP Board of Directors to reconsider their policy for affiliating with unified or merged pharmacy organizations like WSPA. * Please submit a letter of support for the Pharmacy Scope Sunrise Review by April 1st Letters that outline care pharmacists provide, how that can be expanded and the barrier CDTAs create are needed. We have a template to get you started. * Academy Updates The Health System Academy and Ambulatory Care Academy recently send out a member survey and updates to members. Check your inbox to help these academies meet your practice needs.
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be March 26th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * WSPA Ambulatory Care Academy Lunch Bunch March 25th 12 PM | Virtual * WSPA Legislative Day #2, March 31, 2025; 9:00 AM-4:00 PM | Olympia, WA * WSPA Pharmacy Career Exploration Day, April 16th | Everett, WA * Technician Spring Fling, April 18, 2025; 8:00AM-2:30PM * Ambulatory Care Academy Spring Meeting, April 25, 2025; 9:00AM-1:00PM * Northwest Pharmacy Convention, May 29th to June 1st, Coeur d'Alene, ID - EARLY BIRD PRICING ENDS APRIL 23rd!
Agenda: Legislative Update* Bill Tracker * Pharmacist Expanded Scope Sunrise Review Submit Comments by April 1st. * Catch up with your academies through their podcasts! If you see anything missing, reach out to your academy leaders on their web pages! + Health System Academy Podcasts + Ambulatory Care Academy Podcasts + Community Practice Academy Podcasts * Northwest Convention Call for Posters Pharmacists, residents, technicians, students, and industry are welcome to submit an abstract and encore posters are also welcome. For questions, please contact Boris Zhang (boris@wsparx.org)
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be March 12th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * New Drugs New Law, March 2, 2025; 8:30AM-4:45 PM * WSPA Legislative Day #2, March 31, 2025; 8:00AM-4:00PM * Technician Spring Fling, April 18, 2025; 8:00AM-2:30PM * Ambulatory Care Academy Spring Meeting, April 25, 2025; 9:00AM-1:00PM * Northwest Pharmacy Convention, May 29th to June 1st, Coeur d'Alene, ID
Join WSPA Staff for our every other week WSPA Town Hall Wednesday at 11 am. Afterwards, each session is posted as a podcast for later listening. If you have questions or an idea for the agenda, please contact WSPA staff to discuss.Agenda:
Influenza rates are very high in Washington and across the US Treatment Guidelines and who is at highest risk. Also, reminder that compounding osteltamivir suspension is permitted in Washington pharmacies because it is indicated in the package insert.
* Legislative Update Bill Tracker Next week is the committee hearing cut off
* PQAC Updates* reviewing important updates from the last meeting
* Antidote Survey Reminder, health systems are asked to complete the Antidote survey this week
* Cannabis Adverse Reaction Survey Study
Upcoming Events
* The next Town Hall will be February 26th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar.
* New Drugs New Laws Online March 2, 2025; 8:30 - 4:45 PM PT
* WSU Legislative Day March 31st, 9:00 AM PT, Olympia, WA
* Technician CE Day Spring Fling April 18, 2025; 8:00 - 2:30 PM PT
* SPA Annual Meeting 2025 March 1, 2024, 4-8 PM , Spokane, WA
Agenda: Happy Lunar New Year! Welcome the year of the snake! * Legislative Updates Our priority bills include: Expansion of Pharmacy Practice (HB 1520, SB 5513) and ED Prepack & HCE dispensing (SB 5019, HB 1186). The WSPA Bill Tracker contains the bills we are following. * Health System Antidote Survey The WSPA and Washington Poison Center have posted the 2025 Survey. Every health system is asked to complete it by February 8th. * Supporting Community Pharmacy Workforce Webinar WSPA members are presenting this webinar hosted by the Health Workforce Technical Assistance Center on Jan 30th at 11 am. * Cannabis Adverse Effects Survey Study by UW Medicine This study wants to understand clinical experiences related to cannabis by the end of February. * Upcoming February 6th PQAC Business Meeting* Agenda
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be February 12th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * Industry SIG Meeting (Regulatory Frameworks in the Industry Field); January 29, 2025; 12:00 - 1:00 PM PT * General Diabetes SIG Meeting (Intro to CGM Products); January 30, 2025; 5:30 - 6:30 PM PT * Immunizations in Pregnancy (ACIP Recommendations); February 4, 2025; 12:00 - 12:30 PM PT * New Drugs New Laws Virtual | March 2, 2025; 8:30 - 4:45 PM PT * WSPA Legislative Day March 31st, 9:00 AM PT, Olympia, WA - All members encouraged to attend! * Technician CE Day Spring Fling April 18, 2025; 8:00 - 2:30 PM PT * Northwest Pharmacy Convention May 29-June 1 2025; Coeur d'Alene, WA
Agenda: Legislative Session Kick-Off Information* * WSPA Prescriptive Authority Bill Update/Review * WA Poison Control Center Emergency and Biologics and Antidote Survey (Due February 5, 2025)
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be Wednesday January 29, 205. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar * Events: + Behavioral Health SIG Meeting; January 15, 2025; 12:00 PM PT - https://www.wsparx.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1921731&group= + WSPA Legislative Committee Call; January 16, 2025: 10:30AM PT Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82918166111 + WSPA Legislative Day #1 - https://www.wsparx.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1915285&group= + Industry SIG Meeting; January 29, 2025; 12:00 PM PT - https://www.wsparx.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1908843&group= + General Diabetes SIG Meeting; January 30, 2025; 5:30 PM PT - https://www.wsparx.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1925780&group= + Immunizations in Pregnancy: February 4, 2025; 12PM PT - https://www.wsparx.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1927672&group= + 2025 New Drugs New Laws; March 2, 2025; 8:30 AM PT - https://www.wsparx.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1919552&group= + Technician Spring Fling; April 18, 2025; 8:00 AM PT - https://www.wsparx.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1915284&group=
Agenda: Happy Holidays from the WSPA Board of Directors and Staff! * Contact your US Representative to encourage them to vote yes on the continuing resolution! The Continuing resolution that should be voted on today in the house has some important provisions regarding PBMs. We will discuss the updates on the call today. Contacting your US Representative is easy- here's how! * PQAC Recap from last week's meeting* Agenda * Managed Medicaid Billing Updates Managed Medicaid implementing the state's PDL Jan 1, as well as aligning the 30 day vs 90 day eligible drug lists - so expect changes. * Health Care Authority Point of Sale Updates The HCA continues to troubleshoot issues with the POS system. We will identify the issues that are being addressed currently, and provide a time for questions and feedback.
