Primary Care First Model
CMS released the Request for Applications (RFA) for Cohort 2 of the Primary Care First (PCF) Model.
Primary care practices in eligible regions are encouraged to apply. Practices that participate in PCF will have flexibility in terms of care delivery and the opportunity to increase practice revenue through performance-based model payments. 

The deadline for practice applications is April 30, 2021; the deadline for payer applications is May 28, 2021.
Call for Nominations -
WMS Physician of the Year
It's that time of year... we're asking our membership to recognize those physicians in WY that go above and beyond in their professional lives and within their community. This award is a special honor each year and the Wyoming Medical Society is proud to facilitate honoring these special members within in our state. To view previous award recipients CLICK HERE.

Nominations are due no later than May 21st for consideration.
WDH Updates
Free Suicide Prevention Training - Wyoming Employers
The Wyoming Department of Health (WDH) is offering free suicide prevention training to employers and their employees across the state as a way to help support their workforce and Wyoming communities.

The QPR course is taught in a clear, concise format and takes approximately one hour to complete. Topics include:
  • How to “Question, Persuade and Refer” someone who may be suicidal
  • How to get help for yourself or learn more about preventing suicide
  • The common causes of suicidal behavior
  • The warning signs of suicide
  • How to get help for someone in crisis

Employers interested in arranging for free, online suicide prevention training to be available for their employees should contact Martin at lindsay.martin@wyo.gov.
Department Offers Update on COVID-19 Variants
Follow up analysis of positive samples has shown four different COVID-19 variants recognized by national and international experts as “variants of concern” have been found in Wyoming over the past several months, according to the Wyoming Department of Health (WDH).

The Wyoming Public Health Laboratory recently analyzed genetic sequencing from a large batch of positive samples collected from residents since November. The new analysis, combined with previously reported results, showed at least 40 cases have involved the United Kingdom variant (B.1.1.7), more than 40 cases combined of two California variants (B.1.427 and B.1.429) and one with the South Africa variant (B.1.351).
ATTN: OB GYN Physicians and PAs
The Wyoming Medical Society has set up a private Facebook page for OB/GYN providers.

The WY OB/GYN Providers Page is a private forum for licensed OB/GYN practitioners across the state to share information, discuss policy, and connect with peers.

In order to gain access to the group you must provide your full name and license number when prompted. WMS staff will review your credentials in order to ensure the privacy of this group.
Federal Updates
Marketplace Coverage - Special Enrollment Period
HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra announced that more than half a million consumers have already signed up for health insurance through HealthCare.gov as a result of the Biden Administration’s Special Enrollment Period (SEP) for the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency. The SEP, along with the additional financial assistance afforded by the American Rescue Plan (ARP), offers the opportunity for individuals and families to take advantage of significantly reduced premiums, increased savings, and quality, affordable health coverage through the Marketplaces using the Federal Platform.
Telemedicine Grants - Expanding Rural Access to Education and Healthcare
The USDA announced that it is accepting applications for Distance Learning and Telemedicine (DLT) program grants to help provide educational and medical services in rural areas. The DLT program helps fund distance learning and telemedicine services in rural areas to increase access to education, training and health care resources that are otherwise limited or unavailable.

USDA Rural Development in Nevada is hosting an online webinar Thursday April 8 from 1-2 p.m. PDT to assist program applicants. Contact Public Affairs Specialist Kelly Clark to receive registration information. 
Devin Koontz
Lead Health Communication Specialist with the FDA
FDA COVID-19 Vaccination EUA Overview
with Wyoming Medical Providers
Tuesday, 4/13, at noon MDT

We are pleased to have Devin Koontz, Lead Health Communication Specialist with the FDA, to present on the EUA process. Please join us for this lunch hour webinar to learn more about Emergency Use Authorizations and have your questions answered. 

Join from the meeting link
 
Join by meeting number
Meeting number (access code): 199 464 6894Meeting password: Wyoming  
Tap to join from a mobile device (attendees only) 
COVID-19 Immunization Data
Click image to view full sized PDF.
To view the latest COVID-19 vaccine information in WY visit the Wyoming Department of Health's Provider Information Page.

Here you will find:
  • Vaccine program provider enrollment
  • Required training for COVID-19 vaccine coordinators
  • COVID-19 vaccine resources and information
  • COVID-19 vaccination program templates and forms
  • CDC's V-Safe After Vaccination Health Checker
  • Wyoming Immunization Registry (WyIR) Resources
In case you missed it...
The Wyoming Legislative session wrapped up for the year on Wednesday, April 7th.

With such a diverse membership, it's never easy to represent all opinions, and this year was especially challenging. If you would ever like your voice to be heard, please give us a call at 307-635-2424, email us at info@wyomed.org, or reach out to your county trustee.

We're here to serve you.

A comprehensive 2021 legislative summary that covers highlights and key takeaways from the session is now available for your reading pleasure.
Thank you 2021 Friends of WMS!
Diamond Friends:  
Platinum Friends:
Gold Friends:
Silver Friends: