Winter 2022 PIERCE COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY
BULLET N Serving Our Members and Community Since 1888
Inside this Edition
• President’s Page • Executive Director Report
• TPCHD Honors Black History • Legislative Update
Visit us at www.pcmswa.org
Table of Contents
PIERCE COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY
BULLET N Serving Our Members and Community Since 1888
PCMS Officers/Trustees Dina C. Titova, MD, PhD, President C. Blake Perry, MD, President-Elect Ann Goetcheus Gehl, MD, Past President Julian S. Arroyo, MD, Vice President Courtney M. Kennel, DO, Secretary/Tresurer Neil Batta, MD John Heffernan, MD H. Matt Davis, MD Nicholas Rajacich, MD Camille P. Samujh, DO, MPH Z. Roger Wang, MD, PhD
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New Board Members Announced
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Intentional Connection
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Succession Planning
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TPCHD: Honoring Black History
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TRA Medical Imaging Scholarship Program
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Presumptive COVID-19 Coverage
Executive Director: Mary Eversole Membership Coordinator: Tanya McClain
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Legislative Update 2022
The Bulletin
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In Memoriam
PCMS Foundation Charles Weatherby, MD, President Lawrence A. Larson, DO, Vice President Mark S. Grubb, MD Mary Eversole, Secretary
Staff
is published quarterly by PCMS. Contact Tanya McClain regarding deadlines for submitting articles and advertisements: tanya@pcmswa.org or 253-572-3667.
The Bulletin
is dedicated to the art, science and delivery of medicine and the betterment of the health and medical welfare of the community. The opinions herein are those of the individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect the official position of PCMS. Acceptance of advertising in no way constitutes professional approval or endorsement of products or services advertised. The Bulletin reserves the right to reject any advertising.
Managing Editor: Mary Eversole Advertising Information: 253-572-3667; tanya@pcmswa.org
On the Cover: “Winter Walk” Alfred Borchard rgbstock.com
1019 Regents Blvd Ste 202, Fircrest WA 98466 Phone (253) 572-3667 Fax (253) 572-2470 Email pcms@pcmswa.org
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PIERCE COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY
President’s Page
Pierce County Medical Society Announces New Board Members Nonprofit appoints second female president for second year in a row
“I have been practicing medicine in Tacoma for over a decade and I am deeply rooted in the local medical community,” said Dr. Titova. “I am honored and humbled to serve my colleagues and continue the work of past presidents, in particular Dr. Ann Geotcheus Gehl, who was the first female president in the past 20 years.”
Dina Titova, MD PCMS President
For the second year in a row, the Pierce County Medical Society (PCMS) has named a woman as its board president. Dina C. Titova, MD, PhD was elected president of the organization at the November, 2021 board meeting. Dr. Titova graduated from medical school in Russia, completed her Internal Medicine Residency at St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis, IN and completed a Rheumatology Fellowship at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN. She joined Franciscan Rheumatology Associates in 2007 and then MultiCare Rheumatology Specialists in 2019. The following physicians were also elected as officers to the association’s board of trustees: C. Blake Perry, MD, President-Elect, Aesthetic Surgery Centre, Puyallup Courtney Kennel, DO, Secretary/Treasurer, Physicians Care Northwest, Lakewood Julian S. Arroyo, MD, Vice President, Proliance Puget Sound Orthopaedics, Lakewood Ann J. Goetcheus Gehl, MD, Community Health Care, Tacoma Other trustees include: Henry M. Davis, MD, Community Health Care, Tacoma Nicholas Rajacich, MD, Mary Bridge Children’s Health Center, Tacoma Camille P. Samujh, DO, MPH, Rainier Anesthesia Associates, Puyallup Neil Batta, MD, NeoSpine, Gig Harbor John Heffernan, MD, Proliance Puget Sound Orthopaedics, Gig Harbor Z. Roger Wang, MD, PhD, Franciscan Rheumatology Associates, Lakewood Anthony L-T Chen, MD, MPH, Ex-Officio – Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department, Tacoma
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In Memoria m
YOUR INVITED
Let's have a shamrockin' good time
ST. PATRICK'S DAY SOCIAL
MARCH|17|2022 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM TRA CONFERENCE CENTER 2212 MILDRED ST. W, TACOMA, WA 98466 SPONSORED BY:
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RSVP PCMS@PCMS.ORG
PIERCE COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY
Executive Director Report
Intentional Connection Mary Eversole
