Lynx Healthcare closure

Washington State Health Care Authority sent this bulletin at 09/06/2023 03:19 PM PDT

September 6, 2023

Lynx Healthcare pain management clinic in Spokane Valley and Kennewick is closing

Lynx Healthcare, a pain management clinic operating in Spokane Valley and Kennewick, has announced its impending closure on Friday, September 8.

Lynx Healthcare provided treatment to Apple Health clients enrolled in managed care and our fee-for-service programs that included chronic pain management and medication treatment for opioid use disorder.

Have clients been notified?

Yes. Both the managed care plans and the fee-for-service programs are in the process of notifying clients and advising them to contact their primary care provider to explore alternative options.

Why are you receiving this notification?

Client safety is our top priority, and some clients may not be notified prior to the clinic closure. The abrupt discontinuation of pain medication could lead to withdrawal symptoms and heightened health risks, including potential for elevated risk of overdose and suicide.

The impending closure could lead to an influx of patients at local emergency departments exhibiting withdrawal symptoms or seeking prescription refills. Medical professionals are advised to be vigilant and prepared for these potential scenarios.

Health practitioners treating displaced patients are not in danger of disciplinary action from the state’s Medical Commission. This protection extends to all activities related to ordering, prescribing, dispensing, or administering controlled substances, including opioids, within the bounds of legitimate medical purposes and professional practice.

How can you help?

If your pharmacy has patients that are impacted by the Lynx Healthcare closure, please print and provide them with the Lynx Healthcare closure FAQ . If you are aware of local resources that assist with pain management or treatment of opioid use disorder, please share this information.

Lynx Healthcare closure FAQ

Questions?

For additional questions, please email us at:

applehealthpharmacypolicy@hca.wa.gov

About the Health Care Authority (HCA)

The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) is committed to whole-person care, integrating physical health and behavioral health services for better results and healthier residents.

HCA purchases health care for more than 2.5 million Washington residents through Apple Health (Medicaid), the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) Program, the School Employees Benefits Board (SEBB) Program, and the COFA Islander Health Care Program. As the largest health care purchaser in the state, we lead the effort to transform health care, helping ensure Washington residents have access to better health and better care at a lower cost.

Please do not reply directly to this message. For more information, visit the HCA website, where you'll also find contact information.

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The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) complies with all applicable federal and Washington state civil rights laws and is committed to providing equal access to our services. Visit HCA’s website to view complete nondiscrimination statements.