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be December 4th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar.
Agenda: Medications for Opioid Use Disorder Pharmacy Toolkit* The Community Pharmacy Foundation has published the results of the WSPA-UW Grant work. * Two independent pharmacies were burglarized in Pierce County overnight This time of year there can be increases in break-ins and robberies. Now is the time to check security and consider increased protections. * ACIP Updates The Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices had a big meeting this fall and has posted their newest Schedules. Mylinh Nguyen will review updates to the guidelines for immunizations. Slides
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be December 18th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. The New Years Day Town Hall is cancelled. See you on January 15th! * Social Determinants of Health CE: Where and How You Can Link Your Patients to Community Resources December 4th, noon | Virtual * LTC Academy Call January 7th at 1 pm | Virtual * Industry SIG Call on January 29th | Virtual
Agenda:
Emergency Preparedness (Toolkit for Pharmacies)*
* UW Northwest Center for Public Health Practice - Emergency Distribution of Pharmaceuticals
· WAC 246-945-332 allows emergency refills when the governor declares an emergency which he has not done as of now· WAC 246-945-330 allows a pharmacists to fill a medication not during an emergency. Upcoming Events
* The next Town Hall will be December 4th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar.
Agenda: Washington State Election Results Preliminary look at Washington State's elections and impacts on pharmacy * Alternative Distribution Subcommittee PQAC subcommittee reviewed draft language to limit "white bagging" and "brown bagging" * Seeking nominations to the Washington State Practitioner Advisory Committee to support the Healthcare Affordability Board If interested reach out to WSPA CEO Jenny Arnold * Seeking pharmacy professionals to join a workgroup to troubleshoot OTC billing of Contraception Billing OTC Contraception in the pharmacy is not easy - this group will gather these experiences to streamline options * Washington Pertussis Outbreak* Washington State Department of Health Staff will provide updates on our pertussis outbreak including epidemiology, signs and treatment. Slides will be shared on the call and available on the News section of the WSPA home page.
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be November 20th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar.
Agenda: COVID Vaccine Update for the 2024-2025 Season* Beth Arnold will present the COVID Update. Slides * PQAC Business Meeting Recap Discuss the October 10-11th business meeting * Washington Residency Showcase Preview Please share the flyer with students and interested pharmacists
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be November 6th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * Ambulatory Care Academy Lunch Bunch (Osteoporosis) Virtual | November 18, 2024; 12:00 PM * WSPA Annual Meeting, Suncadia Resort in Cle Elum, WA | November 8-9th * DEI SIG Event - early December... stay tuned!
Agenda:* Register today for WSPA Annual Meeting! Early bird prices end today. Come join us on November 8th and 9th at Suncadia Lodge in Cle Elum, WA. * RSV Immunization Update: Mylinh will provide important a RSV Vaccines update * IV Fluid Shortage: With 2 Baxter plants impacted by the hurricanes, our facilities are receiving 40-60% of their normal shipments. FDA Update and ASHP Recommendations * Hurricane Impacts Pharmacy Care: NCPA coordinating pharmacy relief funding, patients may receive emergency fills and out of state Medicaid fills. RX Open is a resource to locate open pharmacies. WSPA created an emergency preparedness toolkit for pharmacies.
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be October 23rd. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * Ambulatory Care Academy Fall Meeting, Yakima, WA | October 11, 2024 * Diabetes SIG General Meeting (Diabetes Type 1 Case Discussions), Virtual | October 17, 2024; 5:30 PM * WSPA Health System Pharmacy Leadership Meeting, Valley Medical Center in Renton, WA | October 18th * WSPA Annual Meeting, Suncadia Resort in Cle Elum, WA | November 8-9th * Ambulatory Care Academy Lunch Bunch (Osteoporosis) Virtual | November 18, 2024; 12:00 PM
Agenda: WSPA Statement on Compounded GLP-1 Medications* The WSPA Compounding SIG, Diabetes SIG and Ambulatory Academy helped to create this statement for patients and providers. * OIC Prior Authorizations and Substance Use Disorder Treatment Rules Work WSPA will submit stakeholder comments. * WSPA Urges Participation in the upcoming PQAC Accessible Labels Rule Making October 4th and 11th. WSPA members submitted stakeholder comments. * Community Pharmacy Foundation Washington Special Projects The CPF manages a special projects fund and project ideas are being solicited.
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be October 9th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * Community Practice Academy - Networking on Tap: Hot Cider Day Edition, Various Locations | September 30, 2024; 4:00 PM * Long Term Care Academy, Virtual | October 1, 2024; 1:00 PM (Email Boris, boris@wsparx.org for invite) * Industry SIG Kickoff Meeting, Virtual | October 2, 2024; 1:00 PM * Ambulatory Care Academy Fall Meeting, Yakima, WA | October 11, 2024; 9:00 AM * Diabetes SIG Meeting, Virtual | October 17th 5:30 PM * WSPA Health System Pharmacy Leadership Meeting, Valley Medical Center in Renton, WA | October 18th * WSPA Annual Meeting,Suncadia Resort in Cle Elum, WA | November 8-9th * Ambulatory Care Academy Lunch Bunch (Osteoporosis)Zoom | November 18, 2024; 12:00 PM
Join WSPA Staff for our every other week WSPA Town Hall Wednesday at 11 am. Afterwards, each session is posted as a podcast for later listening. If you have questions or an idea for the agenda, please contact WSPA staff to discuss.Agenda
Influenza Update
* Accessible Label Rule Making - WSPA submitted comments to PQAC based on member feedback
* HCA Pharmacy Cost of Dispensing Survey - WSPA also submitted comments. The survey should be distributed in October and all dispensing pharmacies should respond to best inform the actual costs.
* Welcome new WSPA Board of Director Members!* Thank you to everyone who voted
* Call for new Academy Chairs
Click here to apply for the HSA Chair-Elect and ASHP Delegate
Click here to apply for the AmCA Chair-Elect
Click here to apply for the CPA Chair PositionUpcoming Events
* The next Town Hall will be September 25th, 2024 at 11:00 AM PT You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar.