Hippocrates is credited with establishing modern medical collegiality. Some scholars argue that collegiality is a forgotten pillar in medicine. It is a main pillar under PCMS’ current goals. “PCMS will provide a social networking structure for physicians, physician assistants, and medical residents in Pierce County to informally interact with each other in order to build relationships…” The last two years have impeded our ability to connect our membership and promote collegiality in a meaningful way. This year I am cautiously optimistic that 2022 will cooperate with supporting this goal. I read recently that emotional energy is generated in every social interaction. In fairness sometimes social interaction can be draining. But I am going to focus on the former. We are hosting several events this year to connect our membership. It is said that high-quality connections produce feelings of vitality that influence not just mood but also performance. Connection is also important to physician vitality and found to reduce burnout. That is more important than ever. Mark your calendar for these events that I hope you will attend! Go to www.pcmswa.org for updates on locations and times. You can also find information on our social media channels. • March 17| St. Patrick’s Day Social • May 11| Annual Meeting 2021 + Silent Auction benefiting PCMS Foundation • August 18| Residents’ Social • December 7| Jingle & Mingle (Annual Meeting 2022) I look forward to connecting with you in 2022!
Bulletin Submissions If you have a clinical best practice to share with your colleagues, a success story about individual physicians or PAs or a health system, or news about health care innovation taking place in Pierce County that you would like considered for inclusion in an upcoming edition of the PCMS Bulletin, please send your submission to Mary Eversole at mary@pcmswa.org.
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Providers with patients under 18 will be directed to the Partnership Access Line (PAL); providers caring for pregnant or new moms will be directed to the PAL for Moms line. The UW Psychiatry Consultation Line is funded by the State of Washington. PIERCE COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY
Succession Planning: Preserving Your Practice for the Next Generation For healthcare professionals, your days and nights are often so busy that it’s impossible to plan for the future. But, while those days and nights may seem long, the months and years go by with astonishing speed. Soon it’s time to think about succession planning and what you are going to do with one of the most significant assets, your practice. There are some key considerations a practice owner should attend to, especially in collaboration with their family members and a team of trusted advisors. Every practice owner needs the aforementioned team working together to develop the plan and strategy for who, when, and how to transfer their assets to their chosen successors. Whether your practice will go to family heirs or an outside interest, the “what if” details will help to prepare for unforeseen contingencies. I have had many clients who mistakenly thought that simply having a Will was going to take care of everything. While important, a Will often falls short of ensuring that your wishes for your practice are addressed.
Dani Collins, SVP Healthcare Banking Team Leader
There are enormous tax implications for the transition of a practice and/or corresponding commercial real estate. In addition, there are estate considerations. As such, it is vital to begin the succession planning process early. A good rule of thumb is five to seven years in advance of your desired retirement date. This will provide adequate time to address every aspect of your financial picture. Assembling a team of advisors is the best place to start. Your team should include a financial planner, attorney, CPA and banker who work closely with independent healthcare professionals. As a banker, I work closely with clients and their team of advisors to identify the considerations and to develop a thorough plan that ensures their heirs are taken care of tomorrow, while providing peace of mind and security today. Your advisory team can assist with an insurance policy and investment review, drafting or redrafting of a Will, and determination of the best estate planning options. Once you have established a plan, I recommend clients meet with their advisors annually to ensure the plan still meets their needs. Working with your banker, CPA, and attorney to develop a sound succession and estate plan is going to protect you from three key problems – overpayment of taxes, executor or trustee issues, and liquidity issues. I’ve heard troubling stories about healthcare professionals who never thought they would make enough money to trigger significant estate taxes upon their death. This underestimation can truly burden your heirs. Further, clients who own their practice jointly with a spouse may not foresee problems with the unified credit for joint ownership and end up exceeding exemption limits. Making sure you work with your trusted advisors to prepare for a future tax burden is critical. It is also important to select the right executor or trustee. Executing a Will or estate is challenging work and shouldn’t just be left to a family member who may lack the necessary skills and experience. Professionals might want to consider the use of a bank trust department, as the bank is well prepared and capable of performing all the duties required by the trust document. Finally, there is the issue of planning for liquidity to cover costs associated with the transfer of an estate. A lack of sufficient cash planning could create a burden for their heirs. Developing a plan with your trusted advisors is a critical part of the plan. The challenges of the past two years have served to remind us all about the need to effectively plan, professionally and personally. Just as prudent healthcare professionals plan for growth and expansion of their practice, so too must they plan for the transfer their practice and plan for their estate.
