The Washington State Urology Society held its 8th Annual Legislative Day at our State Capitol (Olympia, WA) on January 30, 2024.  Thirty-five percent (17/49) of the legislative districts were represented by the urology constituents in attendance.  Throughout the day there were a total of 28 meetings conducted by urologists as well as a resident, advanced practice provider, and a urology-aspiring medical student. Each person attending the Legislative Day participated in a minimum of 4-5 appointments each.  
 
There were additional opportunities to observe key committees holding hearings (ex. healthcare committees) to learn of additional bills being considered this year as well as see the hearing process in person..
 
The primary issues discussed during the appointments with key legislators by their urology constituents included:
House bill 2476 - Increase Medicaid rates to Medicare equivalents.  This effort could not have been possible without the successful passage of a former bill that banned tying licensure to insurance contracts which was introduced by former State Senator, Randi Becker (former urology practice administrator) who heard rumors of the State considering mandating Medicaid participation to solve the patient access issues it was facing for approximately 25% of the state’s population estimated to be enrolled in Medicaid.  At the time, most urology practices had stopped accepting Medicaid patients as the reimbursement rates were less than actual associated costs.  
House bill 1270 (Senate bill 5830) - Create a Washington State Commission on Boys and Men.  The Commission will assemble data and experts; connect public, private, and nonprofit partners; consult with state agencies and established commissions; and make recommendations for policies and programs to help improve the well-being of Washington's boys, male youth, and men.  It is considered a parity bill to the current Washington State Women’s Commission and is sponsored by both Democrats and Republicans.
Express concern over non-MD/DO seeking expanded scope of practice where they do not have the training to deal with complications which the WSUS views as a significant patient safety issue (ex. Naturopaths wanting to perform vasectomies)