* Behavioral Health SIG Meeting Zoom | September 18, 2024; 12:00 PM PT
* Compounding SIG Meeting Zoom | September 24, 2024; 11:00 PM PT
* Community Practice Academy - Networking on Tap: Hot Cider Day Edition, Various Locations | September 30, 2024; 4:00 PM PT
* Industry SIG Kickoff Meeting, Zoom | October 2, 2024; 1:00 PM PT
* Ambulatory Care Academy Fall Meeting, Yakima, WA | October 11, 2024; 9:00 AM PT
* WSPA Health System Pharmacy Leadership Meeting, Valley Medical Center in Renton, WA | October 18th
Agenda: PQAC Updates* WSPA staff review key highlights from last week's PQAC meeting: Semaglutide Compounding Statement, Non-Resident Pharmacy Directive * MOUD in Community Pharmacies Jenny Bacci and Boris Zhang highlight the UWSOP/WSPA will review the findings of their project "Developing a model of care for medications for opioid use disorder at community pharmacies" funded by the Community Pharmacy Foundation. * Congratulations to the 2024 Award Winners! Celebrate them at the Awards Banquet on November 9th at Annual Meeting * Election Results Will be posted tomorrow!
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be September 11th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * Our SIGs and Academies meet regularly! Check the calendar for an upcoming event! * Technician Taco Social Renton, WA | September 21st * Spokane Pharmacy Association Trivia Night Night Mead, WA | September 21st * Community Practice Academy Hot Cider Day Event Multiple Locations | September 30th * Ambulatory Care Academy Fall Meeting TBD and Virtual | October 11th * WSPA Annual Meeting Suncadia Lodge, Cle Elum, WA | November 8-9th
Agenda: Voter's Guide for Board of Directors (voting due by August 23rd - vote here) * Technician Taco Social - September 21st; WSPA Conference Center * Annual Meeting - November 8-9th; Suncadia Resort * CMS National Pharmacy Inflation Reduction Act Educational Outreach Campaign * PQAC Meeting* - August 22nd; L&I Office and Zoom
Upcoming Events The next Town Hall will be August 28th You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * Provider Services Billing Workgroup - August 20th; 10:00 AM PT; Zoom * Behavioral Health SIG Meeting* - August 21st; 12:00 PM PT; Zoom * General Diabetes SIG Meeting - August 27th; 5:30 PM PT; Zoom * Compounding SIG Meeting - August 27th; 7:30 AM PT; Zoom
Agenda: Healthcare Benefit Manager Bill update* * Meet the Candidates Reminder for the WSPA Board of Directors * Annual Meeting Reminders (Posters and Residency Showcase)
Upcoming Events The next Town Hall will be August 14th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * DEI SIG General Meeting - August 6th, 5PM-6PM; Zoom * Behavioral Health SIG Meeting* - August 21st, 12PM; Zoom * Compounding SIG Meeting - August 27th, 11AM; Zoom * Diabetes SIG General Meeting - August 27th, 5:30PM-6:30PM; Zoom
Agenda: New Industry SIG Industry Pharmacy Professionals are invited to join our newest SIG. * Seeking a new Behavioral Health SIG Chair Contact Boris if interested. * Have You Seen our New Podcasts? Amb Care has a Podcast on Pain and Palliative Care, and Health Systems addresses Seeking Leadership in Pharmacy in their recent release. * Long Acting Injectables in Community Pharmacy We are seeking your input on Long Acting Injectables in your practice. Please respond to this survey by WSPA and UW. * ACIP Updates Mylinh will review the most recent immunization recommendations from the recent ACIP Meeting. * PQAC Updates* review important updates from the last meeting
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be July 31st. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar.
Agenda: WSPA Salary Survey Results Posted: 2024 Survey results will be reviewed. Thank you to everyone that participated! * Medicaid OTC Contraception Billing FAQ for Pharmacy: Soon expect to use pharmacist NPI number to process. WSPA working with OIC to standardize a process for all commercial payers. * WSPA Board of Directors Applications Open! We are looking for WSPA Members to help lead our organization. * WSPA Award Nominations Open! Please nominate an outstanding pharmacy professional today! * OIC Call for Rule Making : WSPA will submit comments * Seeking Student and Residents Leaders for WSPA Academies and SIGs:* Community Practice Academy, Health Systems Academy, AmbCare Academy, and Behavioral Health SIG. Email Boris if you are interested.
Upcoming Events:* The July 3rd Town Hall will be canceled. Talk to you on July 17th. Future dates can be added to your calendar via our event calendar. * Addressing food insecurity webinar on June 25th * Diabetes SIG Meeting on June 25th at 5:30 pm * Celebrating Pride Month | True Colors: Exploring Pharmacy Practice within the LGBTQIA+ Community Webinar on June 26th at 12:00 PM * MPJE Prep Session for Residents and New Grads on June 27th 9-2 PM for WSPA members. Email Boris@wsparx.org for more info. * AmbCare Academy Lunch Bunch: Cardiovascular Health and SELECT Trial Review web call on July 15th at 12:00 PM
Agenda: Expanded Prescribing by Pharmacists:* WSPA filed our Applicant Report for sunrise review on June 1st * Join the effort for our profession: Donate to the Washington PAC to support conversations with legislators. Before we testify or write letters - our donations to campaigns facilitate one on one conversations that improve our efforts. If each pharmacist donates just $10 to support their profession we will have a strong PAC! * WSPA Board Discusses Tech and Assistant Scope Expansion During the May 30th Board Meeting, WSPA members brainstormed the best ways to advocate for Tech and Assistant scope expansion. Do you have thoughts? Email the WSPA staff and CEO!
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be June 19th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * Care in Action: Pharmacy and Veterinary Career Exploration Day Everett, WA | June 6th * Tech CE Day: Renton, WA | September 21st * WSPA Annual Meeting Cle Elum, WA | November 8th -9thPlace Holder place holder
Agenda: Washington's PBM Study: Understanding Drug Pricing from Divergent Perspectives WSPA Members may preview the study before it's release. Please do not share publicly or with media yet, we are working on a broad release. * PQAC Recap WSPA staff will review the main take aways from the last PQAC meeting * We're recruiting student and residents leaders for our Academies! Share the info flyer with soon to be residents and current students of pharmacy! * Pharmacy and Veterinary Career Day: Care in Action Pharmacists and Techs are invited to join us on this hands on learning day with teens and young adults * Health System Academy Updates: * + Please have your health system complete the Technology Survey. + Newest Podcast on Seeking Leadership Positions + Each Health System please complete the IGIM survey - this is incase of a measles outbreak * Ambulator Care Academy Lunch Bunch Forum:* Join to discuss CVD and GLP-1 Select Trial Results mini journal club. Also, bring your questions for peers to the call. * DOH COVID Reports and Updates: Slides, Pharmacy Vaccine Orders, FRPP Orders
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be June 5th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * Northwest Pharmacy Convention Coeur d'Alene, ID | May 30th - June 2nd * Care in Action: Pharmacy and Veterinary Career Exploration Day Everett, WA | June 6th * Tech CE Day: Renton, WA | September 21st * WSPA Annual Meeting Cle Elum, WA | November 8th -9th
Agenda: Pharmacy and Employers Study* Antonio Ciaccia will preview the results of this groundbreaking study! Thank you to members for contributing to the data for the study! * PQAC Recap WSPA staff will share highlights from last week's PQAC Meeting - it was a busy meeting!
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be May 22nd. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * Northwest Pharmacy Convention Coeur d'Alene, ID | May 30th - June 2nd * Pharmacy Health System Leadership Meeting Yakima, WA | May 10th
WSPA Annual Meeting Cle Elum, WA | November 8th -9th
Agenda: SPA Changes in Settlement Amounts Some Pharmacies will see an increase, others will have paybacks * Visa-Mastercard Settlement File Claims by end of May directly or through DCap * WSPA Members Advocating with Legislators and OIC Staff Last Week We will recap their discussions * Naloxone and Standing Order Public Health Departments ask pharmacies to help with access, especially for patients on MOUD. * Northwest Convention* Don't miss the Keynote and Dualling Pianos! * PQAC Upcoming Meeting and Inspectors PQAC has posted the current list of Inspectors by zipcode. Reaching out to your inspector is easier than ever, and encouraged! Si Bui, the Supervisor of Inspectors encourages you to reach out to your inspector or him with any questions or concerns.
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be April 24th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * Northwest Pharmacy Convention Coeur d'Alene, ID | May 30th - June 2nd * WSPA Ambulatory Care Academy Meeting Renton, WA | April 26th * Pharmacy Health System Leadership Meeting Yakima, WA | May 10th * WSPA Annual Meeting Cle Elum, WA | November 8th -9th
Agenda: COVID 19 Vaccine Updates * Joining email lists for Academies, SIGs and Groups * PBM Contracts, Opt-In vs Opt-Out * Student Representative Positions Open for Academies - flyer * Optum Change on Copay Card and Program Adjudicators * DSCSA Resources*
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be April 24th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * Northwest Pharmacy Convention Coeur d'Alene, ID | May 30th - June 2nd * Technician Spring Fling: CE and Networking Renton, WA | April 19th * DEI SIG Kickoff Meeting Zoom | April 22nd * WSPA Ambulatory Care Academy Meeting Renton, WA | April 26th * Pharmacy Health System Leadership Meeting Yakima, WA | May 10th * WSPA Annual Meeting Cle Elum, WA | November 8th -9th
Agenda: WSPA's PBM Bill - E2SSB 5213* Our PBM bill was signed into law on Monday! Thank you to all our members who contacted their legislators, and supported the bill! We did it! * Health Care Authority SPA Settlement Checks Earlier this month the last checks and EFTs for closed pharmacies were distributed. The HCA will now process back payment adjustments for 2023. Pharmacies do not have to rerun these prescriptions. * Federal Legislative Update PBM Legislation and Medicare Recognition of Pharmacists as Providers
Upcoming Events
* The next Town Hall will be April 10th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar.
* Northwest Pharmacy Convention Coeur d'Alene, ID | May 30th - June 2nd
* Technician Spring Fling: CE and Networking Renton, WA | April 19th
* WSPA Ambulatory Care Academy Meeting Renton, WA | April 26th
* Pharmacy Health System Leadership Meeting Yakima, WA | May 10th
* WSPA Annual Meeting Cle Elum, WA | November 8th -9th
Governor Inslee Signs E2SSB 5213 -Health Care Benefit Managers (PBM)
On Monday, March 25th, Governor Inslee signed into law E2SSB 5213 Health Care Benefit Managers (PBM). The bill is an important incremental step toward regulatory oversight, transparency, and accountability of Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs), safeguarding the health of patients in your communities and the viability independent pharmacies. While we know we must continue to be diligent, this was a proud day for the profession. Thank you to our members and our supporters for working so hard to make this happen.
Agenda: Happy Match Day! WSPA recaps our recent Residency Directors Meeting * PQAC Meeting Recap * Change Healthcare Update * PBM Bill Passed the House! E2SSB 5213 is not heading to the Governor's Desk * Treatment of Opioid Addictions: WSPA and UW Studying the potential role for pharmacy * Federal Legislative Update:* PBMS and ECAPS are big topics in DC
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be March 27th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * Northwest Pharmacy Convention Coeur d'Alene, ID | May 30th - June 2nd * Technician Spring Fling: CE and Networking Renton, WA | April 19th * Pharmacy Health System Leadership Meeting Yakima, WA | May 10th * WSPA Annual Meeting Cle Elum, WA | November 8th -9th
Agenda: Change Healthcare Outage Updates* CEO Jenny Arnold will share what she has learned about Washington impacts and updates from a recent stakeholder meeting with Change Healthcare. * Electronic Transfer of Controlled Substances - While DEA authorized controlled substance transfers in July 2023, the electronic systems that facilitate this have not received the green light from CMS to permit this. The telecommunication standards have been updated by NCPDP, and are awaiting CMS approval. NCPA Bulletin * Legislative Update CEO Jenny Arnold will review the last two weeks of the legislative hearing - Including our PBM bill that is in the final stretch - please contact you Representatives today and urge their support for our bill!