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Visit tpchd.org/ rxvax
The tools and support you need to inspire patients to get COVID-19 vaccine. Your patients trust you. Be ready to help them. Visit tpchd.org/rxvax, a partnership of Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department and Pierce County Medical Society. You’ll find data-driven graphics, easy-to-read handouts, answers to frequently asked questions, video resources and more. A recommendation from their healthcare provider is one of the top reasons people give for choosing to get vaccinated. Thank you for helping to protect the health of the people and places of Pierce County!
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tpchd.org/rxvax PIERCE COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY
The Health Status of Pierce County
Honoring Black History Anthony Chen, MD, MPH The Health Department continues to work towards a multicultural and racially just society. While we fix the systems that perpetuate racism, we also celebrate our rich ethnic and cultural heritage. Over time, celebrations become part of the history that we remember, write in our schoolbooks, print on our stamps and currency, and honor with holidays. During Black History Month, we are honoring on our website those who have made prominent contributions to health as well as local community leaders who are making history right now. Some of you may know Eula Ramroop as Regional Associate Vice President at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health where she is improving services and quality of care. But did you know that while at UCSF Medical Center she served on the Committee on Diversity and received the Martin Luther King, Jr., Award for Diversity? Locally, she tackles historic health inequities and co-chairs the Health Committee of the Tacoma-Pierce County Black Collective. During the day, Alicia Klein manages a Planned Parenthood clinic ensuring access to reproductive health care. She is an experienced consultant who has implemented patient safety, patient education, and medical staff training programs. But did you know that she is a longstanding volunteer at Tacoma Urban League and Leaders in Women’s Health to fight health disparities in the African American community? We will have more stories on local leaders who protect and improve your health as the month goes on.
We are also remembering national leaders like Dr. Charles Drew, “Father of the Blood Bank.” Over his accomplished career, he researched and advanced ways to preserve blood plasma during World War II, developed the nation’s blood banking process, and invented bloodmobiles. Eight decades after Dr. Drew’s work helped save lives during a world war, we can honor him with a simple act of generosity. Blood banks all report the most prolonged blood shortage in over a decade. Our hospitals and trauma centers are struggling to keep blood stocks full due to a drop in the number of blood donors during the pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic continues to test our resolve after more than two years. We have worn masks. Most of us are vaccinated. Now, we need to donate blood. You can sign up now and find locations to donate at: • The Red Cross • Bloodworks Northwest • Cascade Regional Blood Services Thank you for doing so. And when you do, think of the middle-class Black boy who grew up in Washington, D.C., who changed history and the way we practice medicine as Dr. Charles Drew. And imagine what local leaders in our Black community will write for the future history of health and equity.
