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WVPCA Weekly Outlook
A Newsletter on Community Centered Healthcare
January 28, 2022
In This Issue...
WVPCA News - Outreach and Enrollment News
Emergency Management News - State News - National News
Funding and Financial Opportunities - Training Opportunities
News Flash!
COVID-19 vaccine booster drive is faltering in the US
Read the entire article from WVNews here.

FDA halts use of antibody drugs that don't work vs. omicron
Read the entire article from ABCNEWS here.

Moderna expects COVID-19 vaccine data for kids in March
Read the entire article from TODAY here.
WVPCA News
Don't Miss this Event
Please join the WVPCA and Justin M. Harrison, Labor & Employment Lawyer at Jackson Kelly PLLC, as we discuss the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ (CMS) Interim Final Rule and newly released guidance for community health centers on COVID-19 vaccination requirements. This session will discuss the recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling regarding the CMS vaccine mandate. 

During this session, Mr. Harrison will discuss the following topics:

  • Overview the interim final rule and newly released CMS guidance specific to community health centers;
  • Timelines and policies and processes for interim final rule compliance and implementation given the U.S. Supreme Court's recent ruling; and
  • How the interim final rule and new guidance interacts with or supersedes other relevant laws, regulations and/or rules.

PRESENTER: Justin M. Harrison, Labor & Employment Lawyer at Jackson Kelly PLLC. Mr. Harrison is a Member in the Manufacturing, Banking, Health Care, and Energy industry groups, focusing primarily on labor and employment and litigation.

TARGET AUDIENCE: CEOs, COOs, CFOs, HR staff and in-house counsel.

This event in intended for Community Health Center Staff.

Registration closes on February 2, 2022 at 5:00 PM ET.
Registration Now Open
Please join the WVPCA and Cherokee Health Systems, as we offer this "The Use of Data to Drive Treatment and Outcomes for Diabetic Patients" webinar. The focus of this webinar is the use of data to inform chronic disease management, specifically diabetes, by providers in the context of an integrated care model. Cherokee Health Systems will present a two-hour webinar demonstrating how to maximize the use of data found in EHRs for clinical decision making with care teams. Work flows will be discussed as well as specific interventions to improve outcomes. This learning opportunity will support the work of health centers as they continue to identify and address health disparities. 

At the conclusion of this two-hour training, participants will be able to:
  • List three reasons why incorporating clinical informatics into clinical decision-making for patients with diabetes can be useful in identifying and addressing health disparities
  • Describe three ways integrated care teams can incorporate data into the daily clinical workflow
  • Identify three specific interventions that integrated care team members including medical and behavioral health clinicians can implement in response to diabetes health informatics and data.
 
Presenters: Eboni Winford, Director of Behavioral Health and Jennifer Poling, Director of Healthcare Analytics
 
Target Audience: CMOs and Providers, Behavioral Health Directors and Providers.

This event in intended for Community Health Center Staff.

Registration closes on February 15, 2022 at 5:00 PM ET.
Register Today
Building an organizational culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion requires a culturally competent workforce. Developing that workforce starts with intentional practices related to recruiting, hiring, and retaining highly engaged individuals who are committed to that culture. Please join the WVPCA and Jennifer Calohan of CURIS Consulting, as we offer this Recruiting, Hiring, and Retaining a Culturally Competent Workforce webinar.  

This session will outline, discuss and define:
  • The difference between diversity, equity, inclusion, and cultural competence
  • Cultural competence as an essential organizational driver toward diversity, equity, and inclusion
  • The importance of a diversity, equity and inclusion program
  • The role of HR in establishing and supporting cultural competence
  • Evaluating policies, procedures, and processes for cultural competence

Recommended Pre-Work:
Prior to the presentations, please assess your organization's current state regarding culturally competent recruiting, hiring, onboarding, professional development/training, and retention planning. Although much of the material is Human Resource (HR) related, it extends to hiring managers, supervisors, departmental protocols, etc.

Target Audience: 
Executive Leadership (especially those over operations and human resources), HR leadership/HR team members, Hiring Managers/Supervisors (anyone involved in interviewing, hiring, onboarding), Employee Education/Training teams, Employee Engagement teams, Risk Manager/Risk Management teams, including anyone involved in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion initiatives.

This event in intended for Community Health Center Staff.