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be March 13th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * WSPA Annual Meeting Cle Elum, WA | November 8th -9th * New Drugs New Laws Seattle, WA | March 3rd * Residency Directors MeetingRenton, WA or Zoom | March 11th email Boris@wsparx.org to RSVP * Technician Spring Fling: CE and Networking Renton, WA | April 19th * Pharmacy Health System Leadership Meeting Yakima, WA | May 10th * Northwest Pharmacy Convention Coeur d'Alene, ID | May 30th - June 2nd
Join WSPA Staff for our every other week WSPA Town Hall Wednesday at 11 am. Afterwards, each session is posted as a podcast for later listening. If you have questions or an idea for the agenda, please contact WSPA staff to discuss.Agenda:* Project First Line - Mady Schuh from DOH will present on this infection control and antimicrobial stewardship project in Washington State. * Legislative Session Update - Dedi Little will discuss bills still active in Olympia. lace Holder place holder * Opioid Ordering Limits - WSPA is gathering background information on the barriers to patient care that the wholesaler limits are creating. * Medical Billing Guide - Back and better than ever! The Pharmacy Practice Guidebook: Medical Billing, Coding and Documentation for Pharmacy Professionals Book is a comprehensive resource for every practitioner. Contains current CPT codes and insight! Members receive a 25% discount! * WSPA SIGS: Behavioral Health; Compounding; Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; Diabetes; Industry; New Practitioner; Tech Academia - and more in development. * DOH COVID Reports: Slides
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be Feb 28th. You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * Diabetes SIG Meeting Zoom | Feb 27th 5:30 pm * New Drugs New Laws Seattle, WA | March 3rd * Residency Directors Meeting Renton, WA or Zoom | March 11th email Boris@wsparx.org to RSVP * Technician Spring Fling: CE and Networking Renton, WA | April 19th * Northwest Pharmacy Convention Coeur d'Alene, ID | May 30th - June 2nd * WSPA Annual Meeting Cle Elum, WA | November 8th -9th
- 2024 Emergency Biologics and Antidote Survey Health systems are encouraged to complete the survey to inform the upcoming directory! Sasha Kaiser, Associate Medical Director for the Washington Poison Center will share about WPC and how the directory is used.
- Paxlovid EUA Changes After March 8th, the EUA labeled Paxlovid will no longer be authorized. There will still be an EUA to permit Paxlovid in 12-18 year old who are at increased risk. Brien Aguilar, the Medical Countermeasures PM in the Department of Health office of Medical Logistics will highlight these changes.
- The 1st WSPA Legislative Day and Hearing on Expanded Prescribing Authority Bill for Pharmacists - HB 2116 was a success! Dedi Little, WSPA Director of Government Affairs will review the Legislative Day and Hearing, as well as the PBM bill's progress. WSPA maintains a Bill Tracker with the bills we are watching. Check out our 2024 Legislative Page for more information.
- DOH COVID Reports and Updates: Slides
Upcoming Events* The next Town Hall will be February 14th - because we love our members! You can also add future dates to your calendar via our event calendar. * New Drugs New Laws Seattle, WA | March 3rd * Technician Spring Fling: CE and Networking Renton, WA | April 19th * Northwest Pharmacy Convention Coeur d'Alene, ID | May 30th - June 2nd * WSPA Annual Meeting Cle Elum, WA | November 8th -9th
Agenda: King County's New Telemedicine Buprenorphine Program* Leaders from this new low barrier access program will come to discuss the program. ProgramFlyer While unique to King County, community pharmacists filling the prescriptions should know, and can refer patients. This might also be a model for other counties. * WSPA Salary Survey We are still gathering responses for the salary survey! Please respond by The 21st, and share with your peers. The more responses, the better the report! * WSPA Legislative Days Save the Date for Pharmacy Days in Olympia! January 24th and February 19th. RSVP to Stephanie@wsparx.org with your District Number. Come help us promote expanded prescriptive authority for Pharmacists through HB 2116/SB 6019 and PBM Reform with SB 5213. Attendees receive summaries and talking points to aid their conversation with legislators. * DOH COVID Reports and Updates: Slides
Upcoming Events* New Drugs New Laws Seattle, WA | March 3rd * Technician Spring Fling: CE and Networking Renton, WA | April 19th * Northwest Pharmacy Convention Coeur d'Alene, ID | May 30th - June 2nd * WSPA Annual Meeting Cle Elum, WA | November 8th -9th
Academy Podcasts - stay up to date with the most recent news!* Ambulatory Care Academy Population Health, Where to Begin and Where We Are Going * Community Practice Academy Pharmacogenomics and Other Up and Coming Clinical Services with CPESN * Health System Academy Uses of AI In and Out of the Classroom
Agenda:* HCA Pharmacy and Sexual and Reproductive Health Teams contraception access survey + Summary: To support access to contraception, HCA has created a survey to learn about issues and solutions related to prescribing and dispensing from all pharmacy personnel. Including topics such as communications, continuing education, and billing. We are attending the next few WSPA town halls and communities of practice to promote the survey and hear feedback to help inform our priorities. + HCA Presenters: Andrea Estes, Sexual & Reproductive Health Programs Innovation Manager, and Charity Harris, Pharmacy Operations + Take survey | HCA Service Automation (servicenowservices.com) * State Plan Amendment Payout (HCA Fax) * WSPA Salary Survey * Pharmacy Practice Guidebook on Medical Billing * 2024 BIN Numbers for Coordinated Care * CE Requirements restarting 2024 * Ambulatory Care Academy Podcast now available * DOH COVID Reports and Updates: Slides
Upcoming Events* New Drugs New Laws 3/3/2024 * Technician Spring Fling 4/19/2024 * Northwest Pharmacy Convention 5/30/2024-6/2/2024
- Legislative Session Preview: Dedi Little, WSPA Director of Government Affairs will look ahead to the 2024 short session and the two WSPA Priority Bills: Expanding Pharmacist Authority to Prescribe and SB 5312 Concerning PBMs.
- PBM Advocacy Toolkit: WSPA has created a PBM Advocacy Toolkit to encourage members and their community to contact lawmakers to share the urgent need for PBM regulations.
- Mask Recommendations: Counties in the Puget Sound area have surpassed the threshold levels for influenza and RSV, which triggers a recommendation to wear masks in healthcare facilities.
- WSPA Salary Survey Is Ongoing! Respond to the Survey Today!
- DOH COVID Reports and Updates: Slides
- Respiratory Illness Tracker Washington State specific data for current illness tracking. Also weekly flu tracker as circulating ILI cause data.