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TRA Medical Imaging accepts six TCC students into Foundation Scholarship program The TRA Medical Imaging Foundation is pleased to announce that it has accepted six Tacoma Community College students (Class of 2023) into the Foundation's Scholarship program, three students in their first year of the Radiologic Technology program and three students in their first year of the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program. The TRA Scholarship program provides financial scholarships to assist scholars through their two year program. Additionally, the scholars participate in the TRA Foundation's Mentorship Program. The uniqueness of the TRA Foundation Mentorship Program adds to the value of the scholarship award by offering students a non-evaluative opportunity to tap into existing knowledge, skills, and experience of TRA’s Radiologists, Technologists and leadership to learn, brainstorm, problem solve and network. The mentoring provides for monthly 1-1 meetings and group sessions to allow for interaction and collaboration. In addition, a job shadowing component is available for students to work side-by-side with a technologist and to experience different work settings. As the TRA Medical Imaging Foundation grows, it is our goal to expand more education and opportunities in CT,
MRI, and Mammography, to create jobs, address the workforce shortage, and impact the quality of healthcare services in our community. To read more about the scholarship application visit https:// www.tramedicalimagingfoundation.org/scholarships About the TRA Medical Imaging Foundation: Located in Tacoma, WA, The TRA Medical Imaging Foundation, a 501c3 nonprofit entity, was created with the mission and vision to be an exemplary community partner in promoting better health and wellbeing now and for future generations. Through the generosity of a giving community and philanthropic support of caring and committed donors, TRA Medical Imaging Foundation works to “give back” by supporting and promoting advancements in healthcare and education for those with whom they share this beautiful region. Visit: http://wwwtramedicalimagingfoundation.org
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Open Your Heart CONVERSATION STARTER
If your colleague or loved one is struggling, opening your heart and reaching out can be a critical first step in helping them get the support
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Preparing for the Conversation One of the most useful things you can to do is prepare. Like most things, preparation begins with education. Before you open
they need. It can be difficult, but at
your heart and have a conversation, locate available resources
the appropriate time and place, you
or support groups to learn more about the underlying risk
can start a meaningful conversation.
factors for suicide and updated research on physician burnout. Education can help dispel common misunderstandings that can
If you’re concerned that someone
get in the way of providing support. Here are some organizations
close to you is exhibiting the HEART
with additional resources to help guide you:
Vital Signs, the following tips can
– National Alliance on Mental Illness (nami.org)
serve as a helpful guide. With each
– Suicide Prevention Lifeline (suicidepreventionlifeline.org)
individual and situation being
– Suicide Prevention Resource Center (sprc.org)
different, there is no universal way to approach these tough discussions. If you need further guidance or you are in a crisis, call the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273 TALK (8255) for free 24/7 support.
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Finding the Right Time Most times, you won’t be able to speak with someone the moment you notice they might need support. But, for tough conversations like these, it’s okay to find the right time that provides a calm and comfortable environment where privacy is being respected. When finding the right time, think about a time that there: 1. Won’t be interruptions 2. Neither person is overly tired 3. Won’t be distractions by other obligations
Remember though, if anyone is in imminent danger of harm, call 911 or the National Suicide Hotline. 12
PIERCE COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY
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PIERCE COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY
Washington Workers’ Compensation Presumptive COVID-19 Coverage for Health Care and Frontline Workers
New laws apply to health care and frontline workers during public health emergencies involving infectious or contagious diseases, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Health care and frontline workers who test positive for COVID-19 are presumed to have been exposed at work, and are eligible to file workers’ compensation claims with the Department of Labor and Industries. Health care workers who do not contract the disease but are required (by a medical provider or public health official) to quarantine due to an exposure are also eligible for benefits. Qualified workers are eligible for medical, disability, and temporary wage replacement benefits. Presumptive COVID-19 Coverage Dates Health Care Workers: Beginning February 29, 2020 Frontline Workers: Beginning May 11, 2021 Who is a health care worker under this law? A health care worker is a worker at any health care facility or other organization that provides emergency or medical services and who has or likely has had direct contact with
any person who has been exposed or tested positive to the disease. Who is a frontline worker under this law? Frontline workers are those who interact with the general public or other employees in the course of their work during the public health emergency. How can you help? • Inform your patients who may qualify and help them file workers’ compensation claims using normal processes • Share presumptive COVID-19 coverage information with your staff and peers • Forward presumptive COVID-19 coverage information to urgent care and emergency department staff Learn More: Learn more from Labor and Industries about frontline workers, filing a claim, benefits and other FAQs at Lni.wa.gov/ PresumptiveCovidCoverage. Send questions to L&I directly at HELSA@Lni.wa.gov. WINTER 2022
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SILENT AUCTION | MAY 11, 2022
The Pierce County Medical Society Foundation exists to raise funds to provide grants to non-profit agencies helping those in need. We help fund food programs, domestic violence shelters, medical treatment, clothing, infant safety and respond to emergency requests. PCMSF is a recognized 501C3 Donations are tax deductible
MOST WANTED ITEMS: Art Rounds of Golf Gift Cards Dining Hotel Stays Themed Gift Baskets Sports Memorabilia Jewelry Sports Tickets Auto Detailing
thank you for your generous donation! Please contact: Mary Eversole mary@pcmswa.org | 253-572-3667 16
PIERCE COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE 2022
60 DAYS
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THANK YOU FOR YOUR DONATIONS! The holiday sharing card campaign & individual donations helped raise over $25,000 for grants to Pierce County non-profits!