Registration closes on February 16, 2022 at 5:00 PM ET.
Please Note New Rescheduled Dates
Please join the WVPCA and Jennifer Calohan of CURIS Consulting, as we are excited to offer our members a three (3) part webinar series. The webinar series will cover collection, documentation, and utilization of data related to SDOH, SOGI, HIV status, race and ethnicity and more. 

Please note the new dates below:
 
Webinar Series includes:

January 18, 2022 | 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM Rescheduled!
NOW February 1, 2022 | 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Motivational Interviewing Techniques to Support SDOH, SOGI, and Race & Ethnicity

January 25, 2022 | 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM Rescheduled!
NOW February 8, 2022 | 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Meaningful Data Utilization - Going beyond data collection and data entry

Here are just a few of the objectives:  

  • Learn the importance of have a clearly defined process related to the collection and documentation of data
  • Understand the considerations for training and competencies related to demonstrating and eliciting trust and mutual respect with patients regarding PHI (ie: motivational interviewing, etc)
  • Learn concepts and principles of motivational interviewing to promote a high trust environment for patients and their support systems 
  • Learn how to increase staff skills and comfort level related to providing culturally competent care
  • Definitions and differences between equity and equality, inclusivity, diversity and disparity – and the role of the health center in providing services consistent with diversity, equity and inclusion
  • Learn HRSA mandated expectations related to utilization of patient reported data and needs assessments as a driver of service provision
  • Understand the criticality of assessing patient reported data and using it meaningfully to trigger actions and workflows targeted at meeting patient needs, mitigating risk factors, and improving outcomes

See detailed information here.

TARGET AUDIENCE:  This event is intended for COOs, Front Desk Staff, Nurses, Medical Assistant and Quality Improvement Staff.

If you had previously registered, you do not have to register again.
2022 Recognition Programs Pricing Update
The National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) has posted 2022 pricing for Recognition Programs. Please find updated pricing on the NCQA web site below:


Pricing will go into effect on February 8, 2022. Practices enrolling in or renewing Recognition, or enrolling in Annual Reporting, prior to February 8, 2022 will pay 2021 prices. 

****Please note that health centers have the opportunity to have these fees paid for by HRSA. Health centers must notify HRSA of their intent to participate by submitting a Notice of Intent (NOI) in the HRSA EHBs.  Notice of Intent Review and Approval | Bureau of Primary Health Care (hrsa.gov)****

Please contact Shannon Parker at shannon.parker@wvpca.org with any questions.
14.5 Million Americans Signed Up for Affordable Health Care During Historic Open Enrollment
A record-breaking 14.5 million people have signed up for 2022 health care coverage through the Marketplaces during the historic Marketplace Open Enrollment Period (OEP) from November 1, 2021 through January 15, 2022 – including 5.8 million people who have newly gained coverage under the Administration. The American Rescue Plan lowered health care costs for most Marketplace consumers and increased enrollment to these records levels: HealthCare.gov consumers saw their average monthly premium fall by 23%, compared to the 2021 enrollment period that ended before the American Rescue Plan passed. The enrollment numbers are a testament to the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to lowering costs for working families and reaching people where they are through concerted outreach.
 
“The numbers say it all: We are delivering on our commitment to make health care a right for Americans and to ensure it is accessible and affordable,” said Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra. “We are proud to have completed the Biden-Harris Administration’s
inaugural Open Enrollment with a record-breaking 14.5 million Americans who now have high-quality, low-cost health coverage, thanks to President Biden’s American Rescue Plan and our unprecedented outreach efforts. We will continue to deliver for the American people and work to ensure no one is left behind in getting access to the care they deserve.”
$49 Million Committed to Reduce Uninsured Rate Among Children and Boost Medicaid Enrollment Among Parents, Pregnant People
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) committed a record $49.4 million to fund organizations that can connect more eligible children, parents, and pregnant individuals to health care coverage through Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Awardees—including state/local governments, tribal organizations, federal health safety net organizations, non-profits, schools, and others—will receive up to $1.5 million each for a three-year period to reduce the number of uninsured children by advancing Medicaid/CHIP enrollment and retention.