- COVID Antiviral access for federally insured Medicaid and Medicare patients Patients need to sign up for the patient assistance programs to receive medication coverage. ASPR Info. Pharmacies will need to enroll in AssistRx by emailing PharmacyNetworkContract102101@assistrx.com
- PQAC Meeting December 14th and 15th
- WSPA Salary Survey is now open! Take the survey today and share with friend and coworkers
- CAQH is now the preferred credentialing platform in Washington Credentialing as a Pharmacist Provider in CAQH Proview CE
- Substance Use Disorder Professionals: WSPA Staff and Members advocate for pharmacist inclusion in alternate training pathway list
- Paxlovid for Medicaid & Medicare Patients Patients will have to apply for the Pfizer patient assistance program, and obtain a rebate card to use in the pharmacy to access medications.
- WSPA Wants to hear from you! Technician Engagement Survey and Health System Engagement Survey
- DOH COVID Updates: Slide
- DOH and PQAC Inspectors: Inventory must include will call items. A printout of the will call items suffices.
- OTC Contraception Billing: Guide to Billing OTCs to Medicaid and HCA Pharmacy Survey
- Annual Meeting Recap
- DOH COVID Updates: Slides
- PBM's, Pharmacy and Sponsor study WSPA needs many more pharmacies to participate in the 3 axis study. Submit dispensing data this week to be included!
- Bree Collaborative Introduction - Emily Nudelman, Transformation and Community Partnership Manager. Slides and Resources
- SPA Payout and Rate Updates DOH will change rates and issue payments following CMS approval of the State Plan Amendment
- Cantwell Press Conference with Local Pharmacies and PBMs and related Seattle Times Article
- PQAC Updates Updates from October 19th Meeting
- DOH COVID-19 Vaccine Updates
- Emergency Preparedness Summit Recap WSPA staff to review major actions of the meeting
- COVID Vaccine Reimbursement Pearls - Both Medicare and WA Medicaid including the MCO plans should pay $40 admin fee. DOH Update Slides. WSPA is partnering with DOH on a Bridge Access Program and supporting E-True North enrollment for un and under insured individuals.
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Federal PBM and Provider Legislation
- ECAPS Bill Rep.DelBene the first Washington Co-Sponsor!
- PBM Legislation Thank you to Senator Cantwell for being the lead sponsor!
- Seeking Academy Leaders
- COVID Vaccine and Pediatric Patients Clarification Moderna and Pfizer vaccine approvals and EUAs for patients 6 months and older. DOH Slides
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- What Parents/Guardians Should Know about Pediatric COVID-19 Vaccine (PDF)
- COVID-19 Vaccination for Children: A Checklist for Parents and Caregivers (PDF)
- Getting Vaccinated to Protect Against COVID-19 Illness (wa.gov)
- DOH 820-025 Pediatric Provider Discussion Guide: Building Parental/Guardian Confidence in COVID-19 Vaccination (wa.gov)
- COVID vaccine for un and underinsured patients
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- E True North Enrollment Information and Welcome Packet
- WSPA-DOH Pharmacy Bridge Program and Vaccines for Adults program - contact Sirena to partner
- RSV and Pregnancy - ACIP Voted to recommend Pfizer RSV Vaccine for women who are 32-36 weeks pregnant to give their child protective antibodies for RSV.
- Washington State Plan Agreement Settlement Finalized! Review settlement details including back payment and next steps
- WSPA Launches 3-Axis Advisors Study This first of its kind study will capture plan sponsor (employer) and pharmacy data as it relates to PBMs. We need pharmacy and employer data to power the study!
- New COVID Vaccines approved by FDA and ACIP GuidanceOverview Slides, State Update
- Washington State Plan Amendment Agreement
- Prescription Adaption Rule: A tool to decrease administrative burdens such as adding add grams/day, and clarify prescriptions. The DEA permits adaption in Washington State as well. In Washington PBM's may not recoup money based on administrative errors. WSPA's PBM Resource Page lists this and other relevant laws to protect pharmacies.
- PQAC Updates reviewing important updates from the last meeting
- DOH COVID Reports and Updates: Slides, Pharmacy Vaccine Orders, FRPP Orders
- Vaccination Update: Mylinh Nguyen will provide an overview of new vaccines and recommendations for the fall including influenza, RSV, COVID, HPV, and coadministration. Slides, MMWR for RSV Vaccine
- Washington Residency Showcase at WSPA Annual Meeting - all programs and interested individuals invited to attend!
- WSPA Election Results Welcome to our newest Board Members, and thank you to everyone one the ballot, willing to lead!
- COVID-19 Vaccine Update by DOH Staff: Slides, Pharmacy Orders, FRPP Orders
- Annual Meeting (link)
- Upcoming events (Technician Taco Social, CPA S'mores Networking Event)
- Board of Directors Candidates Presentation
- WSPA Upcoming Events and Opportunities: August 2nd Town Hall will feature Board of Directors Candidates
- Community Practice Academy S'mores Social: August 10th in the evening
- WSPA Technician Taco Social and CE: September 23rd
- USP 795 Compounding Training: Not just for Compounders! Please click here if you are a WSPA member to access the training complimentary, or here if you would like to take the training but are not an active member.
- PQAC Openings PQAC is looking to hire an Inspector for King County Area and a second PQAC Pharmacist Consultant - Si Bui will highlight the two positions. Additionally, PQAC is seeking a Public Member for the Commission.
- Mental Health First Aid Training: WSU CPPS has a grant to provide this important training to pharmacy professionals in our state. They have partnered with WSPA to offer many training opportunities in the next year.
- Pharmacy Manual from DEA: Prescription pseudoephedrine clarification
- COVID-19 Vaccine Update by DOH Staff: Slides, Pharmacy Orders,FRPP Orders
- WSPA Call for Board Members Application Open! We are seeking engaged members from all practice settings join the WSPA Board of Directors.
- WSPA Award Nominations Open! Shine the light on excellent professionals in Washington by nominating them for a WSPA Award!
- Medication Shortages: Bicillin L-A, Platinum Shortages, incretin mimetics, methotrexate
- PQAC Accessible Labeling Rules: Workshop June 15th & Rules Drafted
- WSPA Supports Deep Injection: Certificate Training Now Available!
- Seeking Student and Resident Members for WSPA Academies: Apply today!
- New WSPA Academy Podcasts:
- Ambulatory Care Academy: Community Practice Residency Podcast: Tips and Considerations
- Community Practice Academy: Future of Pharmacy Post COVID in Community Practice Podcast
- Health Systems Academy: Supporting Survivors of Sexual Assault through Pharmacy Podcast
- WSPA Call for Award and Board of Directors Nominations! We are looking for outstanding individuals to recognize and to lead our organization!