donate anytime www.pcmswa.org/pcms-foundation
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PIERCE COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY
donations are tax deductible PCMSF is a recognized 501C3
In Memoriam
George Weis, MD 1945 - 2021
George Andrew Weis II passed away peacefully at his Fox Island home on the evening of November 26, 2021 after a long struggle with corticobasal degeneration. George was born to Marian Nissen Weis and Wilson Edward Weis in Toledo, Ohio on May 14th, 1945. He grew up in Elmore, Ohio and cherished it as his home town. His birth was followed by that of two beloved brothers, Bill and John. He relished his childhood and upbringing his entire life-fondly recalling adventures on Lake Erie, working on roads and farms with his grandfather, and the community that 1950s and 1960s small town Ohio afforded him. He was educated in Ann Arbor, Indianapolis, and Seattle, and remained a devoted Michigan fan throughout his life. His love of photography led him to pursue diagnostic radiology as his profession. He was in the last wave of doctors drafted for the Vietnam conflict during which he was stationed at Kagnew Station in Asmara, Eritrea. In official paperwork his commanding officer commented that he was “an excellent physician with no military bearing.” It was in Asmara that he met the love of his life and his best friend, Marie Elena Ranallo. George relocated with his wife to Seattle and then, in 1978, to Fox Island, Washington, where they raised three daughters, Jennifer, Michelle, and Christina, on and near the water. He instilled in them a deep love of the outdoors, learning, and adventures. George was a partner at Tacoma Radiological Associates for 34 years and saw being a physician as his calling. Marie and George found their second island paradise in West Maui. Wherever they went they joined the community and enjoyed giving back. In his later years George was constantly entertained by his grandsons, Dominic and Luca Weis Hart. He loved his family, being a physician, bicycling, travel, food and beverages (hotter than hell lattes, a hoppy beer, bubbly prosecco, and cold juice), sentimental music and musicals, and Hawaii. He never did anything by half measures--whether it was pursuing his hobbies of cooking, photography, and woodworking or yelling at politicians on the news. His final comment to his hospice nurse, “Don’t mess it up,” was a familiar motto that will always bring a smile to those who fondly remember his relentless perfectionism and dry humor. He generously gave his time and money to organizations and causes that he believed in. He is survived by his family, friends, and the communities that he loved and served. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to the Fox Island Historical Society or the Whale Trust of Maui. Reprinted from Tacoma News Tribune
David S. Hopkins, MD 1-15-2022
It is with deep sorrow and much love we mourn the passing of Dr. David S. Hopkins on Saturday, 1/15/2022. There are special people in our lives that never leave us even after they are gone. He was loved and will be missed. Reprinted from Tacoma News Tribune
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Select benefits: Physician referrals Professional & collegial activities Quarterly bulletin Resource for practice information Seasonal member perks 20% off first year full active membership special rate for US military, USPHS & VA residents | first year practice join free
Pierce County Medical Society has been supporting Pierce County physicians and patients over 130 years. PCMS represents the interests of local physicians and physician assistants from all specialties and practice types at all stages of their careers.
www.pcmswa.org