“No one should be left without access to critical health care, especially during the pandemic,” said Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra. “This historic funding opportunity is part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s ongoing efforts to get as many Americans covered with affordable, quality health coverage. We encourage grassroots organizations and other trusted voices to help us reach and enroll some of our hardest-to-reach populations, including children and parents-to-be.”
CDC COVID-19 Updates
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides daily updates and guidance, including COVID-19 Vaccination Trainings (pdf) for new and experienced providers, and Tips for Talking with Patients about COVID-19 Vaccination. New: Updated Guidelines on Quarantine and Isolation, and Rural Considerations for Vaccine Confidence and Uptake Strategies (pdf).
Study of 1.22 Million People Confirms
COVID-19 Vaccine Effectiveness
A recent study of more than 1.22 million people confirms that COVID-19 vaccines are highly effective against COVID-19-associated hospitalization and death. Highlights:

  • Severe COVID-19-associated outcomes (0.015%) or death (0.0033%) were rare.
  • Nearly 80% of those who died had at least four risk factors.
State News
SAVE THE DATE!
WV COPD Readmissions Institute
The COPD Foundation is hosting a first-ever COPD Readmissions Institute in West Virginia.

This is one full day and ½ day virtual event, showcasing best practices from practitioners from WV and around the U.S. involving the diagnosis, treatment, and care of patients with COPD.

When: April 28-29, 2022
Cost: Free
Where: Virtual event

Who Should Attend? – Physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, respiratory therapists, nurses, pharmacists, quality staff, and others involved in the care of patients with COPD.

Information will be shared in the coming weeks on registration for this event.

If you have any questions concerning this event, please contact Stephanie Williams, Senior Director of Community Education Programs, with the COPD Foundation, at swilliams@copdfoundation.org.
Save the Date for #MATRC2022
National News
National Blood Donor Month
January is National Blood Donor Month, and Krispy Kreme has found a tasty way to help alleviate what the American Red Cross is calling “its worst blood shortage in over a decade.”

From Jan. 24-31, simply donate blood and bring proof of your donation to a participating Krispy Kreme location for a free dozen of the company’s famous original glazed donuts. That proof can be a donor band or sticker or a digital pass on your donor app — it just needs to show when you donated.

While Krispy Kreme is encouraging donations to the American Red Cross, the company said any blood donation to any organization will qualify for the promotion as long as it’s made between Jan. 24 and 31.
COVID-19 Public Health Emergency Extended
Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra has extended the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) for 90 days, effective January 16. The PHE increases funding for local governments, allows health care providers to access relief through the HHS Provider Relief Fund, and allows states to waive certain regulatory requirements. The administration has committed to providing a 60-day notice prior to terminating the PHE. 
2021 Uniform Data System Reports Due Feb. 15
Calendar year 2021 Uniform Data System (UDS) reporting is underway. All Health Center Program awardees and look-alikes are required to submit complete and accurate UDS reports by Tuesday, Feb. 15. No changes can be made to UDS report data after Thursday, March 31. Visit the UDS Resources webpage for the 2021 UDS Manual and other resources to help health centers submit accurate, timely and complete UDS reports. 
2022 P&I Board Member Boot Camp is Virtual
Register now for the National Association of Community Health Center's "Board Member Boot Camp: An Introduction to Health Center Board Roles!" This virtual learning event provides a review of board roles and responsibilities as well as an overview of the legal duties of board members. The workshop also offers a deep dive into quality and financial oversight responsibilities as well as an introduction to advocacy for board members. Participants will also gain an understanding of where to access additional resources about health center board roles.


Who Should Attend? 
Board Member Boot Camp is designed for new health center board members or health center board members who want a refresher about board roles.
Funding and Financial Opportunities
SAMHSA Harm Reduction Grant Program
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is now accepting applications for the first-ever SAMHSA Harm Reduction grant program, and expects to issue $30 million in grant awards. This funding, authorized by the American Rescue Plan, will help increase access to a range of community harm reduction services and support harm reduction service providers as they work to help prevent overdose deaths and reduce health risks often associated with drug use.  The deadline is February 7, 2022. 
Upcoming Training Opportunities
Using Medicare Wellness Visits to Promote Diabetes Prevention in Older Adults
Lifestyle modifications have proven to be very effective in reducing the risk of chronic health conditions in older adults, but many patients experience challenges in adhering to recommendations without an individualized approach. This National Center for Equitable Care for Elders webinar will focus on the value of the Medicare Annual Wellness visit for developing personalized plans to prevent or mitigate diabetes in older adults.

