Lori Grassi WSCA Executive of Legislation and Policy


Washington State Legislative Elections 2024; A Crucial Turning Point for Chiropractors


As Washington state gears up for the 2024 state legislative elections, all eyes are on the intricate interplay of political dynamics, policy priorities, and stakeholder engagement. With every seat in the house up for grabs and half of the Senate seats in contention, along with the statewide elected officials, including the governor, Lieutenant governor, attorney general, insurance commissioner, commissioner of public lands and others, the electoral landscape is ripe with possibilities and challenge. Among the myriad issues demanding attention, the Cost of Living for provider fee schedules have emerged as crucial concerns for chiropractors and other health professions compelling active engagement with candidates to secure favorable outcomes in the upcoming legislative session.


Electoral Landscape


In Washington state, the 2024 state legislative election marks a critical juncture in shaping the direction of government and policy formulation. With the entire house and half of the senate seats in contention, the electorate can influence the composition of the state legislature significantly. Additionally, the statewide elected officials, including key positions such as governor and attorney general, wield substantial authority in shaping policy agendas and enacting legislative measures.


Chiropractors and the Cost of Living


Amidst the diverse array of issues confronting the state, chiropractors in Washington have identified the Cost of Living as a central concern impacting the profession. As providers of essential health care services, chiropractors often grapple with the intricate balance between maintaining quality care for patients and navigating the financial challenges associated with operating their practices. The rising Cost of Living, encompassing housing, health care, education, and other essential expenses, exerts profound pressure on chiropractors’ ability to sustain their practices and deliver high quality care to their patients.


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Provider Fee Schedules and the Cost of Living


Within the broader context of the Cost of Living, provider fee schedules assume paramount importance for chiropractors. These fee schedules dictate the reimbursement rates that chiropractors received for the services they render, directly influencing their financial viability and ability to sustain their practices. As such, any adjustments or revisions to provider fee schedules have significant implications for chiropractors’ economic well-being and the accessibility of chiropractic care for patients across the state.


Engaging with Candidates


Recognizing the pivotal role of the upcoming state legislative elections in shaping healthcare policy and provider reimbursement mechanisms, chiropractors of Washington state have embarked on a concerted effort to engage with candidates across the political spectrum. By fostering dialogue and articulating their concerns regarding the Cost of Living and provider fee schedules, chiropractors seek to cultivate a deeper understanding among candidates regarding the challenges facing their profession and the broader healthcare landscape.


Securing Votes in the 2025 Legislative Session


Looking ahead to the 2025 legislative session, chiropractors are keenly aware of the imperative to secure legislative support for measures that address the Cost of Living and ensure equitable provider reimbursement rates. Through strategic advocacy and proactive engagement with elected officials, chiropractors aim to garner bipartisan support for policies that safeguard their financial viability well enhancing access to chiropractic care for patients statewide. As your lobbyist, I will be seeking new sponsors, those who are in the majority party, and working with newly elected candidates to explain the serious impacts of these arbitrarily low fee schedules.


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