- DOH Medicaid Redetermination: Pharmacy professionals can help eligible Medicaid patients keep their coverage.
- PQAC Meeting Recap: WSPA Staff will highlight the most recent PQAC Meeting and Rules Work
- Career Day Recap
- Diabetes Practitioner Support: WSPA is co-hosting a Diabetes CE Day on May 19th. Also, WSPA is starting a Diabetes Special Interest Group. Contact Mylinh if you are interested - mylinh@wsparx.org.
- WSPA Deep Injection Training
- Legislative Special Session Update, Budget Recap and a look ahead to next session
- ESI Fraudulent Audit Letter The Office of the Insurance Commissioner was notified that fake Express Scripts Letters were faxed to pharmacies about audits. Be on alert for audits that seem odd, or intrusive. Contact for WSPA for more information.
- Remember! Order your home COVID Test Kits today!
- COVID-19 Vaccine Update by DOH Staff: Slides,Pharmacy Orders, FRPP Orders
- State Plan Amendment Settlement Update to provide an update on WSPA's settlement and back payment for the Medicaid State Plan Amendment Dispensing Fee
- How to connect patients with social services: Washington 211 The Washington 211 resource center will come and present this important resource for patients to find local resources for housing, food, elder and child care, etc.
- COVID Emergency Declaration Changes Be sure to have your current CDTA on file and updated for vaccinations, and the statewide standing orders eliminated. Email Jenny Arnold (Jenny@wsparx.org) if you need a vaccine CDTA partner, or strategy for overseeing nurse vaccinations.
- COVID-19 Vaccine Update by DOH Staff: Slides,Pharmacy Orders, FRPP Orders
- Federal Legislative Update: Senate Finance Committee Hearing March 30th, HB 1770 To Amend the Social Security Act for Pharmacy Services and many other investigations into PBMs and Competition in Medications.
- APhA Annual Meeting Recap! Congratulations Kennedy Erickson for a very sucessful year as APhA-ASP President, and to Beverly Schaefer for being awarded the APhA Travel Vaccine Champion Award. Many Washington Pharmacists presented well received CEs and Posters at the meeting as well!
- Have you listened to these Washington Pharmacy Podcasts? WSPA Academies host frequent Podcasts! Some are timely, others offer long lasting insight. UW School of Pharmacy hosts Pharmacy Fridays with helpful updates on the profession.
- Which Upcoming WSPA Meeting are you registered for? nIf you aren't planning to attend New Drugs New Laws, NWPC or our Academy Meetings you are missing out on updates, networking and a recharge!
Agenda:
COVID-19 Vaccine Update by DOH Staff: Slides, Pharmacy Orders, FRPP Orders
* Health Workforce Sentinel Network Survey: Ben Sharples will highlight the importance of pharmacy professionals responding to the workforce survey. The survey asks what your workforce concerns, needs and changes you and your site are facing. This informs workforce development in Washington and WSPA efforts. Please respond to the survey today!
* ASHP Match Day Round 1!* Results of Round 1 are posted.WSPA hopes Washington applicants and programs all found their best matches!
* WSPA Online Communities: If you aren't logging into the WSPA Community you are missing out! This is where our Academies and SIGs share their best information. All you have to do is login at www.wsparx.org to see current events, resources and more!
WSPA Upcoming Events:
* WSPA New Drugs New Laws: April 16th in Spokane, WA
* Northwest Pharmacy Convention: June 1-4th in Coeur d'Alene, ID
Legislative UpdateBill Tracker
Recap of Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation Hearing
Ryan Oftebro Testimony
Prime Therapeutics Court CasePublished Opinion
Public Letter
Pharmacy Career Exploration Day - Saturday, April 29th
DOH ReportsWA FRPP Report
WA Jurisd Pharm vs FRPP Dist Comp Weekly Report
COVID-19 Vaccine Update by DOH Staff: Slides, Pharmacy Orders, FRPP Orders
WSPA Legislative Update WSPA Bill Tracker
WSU Pharmacy Student Organizations Need You! WSU Pharmacy Associations are planning APPE Prep Sessions for students and need experienced preceptors to lead example discussions. Link here for flyer
US Senate Commerce Committee hearing on PBMs Feb 16th 7 am PT. WSPA Immediate Past President Ryan Oftebro will be a witness in the hearing.
- Updated Naloxone Standing Order: The Washington State Naloxone Standing Order allows pharmacies to dispense naloxone to ANYONE who requests it or should have it with our Chief Science Officer, Dr. Tao Kwan-Gett as the prescriber. Please use this to help reduce opioid deaths in our communities.
- COVID Emergency Orders to End: The emergency declarations for COVID will end on May 11th. Many emergency provisions will end, however some like the authority of pharmacists to vaccinate and test will continue into 2024 under the PREP Act.
- Legislative Update: Dedi Little, WSPA Director of Government Affairs will provide an update on the Legislative Session. Our PBM Bill, SB 5213 will have a hearing on Friday, Feb 3rd in the Senate Health and LTC Committee. Please register your support for the bill online before the hearing!
- COVID-19 Vaccine Orders: Pharmacy Orders, FRPP Orders
COVID-19 Vaccine Update by DOH Staff:Slides, Pharmacy Orders, FRPP Orders
A look ahead to 2023 Legislative Session: Dedi Little, WSPA Director of Government Affairs
WSPA Online Community Coming Soon!
2023 WSPA New Drugs New Laws
COVID-19 Vaccine Update by DOH Staff:Slides, Pharmacy Orders, FRPP Orders
A look ahead to 2023 Legislative Session: Dedi Little, WSPA Director of Government Affairs
WSPA Online Community Coming Soon!
2023 WSPA New Drugs New Laws
COVID-19 Vaccine Update by DOH Staff: Slides, Pharmacy Orders, FRPP Orders
DOH Long Term Care and COVID-19 Bivalent Booster Flyer
Influenza Like Illness Surge: CDC RSV Alert, surging influenza activity in WA
Medication Shortages: Dawn Ipsen, WSPA Compounding SIG Chair will discuss amoxicillin compounding challenges, FDA Beta-lactam Compounding Guidance
PQAC Updates reviewing important updates from the last meeting
Early Election Results and Impact on Pharmacy Practice
USP Final Revised Chapters for and : Posted November 1st and applicable Nov 1st, 2023. Compounding SIG will be developing resources.