After participating in this webinar, participants will be able to: 

  • Discuss the need for tailored health education for older patients with multiple chronic health conditions or functional limitations. 
  • Explain the importance of follow-up plans for older patients with BMI outside of normal parameters. 
  • Develop strategies for increasing patient referrals to community programs focused on diabetes prevention efforts. 

Intended Audience: Health center providers and staff who care for older adults  

Wednesday, February 9, 2022
1:00 PM ET
Technology Strategies to Improve Pediatric Immunization
The importance of effective pediatric immunization strategies cannot be understated at this moment in public health. Given all the potential barriers to access, how can technology support primary care in improving systems for effective vaccine uptake? Hear from Dr. Melissa Stockwell, whose research includes translational health IT interventions to promote vaccination as well as the use of large-scale, patient-centered communication technologies, like text messaging, for surveillance of vaccine-preventable diseases and adverse events. Dr. Stockwell is Chief of the Division of Child and Adolescent Health and an Associate Professor of Pediatrics (Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons) and Population and Family Health (Mailman School of Public Health). She is Founding Director of the Department of Pediatrics' Center for Children's Digital Health Research.

Wednesday, February 9, 2022
3:00 PM ET
WVPCAhearts2
Community Health Center Resources
Jackson Kelly attorneys provide limited consultation to all members of the WVPCA at no charge, as part of the WVPCA contract. There is no limit to the number of calls which any member may make. All inquiries within the scope of professional competence of firm attorneys will be addressed. Inquiries which require expertise not available through the firm will be promptly identified and, when requested, Jackson Kelly will assist in referring the matter to accounting firms, insurance agents, or others as circumstances warrant.

All inquiries, responses and consultation services provided by the firm lawyers will be provided without additional charge beyond the retainer amount, except for matters which require formal opinions, representation of record in litigation, transactional work, e.g. the purchase or sale of real property, or matters which require continued representation, research or consultation beyond a single inquiry or document review.

Justin M. Harrison is a labor & employment lawyer with Jackson Kelly PLLC. He is available for consultation through a special retainer relationship with the WVPCA. Justin can be reached at 304.340.1358 and via email at justin.harrison@jacksonkelly.com.
ECRI Institute
Risk Management Manual for Health Centers Now Available!
The Risk Management Manual for Health Centers is now available on the ECRI Institute Clinical Risk Management Program website! Designed to support a proactive approach to risk management at health centers and free clinics, the Manual provides background, tips, and how-tos in a manageable format.

Specific areas that are covered include:
Risk Management Programs & Plans
Claims and Lawsuits
Role of the Risk Manager
Patient Grievances and Complaints
Communication with Patients
Credentialing and Privileging
Communication among Providers, Staff, and Community Partners
Tracking Systems for Diagnostic Tests, Referrals, and Hospitalizations

View an archived webinar that provides a guided tour of the Manual and key features. For access to the ECRI Institute Clinical Risk Management Program website or any other questions, email clinical_rm_program@ecri.org.
WVPCA Staff
Sherri Ferrell, MBA | Chief Executive Officer
Debra Boyd | Chief Financial/Chief Operations Officer
Joshua Austin | Policy & Communications Director
Paula Beasley | Education & Communication Coordinator
Jennifer Boyd, PA-C, PCMH-CCE | Clinical Consultant
John Kennedy, MA | School-Based Health/Behavioral Health Coordinator
Pam Moore | Member Relations Coordinator
Shannon Parker, MBA, PCMH-CCE | Director of Health Center Operations
Ruby Piscopo | Outreach & Enrollment Coordinator
Amanda West | Staff Accountant
Emma White, RN, PCMH-CCE | Clinical Quality Improvement Coordinator
Kevin Treadway | Health Data Analyst
To sign up to receive the WVPCA Weekly Newsletter:
1700 MacCorkle Avenue, SE
Charleston, WV 25314
Phone: 304.346.0032
Toll Free: 1.877.WVA HLTH
This project is/was supported partially/fully by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under grant number U58CS06834 State and Regional Primary Care Associations. This information or content and conclusions are those of the author and should not be construed as the official position or policy of, nor should any endorsements be inferred by HRSA, HHS or the U.S. Government.