Don't Forget!

Completing the Washington State Workforce Survey is required by law at the time of annual license renewal for osteopathic physicians and osteopathic physician assistants. if you haven't already done so this year, complete the Workforce Survey.

Department Clarifies Opioid Prescribing Rules

Patients on chronic opioid therapy are reporting that their opioid prescriptions have been rapidly tapered or discontinued. These patients are finding it difficult to find providers willing to care for them.

Providers should be aware that the abrupt tapering or discontinuing of opioids for patients who are physically dependent can cause patient harm including severe withdrawal symptoms, uncontrolled pain, psychological distress, and in rare instances, suicide. Read the Opioid Interpretive Statement.

What's Next?

The legislature passed Substitute Senate Bill 5380 which requires osteopathic physicians and physician assistants to notify their patients of the right to refuse an opioid prescription, among other requirements.

What does the new law mean for me, a prescriber?  Read more about SSB 5380

MMR Vaccine Exemption Law Change 2019

John Finch, DO
Board Chair

The Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery has a new chair! 
Read Dr. Finch's letter of introduction.

Our Profession Keeps Growing in Washington State

The osteopathic physician and physician assistant credential numbers continue to increase in Washington state. Our credentialing report tells the story. Click here and take a look at the numbers.

Adverse Events:
An Opportunity
to Improve Care

What are Communication and Resolution Programs?
CRPs constitute a principled, comprehensive, and systematic approach to responding to patients who have been harmed by their health care. Learn more about CRPs.