Tricare- ESI Call: Gathering information for legislators on this issue during an upcoming call on 11/10 at 12 pm.
Influenza is here: Flu tracker
WSPA Seeking New Academy Leaders: Ambulatory Care Incoming Chair, Community Practice Incoming Chair and Health System Academy Incoming Chair and ASHP Delegates. Apply today!
COVID-19 Vaccine Orders: Pharmacy Orders, FRPP Orders
COVID-19 Medical Countermeasures Update
COVID-19 Vaccine Update by DOH Staff: Slides, Pharmacy Orders, FRPP Orders
WSPA New Practitioner SIG: WSPA is creating a Special Interest Group for new practitioners to create resources, support and networking opportunities. We are seeking ideas for this new group and will discuss on today's call.
Prime Therapeutics v. Office of the Insurance Commissioner Amicus Brief: WSPA has submitted an Amicus Brief in this important case that challenges our reimbursement appeals process and the Office of the Insurance Commissioner's authority with relationship to PBMs.
Washington Medicaid State Plan Amendment Denial an Appeal Update
Lauren Lyles-Stolz Sr. Director of Reimbursement, Innivation and Advocacy at NACDS: Our former Washington PQAC ED has a new role at NACDS.
WSPA Board of Directors Upcoming meeting The WSPA BOD will meet prior to the WSPA Annual Meeting. WSPA members are invited to attend. Also, the board is seeking agenda ideas. If you have an idea or would like to attend the meeting, please email jenny@wsparx.org with your feedback.
COVID-19 Vaccine Update by DOH Staff
Presentation by Healthcare Ready on Emergency Preparedness
Legislative Update
Annual Convention Reminder
COVID-19 Countermeasures Update DOH Staff
COVID-19 Vaccine Update by DOH Staff: Slides, Pharmacy Orders, FRPP Orders
WSPA Anti-Harassment Policy the WSPA Board of Directors approved an Anti-harassment Policy for the association to ensure that the WSPA is a welcoming and safe environment for all.
WSPA Board of Directors Elections at today's town hall we will hear from all candidates for the WSPA Board of Directors. WSPA members should review the Voter's Pamphlet and vote online by Sept 20th.
DEA and PQAC Updated Statement of Adaptation
Washington State Plan Amendment an update on the Medicaid State Plan on reimbursement rates
Washington Pharmacy PAC - What is a Political Action Committee, and why is it important to the profession's success?
WSPA Annual Meeting Overview
COVID-19 Vaccine Reports: Pharmacy Orders, FRPP Orders
COVID-19 and Monkey Pox Medical Countermeasures Update to update the pharmacy community on Paxlovid, monoclonal antibodies, etc.
Paxlovid prescribed by pharmacists update by WSPA staff - patients can pay cash for assessment visit. The profession advocates to CMS and legislators.
Introducing the new PQAC ED, Marlee O'Neil and Deputy ED Lindsey Trant
DEA Revokes Prescription Adaption Guidance DEA Pharmacist's Manual
COVID-19 Countermeasures update by DOH Staff
COVID-19 Vaccine Update by DOH Staff: Slides, Pharmacy Orders, FRPP Orders
Pharmacist Prescribing of Paxlovid Permitted FDA Updated EUA
PQAC July Meeting Take-Aways
Office of the Insurance Commissioner Small Pharmacy Reimbursement Appeals Process Rule Stakeholder meeting August 10th and comments due August 15th.
WSPA Preparing for PBM Legislation in 2023 session
Please consider contributing to the Pharmacy PAC The PAC will be essential for our legislative efforts this year.
COVID-19 Countermeasures Update by Ezra Stark, Medical Countermeasures Coordinator
COVID-19 Vaccine Update by Aletta Foley, DOH Staff: [http://]Slides, Pharmacy Orders, FRPP Orders
Review of the Medicaid State Plan Amendment Disapproval by CMS answer questions that members have regarding the decision
Highlight the 2022 PBM Transparency Bill sponsored by Senator Cantwell and a recent meeting with WSPA members and Congresswoman Schrier.
Meet the newest WSPA staff: Boris Zhang and Charlene Kempf
Covid Vaccine - Pediatric Vaccination
Medical Counter Measures - Antiviral & Monoclonal antibodies
This episode features introductions from the Washington State Pharmacy Association Board of Director candidates for the upcoming election and updates on COVID-19 Vaccine Agreements.
This episode is an update on the work of the Washington State Pharmacy Association in response to COVID-19: vaccine and testing updates.
In this Podcast WSPA staff discuss many current issues with COVID and pharmacy practice including the HHS Advisory statement on pharmacists ordering COVID-19 tests, the remdesivir distribution by Washington state, the statewide MOU with pharmacies for emergency response and pharmacy connection to the Washington Immunization Information System.
In this podcast WSPA staff answer practice questions regarding COVID-19 care in pharmacies, advocacy and issues of the last week.
In this COVID-19 Virtual Town Hall testing for COVID-19 was discussed in depth in addition to general response issues and questions.
This weekly podcast captures changes and updates in practice due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. This week advocacy for pharmacy practice was highlighted including testing, PPE and vaccinations in the pharmacy.
This weekly podcast included a robust discussion of the Coronavirus' impact on pharmacists as providers, COVID Testing and a regulatory review by PQAC Chair Tim Lynch.
This Town Hall is to communicate important COVID-19 related updates. VADM Bono, Director of the Washington State COVID-19 Health System Response joined our call with Matt Scola, Pharmacist Managing the Surge Capacity Hospital in Yakima, WA.
This Virtual Town Hall serves as a useful mechanism to update Pharmacy Professionals about regulatory and practice changes in response to COVID-19.
This is a podcast recording of the March 25th 2020 Virtual Town Hall the WSPA held for the pharmacy community. Please find additional resources at www.wsparx.org/page/covid. Also, please support WSPA through your membership. We are a member supported association. COVID
WSPA President Megan McIntyre invited all pharmacy professionals to a Virtual Town Hall discussion about the COVID-19 outbreak impact. Updates were provided from public health partners and PQAC. Resources shared via screenshare during the Town Hall can all be found at www.wsparx.org/page/COVID